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3 mins read

Bailrigg+

Client: Bailrigg+
Interviewee: Chris Hellings, Founding Partner
Sector: Financial Services
Company Size: 51-200 
Migrated from: Leaver

Bailrigg has been providing a flexible consulting solution to global financial services organizations in the UK and the US for over 10 years. By leveraging a closed network of delivery-focused, experienced Subject Matter Experts (SMEs), Bailrigg provides on-demand skill sets within the strict lead-times and cost structures their clients require. Their model uniquely straddles the line between business consulting and contingent resourcing.

Bailrigg operates a complex business model that sits between traditional consulting and recruitment. After a failed implementation with a previous provider in 2020, they needed a system that could handle this hybrid approach. Partnering with Seven20, they co-developed a tailored workflow that has served as the firm’s cornerstone for over five years, evolving recently to incorporate AI and new service lines with minimal development effort.

The Challenge: A Unique Model & A Failed Start

As Bailrigg evolved from tactical internal tracking tools, they hit a wall. Their business model combining consulting methodology with contingent resourcing didn’t fit the standard mould of off-the-shelf recruitment software. This mismatch led to a failed implementation with another provider in 2020.

  • Hybrid Requirements: The system needed to support both consulting workflows and recruitment features.
  • Rigidity: Previous tools lacked the flexibility to adapt to Bailrigg’s specific data model.
  • Failed Implementation: A prior attempt with a different vendor failed to deliver, highlighting the need for a true partner rather than just a software vendor.

“The industry is plagued with ‘out of the box’ solutions that never quite do what you want them to… support is impersonal and the functionality isn’t particularly flexible.”

The Solution: Co-Development & Iteration

Bailrigg began working with Seven20 in its early days. The engagement was defined by collaboration. Over a period of 2-3 months, the teams worked together to iterate, refine, and test the platform.

  • Custom Data Model: They established a set of workflows that enhanced traditional recruitment features to suit the consulting model.
  • Collaborative Design: The process required effort from both parties, ensuring the foundation was solid.
  • Due Diligence: The upfront investment in design meant the final result has required minimal core enhancements since launch.

“Working in partnership with the Seven20 team we were able to establish a data model and set of workflows that suited our business model… The end result has required minimal enhancements since – which is testament to the level of forward thinking.”

The Result: A 5-Year Cornerstone

Five years on, Seven20 remains the “cornerstone tool” for Bailrigg. It drives everyday prioritization and reporting, streamlining working processes across the UK and US operations.

  • Stability: The core components have stood the test of time.
  • AI & Innovation: As Bailrigg moves to leverage AI and dynamic processes, Seven20 is facilitating that evolution.
  • Scalability: New services are added to the offering with minimal development effort and spend.

The Experience: Rare Levels of Support

For Chris Hellings, the standout feature over the last half-decade has been the human element. In an industry often criticized for poor support, Seven20 has consistently delivered.

“The day-to-day support is particularly good, responding to issues rapidly and always making you feel like a valued customer (sadly, all too rare across most platform providers).”

Advice for Other Businesses

“Definitely consider Seven20 before making a decision… For us, the working relationship we built with Seven20 from the get-go was outstanding and we continue to receive the same level of service several years on; long may it continue.”