Client

SOW to Deliver a Cloud-based Architecture Programme for a Classified Client

Discover how Adecco delivered a classified Cloud architecture programme through scalable statements of work, deploying 30+ DV-cleared specialists while ensuring strong governance, cost control, and outcomes.

The Challenge

A classified client was embarking on a multi-year, Above-Secret, Cloud-based architecture restructuring and migration programme. This programme was initiated to create a secure, scalable system capable of hosting highly classified services and data while meeting strict security, governance, and performance standards.

Our client needed:

Specialist cloud and security skills, all at DV (Developed Vetting) level – the UK’s highest level of security clearance.
A flexible delivery model, able to scale as the programme evolved.
Strong governance and risk management, suited to high security implications.

At programme inception, initial requirements indicated that four contractors would be suitable on an interim hiring model. Adecco advised that, given the complexity of the work and the scarcity of UK-based DV-cleared expertise, a more strategic, service-based model would better support long-term outcomes and reduce delivery risk. This is because this approach secures suitably experienced, qualified, security-cleared personnel for the duration of the programme, thereby embedding a strong, resilient team.

Working closely together, we designed a suitable statement of work (SOW) model to drive programme delivery, fully managed by the Adecco team. By adopting this recommended approach, our client enjoyed greater cost predictability, improved governance and the benefits of an outcome-led approach geared towards securing the project’s outcomes.

Our Solution

To expedite our delivery governance and engagement model design, we initially facilitated a workforce planning workshop with client stakeholders to define critical capability gaps, service roles and responsibilities, and availability for DV-cleared professionals.

The workshop outcomes included:

A scalable service delivery framework that could grow beyond the original four roles.
A phased mobilisation and onboarding strategy for DV-cleared personnel.
A risk-managed approach to secure delivery, aligned to the client’s governance and assurance processes.

Our Adecco team was led by a Strategic Delivery Lead, responsible for aligning Adecco resourcing, onboarding, project management activities, reporting, SOW definition, and outputs in lockstep with client governance, programme milestones, and stakeholder expectations.

An on-site Adecco Service Lead Manager also engaged with client teams, providing daily operational oversight and working to resolve any issues.

Evolving the Programme

As the programme evolved, we expanded our service, deploying a team of 33 DV-cleared professionals across disciplines, including:

Secure Cloud Solution Architecture
Cyber Security Operations
Business Analysis
Enterprise Architecture

All personnel were sourced through Adecco’s established DV-cleared talent network and were rigorously vetted by our internal security-cleared assessment team to ensure suitability for a highly classified environment.

Our ongoing service management included:

Weekly performance and risk reviews
Continuous optimisation of service delivery and resource alignment
Structured reporting and governance updates

Outcomes

Alongside our structured SOW-based approach, Adecco’s fully established talent infrastructure remained readily available, enabling our client to secure the niche professionals they needed to proceed at pace while ensuring full compliance with the project’s classified nature.

Live Adecco delivery service commenced in January 2023, with a focus on delivering initial critical outcomes within two months.

Key outcomes included:

Deployment of foundational Cloud infrastructure within secure parameters.
Establishment of a classified data migration framework.
Integration of secure access protocols across the client’s environments.

To date, we have delivered:

Uninterrupted service across all programme phases.
Zero security breaches or clearance failures.
A trusted, strategic partnership aligned with client stakeholders.
Our service continues to support programme success with the flexibility to scale and adapt as new requirements emerge.

With an established and trusted service model in place, Adecco are now well placed to continue supporting the client in future, including permanent hiring, additional scope, or new Cloud-based programmes.

Key Results

30+ DV-cleared professionals supplied.
Programme delivered on time and on budget.
Zero security breaches or clearance failures.
Trusted strategic partnership established, geared towards future needs.

Strengthen Your Classified Digital Transformation with Adecco

Adecco combines established recruitment expertise with a mature project scoping and delivery methodology using clearly defined statements of work to help secure specialist talent while improving governance and cost control.

Whether you’re at the start of your transformation journey or scaling delivery at pace, we can design a flexible model that aligns with your strategy and budget.

Speak to an expert today: