Case Study.
Background
Eagleton Ridge enables people with disabilities to live their best lives. Servicing the Port Stephens Region for more than 20 years, they provide personal, practical and purposeful disability support services to the community. The services are provided in home-like environments in Raymond Terrace and an idyllic farm in Eagleton, NSW.
After 20 years of passionately leading the organisation, the current GM and Founder of Eagleton Ridge sought to hire a General Manager to develop a solid succession plan. Due to its success, the organisation had expanded from one location to multiple properties and services. The new General Manager would need to assist with continuing to grow and manage these operations, bringing both commercial and industry experience to the role to support more people with a disability in the community. GWG Recruitment offered to provide the recruitment engagement on a pro bono basis to secure the right leader for the role and ensure the continuation of this vital community service.
Objective
The aim was to find a General Manager who had a strong understanding of disability services, could manage the organisation’s day-to-day operations, nurture strong connections with the community, and maintain alignment with Eagleton Ridge’s mission to deliver the highest quality of individual care.
Approach
GWG worked closely with Eagleton Ridge’s management team and visited the respite and supported accommodation services to understand the organisation’s vision and define the key competencies for the General Manager position. To assist Eagleton, we undertook salary benchmarking to offer clear guidance on remuneration and benefits for the role.
A wide-reaching recruitment campaign was developed to target professionals with the agreed skills, industry experience, and cultural fit. Given the role was based on the stunning Eagleton Farm, outside Raymond Terrace, the campaign emphasised the benefits and lifestyle elements of the role and location, targeting those seeking a tree change or lifestyle opportunity.
GWG also leveraged its extensive networks and a database of more than 50K+ to source candidates with expertise in non-profit management, disability service provision, and leadership.
After a thorough assessment and interview process, a candidate with both corporate and non-profit experience was selected. We also supported onboarding to ensure a smooth transition.
Outcome
Within three months, the new General Manager had relocated from Sydney and commenced in their new role. This engagement filled a critical leadership need to provide day to day operational oversight, allowing the founders to focus on their advocacy work for people living with disabilities.