Q3 and Maximus partnership helps create employment opportunity in Leeds

A collaborative approach between Q3 Services and Maximus has helped to fill a key cleaning operative role at Coronet House in Leeds, while also supporting someone back into sustainable employment.

The vacancy arose as part of the transfer of the Maximus cleaning operation from an in-house arrangement to Q3, becoming part of the integrated facilities management contract. With the service due to go live on 15 June, Q3 needed to move quickly to identify the right person for the role and ensure a smooth transition for the site team and client.

Rather than following a conventional recruitment route, Q3 approached Maximus directly. As a business whose core purpose is to help people move into sustainable employment, Maximus was ideally placed to recommend suitable candidates who were ready for work and already supported through the employment process.

Maximus quickly put forward four candidates and arranged interviews for Friday 12 June, with support from Lucy Hayes, Q3’s HR Director. Deborah Pollard, Cleaning Account Manager at Q3, conducted the interviews and selected Cheryl Leyland as the best fit for the site.

Cheryl was able to start with Q3 the following Monday, in time for the go-live date. This rapid turnaround helped ensure continuity of service at Coronet House and demonstrated the value of a close, practical working relationship between client and service provider.

Deborah said that Maximus’ support made a real difference because the team knew the prospective candidates, understood their readiness for work, and were able to provide people with the right documentation already in place. Without that support, Q3 would not have been able to source and interview candidates so quickly.

The result is more than a successful appointment. It is an example of how partnership working can create social value, strengthen mobilisation, and deliver positive outcomes for clients, service teams, and individuals looking for the right opportunity.

Cheryl has already become a capable and valued member of the Q3 cleaning team. She has fitted in well at Coronet House, and the Maximus staff have responded very positively to her work. Q3 hopes this successful approach will continue to benefit both organisations and help more people access meaningful employment in the future.