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Our Case Studies
"Always my go to recruiter. Communicative, friendly and they listen!"
We aim to please; clearly communicated timelines, tailored sourcing strategies, step-by-step guidance, and first-class aftercare are just a few advantages of partnering with GKR London to support your talent strategy. Have a look through our case studies to gain insight into some examples of assignments we have worked on in partnership with our exclusive and retained network across the property sector internationally!
Head of Build to Rent - Exclusive Search
- GKR was instructed by the CEO to lead the search for a Head of BTR to lead a portfolio of award-winning developments.
- We worked closely with the client to assist them with the preparation of job descriptions and shared our market knowledge to ensure they competitively positioned themselves to attract the best talent.
- We then went to the market and presented our client with a shortlist of 5 candidates within one week of instruction, and coordinated three rounds of interviews.
- The successful candidate was onboarded three months later following their notice period.
Fast-growing Estate Agency
Portfolio Director - Exclusive Search
- GKR was instructed by the Head of Residential, JLL UK&I to secure Senior Portfolio Director on behalf of several of their BTR clients.
- Having conducted a market-mapping exercise with the client, they identified a shortlist of individuals for GKR to approach on their behalf.
- We successfully presented a shortlist of seven selected individuals and organised four first and second-stage interviews.
- The successful candidate was required to conduct a 6-month notice period; we supported JLL by offering our first-class aftercare services to ensure a smooth exit and onboarding.
International Real Estate Fund
Head of Sales - Exclusive Search
- GKR was asked to discreetly search for a Head of Sales for one of the most recognisable Agencies in London
- Due to the confidential nature of this search, approaches and conversations on behalf of the Client needed to be very targeted.
- Working in conjunction with the Talent Acquisition Team, GKR introduced a number of Candidates, along with internal considerations too.
- GKR successfully placed the Head of Sales, who was a long-term contact of the business, previously being a Hiring Client in their previous businesses.
International Residential Property Specialist
Business Development Manager - Exclusive Search
- GKR was exclusively instructed by Alliance Investments, to appoint a Business Development Manager for their growing London team.
- Alliance Investments is a leading property development company who offer investment opportunities throughout the UK.
- Headquartered in Manchester, Directors, Mallam Grant and Josh Steeples had the opportunity to grow a team to be based in the London office. Their first requirement was to appoint a Business Development Manager. Having struggled to find the right candidate through another recruitment agency, Alliance turned to GKR and proceeded dealings with Senior Consultant, Michael Cartmill.
- After gaining a comprehensive understanding of exactly what Alliance were seeking, we successfully placed a candidate within under three weeks of being instructed.
- Fast forward 4 months and it has proven to be a perfect match for both client and candidate as they thrive together.
Leading Property Development Company
Head of Sales - Retained Search
- GKR was retained to hire a Head of Sales on behalf of Solomon Investment Partners in their Chester Office.
- We worked closely with them to ensure they could attract a likeminded individual to strengthen their focus within the Property Investment Market.
- GKR provided a shortlist of recommended industry professionals curated via our referral network; a final candidate was selected following the second round of interviews.
- Due to a short notice period, the candidate was able to onboard swiftly and effectively having made some great progress already.
Fast-growing Property Investment Consultancy
Head of Residential/HR Manager - Exclusive Search
- GKR was instructed by the Head of Residential/HR Manager of Northacre to secure a Completions Manager for their Broadway and no1 Palace Street luxury developments.
- Speaking through the requirements in detail with the HR Manager, we were instructed exclusively on the role looking to build on our previous success in placing a Lettings Manager.
- The talent pool was relatively small we successfully presented a shortlist of 3 selected individuals and organised first and second-stage interviews, the search was concluded quickly.
- The successful candidate was immediately available and started one week after being offered the job fulfilling the urgent need for this hire.
Leading Premium Property Developer
Head of Asset Management: Retained
- GKR was retained to assist with the search for a new Head of Asset Management.
