Why not recruit the best available talent like others do?

Background:

We were entrusted with sourcing a highly skilled Project Manager specialising in Infrastructure Design for a reputable client.

The Challenge:

Our client had previously struggled to secure the right talent, facing setbacks primarily due to counteroffers from candidates' existing employers or alternative propositions from companies in more desirable locations.

Search Brief Overview:

Mission:

The ideal candidate was expected to excel in producing top-notch infrastructure designs, efficiently secure necessary approvals, and adeptly manage both clients and projects.

Desired Outcomes:

Deliver projects punctually, ensuring complete client satisfaction.

Work independently, adhering to time and budget constraints.

Foster relationships with both new and existing clients.

Skilfully prepare fee proposals.

Provide mentorship and supervision to junior staff.

Essential Competencies:

Proficiency in highway, drainage, and general infrastructure design.

Familiarity with DMRB, MfS, and County standards, including Sewers for Adoption.

Proven ability to manage multiple projects as a Senior Project Manager.

Experience in obtaining technical approvals from Highway Authorities and Sewerage Undertakers.

Autonomous management of workload with minimal supervision.

Proficiency in PDS, AutoCAD, and Micro Drainage.

Excellent communication skills, including high-standard report writing.

Client-facing experience with the ability to produce fee budgets and proposals.

Willingness to travel, using the company's offices as a base.

Knowledge in Sect 104, 106, 278, 38, DMRB, and Manual for Streets.

Desirable Qualities:

On-site experience.

Preparation of contract documents and bills of quantities.

Aspiring or existing Chartered Engineer status.

Ability to supervise and mentor team members.

Knowledge of ARCADY is a plus!

Success Story:

The search culminated in the successful placement of a Principal Civil Engineer, who has not only integrated seamlessly into the company but has also been promoted to Associate Director of Civil Engineering.

Background:

In a phase of significant success and work acquisition, our client, a prominent company in Building Services and Civil and Structural Engineering, sought to enhance their market presence. The creation of a new, pivotal role aimed to further this objective. Despite the vacancy being open for a while, traditional recruitment methods had fallen short in identifying an apt candidate.

Mission:

The role's primary goal was to augment the company's business development, focusing on the Northwest region, while also easing the workload of the current design team through active involvement in design oversight.

Expected Outcomes:

Successfully establish and nurture new client relationships in the thriving Northwest area.

Effectively manage and expand existing accounts.

Core Competencies:

Essential:

Proven ability in winning new work and maintaining client relationships.

Experience in taking over and growing existing accounts.

Proficiency in producing and supervising design work.

Degree qualification in a relevant field.

Strong networking capabilities.

Effective in early-stage feasibility discussions.

Comprehensive knowledge of building regulations, especially in pre-planning and planning stages.

A personality adept at building relationships combined with technical delivery skills.

A versatile engineer with a quick-thinking approach and solid grounding in first principles.

Excellent communication skills and a collaborative team player.

Experience in supporting planning applications.

Desirable:

An existing client base ready to be introduced to the company.

Ability to contribute £200K-£250K to annual turnover within the first year.

Honours or master's degree, with a preference for Chartered status or nearing it.

An electrical engineering background is preferred, though mechanical is acceptable.

Bringing clients that can immediately provide work.

Resilience in the face of rejection and a strong sense of perseverance.

Success Story:

Our focused recruitment approach led to the appointment of a candidate as Associate Director. Demonstrating exceptional performance, they have since progressed to Divisional Director of Building Services for the Northwest Region, marking a significant milestone in our client's growth journey.

Background:

We were representing a well-established company of Consulting Civil and Structural Engineers and Designers. They offer comprehensive services to a diverse range of clients, including private, corporate, and public authority sectors.

Mission:

This role aims to bolster the company's client base and drive its development to the next level. The long-term vision includes potential ownership opportunities for the right candidate.

Key Responsibilities and Outcomes:

Swiftly take charge of project management and team leadership.

Enable the Managing Director, the founder of the company, to focus more on strategic business growth and reduce their direct project involvement.

Gradually prepare to take a step-back role in the company.

Essential Competencies:

Chartered Engineer with MIStructE accreditation.

Approximately 15 years of experience in the field.

Proficient in designing both new builds and refurbishments across various scales.

Commercially astute.

Demonstrated ability in team leadership, workflow coordination, and being the main point of contact (POC) for clients.

Active participation in business development, management team meetings, and contributing to the company's strategic direction.

Ability to generate revenue at least double the value of the salary.

Comfortable in client and architect liaison.

Technical prowess in structural engineering, including proficiency in TEKLA, TEDDS, or similar analysis and design software.

Familiarity with AutoCAD and REVIT.

Competent in report writing and managing financial aspects of projects.

Search Analysis:

Time from assignment to first interview of the hired candidate: 11 days.

Time from first interview to offer: 8 days.

Number of candidates approached but declined or did not respond: 31.

This search showcased remarkable efficiency, concluding significantly faster than the industry average. The analysis aims to identify any areas for improvement in the recruitment process for both Focus Point Consulting and our clients.