Largest University Dedicated to Distance Learning

The University’s need for clerical staff peaks during new student registrations and the exam season. It needed a co-ordinated approach to this recruitment, which is spread across 15 regions nationwide, each with its own requirements and priorities.

Joint workforce planning

We were invited by the University’s Head of Recruitment to meet every quarter, to discuss upcoming vacancies. This meant we could help the University predict and resolve various resource issues that were expected to occur over the coming months. Together, we identified a need for regular temporary staff – required nationwide but centralised through our Milton Keynes branch.

Single point of contact

We introduced a dedicated account manager who ensures that supply within each of the 15 regions meets – and often exceeds – the requirements of the University. Our peak can reach 50 staff at optimum times, due to the nature of the work.

Faster, cheaper recruitment

By having a single point of contact, we reduced the overall expense on agency staff and the time taken to recruit. We also provide a VAT mitigation scheme, whereby the University is exempt from paying VAT on the pay element of the bill rate.

Consistent approach nationwide

We ensure a standardised recruitment approach across all regions by maintaining good, open channels of communication. So, for example, when the University issued new pay rates, they were quickly introduced nationwide.

Regular reviews

Each region receives a quarterly review by our local branch, and annually by the account manager. These take place on a regular basis if needed. Our account managed team also meets regularly to assess strengths and weaknesses in our recruitment approach, as we continually strive to improve our offering to the University.

Preferred supplier

Due to the support we provided the University with, we were named as one of two preferred suppliers for all temporary staff requirement across the UK. We supply general administrative, secretarial and reception staff as well as specific project support officers.

“I have found the staff at the Cardiff office to be exceptionally helpful, extremely receptive to our needs, and very quick to respond to often urgent needs for temping staff. The temporary staff that have worked with us via Manpower have been of a very good standard and have the skills and capabilities to meet the needs of specific roles. Where rare problems have occurred with the temporary staff due to changing demands, Manpower has been extremely supportive and quick to remedy the situation.”
Assistant Director (Planning and Resources)


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