Jobs Archive - Ford & Stanley

Head of Procurement

Candidate Opportunity Briefing Document

Role: Head of Procurement
Ford & Stanley Executive Search (Part of the Ford & Stanley Group) are a leading Executive search firm to the UK, North American and European Rail, Defence, Technology & Heavy Manufacturing industries.

Our search directors, search consultants and research teams specialise in all horizontal functions of our clients’ organisations with expertise spanning engineering, commercial, procurement, HR, IT, finance, HSQE, sales, projects, operations and c-suite.

We are trusted by over 100 leading organisations when they seek to make a leadership appointment, be that a permanent appointment or interim solutions. We have been appointed by our client company on a retained search for a Head of Procurement to join the procurement function.

Below you will find a ‘candidate opportunity briefing document’ developed from notes taken during the scoping meeting (Situational Discovery) held between the Head of Client Development and Principal Consultant of Ford & Stanley Executive Search and the HR Director and Finance Director of the business.

This brief is designed to give candidates a deeper insight into the opportunity inherent within the role, the challenges the role presents, and provide access to the detail that sits behind the job specification.

Client Opportunity Statements:

“We need a leader who can not only assess our current procurement capabilities but also elevate them, introducing new metrics to ensure we have a clearer, more strategic view of performance, pipeline, and activity.”

“Successful procurement isn’t just about processes—it’s about people. Embedding the team within the business and strengthening stakeholder engagement is critical to driving alignment and long-term success both internally and externally”

“As a business, we are in a key transition period, and we need someone who can navigate change with confidence. Our Head of Procurement will be responsible for managing risks, safeguarding stakeholder interests, and ensuring that we don’t jeopardise our contracts or partnerships.”

Essential Hard Skills (Skills & Experience)

Excellent understanding of complex procurement contracts.

Transferable industry experience, such as rail, heavy engineering, aerospace, automotive, defence, energy, utilities and other highly regulated sectors.

Proven leadership and line management experience (people, functions and stakeholder relations).

Previous experience working in a change environment and influencing business transformation.

Essential Soft Skills (Attributes & Behaviours)

A firm personality that can challenge the status quo, balanced with an affinity for diplomacy and an ability to reassure the group.

An ability to handle difficult conversations with executive maturity and gravitas.

This will be a highly autonomous role, where the Head of Procurement will need to take ownership of the function’s success and its integration within the business.

High levels of resilience. On top of managing initial challenges, this individual’s role will likely significantly change after the business’s exit and change in governance.

Proactive, confident communicator internally and externally.

Working Arrangements & Location:

The Head of Procurement will work out of the main Midlands office.

There is a hybrid policy in place with a general rule of “Together more often than apart”; therefore, the Head of Procurement can expect to be in the office 3 days a week on average.

This pattern may vary based on business needs, with some weeks present in HQ for more or fewer days. The successful individual will show flexibility and work within a give-and-take approach.

Ford & Stanley Interview Process:

1^st Stage: Candidate Discovery: An open, conversational and consultative discussion where interested candidates are assessed on their suitability for the role in the context of the above and challenged on how the opportunity lines up with their career aspirations, motivations, financial expectations and personal circumstances.
2^nd Stage: The ‘shortlist’: Candidates are asked to reflect on the candidate discovery discussion, take time to reflect on the opportunity and undertake subsequent research on the client business, reporting back on their thoughts, questions and providing additional specific information on their suitability (if applicable). Final checks of role, package and logistical alignments made.

Client Company Interview Process:

1st stage interview conducting remotely via Teams, with Finance Director and HR Director.
2nd stage interview conducted face to face, this will be competency-based and hosted by Finance Director and HR Director.
Potential informal coffee meeting with Managing Director as a final stage.

Good to know:

The role of Head of Procurement has been occupied in an interim capacity for the last year. The previous Head of Procurement has brought many improvements to the function and built a team around them.
The Head of Procurement will report directly into the Finance Director and will line-manage three Senior Category Managers. Each of those Senior Category Managers oversees a number of team members, bringing the total Procurement function to a headcount of 12.
Consistent leadership and direction are needed in the Procurement function. While it has grown in recent years, they need to demonstrate value brought to the business. This will be achieved through reviewing and formalising KPIs and metrics, and building business-wide transparency on activity and pipeline.
There is a high degree of autonomy within the role, and the responsibility of the whole function’s success will lie with the Head of Procurement. The Finance Director has a breadth of experience in various business areas and can be a resource of counsel; however, they do not have the capacity to heavily dedicate their time to Procurement, and as such, the successful candidate will need to be ready to hit the ground running.

Budget:

Low: £80,000 / Mid: £85,000 / High: £90,000

Supporting benefits

Defined Benefit pension – one of the best in the UK, our pension scheme is a defined benefit, shared cost scheme to which both the company and you contribute.
Free travel
25 days holiday allowance + Bank Holidays Retained Search in partnership with
Eligible to participate in our private medical insurance – for you, your partner and any dependent children (this is a taxable benefit/P11D reportable)
24/7 Virtual GP service – for you, your partner and any dependent children

Executive Search Delivery Team:

Billy Jackson – Principle Consultant (Headhunting, Offer Negotiations, Client Consulting)
Emma Barlow– Senior Research Associate (Shortlisting, Networking, Research, Search, Longlisting, Interviews, Data & Market Intel)
Ralitsa Kuzeva– Executive Assistant (Diary Management, Coordination, Candidate Experience).

About Ford & Stanley Executive Search:

Ford & Stanley Talent Services Group are in the business of people and performance. Our mission is to create one million better workdays through facilitating great recruitment, leadership and occupational mental fitness. We support our clients in their most challenging business areas – recruiting, developing and retaining the best talent from shop floor to boardroom.

Ford & Stanley TalentWise – Business specialising in blue collar trade & technical services – permanent and temporary.
Ford & Stanley Recruitment – Business specialising in white collar spanning all company functions with specialist verticals within Digital, Rail Engineering, Civils & Infrastructure, General Manufacturing, Supply Chain & Logistics both permanent and contract.
Ford & Stanley Executive Search – Business specialising in Executive Search & Executive Interim Solutions in the UK, North America, Middle East and Europe.
Ford & Stanley Genius Performance – Performance is always accelerated when good people are coached, inspired, trained and focused in the right way.

Ford & Stanley Talent Services Group Ltd is a Disability Confident employer that is committed to a policy of equal opportunities for all opportunity seekers. We shall adhere to such a policy at all times and will review on an on-going basis all aspects of recruitment to avoid unlawful or undesirable discrimination. We will treat everyone equally irrespective sex, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, marital or civil partnership status, age, disability, colour, race, nationality, ethnic or national origin, religion or belief or political beliefs and we place an obligation upon all staff to respect and act in accordance with the policy.

Services advertised by Ford & Stanley are that of an employment consultancy business.

June 11, 2025

Head of Client Development
Role: Head of Client Development

Ford & Stanley Executive Search (Part of the Ford & Stanley Group) are a leading Executive search firm to the UK, North American and European Rail, Defence, Technology & Heavy Manufacturing industries.

Our search directors, search consultants and research teams specialise in all horizontal functions of our clients’ organisations with expertise spanning engineering, commercial, procurement, HR, IT, finance, HSQE, sales, projects, operations and c-suite.

We are trusted by over 100 leading organisations when they seek to make a leadership appointment, be that a permanent appointment or interim solutions.

We have been appointed by our client company on a retained search for a pragmatic and inspirational sales leader who isn’t afraid to “roll their sleeves” up and drive new business sales from the front whilst holding the gravitas and executive maturity to operate at a strategic level.

Below you will find an ‘candidate opportunity briefing document’ developed from notes taken during the scoping meeting (Situational Discovery) held between the Head of Ford and Stanley Executive Search and Principal Consultant of Ford & Stanley Executive Search and the CEO and COO of the business.

This brief is designed to give candidates a deeper insight into the opportunity inherent within the role, the challenges the role presents, and provide access to the detail that sits behind the job specification.

Client Opportunity Statements:

“As we continue on our growth journey, we are focused on elevating our client development and consulting capability. Currently our C-Suite find themselves heavily involved in “hands-on” client development and need to step back, to ensure focus on strategy and long-term business growth.”

“We need to secure an individual who can not only embed themselves into our customer, but equally develop a deep understanding of their complex operation. The Head of Client Development will grow robust relationships with senior stakeholders across client’s board and leverage these to identify opportunities for our business.”

“The incoming Head of Client Development will need to remain persistent and patient in their approach, recognising that our sales cycles can take more than 12 months.”

Challenges expected within the first 12 months include:
1. The incoming Head of Client Development will need to “recalibrate” how they measure success, with sales cycles that take more than 12 months, wins come from extensive and detailed consultation with the customer.
2. The incoming Head of Client Development will need to build a deep understanding of our client and appreciate not only the scale but also the diversity of their operation.
3. Although the company are shifting to more of a SAAS model, the incoming Head of Sales will need to appreciate that the service remains complex and requires extensive and relentless consultation with the client. (Noting that they do not have basic SAAS packages)
Key deliverables within the first 12 months include:
1. To have successfully built extensive and robust relationships with a number of senior stakeholders across our client including Managing and Route Directors
2. Extensive evidence of collaboration internally, demonstrating the ability to utilise the extensive knowledge across the business.
3. To have successfully translated unique customer nuances into tangible business opportunity. Acting on the current pipeline, leading on bids whilst becoming a true consultant to the end customer.
Essential Hard Skills (Skills & Experience)
- Extensive experience in consultive sales/client development.
- Experience selling complex, products, solutions and/or services that require business change for the customer.
- We are open to the individual’s industry background but would ideally like to secure candidates who have sold products, services or solutions that support the end client’s operation.
- Experience developing clients to secure consistent and repeat business.
Essential Soft Skills (Attributes & Behaviours)
- Patience, Client development is rarely about instant results; it’s about nurturing relationships and guiding clients through complex decisions. Helping them realise the value the business’s products can bring.
- Consultative Approach – it’s about being a trusted advisor. A consultative mindset means asking insightful questions, understanding client needs at a deep level, and providing solutions tailored to their challenges.
- Emotional Intelligence – Success in client development hinges on understanding and managing emotions—both yours and your clients’. Whether reading between the lines of what a client truly needs, navigating difficult discussions with diplomacy, emotional intelligence ensures you connect authentically.
- Relentless Drive – Client development demands persistence and determination. A never-give-up attitude fosters growth, strengthens relationships, and ensures continuous progress.
Desirables
- Experience gained in a Consultancy environment.
Working Arrangements & Location:

The company observe a hybrid working policy with one mandatory day in the office, however, the job will require consistent client visits, event attendance and project locations where applicable.

