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Success Stories
Balfour Project - Executive Director
About Balfour Project
The Balfour Project is a British charity dedicated to promoting peace, justice, security, and equal rights for Palestinians and Israelis. The organisation aims to increase awareness of Britain's historical and current roles in the conflict and to advocate for changes that address injustice and support sustainable peace. A primary focus is on urging the British Government and Parliament to insist upon the enforcement of the rule of law and fundamental human rights, including the right to self-determination and adherence to international law.
In response to the evolving critical phase of the conflict, the charity sought to continue its growth by refining its structures and operations to enhance effectiveness. Consequently, the committee unanimously decided that the appointment of an Executive Director was essential for the organisation to achieve its next level of institutional development, public profile, and impact.
This new position would oversee the charity's operations, manage all staff, serve as the main point of accountability to the Board of Trustees, and represent the charity externally.
Why Balfour Project needed TPP's support
The Balfour Project needed a skilled Executive Director to lead, manage donor relations, navigate complex political landscape and influence policy. The candidate should have experience in fundraising, communication, stakeholder relations, and a strong understanding of Middle Eastern affairs.
What TPP did
TPP Recruitment provided a comprehensive recruitment service, including:
- Collaborating closely with the Board, the role was designed, timelines were set, and the recruitment process was structured to ensure a seamless and effective search.
- TPP’s marketing team produced a microsite for the candidate pack (see below).
- The role was prominently advertised across relevant job sites, including as a featured role on the TPP website.
- Professionally produced imagery showcasing the role's significance was extensively shared across social media to attract top-quality candidates.
- A targeted email campaign was strategically sent to TPP’s database of relevant CEOs.
- TPP conducted an extensive search to identify and approach passive candidates.
- TPP held weekly update meetings with the Balfour nominations committee.
- A team of 3 in the leadership team were on hand to speak to any enquirers.
Microsite
TPP created a detailed microsite for candidates to be able to gain a more in depth understanding of the role and organisation. This included a welcome page, key benefits, person specification and application page.
What TPP achieved
Assessment
Out of 115 expressions of interest, including passive approaches, 62 applications were received. TPP conducted an assessment process. Applicants were organised into tiers based on their suitability.
Tier 1: 9 applicants
Tier 2: 10 applicants
Remaining applicants: A mix of tiers 2, 3, 4, and 5
- A total of 16 interviews were conducted at the preliminary stage involving two senior consultants at TPP. All Tier 1 and Tier 2 candidates were included in this stage.
- In accordance with TPP's inclusive recruitment procedures, the 16 candidates received their interview questions in advance.
- The interview questions were specifically designed to evaluate the essential competencies required for the role, encompassing motivation, change management, growth/fundraising, policy/communication, and leadership capabilities.
- A detailed preliminary interview report, featuring candidate profiles and responses, was delivered to the Balfour Board for each applicant.
- TPP engaged in discussions with the Board to examine the findings, emphasising recommendations and areas that required further scrutiny.
- Comprehensive feedback was provided to candidates who did not advance, ensuring transparency and fostering a positive employer image.
- TPP efficiently managed all interview schedules.
- Lisa Ross, a senior consultant at TPP, attended all client interviews at both the first and second stages as an observer, contributing to decision-making.
- High Potential Trait Indicator (HPTI) assessments by Thomas International were conducted on three shortlisted candidates, with detailed reports shared with the client.
- TPP maintained continuous support and provided detailed feedback throughout the entire recruitment process.
Results
The recruitment campaign led to the appointment of an Executive Director who met the criteria set by the Balfour Project.
The successful candidate has expertise in the modern British Labour Party and genocide, and possesses in-depth knowledge of UK government perspectives. He has worked on global human rights initiatives and led capacity-building projects in regions such as the Middle East, Africa, and Ukraine. Additionally, they are a well-regarded British academic with experience in fundraising and organisation growth.
Conclusion
The Balfour Project successfully collaborated with TPP Recruitment to appoint a capable leader who will advance the organisation's mission. This case study showcases TPP Recruitment's expertise in providing customised recruitment solutions.
Testimonial
"TPP were an excellent recruitment partner for us, in a very difficult mission. From the very beginning they listened and worked with us, tailored the journey to our needs and most importantly went out and did the work well that resulted in a smooth process to get us the top-class professional we needed. I have no hesitation recommending them, patient and thorough, understanding and relentless."
Andrew Whitley - Chair, Balfour Project
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