From manual processes to market-leading efficiency

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Turning operational gaps into strategic control

Managing temporary recruitment in-house had become increasingly unsustainable for a leading global financial institution. Over two years, contingent worker volumes surged, yet the organisation relied on manual spreadsheets to track roles and workers. Supplier relationships were fragmented, with inconsistent onboarding, invoicing, and background screening processes creating unnecessary friction. Margins were high, compliance risks were flagged during audits, and operational inefficiencies were mounting.

An independent review of the operating model confirmed what internal teams already suspected: the need to align with financial services best practice, reduce risk, and improve efficiency. The client needed a Managed Service Provider (MSP) model to:

  • Broaden access to talent through quality supplier network.
  • Align with market best practices.
  • Streamline operations by consolidating suppliers under one vendor.
  • Reduce time-to-hire and HR operational risk.
  • Deliver cost savings and an improved experience via a dedicated onsite team.

Building a scalable, compliant MSP programme

Pontoon implemented a supplier-funded MSP solution with Direct Sourcing, key features included:

  • Commercial optimisation: Pontoon negotiated significantly reduced mark-ups with suppliers, creating immediate cost benefits. To drive long-term savings, we introduced tenure-based reductions at 12 and 18 months, ensuring that loyalty translated into financial advantage. Further reductions were secured for directly sourced and payrolled placements, reinforcing a model that prioritises efficiency and value.
  • Technology enablement: The implementation of the Vendor Management System (VMS) transformed manual processes into automated workflows. This centralised platform streamlined timesheets, invoicing, and reporting, delivering transparency and actionable insights. By replacing spreadsheets with automation, the client gained control and visibility across the entire temporary workforce programme.
  • Dedicated programme team: Pontoon deployed an onsite team to act as the operational backbone of the programme. This team managed stakeholder and supplier relationships, ensured compliance with policies, and provided a seamless experience for hiring managers. Their presence guaranteed that every process—from onboarding to invoicing—was executed with precision and consistency.

Transformational outcomes: Driving value beyond expectations

The impact of Pontoon’s MSP solution has been transformative:

  • Direct sourcing success: Pontoon didn’t just meet targets—we exceeded them.

    In the first year of Pontoon’s delivery, the goal was for 30% fulfilment through direct sourcing, the programme achieved 42.5%. Year two raised the bar to 55%, and we delivered 60% of direct sourcing fulfilment. With year three tracking toward 70%, direct sourcing has become a cornerstone of the client’s talent strategy, reducing dependency on third-party suppliers and improving speed-to-hire.

  • Significant cost savings: Year one delivered £1 million in savings, driven by optimised supplier mark-ups and tenure-based reductions. By Q3 of year two, savings reached £1.8 million—surpassing the stretch target of £1.5 million. These results demonstrate a sustainable model that continues to deliver value year after year.
  • Operational excellence: The introduction of the VMS replaced manual spreadsheets with automated workflows. Timesheets, invoicing, and reporting are now centralised, improving compliance and reducing administrative burden. This shift has given the client full visibility and control over its contingent workforce programme.
  • Strategic Growth: Success breeds opportunity. The MSP programme’s strong performance has paved the way for expansion into Services Procurement in the UK and geographic growth across Ireland and Germany. This evolution positions the client for broader operational efficiency and competitive advantage across multiple markets.

The client moved from a fragmented, risk-prone model to a future-ready recruitment ecosystem—one that combines compliance, efficiency, and cost optimisation. This transformation not only mitigated risk but positioned the organisation for long-term success in a competitive market.