Locations include London, Buckinghamshire, East Midlands, Scotland (upcoming location), noting also clients situated as far north as Scotland and as far south as London & surrounding.

Therefore, the Head of Sales can be based anywhere in the UK as long as they can commit to a regular commute to one of these locations and travel as required.

Ford & Stanley Interview Process:
- 1^st Stage: Candidate Discovery: An open, conversational and consultative discussion where interested candidates are assessed on their suitability for the role in the context of the above and challenged on how the opportunity lines up with their career aspirations, motivations, financial expectations and personal circumstances.
- 2^nd Stage: The ‘shortlist’: Candidates are asked to reflect on the candidate discovery discussion, take time to reflect on the opportunity and undertake subsequent research on the client business, reporting back on their thoughts, questions and providing additional specific information on their suitability (if applicable). Final checks of role, package and logistical alignments made.
Our Client Company’s Interview Process:
- 1st Stage interview: Teams / Face-to-Face interview with the CEO and COO.
- Psychometric Assessment: Candidates selected for final stage will undergo a Thomas Internation™ personality profiling assessment.
- 2nd Final Stage interview: Face-to-face interview with the CEO, COO and with inclusion from other members of the board (to be agreed)
Good to know:
- This business is an SME with some long-term contractors and strongly embedded external software teams.
- Historically, the business has been project-heavy; however, have more recently transitioned to offering operations systems. This has impacted upon financial performance reporting, particularly T/O performance during the ‘transition period’. The company have achieved / exceeding all financial targets and have had an exceptional start to 2025.
- Despite their strong business offering into the rail industry, they do not see themselves as a rail business. Their identity is of a dynamic innovative tech software developer, which comes with a great drive for creativity.
- The business have made a reputation within their client of going above and beyond in ways other suppliers have fallen short. The company do not sell ‘kit’ or pieces of equipment. They sell solutions to issues with fleet performance, traffic management, and increasing efficiency and safety in the day-to-day operations of the railways.
- The business needs to strengthen their client development capability and offload this work from the C-suite who are leading on a lot of the more senior customer relationships currently. The company need to secure an individual who can be “boots on the ground” and drive client consultation from the front.
- The business have a strong and well-established suite of products, they know there is vast opportunity within their client and they need the Head of Client Development to lead on building exceptional relationships with senior stakeholders, consulting to leverage further business opportunities.
- The Head of Client Development will need to be relentless but equally patient in gaining a deep understanding of the business’s client and their nuances, consulting with a number of stakeholders to demonstrate how their solutions can bring value to their operation.
- The scale of the business’s client is vast and as such, stakeholders struggle to pull together broader operational synergies, the company have gained a broad context to the business and utilise this to present solutions to consistent operational challenges.
- The Head of Client Development will need to work the full sales lifecycle, and ensure they remain heavily involved with the client as they sell transitions to implementation. This will support in building true case studies of success that can be utilised as a sales tool for other stakeholders within our client
- The business’s contracts have a tenure of 10 years, however, those contracts are dependent on the products and solutions’ performance – therefore design phase, product development and product implementation are of equal importance to retain key contracts.
- The systems the company offer are operations critical. Without those solutions, the railways cannot run effectively.
Budget:

Low: £110,000 / Mid: £130,000 / High: £150,000

Supporting benefits
- 8% matched pension scheme
- 27 days annual leave + 3 discretionary (over the Christmas period)
- Bupa health scheme with the option to add family members (benefit in kind)
- Income protection scheme
- Death in Service scheme
Executive Search Delivery Team:
- Tom Norton – Head of Executive Search: Client & Search Management & Advisory
- Billy Jackson – Principal Consultant: Candidate & Research Management & Advisory
- Ralitsa Kuzeva – Executive Assistant: Diary Management & Process Adherence
About Ford & Stanley Executive Search:

Ford & Stanley Talent Services Group are in the business of people and performance. Our mission is to create one million better workdays through facilitating great recruitment, leadership and occupational mental fitness. We support our clients in their most challenging business areas – recruiting, developing and retaining the best talent from shop floor to boardroom.
1. Ford & Stanley TalentWise – Business specialising in blue collar trade & technical services – permanent and temporary.
2. Ford & Stanley Recruitment – Business specialising in white collar spanning all company functions with specialist verticals within Digital, Rail Engineering, Civils & Infrastructure, General Manufacturing, Supply Chain & Logistics both permanent and contract.
3. Ford & Stanley Executive Search – Business specialising in Executive Search & Executive Interim Solutions in the UK, North America, Middle East and Europe.
4. Ford & Stanley Genius Performance – Performance is always accelerated when good people are coached, inspired, trained and focused in the right way.
Ford & Stanley Talent Services Group Ltd is a Disability Confident employer that is committed to a policy of equal opportunities for all opportunity seekers. We shall adhere to such a policy at all times and will review on an on-going basis all aspects of recruitment to avoid unlawful or undesirable discrimination. We will treat everyone equally irrespective sex, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, marital or civil partnership status, age, disability, colour, race, nationality, ethnic or national origin, religion or belief or political beliefs and we place an obligation upon all staff to respect and act in accordance with the policy.

Services advertised by Ford & Stanley are that of an employment consultancy business.
June 11, 2025
Head of Client Relationships
Role: Head of Client Relationships

Ford & Stanley Executive Search (Part of the Ford & Stanley Group) are a leading Executive search firm to the UK, North American and European Rail, Defence, Technology & Heavy Manufacturing industries.

Our search directors, search consultants and research teams specialise in all horizontal functions of our clients’ organisations with expertise spanning engineering, commercial, procurement, HR, IT, finance, HSQE, sales, projects, operations and c-suite.

We are trusted by over 100 leading organisations when they seek to make a leadership appointment, be that a permanent appointment or interim solutions.

We have been appointed by our client company on a retained search for a Head of Client Relationships, adept at fostering strong stakeholder relationships and focused on shaping impactful client connections.

Below you will find an ‘candidate opportunity briefing document’ developed from notes taken during the scoping meeting (Situational Discovery) held between the Principal Consultant of Ford & Stanley Executive Search and the Commercial Director of the business in question.

This brief is designed to give candidates a deeper insight into the opportunity inherent within the role, the challenges the role presents, and provide access to the detail that sits behind the job specification.

Client Opportunity Statements:

“We view this role as the “face” of the business and the primary point of contact for both government departments and the owning group, as such it’s of massive importance to us”.

“A strong political antenna is essential. This role isn’t just about managing relationships; it’s about understanding the personalities at play, navigating them effectively, and knowing when to leverage connections to drive outcomes.”

“Think of this as a masterclass in rail operations—you won’t need to be an expert in any single area, but you’ll need to know a little about everything.”

Challenges expected within the first 12 months include:
- We expect the Head of Client Relationships will need to recalibrate how they measure success and become comfortable being uncomfortable. This is due to the role being very reactive and involved in crisis management.
- Developing a strong political antenna will also be crucial, allowing you to navigate varied political personalities and leverage these relationships when needed.
- It is expected that this role will need to know a “little” about everything across the rail operation, it will take time to gain this knowledge.
Key deliverables within the first 12 months include:
- We expect the Head of Client Relationships to maintain the business’s position in the Train Operator league table.
- This role will have fostered close relationships with Department for Transport equivalent employees.
- As a business, our client have a number of KIPs they need to maintain, we expect this role to champion these.
Essential Hard Skills (Skills & Experience)
- Strong knowledge of rail operations, this can be demonstrated with current or past experience.
- Evidence of managing multiple party interests (for example: Ministers, Unions, Directorate, Owning groups).
- Proven line management experience.
- Commercial acumen, proven ability to recognise business opportunities.
Essential Soft Skills (Attributes & Behaviours)
- Relentless and passionate about the industry, challenging cultural norms, and having a ‘solutions, not problems’ mindset. As such, they need to be comfortable managing crisis.
- A versatile individual who can speak on both a boardroom and Political level but also work with internal staff across the business, managing the business’s interest.
- An emotionally intelligent and self-aware individual who can navigate multiple personalities and leverage relationships to influence an outcome.
- Resilience will be essential, ensuring you can adapt, remain steadfast under pressure, and drive forward with confidence despite challenges.
Ford & Stanley Interview Process:
- 1^st Stage: Candidate Discovery: An open, conversational and consultative discussion where interested candidates are assessed on their suitability for the role in the context of the above and challenged on how the opportunity lines up with their career aspirations, motivations, financial expectations and personal circumstances.
- 2^nd Stage: The ‘shortlist’: Candidates are asked to reflect on the candidate discovery discussion, take time to reflect on the opportunity and undertake subsequent research on the client business, reporting back on their thoughts, questions and providing additional specific information on their suitability (if applicable). Final checks of role, package and logistical alignments made.
Client Company Interview Process:
- 1^st stage interview conducted remotely via Teams, hosted by the Commercial Director.
- 2^nd stage interview conducted face to face, this will be competency-based and hosted by Commercial Director and Finance Director.
- Potential informal coffee meeting with Managing Director as a final stage.
Good to know:
- The current Head of Client Relationships is moving internally into a newly created position; as such, the company are looking to secure a suitable replacement.
- This role experiences low turnover and is traditionally one that individuals grow into, building stronger and more robust stakeholder relationships.
- This role is the “face” of the business and the primary point of contact for both the Department for Transport, the Business Executive and Owning Group..
- We expect this individual to lead on these key relationships. The company have contractual obligations that the DFT monitor. The Head of Client Relationships will be expected to resolve issues/disputes whilst looking for strategic opportunities to develop the business’s commercial position.
- The business are strengthening their leadership team and have made a number of key hires over the last 18 months.
- Reporting into the Commercial Director, this is a key role for the business and should garner effective relationships with all Exec members, especially key relationships with the Managing and Finance Director.
- The role has 2 direct reports with a further 6 indirect reports.
- The team are highly capable and we expect them to be low maintenance and highly effective.
- This is a fast-paced role, and we expect the incoming Head of Client Relationships to be able to action contractual matters at pace and with confidence.
- Taking the time to learn a “little” about all areas of the business will be essential, driving solutions to matters either identified internally or raised externally by the DFT.
- We expect this role to spin a number of plates and will need to diligently manage 3 key party Interests: those of the hiring company, Owning Group and the DFT.
- The role will be split between reactive problem-solving, handling crisis, but also achieving marginal gains through the identification of commercial opportunities.
- Separate to the core KPIs monitored by the DFT, the business also has 60 business plan commitments that will be managed and owned by this role.
- Internally, this role is viewed as the “answers” role; if people want insight, they tend to turn to this individual.
- We expect the incoming individual to be comfortable asking the “tough” questions of those who are key contributors to DFT KPIs, and work to create solutions.
- There is increased scrutiny and pressure to deliver due to the public nature of train operations, with government stakeholders, media coverage, and susceptibility of the industry to be affected by major incidents.
Budget:

