Stoke-on-Trent

Stoke-on-Trent City Council faced ongoing challenges in appointing the right leader for its educational psychology services. Despite attracting qualified candidates, previous recruitment efforts failed to identify an candidate who possessed the right blend of experience, cultural fit, and vision required to meet both statutory responsibilities and local community needs.

The recurring issue stemmed from the complexity and unique demands of the city. While several candidates met the necessary qualifications on paper, they lacked either the breadth of experience or the subtle alignment with the city’s team culture.

Here from Stephen Gunther, Director of Public Health at Stoke on Trent City Council

Recognising the limitations of internal HR processes and existing local networks, Stoke-on-Trent City Council partnered with Panoramic Associates. From the outset, Panoramic Associates dedicated time to understanding the city’s specific requirements, the demands of the team, and the expectations of key stakeholders. Through in-depth dialogue and careful listening, they captured not only the technical requirements but also the nuanced qualities needed for the ideal match.

Leveraging their national reach and extensive public sector networks, Panoramic Associates conducted a thorough and targeted search. They ensured that every candidate put forward received a detailed briefing about the city, its challenges, and what success in the role would truly look like. Throughout the process, it was methodical, systematic, and transparent with continuous updates to keep all parties informed and engaged.

With Panoramic Associates’ support, the city successfully recruited the leader; it needed someone with the right expertise, perspective, and cultural fit to drive service excellence. The partnership provided a seamless and supportive experience for both client and candidates, ensuring mutual understanding and alignment from the initial contact through to the final appointment.

The result was more than simply filling a vacancy; it brought the stability and strategic direction needed to effectively support the city’s communities. As Stephen Gunther noted, the process delivered “a really good match for us,” thanks to Panoramic Associates’ commitment to listening, their consultative approach, and their ability to access networks far beyond local reach. The project ensured continuity, quality, and new momentum for educational psychology services delivering a lasting, positive impact for the city’s residents.