BBC & Arras
The Right Fit Under Pressure
The BBC is working on the Switchover Help Scheme in conjunction with the UK digital switchover programme. The organisation anticipates significant increase in demand for the support services it provides to the public over 2011/2012.
Increase in Demand
Due to the predicted increase in demand for the service our client required an experienced project manager to conduct analysis of the current structures and create a robust project plan for both the client and their 3rd party supplier to both ensure successful delivery but also create confidence that the upscale of the service can be met in time.
Arras People Works With Media Stalwarts
Previously working with the regulatory body and the switchover management organisation, Arras People already had a wealth of knowledge surrounding the complexity of the programme and also a good feel for the type or project professional required to take on the challenge. Not only based on skills and experience but also based on personality and the right fit to engage all the senior stakeholders.
Nicola Thorp of Arras People took charge of finding a project manager for the BBC.
They Needed Experience, and Nicola Found It
Nicola found for the BBC a well-seasoned contractor with a wealth of conducting feasibility studies, creating complex project plans and exceptional (complex) stakeholder management experience. Despite the candidate's seniority for the post, he was nevertheless interested in the project itself, which struck a personal chord for the cause. Having attended a meeting with both the client and 3rd party supplier, all agreed he was an exceptional match for the position so an offer was made and the contractor begins his new role by the next week.
From a Client Referral Comes a Success Story
"The client was a referral from senior management at the switchover organisation," Nicola said. "Having made successful placements with them previously, they felt we would be able to assist with this requirement and felt comfortable with our approach to delivering quality not quantity."
It's good to know that some of our clients are so confident about the service from Arras People that they are happy to refer us to other organisations within their professional circles. Of course, there is the added pressure of ensuring the referral was carried out successfully but Arras always want to do a good job - regardless of it being an existing client we have worked with for years or a new enquiry.
Programme Office Analyst
Arras People works with Ofcom, the UK independent regulator for communications, to assist with the set-up of a full fledged programme office. To OFCOM and to many other clients, we have helped provide top-notch programme office analysts, PMO Managers, programme and project office co-ordinators.
PMO Professionals
Datamonitor, the world leader in business information and intelligence, were looking to strengthen their project management capability by introducing a PMO. Arras People worked with Datamonitor to source a PMO Manager, the remit included actively managing the direction of the PMO. Datamonitor's main aims were to apply control and business justification to each of the projects and understand the various streams and interdependencies that make up the portfolio of programmes and projects within the business. Arras can provide both specialists within project management, like the role of PMO Manager or if sector knowledge is more important; experienced professionals from the market intelligence sector.