- We were given a 10-week timeline to onboard the new starter in line with the predecessor's departure date, whilst offering a period for handover.
- We were tasked with a direct, pre-identified headhunt and additionally sourced a shortlist of three other suitable candidates.
- Having coordinated interviews for all candidates, the successful candidate was onboarded following their 2 months’ notice.
- We have subsequently placed two others from the interview process into the team.
Global Property Consultancy
Head of Acquisition – Retained Search
- GKR were retained with special mandate to secure a Head of Acquisition for a high growth private equity backed commerce business that had significant land requirement.
- Due to the nature of the business this presented a unique challenge in securing talent that would move away from tradition acquisition roles.
- We set out a process structure including personality testing with the successful candidate moving from a developer and embarking on the journey the client and GKR had laid out.
Commercial Business
Senior Property Manager (HNW) - Exclusive Search
- GKR was tasked with the exclusive search for a new Senior Property Manager to manage a prestigious central London Estate.
- We approached our network for recommendations and presented a shortlist of five exclusive candidates within 8 days from instruction, all of whom came with references.
- We coordinated the interview process which involved various international interviewees, and the successful candidate was onboarded 6 weeks later.
Elite Management Consultancy
PA & Project Assistant - Retained Search
- GKR was retained to recruit a PA & Project Assistant to work with the CEO of a national PRS developer.
- We advertised confidentially and utilised our long-formed network to present a shortlist of five credible individuals from varying backgrounds across the property and construction sectors, as requested.
- We subsequently organised three virtual interviews, followed by in-person meetings, and the successful applicant was agreed to start swiftly the following month.
PRS Developer
Marketing Manager - Retained Search
- GKR was retained to assist with the search for a Marketing Manager to relocate from London to Switzerland to work on luxury resorts & penthouses.
- We were given a 4-week timeline to find this individual and were tasked with meeting at least 5 appropriate candidates ourselves before presenting at a minimum of 3.
- Having coordinated interviews for all candidates, the successful candidate was flown out successfully to start before the Christmas period following their 3 months notice.
- We have subsequently placed another slightly junior hire who is relocating from Milan to join the team.
International Luxury Property Developer
5 x Safety Check Consultants; Exclusive & Retained
- GKR was retained on an exclusive basis by the Director of the Knight Frank Promise department to secure multiple hires within an 8 week time frame.
- We allocated a member of the property management team to work solely on these roles using market mapping and insights to create the short list.
- We successfully presented 5 individuals for interview and this resulted in 5 fixed term placements being confirmed.
- The retained search allows us to dedicate our time and entire focus until we fulfil the terms of our agreement and with multiple hires required in a short time scale it was the only method to ensure success.
Leading Integrated Facilities Consultancy
Senior Commercial Property Manager - Exclusive & Retained Search
- GKR was retained on a search for a Senior Commercial Property Manager following several aborted searches over the course of a number of months.
- Working on a role that has had significant exposure over an extended period of time required a fresh approach and a bespoke search.
- We agreed a time frame to produce a short list and a strict timetable for 1st and 2nd interviews and the offer was issued and accepted within 6 weeks of the search commencing.
- This 1st placement led to the client requesting 2 more retained senior hires and we successfully secured the placements of a Residential Asset Manager and a Senior Facilities Manager.
Private Residential Estate
Our Clients
International Case Studies
GKR recruits globally across the real estate market. Operating on an international scale, we have established a vast network that spans continents. Whether you are in the bustling real estate markets of North America, the burgeoning developments in Asia, or the sophisticated landscapes of Europe, our reach knows no bounds.
What our Client's said:
I have used Grant and GKR for the last 5 years on a regular basis. The company has filled a number of key positions across our offices in both direct sales and lettings support roles and continues to do so. Grant has an in-depth knowledge of the property industry and has taken the trouble to gain a full understanding of how we service the sector and the unique qualities that our staff are required to possess. As a result, GKR thoroughly screen all candidates for us and they have the highest interview to offer ratio of any of our retained agents. I would have no hesitation in recommending Grant and GKR to any of my clients or partners.
Molly and I have worked together closely recently, and she always provides candidates that are well-briefed, polished and a good fit for Knight Frank. She also provides a consistent level of service and makes a great effort to ensure she has all the relevant information to deliver results within the specified time frame. Overall, I would recommend GKR for their professional and high-quality service.
Over the years Grant has been an invaluable asset in providing the highest quality of candidates for potential employment roles in the property industry. The briefs have always been followed to the letter and every experience has been coordinated with the uttermost professionalism. Recently I have found myself on the receiving end, requiring the services of the best I know in recruitment in order that I can benefit with a new position myself. I must admit that Grants work was so precise, that after only two interviews I now find myself employed with a fantastic company offering an excellent package and great career progression. In all, I cannot recommend Grant highly enough.
GKR is fantastic at taking the hassle out of recruiting. They listen to what you’re looking for, and only puts forward candidates who fit the profile. All candidates come well briefed on the role, and with realistic expectations which is crucial.
Rose is an absolute delight, and a pleasure to talk to both professionally and personally. Extremely thorough, and candidates come well prepared with more than just the basics. Quality over quantity is the clear focus. She knows what you want (from both perspectives) and matches up roles/candidates perfectly. If you are looking to recruit, or looking for a new role, I'd have not a single hesitation in recommending Rose / GKR. The biggest heartfelt thank you for all you do!
Having worked with Anu/GKR for 4+ years, I am in awe of her continual professionalism and flexibility. She will take time to listen to your requirements, work to your timeframe and budget (no matter how tight!) and most importantly, champion your organisation and provide you with awesome candidates. Any organisation in need of top class talent acquisition support should get in touch with her/GKR ASAP!
I have worked closely with Grant and his team at GKR over the last 7 years and thoroughly enjoyed it. I find Grant and the team professional, well driven and knowledgeable and having given them some tough assignments they continuously delivered. They successfully placed a wide range of candidates with us from office agency surveyors, project managers and office and secretarial support staff. If you are looking to hire top talent within the Property sector, I’d highly recommend GKR.
Since working with GKR International on numerous placements for our business over the last 18 months, I’ve been delighted with both the B2B communication as well as the candidate quality coming our way.
The team at GKR have always worked hard to understand our exact requirements and any nuance associated with each role; they have carefully vetted candidates prior to introducing them to my team and feedback from staff joining us has always been positive.
So far we have retained 100% of team members recruited by GKR in both our Manchester and London locations and I look forward to continuing our partnership into the year ahead.
Director of Mission Critical
- GKR worked exclusively with a long standing, international client to secure a new sector leader for their growing Mission Critical business, based in London covering EMEA
- The scope of the headhunt proved extremely specialised, combining a niche talent pool with demanding role requirements
- The Exec Search Team mapped the Mission Critical sector globally at leadership level, creating a shortlist with encompassed UK & International talent
- Through a four stage interview process, GKR were successful in relocating a leadership candidate from a direct competitor. From brief to securing the candidate, the timescale was 12 weeks.
International Design Firm
Workplace Strategy Director
- GKR worked exclusively with a Director level candidate within the Workplace Strategy market, a complex and small niche within the wider workplace & real estate market.
- Through this representation, we assisted in mapping the market for said individual and created a shortlist of existing GKR clients as well as new “wish list” firms who could utilise the individual’s experience across the sector.
- With various confidential conversations taking place, we identified three suitable opportunities and proceeded to partner with the candidate through the interview process with each firm.
- The Director was successfully offered a role within 10 weeks of initially engaging GKR.
Architecture & Interior Design Consultancy
Interior Design Project Leaders
- GKR worked exclusively with a Director level candidate within the Workplace Strategy market, a complex and small niche within the wider workplace & real estate market.
