Read our Scientific Recruitment Case Study to learn how GR designed and delivered a targeted search campaign for our Medical Devices client in the Home Counties.
The Challenge | Genuinely Responsive
Our client, a global materials testing organisation, recently faced a critical scientific recruitment challenge when tasked asked with launching a new product set from their Home Counties office, with immediate requirements to source a Laboratory Manager to support the NPD and Testing teams, as well as onboarding a team of skilled Lab Technicians (experienced and entry-level).
This need was not just about filling positions quickly, but ensuring that the new hires possessed the specialised expertise to conduct materials property testing in accordance with ISO and ASTM standards. Despite having an internal talent acquisition team, the urgency and specificity of the requirements necessitated external support from a trusted scientific recruitment partner capable of executing a targeted executive search to address their immediate hiring needs and establishing a long-term talent pipeline to support ongoing growth and anticipated capacity demands driven by an expanding client base.
The Solution | Great Relationships
GR’s Scientific Recruitment division was engaged to provide the critical support needed to overcome these recruitment challenges. Our approach included conducting in-depth consultations with the company’s hiring managers and internal talent acquisition team to fully understand the technical requirements and desired competencies for both the Laboratory Manager and the Lab Technicians.
We then leveraged our extensive network and expertise in the materials science (plastics, rubbers, polymers and adhesives) sector to develop a targeted search strategy – identifying potential candidates who not only had the requisite technical skills but also demonstrated a strong alignment with the company’s culture and values.
For the Laboratory Manager role, we conducted a comprehensive executive search process – mapping competitor organisations, partners and collaborators, targeting identified individuals within specific sectors, expanding our network into groups of subject matter experts and building relationships with key influencers. In doing so we were able to identify industry leaders with proven experience in managing complex laboratory environments and ensuring compliance with stringent testing standards.
For the Lab Technician roles, we focused on both immediate and future needs. Using traditional job board sourcing, market mapping and candidate profiling, social media networks, and connections to academic research projects, we identified and engaged with candidates who possessed the necessary skills and certifications, creating a robust talent pipeline that the company could draw upon for future hires.
To support long-term recruitment efforts, we also worked on enhancing the company’s employer brand within the Home Counties and beyond. This included targeted marketing campaigns and attending relevant industry events to position the company as a premier employer in the materials testing field.
The Outcome | Guaranteed Results
Our collaborative efforts with the national materials testing organisation yielded significant outcomes. Within a short time frame, we successfully placed a highly qualified Laboratory Manager and a 3-person team of experienced Lab Technicians. These hires were instrumental in the successful launch of the new product set from the Home Counties office.
By supplementing the company’s internal talent acquisition team, we improved the overall efficiency and effectiveness of the recruitment process. Our targeted approach ensured that only the most suitable candidates were presented, significantly reducing time-to-hire and onboarding periods.
Beyond addressing immediate hiring needs, we established a comprehensive talent pipeline that the company continues to leverage for ongoing recruitment. This proactive approach has enabled our client to maintain a steady stream of qualified candidates, ensuring they are well-positioned to meet future growth and capacity demands.
Our efforts in market branding and presence-building have also enhanced the company’s reputation as an employer of choice in the materials testing industry. This has not only facilitated easier recruitment for current vacancies but has also positioned the company favourably for future talent acquisition efforts.
The Partner | Grassroots Recruitment
GR acts as a scientific recruitment partner – understanding organisation’s challenges and objectives to present a collaborative solution that runs alongside and in support of their business plan.
If you have plans to expand and need to identify industry-experienced scientific professionals to drive growth, as well as appointing flexible or permanent resource to support project delivery, contact the Grassroots team today to tell us more about your requirements and schedule a call with one of our consultants.
