A Selection of Global Case Studies

British Plastics Federation (BPF) – Pipes Group

Succession planning and building a new team within a specialist trade body

The British Plastics Federation (BPF) represents the UK plastics industry across a broad range of polymer technologies, processing disciplines and end-use markets. Within its structure, the Pipes Group promotes the industry and plays a critical role in supporting pipe manufacturers through standards development, providing technical guidance and regulatory engagement.

Listgrove has worked closely with the BPF and its member groups across a wide range of commercial, technical and leadership appointments, developing a deep understanding of the UK plastics sector, its regulatory landscape and the specialist skills required to support industry standards, innovation and growth. Based on an established association with the British Plastics Federation (BPF) spanning more than 25 years, Listgrove was appointed to manage the search for a new Standards and Technical Manager within the BPF Pipes Group.

Due to the retirement of a long-standing colleague, this was a critical appointment that required the right skillset to ultimately succeed the Director of the Pipes Group, who was also planning to retire within two years. The person needed to possess a rare blend of technical expertise, sector knowledge and stakeholder-management, with the added ability to fast track into the more senior role. The position is responsible for coordinating UK input into British, European and international standards, while simultaneously supporting and project-managing multiple technical groups. Given the specialist nature of the role and the added succession need, BPF Pipes Group chose Listgrove as a recruitment partner capable of operating confidently within a highly niche technical and standards-driven landscape.

How Listgrove supported

From the outset, Listgrove invested time in fully understanding the technical scope of the role and the wider context in which it would operate, especially the future leadership requirement.

Through detailed briefing and focused market research, Listgrove identified professionals with relevant standards, materials and technical governance experience, a talent pool that is both limited and highly specialised. Candidates were assessed not only on their technical background within the pipes sector, but also on their ability to operate credibly at senior level, represent industry interests externally and manage consensus across diverse member organisations.

Throughout the process, communication remained clear, structured and responsive. Candidates were fully briefed on the role, the organisation and the expectations at each stage, while BPF received concise, well-considered updates that supported efficient decision-making.

Delivering Value in a Niche Appointment

Despite the challenges associated with recruiting for such a specialist position, Listgrove presented a strong shortlist of relevant candidates, significantly reducing the time and effort required from the client team. Careful pre-screening ensured that candidates brought experience of standards committees, technical project management and regulated industry environments.

Beyond placement, Listgrove maintained close engagement with the successful candidate, providing support and clarity throughout offer, acceptance and onboarding and following up to ensure the transition had been successful.

The Outcome: Confidence, Clarity and Long-Term Fit

By combining sector expertise with a highly consultative approach, Listgrove enabled the BPF to secure a Standards and Technical Manager for its Pipes Group, aligned with both the technical demands of the role and the organisation’s broader objectives. As a result of a well-managed and highly collaborative process, the right candidate was appointed. This person moved into the Director role in a faster timescale than expected and Listgrove went back to the market to recruit a second Standards and Technical Manager to back-fill the previous position. The BPF Pipes Group now have a new team that is fully engaged in supporting its members, championing the UK plastic pipes and fittings sector, and providing continued stability to a trade body that is paramount to the success of the industry.

What Candidates Say

“The overall experience was extremely positive. The role and organisation were explained clearly, and I felt supported throughout the entire process. Communication was always prompt and professional, and any questions I had were addressed thoroughly.

What really stood out was the follow-up call after everything had been completed, something I hadn’t experienced before, but which I found very thoughtful. Overall, this was one of the best recruitment experiences I’ve had.”

Standards and Technical Manager (Now Director), BPF Pipes Group

What Clients Say

“This was a very niche role and difficult to resource. Listgrove quickly understood what we were looking for and presented several high-quality candidates. Communication was efficient, the understanding of our requirements was strong, and the quality of pre-screening made the process straightforward and effective.”

Director (Now Retired), BPF Pipes Group