Low: £80,000 / Mid: £85,000 / High: £90,000

Supporting benefits
- Defined Benefit pension – one of the best in the UK, our pension scheme is a defined benefit, shared cost scheme to which both the company and you contribute.
- Free travel on all our trains and those of other train companies within the parent group company – for you, your partner and any dependent children – 75% discount off all other train operators
- 25 days holiday allowance + Bank Holidays Retained Search in partnership with
- Eligible to participate in our private medical insurance – for you, your partner and any dependent children (this is a taxable benefit/P11D reportable)
- 24/7 Virtual GP service – for you, your partner and any dependent children
- All management grade employees are able to take advantage of the Flexible Annual Leave Scheme. This scheme allows Managers some flexibility to alter that entitlement by buying or selling some of their allocation.
Executive Search Delivery Team:
- Billy Jackson – Principal Consultant (Client Recommendations/Advisory, Offer Negotiations, Shortlisting, Headhunting, Networking, Research, Search, Longlisting, Interviews, Data & Market Intel)
- Ralitsa Kuzeva – Executive Assistant (Diary Management, Coordination, Candidate Experience)
About Ford & Stanley Executive Search:

Ford & Stanley Talent Services Group are in the business of people and performance. Our mission is to create one million better workdays through facilitating great recruitment, leadership and occupational mental fitness. We support our clients in their most challenging business areas – recruiting, developing and retaining the best talent from shop floor to boardroom.
1. Ford & Stanley TalentWise – Business specialising in blue collar trade & technical services – permanent and temporary.
2. Ford & Stanley Recruitment – Business specialising in white collar spanning all company functions with specialist verticals within Digital, Rail Engineering, Civils & Infrastructure, General Manufacturing, Supply Chain & Logistics both permanent and contract.
3. Ford & Stanley Executive Search – Business specialising in Executive Search & Executive Interim Solutions in the UK, North America, Middle East and Europe.
4. Ford & Stanley Genius Performance – Performance is always accelerated when good people are coached, inspired, trained and focused in the right way.
Ford & Stanley Talent Services Group Ltd is a Disability Confident employer that is committed to a policy of equal opportunities for all opportunity seekers. We shall adhere to such a policy at all times and will review on an on-going basis all aspects of recruitment to avoid unlawful or undesirable discrimination. We will treat everyone equally irrespective sex, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, marital or civil partnership status, age, disability, colour, race, nationality, ethnic or national origin, religion or belief or political beliefs and we place an obligation upon all staff to respect and act in accordance with the policy.

Services advertised by Ford & Stanley are that of an employment consultancy business.
June 10, 2025

Head of Technical Services

Ford & Stanley Executive Search (Part of the Ford & Stanley Group) are a leading Executive search firm to the UK, North American and European Rail, Defence, Technology & Heavy Manufacturing industries.

We are trusted by over 100 leading organisations when they seek to make a leadership appointment, be that a permanent appointment or interim solutions.

We have been appointed by our client company on a retained search for a motivated and hands-on leader who will be accountable for the safety, reliability and effectiveness of the Fleet whilst leading the Fleet Engineering team.

Below you will find a ‘candidate opportunity briefing document’ developed from notes taken during the scoping meeting (Situational Discovery) held between the Head of Executive Search and Senior Research Associate of Ford & Stanley Executive Search and the Fleet Director of the client company.

Client Opportunity Statements:

“As we elevate the business and take the next step on our growth trajectory, we are focused on developing and professionalising our engineering function to deliver a first-in-class service by appointing a driven and hands-on Head of Technical Fleet Services.

“A successful candidate will take full ownership of the safety, reliability and effectiveness of our Fleet, leading the Fleet Engineering team to maintain and optimise VMIs for improved performance. In tandem, I expect this individual to be my “right hand” and work with me to build the vision for the team to drive transformation. The Head of Technical Services will have the opportunity to make this role their own.

“Culture is key to our business, and we are looking for a seasoned professional with strong leadership and technical experience to be able to have ownership and give direction to the fleet department as we continue our journey of professionalisation and continuous improvement.”

Essential Hard Skills (Skills & Experience)

Rail industry background is essential; candidates can come from a TOC, ROSCO, Consulting or OEM environments.

The successful applicant will have experience driving change throughout an organisation.

An inspirational and motivated leader with a track record of leading large teams.

Knowledge and understanding of railway standards, legislation and traction and rolling stock systems.

Ability to build strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders.

Candidates to be within a commutable distance to their facility and comfortable being on site full time.

Chartered Electrical or Mechanical Engineer (capable of holding the position of Professional Head of Engineering).

Essential Soft Skills (Attributes & Behaviours)

A strong leader who has the ability to challenge when needed.

Not afraid to ‘fly the flag’ and lead at industry events.

Naturally a hands-on leader, ‘no job too big, no job too small’ attitude.

Problem solving and resilient character.

Proactive, confident communicator internally and externally.

Working Arrangements & Location:

The Head of Technical Services will predominantly be based on site in the Midlands, 5 days a week, there will be an ‘air’ of flexibility when required.

Search Timescale Agreement

Stage	Agreed Date
Situational Discovery (Role Scoping Meeting)	23rd May 2025
Timescale Agreement & Delivery Plan – Issued to Client	27^th May
Candidate Opportunity Briefing Document – Client Sign Off	28^th May
Search ‘Go Live’	28^thMay
Mid-Search Review / Progress Update Meeting with Client	11^th June
Shortlist Presentation & Review Meeting with Client.	26^th June
First Stage interviews between Candidates & Client.	W.c. 30^th June
Psychometric Assessment (If applicable)	N/A
Final Stage Interviews between Candidates & Client	W.c. 7^th July
Decision to offer successful candidate	W.c. 14^th July
Likely Candidate Start Date	Dependant on candidate notice period.
Mid Notice Engagement Session between Candidate & Client	TBC

Ford & Stanley Interview Process:

1^st Stage: Candidate Discovery: An open, conversational and consultative discussion where interested candidates are assessed on their suitability for the role in the context of the above and challenged on how the opportunity lines up with their career aspirations, motivations, financial expectations and personal circumstances.
2^nd Stage: The ‘shortlist’: Candidates are asked to reflect on the candidate discovery discussion, take time to reflect on the opportunity and undertake subsequent research on the client business, reporting back on their thoughts, questions and providing additional specific information on their suitability (if applicable). Final checks of role, package and logistical alignments made.

Our Client’s Interview Process:

1st Stage interview: To be held with the Fleet Director via Teams.
2nd Final Stage interview: Face to face with the Fleet Director and a member of the HR team.
3rd and Final Stage (Informal Meet): Fleet Director and Managing Director to meet with the successful candidate over a coffee.

Good to know:

The Head of Technical Services will be accountable for the safety, reliability and effectiveness of the Fleet, leading the Fleet Engineering team to maintain and optimise VMI’s for optimum vehicle performance, provide technical support to the Service Centres and instigate vehicle modifications to address safety concerns or improve vehicle reliability.
The Head of Technical Services will also be required to set and monitor the Fleet Engineering Standards for the business to ensure legislative compliance, as well as leading a performance management function, ensuring metrics are clear, available to the business and industry bodies in a timely and accurate way.
We are seeking a seasoned professional with strong leadership and technical experience to be able to ownership and give direction to the fleet department.
The Fleet Director has created a vision for the team to drive transformation; the Head of Technical Services will have the opportunity to work shoulder to shoulder with the Fleet Director to make this role their own.
The Fleet Director is looking for an individual who is ambitious and not afraid to grab the challenge with both hands. The business have the resources, but they need to be put in the right place.
This person will be required to create a clear strategy for Engineering across the fleet and promote a culture of continuous improvement.
Create a focus within the business of looking at the uptime, not just focusing on downtime.

Key Accountabilities within the role to note:

Fleet engineering / EC system of maintenance.
Safe system of maintenance, innovative maintenance.
Digital, RCM, condition-based, AI
Supporting fleet delivery
Digital assurance OT
Software / Cyber, Interface, Inc energy
Scope of work / MMI / SRD
Task risk assessments
Industry liaison / standards
L&D and competency
Accident and incident investigations

Competitive salary and package available for this role.

