Sargent's PSL Review – Guidance notes for applicants - CLIC Sargent

CLIC Sargent’s PSL Review – Guidance notes for applicantsThese guidance notes have been designed to provide useful information for applicants about CLICSargent’s PSL and the review process.INTRODUCTIONCurrently CLIC Sargent utilizes a Preferred Supplier List (PSL) of recruitment agencies to providetemporary and permanent personnel from entry to management level in our Finance, Communicationsand Campaigning and Fundraising Departments and for ad hoc Support roles (e.g. Admin, HR,Facilities). We do not use agencies for the recruitment of staff in our Services Department.Agencies on the PSL specialise in one or more particular department and we normally place a vacancywith a maximum of four agencies in the first instance. In addition, we operate a secondary PSL foragencies we contact after a period of time if the core agencies are unable to find suitable candidates.CLIC Sargent is not able to offer any exclusive arrangements for any of the agencies on our PSL andthus will not commit to any retainer fees.The PSL agreement is for one year. As well as quarterly reviews, we conduct an annual review inNovember/December each year. Agencies interested in applying for PSL status for 2012/2013 shouldcomplete the PSL Application form and send this form along with any supporting documentation torecruitment@clicsargent.org.uk by 31 October 2012.THE REVIEW PROCESS• HR will shortlist agencies from those currently on the PSL and others who have submitted acompleted application form by 31 October 2012.• All applications will be reviewed against the selection criteria and we will notify agencies ofshortlisting outcomes by 15 November 2012.• If an agency has been shortlisted, they will be invited to visit our offices and meet with an HRrepresentative to gain a better mutual understanding of how we work and what we can do toimprove the recruitment process.• If selected to be on our PSL we will send you a Service Level Agreement and further informationregarding CLIC Sargent including details of employment such as benefits and terms andconditions.

AGENCIES ON OUR PSL ARE EXPECTED:• To introduce us to suitable qualified candidates in a timely manner in order to increaseefficiency and add value to CLIC Sargent’s business objectives.• To identify and pre-screen candidates in accordance with the selection criteria as stated in thejob description and person specification provided by CLIC Sargent.• To prepare short listed candidates for interviews.• To adhere to and respect our Recruitment Process.SELECTION CRITERIAOur application form will be used both for shortlisting and for reference during the interviewprocess. Our aim is to measure the degree to which your response meets a number of essentialcriteria as set out below:1. Fees• All extended offers on introduction fees must not exceed 15 % of the annual gross salary.• Pro-rata fees on all fixed-term contracts.• The following rebate guarantee on all permanent appointments:100% refund of charges if candidate leaves, is dismissed or his/her employment is terminatedwithin the first two weeks and a sliding scale of rebate if employment is terminated betweentwo weeks and four months. .2. Experience• Proven track record of providing recruitment services in the charity sector.• Documented experience in recruiting for at least one of the following fields: Admin, Finance,Fundraising, Media and PR, Marketing and Communications.• Must have at least two testimonials from current clients preferably from the charity sector.3. Knowledge• In-depth understanding of the sector’ specifics.• Knowledge and understanding of CLIC Sargent services, organisational profile and values andability to impart this knowledge to candidates.• Knowledge and awareness of current developments within the area the agency is applying torecruit.• If applying for the Fundraising PSL an in-depth understanding of the various income streamsthat CLIC Sargent utilises (for example corporate fundraising, direct marketing, major donordevelopment, community fundraising, running and other challenge events).2

4. Supply of applicants and quality of services• Agencies must be able to present a thorough process structure for ensuring the supply ofquality candidates.• Ability to demonstrate how the agency would work in partnership with CLIC Sargent’srecruitment process as outlined in the supporting documents.• Must appoint only one contact person for all recruitment for the duration of the PSL agreement(one year).• Agencies must interview each candidate prior to submitting a candidate’s application to CLICSargent.• Agencies must screen each candidate’s application for completeness and ensuring that thecandidate meets the essential criteria.5. Professional accreditations and working ethics• Must have a REC accreditation, and/or be committed to REC Code of Ethics and ProfessionalConduct.3