Northwood Investors portfolio, Scotland and the South West

We have been providing M&E Term Consultancy services to Northwood Investors since 2023. Our services have been varied, and each property required a different approach and a different scope of works.  In total we have ongoing instructions at seven properties in Scotland and the South West. The challenge for Northwood was that they could not apply a one size fits all approach, and required expertise in a number of areas.  Hollis were able to provide the tailored service and approach required.

At the properties in Scotland, the same contractor had been engaged for several years, and Northwood felt their portfolio had dropped down the priority list.  Hollis provided strategic advice to Northwood through workshop type meetings.  Instead of simply suggesting a re-tender, Hollis advised that an initial one-off audit was a sensible approach to look to facilitate change.  We then identified the areas where improvement was required, and worked closely with the contractor to set a framework to achieve this, setting clear targets and timescales. Unfortunately, this was not successful due to a lack of necessary engagement from the contractor, and therefore an alternative approach was required.  We know that there is not always budget availability to manage a full competitive tender process within existing service charges. Northwood asked Hollis to engage with a trusted contractor and negotiate costs.  We recommended engaging with 2 trusted contractors, and facilitated a mini-tender process, adapting to the available fees, yet achieving the desired outcome.  Following ‘meet and greets’ between client and potential contractors, the preferred supplier was selected, and Hollis managed their mobilisation.  A successful maintenance contract continues with our support.

In comparison, at several properties in the South West, the existing contractor was performing to a satisfactory standard, however the client felt like there was complacency and potential for lower performance over time.  Hollis recommended an initial audit, which facilitated a clear action plan, and our one-team approach resulted in difficult conversations, but a positive reaction from the contractor.  At some properties we continue to audit quarterly, and others every 6 months, depending on complexity and available budgets.  A strong ongoing relationship has been achieved with the contractor, without the need for a tender exercise.  Hollis oversight ensures that the appropriate service levels are met and continual improvement achieved, which was the required outcome for Northwood.

For all the properties with Northwood and all our term consultancy clients, we are regularly consulted to advise on additional works, to review in terms of their cost, the need for the works, alternative options, and general technical advice.  As we know the properties inside out, and the client strategy for the assets, we can provide immediate pragmatic advice, allowing client decisions to be considered, yet streamlined.  We value Northwood’s trust, which is reflected in the fact that they often ask Hollis to engage with the contractor directly and instruct on their behalf, confident that we know how Northwood operate, and we have their interests protected.