Saffron Wildbore
~ 3min read
~ 3min read
Industry: Technology / Software
Challenge: Contractor dependency, brain-drain, and lack of succession planning
Solution: Customised graduate deployment and training programme
Results: Over 40 trained individuals deployed, strong FTE conversion, improved knowledge retention, and sustainable succession planning implemented.
A global technology company faced a growing operational challenge: too much reliance on contract workers. Their contractor-heavy workforce presented risks around long-term retention, intellectual property loss, and knowledge continuity.
At the same time, the organisation struggled to build a sustainable junior talent pipeline. Without a graduate programme in place, they lacked the internal development paths necessary to support future growth and leadership.
The business relied heavily on short-term contract workers, many of whom were unwilling to convert to full-time employment. This not only created issues with continuity, scalability, and team cohesion but also led to high operational costs due to constant onboarding, knowledge loss, and inefficiencies in long-term project execution.
Contractors often left the business, taking critical knowledge and expertise with them to other companies in the sector. This recurring “brain-drain” affected team performance and delivery timelines.
Without a structured graduate programme, there was no pipeline of junior talent being developed internally. The company found it difficult to access and retain the next generation of tech professionals.
To address these pressing issues, we partnered with the client to design and deliver a bespoke version of the mthree graduate programme. The solution was built in close collaboration with senior leaders, HR, and hiring managers to ensure long-term alignment with business goals.
An in-person assessment centre was held at the client's offices to identify high-potential graduates. This helped refine the selection criteria and align graduate attributes with specific business needs.
Our technical trainers met with the client to understand their technology stack and team dynamics. Based on this discovery process, we developed role-specific training modules and team projects that prepared graduates to contribute from day one.
To ensure long-term retention, we implemented a structured engagement model. This included regular performance appraisals, additional technical upskilling, mentoring, pastoral support, and opportunities to participate in social and networking events.
individuals deployed on site
converted to full-time employees
Over 40 trained individuals have been successfully deployed on-site. Thanks to their tailored preparation, they were ready to deliver value immediately.
In the initial cohort of 8, seven individuals converted to full-time employees, resulting in a conversion rate of 87.5%. (One participant exited for personal reasons.)
The client now has a formal, repeatable programme in place for bringing in and developing early-career talent, filling a key gap in their workforce strategy.
With permanent team members in place, the company significantly reduced its exposure to contractor churn, safeguarded critical organisational knowledge, and achieved greater cost efficiency over time.
This case study demonstrates how a customised graduate deployment programme can solve multiple workforce challenges, from reducing reliance on external contractors to addressing brain-drain and enabling long-term succession planning. Unlike typical contractors, mthree alumni are embedded with the intention of converting to full-time employees, ensuring continuity of knowledge, stronger team integration, and long-term value
Our flexible approach helped the client future-proof their workforce by building internal capability and creating sustainable career paths for junior talent.
If your organisation is experiencing similar challenges, mthree can help. Our workforce solutions are designed to align with your technology, culture, and long-term goals.
Get in touch with our team today to learn more.
Saffron is the Marketing Manager at mthree, with over five years of experience creating content that connects. She works across both B2B and B2C marketing, focusing on everything from career tips for graduates to real stories from our alumni. Saffron’s articles are all about sharing practical advice, industry insights, and inspiration to help readers take the next step with confidence.