- Through this representation, we assisted in mapping the market for said individual and created a shortlist of existing GKR clients as well as new “wish list” firms who could utilise the individual’s experience across the sector.
- With various confidential conversations taking place, we identified three suitable opportunities and proceeded to partner with the candidate through the interview process with each firm.
- The Director was successfully offered a role within 10 weeks of initially engaging GKR.
Multidisciplinary Design Studio
Senior Interim Interior Designer - Workplace
- GKR collaborated with award-winning workplace architecture and design firm, seeking an interim senior interior workplace designer to work on a contract basis.
- With a new project on the horizon, a firm timeline was provided with urgent support needed with a proven track record of successfully seeing workplace projects through from conception to completion.
- GKR assisted by mapping the market, shortlisting candidates and providing portfolio's that demonstrated the requirements of the position.
- As a result of successfully reaching out to our connections utilizing our resources and through streamlined communication GKR were able to fill this role within 10 working days.
Award winning Interior Architecture Consultancy
Project Director
- GKR worked exclusively with an award-winning international design practise with their search for a Project Director within the Architectural Defence space.
- Mapping opportunities across the market place by working closely with an exclusive candidate pool, we were able to effectively align desired skillsets and experience with our clients growth needs, creating a bespoke role to tailor their business strategy and project planning processes.
- With support and insights provided from GKR, the Project Director successfully started within the role within 8 weeks of their first conversation with GKR.
Award-winning Design Firm
Investment and Asset Team – Exclusive & Retained
- GKR were mandated to build out a real estate direct investments team for a well know private equity and credit.
- This this team had to have a very specific background and experience and we build out a story and understand in depth the business plan the client was looking to deploy so we could relay that clearly to market.
- The search required extensive market mapping and in-depth use of our network and market knowledge.
- The process was extensive however the client is very happy with the team and we are working on further additions
Real Estate Private Equity Fund
Finance Director - Exclusive Search
- After successfully placing a senior analyst with this client we were soon tasked with finding a Finance Director for this new venture
- This business had successfully raised institutional capital and required the right person to build out a finance function, for which GKR advised what a best in class background would be.
- This was an exclusive search which we were able to turn around a shortlist quickly clients request and secure someone in the role within six weeks of starting the mandate.
Real Estate Development Lender & Joint Venture Investor
Investment Team – Exclusive Search
- GKR over the last two years has been working with one of the fastest growing BTR Investors and Developers building out their investment team (Five People).
- The client has used GKR exclusively to build out its investment which has enabled the client to reach over £1bn in development pipeline.
- All the searches have used our excellent reach though our strong name on key platforms such as LinkedIn and our Website as well head hunting.
Build to Rent Investor & Developer
CEO & Head of Property - Retained
- GKR was approached by a European Royal Family Office to assist them in building a property and investment fund.
- We were directly retained and instructed to secure the Head of and No.2.
- We agreed to identify a shortlist of 7 potential MD’s/CEO’s and 5 Head’s of Property. The shortlist was completed and presented within 21 days.
- Since then we have placed an additional 4 people across this company building the entire property and portfolio management function exclusively
European Family Office
Chief Financial Officer – Exclusive Search
- GKR were approached by a well know real estate private equity house to find a Chief Financial Officer for a flexible workspace platform they were building out.
- The client had very specific requirements for which meant we targeted competitors and similar operators to head-hunt for this search.
- After honing in on someone quickly we supported the client with a lengthy interview process to a successful hire.
Private Equity Backed Flexible Workspace Operator
Chief Financial Officer – Exclusive Search
- GKR was tasked with an exclusive search for and CFO for a fast growing multi-faceted property business.
- This included and extensive reach out of network across developers, advisories, family offices and funds.
- We set out defined the process with client and secured the successful candidate through market intel.
Property Developer & Consultancy
