University of Southampton

The Client and Brief

In 2024, the University of Southampton appointed MRG to help deliver its ambitious estate masterplan. Spanning multiple campuses, the University is investing £1 billion over the next decade to create a sustainable, inclusive estate that supports its global ambitions.

Following Kevin Argent’s appointment as Executive Director of Estates & Facilities and the development of the estate masterplan, the next step was building a high-performing Estate Development team to deliver the capital programme. Phase 1 included the recruitment of a Director of Estate Development, Director of Estates PMO, Business and Support Services, and Associate Directors. Phase 2, launching in January 2025, will see the appointment of Senior Project Managers and Project Managers to strengthen the team further.

Overcoming Challenges

The brief was to attract and secure top-tier talent capable of delivering complex, large-scale estate development projects across a diverse and evolving campus portfolio.

Our Process

Working closely with the University, MRG led a detailed process that began with role design, briefing, and the development of a marketing strategy, followed by candidate search and engagement. Utilising industry networks, databases, and targeted outreach, we identified candidates from various sectors and launched a multi-channel campaign to raise awareness. This included an online candidate pack, website and social media advertising, and direct marketing.

The campaign included:

  • Development of job and person specifications with key criteria
  • Targeted outreach
  • Multi-channel marketing
  • Longlist to shortlist process, including interviews and reports
  • Interview support, including presentation topics and tailored questions
  • Throughout the campaign, MRG conducted a rigorous selection process to secure individuals with the drive, experience, and leadership skills necessary to help deliver the University’s master plan.

MRG successfully appointed a high-calibre Estate Development leadership team:

  • Jason Pior, Director of Estates Development
  • Philippa Patterson, Director of Estates PMO, Business and Support Services
  • Peter Moore, Associate Director of Estates Development
  • Gilly Haskey, Associate Director of Estates Development
  • Katie Woodward, Associate Director of Engineering

The Campaign in Numbers

966
CANDIDATES APPROACHED
269
APPLICATIONS
19
CANDIDATES SHORTLISTED
3446
MARKETING BROCHURE VIEWS

Uni of Southampton – Director of Estates Development