Please contact Emma directly for the full opportunity brief and disclosure of benefits package.

Executive Search Delivery Team:

Tom Norton – Head of Executive Search (Headhunting, Offer Negotiations, Client Consulting)
Emma Barlow– Senior Research Associate (Shortlisting, Networking, Research, Search, Longlisting, Interviews, Data & Market Intel)
Ralitsa Kuzeva– Executive Assistant (Diary Management, Coordination, Candidate Experience).

About Ford & Stanley Executive Search:

Ford & Stanley TalentWise – Business specialising in blue collar trade & technical services – permanent and temporary.
Ford & Stanley Recruitment – Business specialising in white collar spanning all company functions with specialist verticals within Digital, Rail Engineering, Civils & Infrastructure, General Manufacturing, Supply Chain & Logistics both permanent and contract.
Ford & Stanley Executive Search – Business specialising in Executive Search & Executive Interim Solutions in the UK, North America, Middle East and Europe.
Ford & Stanley Genius Performance – Performance is always accelerated when good people are coached, inspired, trained and focused in the right way.

Services advertised by Ford & Stanley are that of an employment consultancy business.

June 5, 2025

Managing Consultant – Executive Search
Opportunity Brief: Managing Consultant – Ford & Stanley Executive Search

About Ford & Stanley Talent Services Group

The Ford & Stanley Group comprises of 5 companies that specialise in Leadership, ‘Shop Floor to Boardroom’ Recruitment Solutions, Coaching & Mental Fitness into the Transportation, Infrastructure, Digital & General Manufacturing sectors across the UK, Europe and North Americas.

With Head Offices based on Pride Park, Derby – We have 56 Employees, £23m turnover and privately owned boasting a 40% growth in the last 18 months alongside being awarded 6 major multi-year contracted recruitment partnership agreements with UK and international organisations.

Over the next five years we’re looking to significantly grow our business within the UK and internationally, both in terms of our client base and the Ford & Stanley team – for this we are looking to secure experienced recruiters to join us on our journey be that here in the UK or other areas of the globe.

Here at Ford & Stanley we are firm believers in recruiting on attributes and potential – as such it matters not what background your recruitment experience is in. We have taken industrial recruiters and transformed them into high performing Executive Search Consultants, we have employed specialist law recruiters and developed them into expert industry ‘go to’ for engineering recruitment and we have provided an opportunity for struggling high potential recruiters who perhaps aren’t in the right environment to thrive and have supported their journey into top performers.

For a deeper insight into our culture, check out the video link to our 2024 company away day. https://fordandstanley.com/join-us/ you may also want to see some of the great work our teams have been doing for the environment https://fordandstanley.com/conservation/

Why join?
- Would you like to be supported by a dedicated business support team who take the administration burden out of your working day? At Ford & Stanley we ensure our consultants are focussed on the sharp end of the activities and freed up to focus on what they are best at.
- We have made 11 internal promotions in the last 18 months which is testament to our focus and development of our people.
- Specific to executive search we have promoted 2 individuals and had 2 new hires in 12 months.
- Are you seeking a clear and defined progression and promotion structure? You will receive a bespoke career plan designed around your strengths and ambitions that map out not just your next promotion but right the way through to director for those so inclined and driven. You will also be issued a training programme underpinned by a competency framework for you to own.
- Do you have ambitions to head up a business vertical? Here we don’t “grow desks,” we develop businesses that are only limited to your ambitions and capabilities. We currently have 5 established businesses and 4 service lines led by business managers who are working diligently and tirelessly to develop these service lines into business verticals. We have ambition to open up at least 3 new service lines throughout 2025 and 2026 in addition to a presence in the US / North America so whilst you may start your career with us in Executive Search it wouldn’t be unusual to find yourself heading up a new business venture at a later stage in your career with us if so desired.
- Do you want to be able to personally manage your monthly commission? Via your personal commission calculator, you can plan in advance, how much you will earn and plan how you want to spend it! We operate 3 different schemes each with an uncapped monthly commission scheme where you can start earning commission in your first month.
- Would you like to rid yourself of limitations and exercise your right to entrepreneurial thinking? Ford & Stanley is built entirely on the ideas and the creativity of its employees and none more so than our Executive Search business which is 3 years old yet already performing against its 5 year objectives.
- Would you like to genuinely make a difference to peoples lives via our Better Workdays Better Everyday’s mission? But also make a positive environmental impact? For every placement we make we plant an oak tree. For every major contract agreement with a client we plant a fruit tree. Join us during 2024 and you can join our companywide initiative of planting a forest worth of placements.
- Are you looking for a team focussed environment? At Ford & Stanley we have spent decades developing and perfecting a culture and defined working practices that one persons success is everyones success and the sharing for information, candidates and working with collaboration and interdependence is recognised, celebrated and rewarded.
What is it like working in the Executive Search team?

Quotes from executive search team members:

Ollie – Research Manager: “Imagine a world where every role you work you successfully place? (or at least get paid for your efforts?) Every search we undertake is a retained search, we do not work contingent or non-exclusive assignments.”

Tom – Business Manager: “Every day we work with business leaders, directors, owners, c-suite of thriving successful businesses. Working in executive search is like being at business school (and getting paid very well for it).”

Emma – Senior Research Associate: “The fact that I have a role designed to play me to my strengths and ambitions sounds simple but very rare that an organisation adopts this mindset. Put simply, I love my job, I love my team and my role within in it.”

Dan – Director of Executive Search: “I am surrounded by talented, passionate and hungry people who work with a ‘one team’ ethos, have a tireless work ethic and hilarious to work with. Whilst we are one of the fastest growing and most profitable businesses within the group it is the culture that is something I haven’t ever experienced in my 20 years+ in the game. What a team. What a privilege”.

What does the role entail?

As an experienced recruitment consultant, you will know the duties and responsibilities better than most… but as a headline of responsibilities of a Senior or Managing Consultant within our Executive Search business Includes but not limited to:
- Relationship lead Sales & New Business Development.
- Account Management & Account Development
- Developing trusted and lasting relationships with candidates and clients
- Representing the business at Networking Events, Client Socials & Trade Shows.
- Undertaking Searches and delivering winning shortlists.
- Identifying Post Placeable Candidates (MPC) and proactively marketing
- Sourcing and appointing executive contractors to provide interim solutions to clients and ensuring a world-class aftercare service to each
- Candidate Pool Collation & Mapping of talent
- Client & Candidate Consulting, Trouble Shooting & Problem Solving
- Ownership of your career plan and driving your progression through the competency matrix (be it a focus on mastery or current role of progression/promotion into the next)
What are the benefits and perks?

Benefits
- £33k-£35k basic salary package. (Senior) £35k – £40k (Managing)
- Car Allowance
- Commission Scheme Uncapped
- Holidays: 25 days & 8 bank holidays
- Pension: 4% employer / 4% employee
- Life Assurance: 4 x Annual Salary
- Location: Full time office based. HQ in Pride Park Derby (Free parking)
- Health Shield
- Sickness: After probation – 10 days at 100% pay then SSP thereafter.
- 24/7 Mental Fitness & Performance Coach Access
Perks:
- Company Away Days
- Bespoke Career plan
- Laptop
- iPhone
- Ad hoc rewards/incentives for top performance
- Regular team nights / company socials including Christmas Party
- Editorial, PR & Comms plan of your joining
- Internal & External Training Programs
- Earlier Friday finishes (4pm wash up)
- Free fresh fruit, unlimited teas & coffees
- Free Parking
Likely Job Titles:

Recruitment Consultant, Senior Recruitment Consultant, Talent Acquisition Manager, Managing Consultant, Recruiter, Recruitment Manager.

Ford & Stanley Talent Services Group is a cluster of companies that are in the business of people and performance. Our mission is to create one million better workdays through facilitating great recruitment, leadership and occupational mental fitness. We support our clients in their most challenging business areas – recruiting, developing and retaining the best talent from shop floor to boardroom.
1. Ford & Stanley TalentWise – Business specialising in blue collar trade & technical services – permanent and temporary.
2. Ford & Stanley Recruitment – Business specialising in white collar spanning all company functions with specialist verticals within Digital, Rail Engineering, Civils & Infrastructure, General Manufacturing, Supply Chain & Logistics both permanent and contract.
3. Ford & Stanley Executive Search – Business specialising in Executive Search & Executive Interim Solutions in the UK, North America, Middle East and Europe.
4. Ford & Stanley Genius Performance – Performance is always accelerated when good people are coached, inspired, trained and focused in the right way.
We are: First by choice in the mind of Employers looking for highly competitive and effective recruitment services, because they know they can rely on us to consistently deliver exceptional people, service and performance.

We are: First by choice in the mind of candidates seeking alternative employment within engineering, rail, general manufacturing and digital sectors, because they trust in our consulting and know we have the knowledge, expertise and access into the employers of choice.

We are: First by choice in the mind of smart individuals keen to develop a career within the recruitment sector, because of our truly differentiated proposition, culture and because we are a progressive organisation that genuinely lives by our values.

Commitment to sustainability: A Tree for Every Placement

As part of Ford & Stanley’s commitment to sustainability and conservation, every time we make a permanent placement with a client company, we make the offer to joint-fund the planting of an oak tree. What this means is that, irrespective of the nature of that person’s employment up to 500 years of daily environmental benefit will be realised as a direct result, demonstrating our commitment to conservation.

Each time a client contractually engages part of the Ford & Stanley Group to supply a service we plant a fruit tree in recognition of the agreement and the fact that both will ‘bear fruit’ into the future.

Our ‘Tree for Every Placement’ project sits on the site of our Ford & Stanley Conservation Meadow in Derbyshire. The meadow provides the opportunity for employees to get involved in a regular programme of conservation efforts throughout the year, providing a focus for team building and improved mental fitness.

