Client Overview
Unigestion is an independent global asset management firm with offices across Europe, North America and Asia. Managing billions of pounds on behalf of institutional and private clients, the firm has built an international reputation for disciplined investment strategies, innovation and operational excellence. Its London office plays a critical role in supporting clients, investment professionals and corporate functions, requiring a workplace that reflects the firm's exceptionally high standards.
To support its continued growth, Unigestion partnered with Maxwell Stephens to recruit an experienced Facilities Manager capable of leading all aspects of workplace operations, facilities services and front-of-house delivery.
The Challenge
Unigestion required a Facilities Manager who could combine operational excellence with outstanding customer service in a highly professional financial services environment.
Reporting into senior leadership, the successful candidate would be responsible for maintaining a first-class workplace while ensuring the office operated safely, efficiently and in full compliance with regulatory requirements.
The role encompassed responsibility for:
- Overall management of the London office environment.
- Facilities maintenance and statutory compliance.
- Health & Safety, fire safety and business continuity planning.
- Building security and access control.
- Space planning and workplace moves.
- Office services and food service operations.
- Vendor procurement, contract negotiation and supplier management.
- Budget management and cost control.
- Coordination of workplace technology and infrastructure with the IT team.
- Leadership of the Front of House and Reception team.
- Delivering an exceptional employee and visitor experience.
The appointment required an individual with strong technical facilities knowledge, excellent organisational skills and the confidence to operate within a fast-paced international investment management business.
Our Approach
Maxwell Stephens worked closely with Unigestion's leadership team to develop a detailed understanding of both the technical requirements of the role and the organisation's collaborative culture.
Drawing upon our specialist Facilities Management network, we conducted a targeted search focused on professionals with experience within financial services, corporate headquarters and international office environments.
Our search prioritised candidates with:
- Corporate Facilities Management experience.
- Financial services or professional services backgrounds.
- Strong Health & Safety and compliance expertise.
- Building services and workplace operations knowledge.
- Vendor and contract management experience.
- Front-of-house leadership capability.
- Business continuity and workplace resilience experience.
- Professional qualifications including IWFM (formerly BIFM), IOSH or NEBOSH.
Every shortlisted candidate underwent a structured assessment covering technical competence, leadership capability, stakeholder management and cultural fit.
The Outcome
Maxwell Stephens successfully appointed an experienced Facilities Manager who combined excellent technical knowledge with exceptional people management and customer service skills.
The successful candidate quickly integrated into the business, assuming responsibility for the smooth operation of Unigestion's London office while maintaining the high standards expected within a leading global investment management firm.
Results Delivered
Outstanding Workplace Operations
The appointment ensured the efficient day-to-day management of the London office, delivering a professional, safe and productive workplace for employees and visitors.
Stronger Supplier Performance
Effective contractor management and robust service level monitoring improved supplier performance while maintaining value for money across facilities services.
Enhanced Compliance & Risk Management
Health & Safety, fire safety, statutory compliance and business continuity arrangements were strengthened, ensuring the office remained fully compliant and operationally resilient.
First-Class Workplace Experience
By leading the Front of House function and maintaining high service standards throughout the building, the successful candidate helped create an exceptional workplace experience aligned with Unigestion's values and brand.
Operational Efficiency
Improved planning, vendor coordination and facilities management processes delivered greater operational efficiency while supporting the business's continued growth.
The Impact
The successful appointment strengthened Unigestion's workplace operations by providing experienced leadership across facilities management, workplace services and office operations.
By combining technical expertise, commercial awareness and exceptional stakeholder management, the Facilities Manager has helped maintain a workplace environment that supports productivity, collaboration and operational excellence.
This assignment demonstrates Maxwell Stephens' expertise in recruiting senior Facilities Management professionals for investment management firms, financial institutions and global corporate organisations.