Challenge
Our client is a North American AI-driven technology company with a 300-user office based in London. The business needed a capable IT manager to support daily operations while aligning closely with global IT leadership.
Despite several recruitment attempts, the role proved difficult to fill. While the position appeared straightforward on paper, it demanded a broad and uncommon skill set. The successful candidate needed to be comfortable handling hands-on technical tasks onsite, while also managing external providers across the UK and Europe and operating at a commercial level.
After three unsuccessful hires, the organisation recognised the risk of another rushed decision. The priority shifted from filling the role quickly to keeping IT stable while clearly defining what the business truly needed from a long-term IT manager.
Approach
We agreed to provide interim IT management cover for a six-month period, giving the client breathing space to reassess the role and avoid another panic hire.
One Thirty West assigned a senior engineer to the business on a full-time basis. He became the visible face of IT across Europe, working closely with local teams while collaborating with HQ IT in North America and following established global processes.
Behind the scenes, he was supported by our wider leadership team, including experienced CIOs and directors. This ensured decisions were well-informed, challenges were escalated appropriately, and the client benefited from collective experience rather than relying on a single individual.
From the outset, the onboarding process was carefully managed to ensure continuity, minimise disruption, and build trust quickly with both local and global teams.
Outcome
IT operations remained stable throughout the interim period, with no disruption to daily business activities. The onboarding of the interim IT manager was seamless, allowing the business to continue operating without interruption while benefiting from immediate leadership and support.
During the six-month period, feedback and insights gathered by One Thirty West helped the client clearly shape the profile of the permanent role. This ensured future recruitment was based on real operational needs rather than assumptions.
When the right candidate was appointed, the transition back to an in-house IT manager was equally seamless. Knowledge transfer, documentation, and ongoing collaboration ensured continuity of service, with no loss of momentum or capability.
One Thirty West continues to support the current IT manager on a daily basis, providing continuity beyond the interim phase. The business avoided further recruitment and compensation costs, reduced risk, and gained confidence that IT leadership was aligned with both local and global priorities.
Why One Thirty West?
We are not a one-size-fits-all IT consultancy. We provide flexible, creative support that adapts to the realities of each business.
Whether you need interim leadership, hands-on expertise, or long-term partnership, we shape our services around what works best for your organisation.