Ford & Stanley Group Ltd is committed to a policy of equal opportunities for all opportunity seekers and approach all opportunity with a mindset of who is right for the job irrespective sex, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, marital or civil partnership status, age, disability, colour, race, nationality, ethnic or national origin, religion or belief or political beliefs and we place an obligation upon all staff to respect and act in accordance with the policy. We shall adhere to such a policy at all times and will review on an on-going basis all aspects of recruitment to avoid unlawful or undesirable discrimination.
June 2, 2025

Head of Marketing

Opportunity Brief: Head of Marketing
Ford & Stanley Executive Search (Part of the Ford & Stanley Group) are a leading Executive search firm to the UK, North American and European Engineering, Technology, Sustainability & Heavy Manufacturing industries.

Our search directors, search consultants and research teams specialise in all horizontal functions of our client’s organisation with expertise spanning engineering, commercial, procurement, HR, IT, finance, HSQE, sales, projects, operations and c-suite.

We are trusted by over 100 leading organisations when they seek to make a leadership appointment, be that a permanent appointment or an interim solution.

We have been retained and appointed by our client company on the search for a Head of Marketing who will play a pivotal role in leading and developing the Group’s marketing function across the UK and Ireland.

Below you will find an ‘opportunity brief’ developed from notes taken during the scoping meeting (Situational Discovery) held between the Director of Executive Search and Senior Research Associate (Ford and Stanley Executive Search) and the Managing Directors of the business. This brief is designed to give candidates a deeper insight into the opportunity inherent within the role, the challenges the role presents, and provide access to the detail that sits behind the job specification.

The Role:

This role is the company’s first appointment in marketing at a senior level and the first that will hold a group-wide remit. The role will be supported by two Marketing Managers, one UK (to be hired) and one in Ireland. The Marketing Managers will divide the marketing brief between them (Websites & PPC, and content development & social media) as well as supporting their regional businesses with day-to-day marketing and communications.

This is a responsive and entrepreneurial business, and a successful Head of Marketing will need to be similarly responsive and entrepreneurial. Developing and executing effective marketing plans is a central part of this role, as is managing our brand. But importantly, they will bring a drive to see results, and through their market insight and expertise, they will identify, grasp and exploit opportunity as it arises.

Challenges expected within the first 12 months include:

The role is a blank canvas. For the right candidate, it’s an opportunity to completely build a marketing function and capability with support and interest from the executive leadership team. This may be quite daunting for some candidates.
Whilst we need a mid to long-term strategy that will need to be executed, there are day-to-day / week-to-week low-hanging fruit opportunities which are not being capitalised upon.
We require a hands-on leader (not a strategic marketing director) who is passionate and inspired by rolling up the sleeves and into the muck and bullets to help grab the marketing function and strategy by the scruff and drive it through to operational excellence.

Key deliverables within the first 12 months include:

A clear, measurable marketing strategy aligned to Group growth objectives. Increased brand visibility and awareness across key sectors and markets.
Campaigns that drive qualified leads and support sales conversion. High-performing digital channels that contribute to business development. Insightful competitor and market analysis that supports strategic decisions.
Development of a marketing team with growing capability and impact.

Essential Hard Skills (Skills & Experience)

§ Experience of developing and delivering (hands-on) channelled/targeted marketing strategies across the full marketing matrix.

§ Open-minded as to securing a Senior Marketing Manager ready for a step up or an experienced head of / director of Marketing.

§ In-depth knowledge of brand development, digital marketing, content strategy and media engagement across multiple product lines.

§ Demonstrable marketing experience within a senior B2B marketing role, ideally within engineering, industrial or technical sectors. Open to candidates from retail, FMCG, construction or worked for a group servicing subsidiaries.

§ Track record of balancing/delivering long-term marketing strategies, yet reactive to day-to-day / week-to-week initiatives.

§ Experience of managing a small team / developing people.

§ Demonstrable examples of managing up and challenging/advising a business leadership team as the expert in your field.

§ Track record of working with/for multiple stakeholders (this role has several reporting facets).

§ A passion and eagerness to get hands-on in the role and examples of where they have led from the front in all marketing activities

§ Strong analytical data-driven mindset, with the ability to translate insight into action.

Essential Soft Skills (Attributes & Behaviours)

§ A dynamic, agile and organised individual who can react quickly to market/weather changes to capitalise on marketing content opportunities.

§ Strength in character with the ability to consult and advise a leadership team that are not themselves marketing experts. (Not wait to be told)

§ Client-facing / customer-facing and engaging personality.

§ Commercially minded with the ability to work to a high degree of autonomy and self-motivation.

§ Strong communicator.

Working Arrangements & Location:

The Head of Marketing will be based out of our clients HQ in the Hampshire area. This role is offered with flexibility, but it’s expected that the nature of the role and the location of key teams and stakeholders will mean the appointee will be onsite around 3 days a week.

The Company’s Interview Process:

1st Stage interview: Teams interview or on-site interview (dependent on availability) with both MDs and the Interim HRD.
Psychometric Assessment: Will be sent to successful candidates between the 1st and 2nd stage interviews. Organised by Ford & Stanley Executive Search (Thomas International)
Final Stage interview: On-site interview with the MD’s.
‘Rubber stamping stage’: With the Group CEO

Ford & Stanley Interview Process:

1^st Stage – Candidate Discovery: An open, conversational and consultative discussion where interested candidates are assessed on their suitability for the role in the context of the above and challenged on how the opportunity lines up with their career aspirations, motivations, financial expectations and personal circumstances.
2^nd Stage – The ‘shortlist’: Candidates are asked to reflect on the candidate discovery discussion, take time to reflect on the opportunity and undertake subsequent research on the client business reporting back on their thoughts, questions and providing additional specific information on their suitability (if applicable). Final checks of role, package and logistical alignments made.

Good to know:

The business offers a broad range of products, services and solutions and has locations across the UK.
The Head of Marketing position is a brand-new role and function for the business, and therefore it is a blank canvas for this person to make their own.
Whilst the Head of Marketing reports to the Group CEO, their day-to-day engagement will be with the two Managing Directors (one based in the UK and one based in Ireland) and actively focusing on marketing activity to drive engagement, lead generation and business growth.
The Head of Marketing will be required to line manage and develop a team of two Marketing Managers, setting clear goals, providing coaching, and supporting progression.
Requires an experienced and commercially minded Head of Marketing to lead and develop the Group’s marketing function across the UK and Ireland.
The UK business is headquartered in Hampshire and the Irish business in Dublin. Following acquisitions, there are a number of brands in operation across the two jurisdictions.
This role is the company’s first appointment in marketing at a senior level and the first that will hold a group-wide remit. The role will be supported by two Marketing Managers, one UK (to be hired) and one in Ireland. The Marketing Managers will divide the marketing brief between them (Websites & PPC, and content development & social media) as well as supporting their regional businesses with day-to-day marketing and communications.
The business is responsive and entrepreneurial, and a successful Head of Marketing will need to be similarly responsive and entrepreneurial. Developing and executing effective marketing plans is a central part of this role, as is managing our brand. But importantly, they will bring a drive to see results, and through their market insight and expertise, they will identify, grasp and exploit opportunity as it arises.
Operating at a strategic and operational level, you will be responsible for building a high-performing marketing capability that drives growth, enhances brand equity, and supports business development across multiple sectors.
Lead the Group’s PR strategy, identifying opportunities to raise the company’s profile and secure positive media coverage.
Manage relationships with external PR agencies and journalists to support reputation-building and thought leadership.
Act as a trusted advisor to the CEO and senior leadership team on marketing, brand and communications.
Build strong working relationships with Sales and Product teams to ensure marketing aligns with market needs and commercial targets.
Manage external agencies and suppliers as required, ensuring high-quality delivery and value for money.

Budget:

Low: £90,000 Mid: £100,000 High: £110,000 (May be some wriggle room at the top end for exceptional candidates)

Supporting benefits

Car allowance £500 pcm
Bonus up to 15%
25 days holiday +stat
Free parking
Pension 5% Employee, 3% Employer
Corporate eyecare scheme

Discretionary benefits upon successful completion of probation:

Group life assurance 3x salary
Private medical insurance

Executive Search Delivery Team:

Emma Barlow – Senior Research Associate (Headhunting, Networking, Research, Search, Longlisting, Interviews, Data & Market Intel
Tom Norton – Head of Executive Search (Client Recommendations/Advisory, Offer Negotiations, Headhunting, Networking)
Ralitsa Kuzeva – Executive Assistant (Diary Management, Coordination, Candidate Experience)

About Ford & Stanley Executive Search:

Ford & Stanley TalentWise – Business specialising in blue collar trade & technical services – permanent and temporary.
Ford & Stanley Recruitment – Business specialising in white collar spanning all company functions with specialist verticals within Digital, Rail Engineering, Civils & Infrastructure, General Manufacturing, Supply Chain & Logistics both permanent and contract.
Ford & Stanley Executive Search – Business specialising in Executive Search & Executive Interim Solutions in the UK, North America, Middle East and Europe.
Ford & Stanley Genius Performance – Performance is always accelerated when good people are coached, inspired, trained and focused in the right way.

Services advertised by Ford & Stanley are that of an employment consultancy business.

May 21, 2025

Head of Projects

Candidate Opportunity Briefing Document
Role: Head of Projects

We are trusted by over 100 leading organisations when they seek to make a leadership appointment, be that a permanent appointment or interim solutions. We have been appointed by our client company on a retained search for a motivated and hands-on project management professional who can work with the business to ensure projects are delivered on time and to budget.

Below you will find an ‘candidate opportunity briefing document’ developed from notes taken during the scoping meeting (Situational Discovery) held between the Head of Executive Search and Senior Research Associate of Ford & Stanley Executive Search and the Managing Director of the business.

Key deliverables within the first 12 months include:

Demonstrate that you have built proper relationships across the business to enable smooth working.
Work alongside the team to better understand their capacity and see the bigger picture.
Demonstrate improvements in quality, cost and on-time delivery of projects.

