Mobilising new contracts effectively – the role of Nviro’s Project Manager
11 October 2024 Category: Uncategorised
At Nviro, our Project Manager, Nikki Willis, plays an important role in successfully mobilising new contracts, ensuring our clients’ spaces are clean, hygienic and safe and run smoothly from the very first day.
“My goal is to ensure the mobilisation of any new contract runs smoothly. I work closely with our new clients to understand their needs, and with our Service and Support teams, to ensure we hit the ground running on the contract start date.”
What does a typical day look like when you start to mobilise a new contract at Nviro?
Communication and Planning: “At the start of a mobilisation project, I make sure that everyone knows exactly what is expected. I set up regular meetings with our clients so that they know what is going on and can have regular updates on our progress. We work from a shared project plan so that everyone knows where we are and has confidence that all the aspects of the mobilisation are covered, and all the right people are involved.”
Collaborating: “At Nviro, we have great support from a team of experts who work alongside our Service team. They include:
- Specialists in HR and training who support the TUPE transfer, onboarding and training of the cleaning team.
- Specialists in equipment and chemicals who make sure that the equipment we order is right for the site and will do the most effective job.
- Specialists in Finance who talk to the client about billing and invoicing set-up.
It’s my job to get everyone aligned and update the project plan to make sure that we are on track to mobilise successfully on the contract start date.”
What changes in the middle of a mobilisation?
“I usually start to spend more time on site during a large-scale mobilisation and in the run-up to going live. A successful project relies on a motivated team, so I make sure our service teams have the tools and support they need to deliver high standards. I work with our Supply and Asset Manager to make sure any equipment and chemicals are right for the job, ordered and delivered on time. It’s helpful for me to be on-site so I know exactly what areas people are talking about. It makes it easier to be specific with things like storage spaces and cleaning cupboards.
With any new contract, there is always an element of risk. My role is to mitigate potential issues. The transition of new cleaning teams can be particularly sensitive with the legal timescales involved, so addressing possible problems early and putting a backup plan in place ensures that service is delivered with minimal disruptions when the contract starts. When we’re mobilising a new contract, challenges happen – no matter how much planning you put in place. But I’m here to help resolve any early-stage problems quickly. At Nviro, we’re open and honest about our challenges with clients which helps to resolve problems early and manage expectations.
I’m always available to address any concerns our clients might have during the mobilisation process. Whether it’s a small adjustment or a larger issue, I make sure it’s handled promptly. And as we hit key milestones, I make sure to celebrate these achievements with our clients, highlighting the positive progress we’re making together.”
How do you support Nviro colleagues during a mobilisation?
“A big part of my role is making sure that our colleagues and clients are on the same page. It’s important our teams fully understand the client’s expectations and that any feedback from the client is clearly communicated back to our teams. This is crucial for building strong relationships and making sure that everyone is working towards the same goals.”
What happens when a contract mobilises?
“From the very beginning of a mobilisation project, my priority is to understand what our clients want to achieve. Whether it’s improving the cleaning standards, eliminating inefficiencies, or meeting specific sustainability goals, I work closely with them to align our services with their objectives. Having a clear focus helps ensure we’re not just delivering a cleaning specification, but also adding value and actively contributing to their success.
When we are confident that the cleaning operation is running effectively, resourcing is stabilised and the client is happy, it’s handed over to our Service team to run. I do some final checks and get some client feedback, but I’m always on hand to make sure that everyone is happy with the operational delivery. It’s great to hand over the client relationship, but I don’t vanish! Because I have a good knowledge of the client and site requirements, I can make suggestions about new product developments and whether any innovation introduced to the market might be effective.”
Why is your role important in a mobilisation at Nviro?
“Ultimately, I’m the link between our clients and our operational delivery teams, making sure that every contract kicks off smoothly and that we are delivering what’s needed to make the contract a success. By supporting both sides, I help keep our standards high and ensure that everyone is set up for success in an environment where building users can thrive.”
What word would you use to describe Nviro?
“Collaborative”
Nviro has over 30 years of experience and has helped hundreds of clients achieve successful mobilisations. Read our blog, ‘Nviro and the Mobilisation Process‘ to find out more.
