Introduction
A global assessment and examination body has been a longstanding client for over a decade. During this time, we have provided both permanent and contract IT professionals to fulfil its recruitment needs. Our Managed Service Provider (MSP) solution has been instrumental in supporting the organisation’s technology function, enabling it to scale resources flexibly in line with project demands.
Harvey Nash has a longstanding relationship with the organisation, dating back over 15 years. In 2016, we tendered for and were awarded a managed service for technology contractors with the partnership extending in 2019 for a further five years.
The Challenge
The client faced a number of complex workforce challenges. It lacked the internal capacity to proactively manage its contractor ecosystem and wanted to streamline processes and consolidate expenditure through a single supplier, without compromising access to high-quality candidates.
At the same time, the evolving compliance landscape, particularly around IR35 regulations in the public sector, created a need for a more robust approach to contingent workforce compliance.
Our Solution
To address these challenges, we implemented a streamlined sourcing process designed to support the prompt and efficient fulfilment of contract roles, including those with expedited timelines. On average, we manage approximately 40 contractors per year, making an efficient and responsive process essential.
We introduced a Managed Service Provider (MSP) solution for all contract recruitment requirements, simplifying the hiring process for the client. We also established a specialist Preferred Supplier List (PSL), tailored to its specific requirements and spanning 13 different business units to reflect the diverse nature of its workforce.
To support a major SAP transformation programme, we identified specialist SAP recruitment suppliers and onboarded them into our network. This diversified the supply chain, broadened candidate reach and strengthened the overall delivery capability.
We have maintained an average time of 26 days from role creation to hire, helping ensure the client’s contingent labour requirements are met quickly and efficiently. We also introduced in-flight management measures, including contractor surgeries and regular satisfaction surveys.
As the partnership evolved, so did the service we provided. Changes to the organisation’s structure created a need for the service to expand beyond its original scope. We remained flexible and adaptable, evolving our approach to meet the requirements of the restructured organisation.
Results
The partnership has resulted in a multi-source delivery structure that gives the client a single point of engagement and greater control over the recruitment process. The model has also delivered cost savings and improvements to time-to-hire, while real-time management information and reporting provide valuable insights to support better decision-making.
Our single-engagement, multi-source solution incorporates a specialist supply chain, helping maximise candidate reach across a broad spectrum of roles. Our position as a trusted resourcing partner extends beyond acting solely as an external recruitment provider. We have maintained a consistent on-site presence, enabling close integration with the client’s teams and processes.
As part of the service, we also conduct onboarding and offboarding interviews. While not compulsory, these provide valuable insight into contractor experiences and create opportunities for continuous improvement. Interviews are conducted monthly, with feedback analysed and shared with the client, adding an additional layer of accountability and collaboration.
Throughout the partnership, the service has continued to evolve in response to changing business requirements. This has included adaptations to IR35 compliance, hiring processes and approval procedures, ensuring our approach remains aligned with the client’s changing contingent workforce needs.
Find out more about our MSP solution and speak to one of our specialist team here.