Essential Hard Skills (Skills & Experience)

· Proven ability in managing the end-to-end project cycle within an engineering or manufacturing environment.

· Experience of delivering a circa £5mil + project portfolio

· Previously worked within an SME environment

· Project management capability and the ability to build strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders.

· Candidates to be within a commutable distance to North Nottinghamshire and comfortable being on site full time.

· Desirable: Project Management qualification, Prince 2 or APM

Essential Soft Skills (Attributes & Behaviours)

· Ability to work to a high degree of autonomy and hold their own.

· A strong leader, someone who has the ability to challenge when needed.

· Naturally a hands-on leader, ‘no job too big, no job too small’ attitude.

· Problem solving and resilient character.

· Proactive, confident communicator internally and externally.

Working Arrangements & Location:

The Head of Projects is a present leadership role, as such will predominantly be based on site in North Nottinghamshire 5 days a week, the business does observe flexible (not home or remote) working.

Ford & Stanley Interview Process:

1^st Stage: Candidate Discovery: An open, conversational and consultative discussion where interested candidates are assessed on their suitability for the role in the context of the above and challenged on how the opportunity lines up with their career aspirations, motivations, financial expectations and personal circumstances.
2^nd Stage: The ‘shortlist’: Candidates are asked to reflect on the candidate discovery discussion, take time to reflect on the opportunity and undertake subsequent research on the client business, reporting back on their thoughts, questions and providing additional specific information on their suitability (if applicable). Final checks of role, package and logistical alignments made.

Client Company Process:

1st Stage interview: To be held with the MD, preferably face-to-face on site.
2nd Final Stage interview: Face to face with the CEO of the parent company and the MD of the business.

Good to know:

The business is a heavy engineering OEM in the rail industry with a long heritage in their sector. They have demonstrated a trajectory of innovation and dedication to their customers, with aftercare and warranty being a key offering in their service portfolio.
The Head of Projects is a new role for the business, reporting directly into the MD. This role currently has no direct reports; however, it works closely with the engineering, design and production teams.
This SME Business are currently working on 3 major projects, all at different points within their lifecycle, this is in addition to a major contract they have recently won working with a major Train Operating Company.
Currently, there is an interim Project Manager who is supporting the business.
The interim project manager has an engineering bias, and whilst they are adding value from that perspective, it has been agreed that this individual needs to predominantly be a project management professional first and foremost.
There are lots of spinning plates with this role, with the key elements being to ensure projects are being delivered on time, on budget and on quality.
The business has a close-knit, family feel; they are classed as an SME and are owned by a larger group.
As it stands, there is no direct line management required with this role, which is purposefully designed to allow the individual to be autonomous and effective.
It’s vital that the incoming Head of Projects understands the landscape that the company is operating in and that the most advanced processes may not always be the most suitable (or applicable) to the business.
The business is looking to invest in its projects function, focused on achieving more control over the project process and the revenue/margin across each project/contract.
The company don’t currently use a specific Project Management approach, but APM would be their preferred. The Company would look to the successful candidate to introduce this.
It’s vital that this individual is proactive and will take the initiative to ensure that key responsibilities are upheld throughout the business.
The business has a project management process in place currently, but it is recognised that there are opportunities for improvement; ownership of this improvement will sit with the Head of Projects. It is important these improvements are bespoke to the business dynamic and realistic to the organisation’s size.
It’s important to note that the business has a strong project pipeline and is expecting to go through a significant period of growth over the next 12 months with the projects that they are involved in, and needs to establish key processes to enable this.
We are purposefully looking to obtain a strong Project Manager with experience within a high-integrity engineering/manufacturing business that will have exposed them to the complexity and criticality of engineering/manufacturing processes (Rail, Automotive, Aerospace, Infrastructure).

Budget:

Competitive Salary Available

Supporting benefits

Car Allowance – £500 PCM
Discretionary bonus
25 days holiday + stat
Standard pension

Executive Search Delivery Team:

Tom Norton – Head of Executive Search (Headhunting, Offer Negotiations, Client Consulting & Advisory)
Emma Barlow– Senior Research Associate (Shortlisting, Networking, Research, Search, Longlisting, Interviews, Data & Market Intel)
Ralitsa Kuzeva– Executive Assistant (Diary Management, Coordination, Candidate Experience).

About Ford & Stanley Executive Search:

Ford & Stanley TalentWise – Business specialising in blue collar trade & technical services – permanent and temporary.
Ford & Stanley Recruitment – Business specialising in white collar spanning all company functions with specialist verticals within Digital, Rail Engineering, Civils & Infrastructure, General Manufacturing, Supply Chain & Logistics both permanent and contract.
Ford & Stanley Executive Search – Business specialising in Executive Search & Executive Interim Solutions in the UK, North America, Middle East and Europe.
Ford & Stanley Genius Performance – Performance is always accelerated when good people are coached, inspired, trained and focused in the right way.

Services advertised by Ford & Stanley are that of an employment consultancy business.

May 16, 2025

Head of Sales – Rolling Stock Maintenance

Opportunity Brief: Head of Rail & Maintenance Services

Ford & Stanley Executive Search (Part of the Ford & Stanley Group) are a leading Executive search firm to the UK, North American and European Engineering, Technology, Sustainability & Heavy Manufacturing industries.

We are trusted by over 100 leading organisations when they seek to make a leadership appointment, be that a permanent appointment or an interim solution.

We have been retained and appointed by our client on a retained search for a Head of Rail & Maintenance Services, a hands-on Commercial professional who can create and implement a sales strategy for developing the rail services business and unlocking opportunities.

Below you will find an ‘opportunity brief’ developed from notes taken during the scoping meeting (Situational Discovery) held between the Head of Executive Search and Research Manager of Ford & Stanley Executive Search and the Commercial Director of the client company. This brief is designed to give candidates a deeper insight into the opportunity inherent within the role, the challenges the role presents, and provide access to the detail that sits behind the job specification.

Client Opportunity Statements:

“As a business, we are market leaders in rail haulage and the largest railfreight company in the UK. With our expertise and experience, we are now looking to grow our rail services and maintenance and offering, supporting our clients across ROSCO’s, TOC’s, FOC’s and the wider industry. This will involve a mentality shift from the business as we are market challenger in this market, competing against established brands”

“We need an experienced commercial sales professional who not only has strong relationships across the Rail industry but is able to build internal relationships as the business goes on this journey”

“The right candidate will be the start of this new venture by working closely with the Commercial Director and Engineering Director to grow this business, map the industry and start putting us on the radar with customers, showcasing what problems our fully inhouse maintenance team can solve for them today and what solutions we can offer to solve for the future.”

Challenges expected within the first 12 months include:

The business mindset will need to change from being a market leader in rail haulage to a market challenger in this specific market. This will involve taking more calculated risks and being more agile.
Working with the Directors to gear up the business to deliver the pipeline of opportunity, which sometimes has a short lead time. This will require strong internal relationships with those that are used to longer lead times and less customer pressure.
Managing the changing dynamic from customer-supplier with the ROSCOs and lessors to working in greater partnership.

Key deliverables within the first 12 months include:

Working with the Commercial Director and Engineering Director to build a commercial picture of the size of the market, key target and key contacts. Start to put RMS on the radar with customers.
Working with key stakeholders throughout the business to minimise current ‘leakage’ within existing contracts.
Has worked with the Engineering Director to understand onsite depot capacity for projects and expanding offering into customer facilities and 3^rd party sites.

Essential Hard Skills (Skills & Experience)

Experienced in commercial sales and account management in a technically challenging environment.

Strong ability to manage stakeholder relationships both internally and externally.

Experience working with ROSCOs and Rail Leasers.

A proven ability to drive revenue growth and market presence within the rail industry.

Track record operating within a rail business that incorporates maintenance and overhaul.

Essential Soft Skills (Attributes & Behaviours)

Engaging both externally and internally, strong communications skills, able to operate from boardroom to shop floor.

Able to self-manage their time and used to having autonomy to be where they are needed.

Hands-on approach and capable of bringing others on a journey.

Entrepreneurial flair and able to pivot with the needs of the business.

Resilient with an understanding as the business changes its direction that things won’t happen straight away or on the first try.

Working Arrangements & Location:

Home-based with travel to company and customer sites across the UK.

Client Company Interview Process:

1^st Stage interview: Face-to-face interview with the Commercial Director and Engineering Director.
2^nd Final Stage interview: Face-to-face interview with the MD.

Ford & Stanley Interview Process:

1^st Stage: Candidate Discovery: An open, conversational and consultative discussion where interested candidates are assessed on their suitability for the role in the context of the above and challenged on how the opportunity lines up with their career aspirations, motivations, financial expectations and personal circumstances.
2^nd Stage: The ‘shortlist’: Candidates are asked to reflect on the candidate discovery discussion, take time to reflect on the opportunity and undertake subsequent research on the client business, reporting back on their thoughts, questions and providing additional specific information on their suitability (if applicable). Final checks of role, package and logistical alignments made.

Good to know:

Service offerings include Bulk Haulage, Locomotive maintenance, track maintenance and Rail services. These include supporting ROSCO’s, TOC’s and FOC’s in the moving of units and rolling stock maintenance service, which is where the business sees growth opportunities
The role is to drive market and product development for the business in the Rail Services and Rolling Stock maintenance and holds responsibility over identifying and delivering new business wins with new customers, including leading responses to tenders as well as leading account management within the relevant sector.
Ultimately, the business are looking to drive diversity in their portfolio to derisk the business.
Will be involved in the further development of the strategic growth of the business, identifying new markets and developing new products & services.
The Head of Rail & Maintenance Services will support the Commercial Director’s efforts in: Market Research and Analysis, Market Strategy, Opportunity Identification, Capture Management & Implementation, Pricing strategy and Account Management
Critical to the role will be the ability to work with colleagues from Finance, Operations & Engineering to analyse costs in a transparent manner such that commercial proposals can be both competitive and deliverable.
As RMS grows, there will be opportunities to be involved in M&A opportunities to support continued growth opportunities.
Currently, there is revenue leakage with existing contracts as the commercial process is sat within the engineering Teams and will be moving back within the commercial team with this appointment.
The Head of RMS within Heavy Haul will report directly to the Commercial Director.
There are also opportunities within Track maintenance within the private siding owners.
This role is a newly created position within the structure aimed at supporting the business with its future growth ambitions.
We are expecting the incoming Head of RMS to build relationships with the engineering teams.
Emotional intelligence will be key to the success of this role, with the incumbent being required to build strong relationships and understand when to negotiate, compromise and stand their ground.
It’s worth noting that there may well be an M&A angle to this role in conjunction with the Commercial Director.

