When one of the UK’s most respected corporate communications agencies needed to manage extreme peaks in workload during their reporting season, they turned to Beyond The Book.
Having worked together for over a decade, they knew they could rely on us to deliver trusted freelance support that kept projects on track and maintained the highest standards of delivery.
The challenge ahead
Our client, Emperor, is an employee-owned creative communications agency that specialises in producing corporate reports and advising clients on how to communicate ESG matters effectively to all levels of stakeholders.
Each year, from November to April, Emperor experiences what the industry refers to as reporting season. During this period, their teams are responsible for producing a large volume of annual reports, resulting in significant peaks across design, artwork, proofing, and account management.
Outside of this season, workloads stabilise, making it impractical to increase permanent headcount. Emperor needed a way to scale their resource quickly and efficiently, while maintaining quality and culture fit.
The reality check
There were several key factors to consider when developing a flexible and reliable freelance model:
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Freelancers needed to fit seamlessly into Emperor’s culture and working environment
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Each freelancer required corporate reporting experience and the ability to work independently
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All freelancers needed to be self-employed and able to work fully remotely
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Availability was crucial, so contractors had to be happy being pencil booked well in advance
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A returning pool of freelancers was preferred to ensure continuity and familiarity with systems and processes
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Required skill sets included Artworkers, Designers, Proofreaders and Account or Project Managers
The solution
To ensure a smooth and consistent service year after year, we worked closely with Emperor’s leadership and project teams to understand exactly what was needed across each discipline.
Our approach included:
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Taking time to understand what each skill set needed to contribute, along with essential experience, working model, duration of cover, compliance requirements and day rate budgets
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Managing the entire process from sourcing, advance bookings and compliance management, through to payment where required
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Building a tried and trusted network of freelancers who return each reporting season, ensuring continuity and quality of work
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Securing contractors well in advance to guarantee availability and provide peace of mind during peak periods
Because the reporting season typically falls when freelance work is quieter elsewhere, especially between January and March, these contracts are attractive to our network, making the booking process straightforward and dependable.
What happened next
Over the years, our collaboration with Emperor evolved into a smooth, proactive and well-organised model that delivered consistent results. We managed the process of sourcing and booking freelancers ahead of time, ensuring that every project was fully resourced before the season began.
Our contractors were experienced, dependable and understood the fast-paced nature of the reporting season. They integrated quickly, brought fresh ideas and energy, and delivered exceptional work every time.
The result – what a feeling!
The reporting season was a complex and high-pressure time for any corporate communications agency, but Emperor had it nailed. With our support, they were able to flex their team seamlessly and continue to deliver exceptional work to their clients, year after year.
Both our client and our freelancers appreciated the efficiency and reliability of the process, knowing that risk was reduced, compliance was managed and quality was maintained throughout.
This partnership demonstrated how interim resource can be used strategically to manage fluctuating workloads, maintain high standards and build long-term relationships with trusted freelance talent.
Need support during your busiest season?
Visit our Contract & Freelance Recruitment page to learn how Beyond The Book can help your business scale with confidence.