Main duties and responsibilities:

To develop market strategy with Commercial Management team including sectors and customers to target and related pricing and margin assumptions.
To input into pipeline and qualification of new business opportunities throughout the process.
To manage the production of customer proposals and responses to tender exercises.
To develop and manage pricing models for new business acting as a liaison to FDs and Operations.
To assist the Commercial Director in managing the commercial sign-off process with Operations & Finance colleagues in order that P&L expectations for new business are understood.
To lead and assist in contract negotiation and completion for new business wins in conjunction with the Development Director and other senior commercial management team.
To work with Rail and Finance colleagues to establish customer and route profitability of sold work and agree on action plans to address any shortfall in commercial performance.
Lead a team of Account Managers for the relevant sector.
Challenge existing business protocols with your own initiatives, proactively adding value to the business;
Actively promote engagement, communication and dialogue within the team for the benefit of information flow, to embed best practice and to solidify management control and commercial and operational direction of the business.
Ensure appropriate Designated Financial Authorities (‘DFAs’) are in place within remit, and adhered to;
Promote a mindset of “Safety First” and instil an ethos of continual safety improvement within your area of responsibility;
Support and drive good governance and control (including Sarbanes Oxley (‘SOx’)) principles within your remit, identifying any potential deficiencies in controls and immediately remediate;
Nurture and develop talent within the team, promote apprenticeships and development of junior talent, ensure capable management succession and ensure the team is appropriately motivated and developed so that they carry out their responsibilities to the required standard;
In conjunction with your local Head of HR, ensure a robust recruitment, induction and ongoing development programme is in place for the team;
Get involved in any ad hoc projects, including M&A activity, as may be required, from time to time

Budget:

Low: £75,000 / Mid: £80,000 / High: £90,000

Supporting benefits

Competitive salary (reviewed annually)
Performance-based bonus scheme (role dependent)
Pension 0-3 years of service – IWDC. IWDC scheme is a percentage-based scheme, minimum 3.6% employee contribution and minimum 5.4% employer contribution. There is no maximum you can contribute as long as you stay compliant with National Minimum Wage.
EE contribution 5% or more – ER matching 7.5% (0-14 years of service)
EE contribution 5% or more – ER matching 9% (15+ years of service)
Pension after 3-year service. You can join a defined benefit (DB) scheme which pays you a regular income based on your salary and how long you’ve been a member of the scheme, rather than the amount of money you’ve contributed to the pension. The RPS defined benefit Sections are mostly ‘final salary’ schemes and give you a guaranteed annual income for life, based on your final or final average salary.
25 days annual leave plus 8 bank holidays (pro-rata for part-time)
Enhanced family leave (maternity, paternity, adoption, shared parental)
Life assurance
Cycle to Work scheme
Discounts via employee benefits platform (retail, gym, insurance, etc.)

Executive Search Delivery Team:

Tom Norton – Head of Executive Search (Client Recommendations/Advisory, Offer Negotiations, Headhunting, Networking)
Oliver Nunn – Research Manager (Shortlisting, Offer Negotiations, Headhunting, Networking, Research, Search, Longlisting, Interviews, Data & Market Intel)
Ralitsa Kuzeva – Executive Assistant (Diary Management, Coordination, Candidate Experience)

About Ford & Stanley Executive Search:

Ford & Stanley TalentWise – Business specialising in blue collar trade & technical services – permanent and temporary.
Ford & Stanley Recruitment – Business specialising in white collar spanning all company functions with specialist verticals within Digital, Rail Engineering, Civils & Infrastructure, General Manufacturing, Supply Chain & Logistics both permanent and contract.
Ford & Stanley Executive Search – Business specialising in Executive Search & Executive Interim Solutions in the UK, North America, Middle East and Europe.
Ford & Stanley Genius Performance – Performance is always accelerated when good people are coached, inspired, trained and focused in the right way.

Services advertised by Ford & Stanley are that of an employment consultancy business.

April 14, 2025

Managing Consultant (Recruitment)
Ford & Stanley Group is a talent services company in the business of improving the performance of individuals, teams and whole organisations. Because great performance always begins with having the right people, we have specialist recruitment brands that cover permanent and contract opportunities from shop floor to boardroom. Furthermore, because people who are inspired, developed and supported perform better, we have a portfolio of performance services that develop leadership skills, personal focus, teamwork, performance culture and a mentally healthy workforce

The future is extremely bright for Ford & Stanley Talent Services Group – with exciting and ambitious growth plans for the years ahead to develop from a £22m business to a £50m business. We have been awarded our sixth major multiyear recruitment framework contract and for the last three years, the business has reported 48% year-on-year growth resulting in the investment of an additional 5,000 square feet of additional office space on Pride Park, Derby. We value our employees and offer a vibrant working environment with state-of-the-art infrastructure, ensuring our consultants have access to all the tools they need to consistently deliver a first-class level of service.

If you’re looking to join an exciting growing company, full of passionate people, an award winning culture and real career prospects, make Ford & Stanley your next career destination.

Check out our EVP videos to learn more about our culture: https://fordandstanley.com/join-us/

We currently have 52 employees and looking to grow by a further 8 with vacancies across our businesses. We are looking to appoint these positions throughout 2025.
1. Senior Consultant – TalentWise (Blue Collar Trade & Technical)
2. Managing Consultant – TalentWise (Blue Collar Trade & Technical)
3. Business Manager – TalentWise (Blue Collar Trade & Technical)
4. Senior Consultant – Contract Recruitment (White Collar)
We don’t require industry specific experience, whether you are recruiting into industrial, hospitality, healthcare or finance matters not, it is how successful you have been in your role, your attributes and your potential we are interested in. We can train / teach the rest!

Why join?
- Do you want to maximise your billing potential? We will provide you with all the tools, training, hints, tips and techniques to become a top-performing consultant and expert headhunter.
- Do you want a clear and defined progression and promotion structure? From day one you will join the company People Programme where the 6 stepping stones from Trainee Recruitment Consultant through to Head of Business are clearly defined.
- Do you have ambitions to become a Divisional Lead? Here we don’t “grow desks,” we develop business verticals, that are only limited to your ambitions and capabilities.
- Do you want to be able to personally manage your monthly commission? Via your personal commission calculator, you can plan in advance, how much you will earn and plan how you want to spend it! We operate an uncapped monthly commission scheme where you can start earning a commission in your first month.
- Would you like to rid yourself of limitations and exercise your right to entrepreneurial thinking? Ford & Stanley is built entirely on the ideas and the creativity of its employees. Each employee can benefit from “vertical” progression and develop horizontal mastery.
- Do you want to become known as an “industry expert” within your discipline? We want every consultant in our business to develop a strong reputation and personal brand within their area of expertise. We provide personal brand coaching and mentoring to complement this.
- Would you like to passionately believe in the company you are working for, feel valued and empowered every day you come into work? We are the business for you.
What does the role entail?

As an experienced recruitment consultant, you will know the duties and responsibilities better than most… but as a headline of responsibilities of a Senior, Managing Consultant or Business Manager includes but not limited to:
- Relationship lead Sales & New Business Development.
- Account Management & Account Development
- Developing trusted and lasting relationships with candidates and clients
- Representing the business at Networking Events, Client Socials & Trade Shows.
- Undertaking Searches and delivering winning shortlists.
- Identifying Post Placeable Candidates (MPC) and proactively marketing
- Sourcing and appointing executive contractors to provide interim solutions to clients and ensuring a world-class aftercare service to each
- Candidate Pool Collation & Mapping of talent
- Client & Candidate Consulting, Trouble Shooting & Problem Solving
- Ownership of your career plan and driving your progression through the competency matrix (be it a focus on mastery or current role of progression/promotion into the next)
What are the benefits and perks?

Benefits
- £30k-£33k basic salary package. (Senior) £35k – £40k (Managing)
- Commission Scheme Uncapped
- Holidays: 25 days & 8 bank holidays
- Pension: 4% employer / 4% employee
- Life Assurance: 4 x Annual Salary
- Location: Full time office based. HQ in Pride Park Derby (Free parking)
- Health Shield
- Sickness: After probation – 10 days at 100% pay then SSP thereafter.
- 24/7 Mental Fitness & Performance Coach Access
Perks:
- Company Away Days
- Bespoke Career plan
- Laptop
- iPhone
- Ad hoc rewards/incentives for top performance
- Regular team nights / company socials including Christmas Party
- Editorial, PR & Comms plan of your joining
- Internal & External Training Programs
- Earlier Friday finishes (4pm wash up)
- Free fresh fruit, unlimited teas & coffees
- Free Parking
Likely Job Titles:

Recruitment Consultant, Senior Recruitment Consultant, Talent Acquisition Manager, Managing Consultant, Recruiter, Recruitment Manager.

Ford & Stanley Talent Services Group is a cluster of companies that are in the business of people and performance. Our mission is to create one million better workdays through facilitating great recruitment, leadership and occupational mental fitness. We support our clients in their most challenging business areas – recruiting, developing and retaining the best talent from shop floor to boardroom.
1. Ford & Stanley TalentWise – Business specialising in blue collar trade & technical services – permanent and temporary.
2. Ford & Stanley Recruitment – Business specialising in white collar spanning all company functions with specialist verticals within Digital, Rail Engineering, Civils & Infrastructure, General Manufacturing, Supply Chain & Logistics both permanent and contract.
3. Ford & Stanley Executive Search – Business specialising in Executive Search & Executive Interim Solutions in the UK, North America, Middle East and Europe.
4. Ford & Stanley Genius Performance – Performance is always accelerated when good people are coached, inspired, trained and focused in the right way.
We are: First by choice in the mind of Employers looking for highly competitive and effective recruitment services, because they know they can rely on us to consistently deliver exceptional people, service and performance.

We are: First by choice in the mind of candidates seeking alternative employment within engineering, rail, general manufacturing and digital sectors, because they trust in our consulting and know we have the knowledge, expertise and access into the employers of choice.

We are: First by choice in the mind of smart individuals keen to develop a career within the recruitment sector, because of our truly differentiated proposition, culture and because we are a progressive organisation that genuinely lives by our values.

Commitment to sustainability: A Tree for Every Placement

As part of Ford & Stanley’s commitment to sustainability and conservation, every time we make a permanent placement with a client company, we make the offer to joint-fund the planting of an oak tree. What this means is that, irrespective of the nature of that person’s employment up to 500 years of daily environmental benefit will be realised as a direct result, demonstrating our commitment to conservation.

Each time a client contractually engages part of the Ford & Stanley Group to supply a service we plant a fruit tree in recognition of the agreement and the fact that both will ‘bear fruit’ into the future.

Our ‘Tree for Every Placement’ project sits on the site of our Ford & Stanley Conservation Meadow in Derbyshire. The meadow provides the opportunity for employees to get involved in a regular programme of conservation efforts throughout the year, providing a focus for team building and improved mental fitness.

Ford & Stanley Group Ltd is committed to a policy of equal opportunities for all opportunity seekers and approach all opportunity with a mindset of who is right for the job irrespective sex, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, marital or civil partnership status, age, disability, colour, race, nationality, ethnic or national origin, religion or belief or political beliefs and we place an obligation upon all staff to respect and act in accordance with the policy. We shall adhere to such a policy at all times and will review on an on-going basis all aspects of recruitment to avoid unlawful or undesirable discrimination.
March 27, 2025
Senior Recruitment Consultant
Ford & Stanley Group is a talent services company in the business of improving the performance of individuals, teams and whole organisations. Because great performance always begins with having the right people, we have specialist recruitment brands that cover permanent and contract opportunities from shop floor to boardroom. Furthermore, because people who are inspired, developed and supported perform better, we have a portfolio of performance services that develop leadership skills, personal focus, teamwork, performance culture and a mentally healthy workforce

The future is extremely bright for Ford & Stanley Talent Services Group – with exciting and ambitious growth plans for the years ahead to develop from a £22m business to a £50m business. We have been awarded our sixth major multiyear recruitment framework contract and for the last three years, the business has reported 48% year-on-year growth resulting in the investment of an additional 5,000 square feet of additional office space on Pride Park, Derby. We value our employees and offer a vibrant working environment with state-of-the-art infrastructure, ensuring our consultants have access to all the tools they need to consistently deliver a first-class level of service.

If you’re looking to join an exciting growing company, full of passionate people, an award winning culture and real career prospects, make Ford & Stanley your next career destination.

Check out our EVP videos to learn more about our culture: https://fordandstanley.com/join-us/

We currently have 52 employees and looking to grow by a further 8 with vacancies across our businesses. We are looking to appoint these positions throughout 2025.
1. Senior Consultant – TalentWise (Blue Collar Trade & Technical)
2. Managing Consultant – TalentWise (Blue Collar Trade & Technical)
3. Business Manager – TalentWise (Blue Collar Trade & Technical)
4. Senior Consultant – Contract Recruitment (White Collar)
5. Senior Research Associate – Executive Search
6. Managing Consultant – Executive Search
7. Business Manager – Executive Search
We don’t require industry specific experience, whether you are recruiting into industrial, hospitality, healthcare or finance matters not, it is how successful you have been in your role, your attributes and your potential we are interested in. We can train / teach the rest!

Why join?
- Do you want to maximise your billing potential? We will provide you with all the tools, training, hints, tips and techniques to become a top-performing consultant and expert headhunter.
- Do you want a clear and defined progression and promotion structure? From day one you will join the company People Programme where the 6 stepping stones from Trainee Recruitment Consultant through to Head of Business are clearly defined.
- Do you have ambitions to become a Divisional Lead? Here we don’t “grow desks,” we develop business verticals, that are only limited to your ambitions and capabilities.
- Do you want to be able to personally manage your monthly commission? Via your personal commission calculator, you can plan in advance, how much you will earn and plan how you want to spend it! We operate an uncapped monthly commission scheme where you can start earning a commission in your first month.
- Would you like to rid yourself of limitations and exercise your right to entrepreneurial thinking? Ford & Stanley is built entirely on the ideas and the creativity of its employees. Each employee can benefit from “vertical” progression and develop horizontal mastery.
- Do you want to become known as an “industry expert” within your discipline? We want every consultant in our business to develop a strong reputation and personal brand within their area of expertise. We provide personal brand coaching and mentoring to complement this.
- Would you like to passionately believe in the company you are working for, feel valued and empowered every day you come into work? We are the business for you.
What does the role entail?

As an experienced recruitment consultant, you will know the duties and responsibilities better than most… but as a headline of responsibilities of a Senior, Managing Consultant or Business Manager includes but not limited to:
- Relationship lead Sales & New Business Development.
- Account Management & Account Development
- Developing trusted and lasting relationships with candidates and clients
- Representing the business at Networking Events, Client Socials & Trade Shows.
- Undertaking Searches and delivering winning shortlists.
- Identifying Post Placeable Candidates (MPC) and proactively marketing
- Sourcing and appointing executive contractors to provide interim solutions to clients and ensuring a world-class aftercare service to each
- Candidate Pool Collation & Mapping of talent
- Client & Candidate Consulting, Trouble Shooting & Problem Solving
- Ownership of your career plan and driving your progression through the competency matrix (be it a focus on mastery or current role of progression/promotion into the next)
What are the benefits and perks?

Benefits
- £30k-£33k basic salary package. (Senior) £35k – £40k (Managing)
- Commission Scheme Uncapped
- Holidays: 25 days & 8 bank holidays
- Pension: 4% employer / 4% employee
- Life Assurance: 4 x Annual Salary
- Location: Full time office based. HQ in Pride Park Derby (Free parking)
- Health Shield
- Sickness: After probation – 10 days at 100% pay then SSP thereafter.
- 24/7 Mental Fitness & Performance Coach Access
Perks:
- Company Away Days
- Bespoke Career plan
- Laptop
- iPhone
- Ad hoc rewards/incentives for top performance
- Regular team nights / company socials including Christmas Party
- Editorial, PR & Comms plan of your joining
- Internal & External Training Programs
- Earlier Friday finishes (4pm wash up)
- Free fresh fruit, unlimited teas & coffees
- Free Parking
Likely Job Titles:

Recruitment Consultant, Senior Recruitment Consultant, Talent Acquisition Manager, Managing Consultant, Recruiter, Recruitment Manager.

Ford & Stanley Talent Services Group is a cluster of companies that are in the business of people and performance. Our mission is to create one million better workdays through facilitating great recruitment, leadership and occupational mental fitness. We support our clients in their most challenging business areas – recruiting, developing and retaining the best talent from shop floor to boardroom.
1. Ford & Stanley TalentWise – Business specialising in blue collar trade & technical services – permanent and temporary.
2. Ford & Stanley Recruitment – Business specialising in white collar spanning all company functions with specialist verticals within Digital, Rail Engineering, Civils & Infrastructure, General Manufacturing, Supply Chain & Logistics both permanent and contract.
3. Ford & Stanley Executive Search – Business specialising in Executive Search & Executive Interim Solutions in the UK, North America, Middle East and Europe.
4. Ford & Stanley Genius Performance – Performance is always accelerated when good people are coached, inspired, trained and focused in the right way.
We are: First by choice in the mind of Employers looking for highly competitive and effective recruitment services, because they know they can rely on us to consistently deliver exceptional people, service and performance.

We are: First by choice in the mind of candidates seeking alternative employment within engineering, rail, general manufacturing and digital sectors, because they trust in our consulting and know we have the knowledge, expertise and access into the employers of choice.

We are: First by choice in the mind of smart individuals keen to develop a career within the recruitment sector, because of our truly differentiated proposition, culture and because we are a progressive organisation that genuinely lives by our values.

Commitment to sustainability: A Tree for Every Placement

As part of Ford & Stanley’s commitment to sustainability and conservation, every time we make a permanent placement with a client company, we make the offer to joint-fund the planting of an oak tree. What this means is that, irrespective of the nature of that person’s employment up to 500 years of daily environmental benefit will be realised as a direct result, demonstrating our commitment to conservation.

Each time a client contractually engages part of the Ford & Stanley Group to supply a service we plant a fruit tree in recognition of the agreement and the fact that both will ‘bear fruit’ into the future.

Our ‘Tree for Every Placement’ project sits on the site of our Ford & Stanley Conservation Meadow in Derbyshire. The meadow provides the opportunity for employees to get involved in a regular programme of conservation efforts throughout the year, providing a focus for team building and improved mental fitness.

Ford & Stanley Group Ltd is committed to a policy of equal opportunities for all opportunity seekers and approach all opportunity with a mindset of who is right for the job irrespective sex, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, marital or civil partnership status, age, disability, colour, race, nationality, ethnic or national origin, religion or belief or political beliefs and we place an obligation upon all staff to respect and act in accordance with the policy. We shall adhere to such a policy at all times and will review on an on-going basis all aspects of recruitment to avoid unlawful or undesirable discrimination.
March 27, 2025