Mace Project Manager Interview Questions
& Process

The application process was pretty straightforward. It started with a video interview, then an assessment centre, which was conducted online and had three parts. The first part was a group exercise where male and female candidates were separated. Two team members kept their cameras off while we discussed a topic for a presentation. This lasted about 15 minutes. The second part involved an interview with one of the people who was observing the group exercise. They asked about how I thought I performed and some typical STAR method questions. I also got to ask them questions. There were roughly 40-minute breaks between all stages. We also had a chance to meet current Mace grads and ask them questions. The third part was a final case study. We had 40 minutes to read through it and decide on a project. Then, there was a 10-minute individual presentation to a senior team member about why I would choose that project. I could also ask questions afterward. After that, there was a debrief, and the day concluded. The recruiter/HR person I first spoke with wasn't the friendliest, which really set a cold tone for the assessment centre. They mentioned that overtalking, which you're usually told to avoid in assessment centres, seemed to mean you should contribute more here. I didn't get why male and female candidates were separated in the group exercise; if you're assessing teamwork, it should be realistic and mix genders. I don't think the process considered neurodivergent individuals well, as everyone was assessed on the same criteria. It should be a priority for HR to hire people who can bring different perspectives, not just be the same. Feedback, both positive and negative, came via phone, and the recruiter/HR person seemed to rush off the phone quickly after delivering the bad news. Given the time and effort put into the interviews, I'd expect more compassion. The overall interview felt cold, and perhaps it would have been better in person where candidates could relax.

After getting through the application stage, there are two interviews. First up is a phone interview. If you pass that, you'll be invited to a virtual assessment centre. This has two parts: a group exercise with other candidates, and then your final interview with senior members of the Mace team. This is the last step, and you'll get a call within a week if you're offered the job. Both interviews generally ask the same questions, but for the virtual one, really amp up your body language and speak clearly. For the assessment centre, show leadership skills but don't dominate; let everyone participate in activities. After the group activity, senior folks will ask you questions about the problem solution you presented. It might catch you off guard, but try to answer at least one to show confidence and quick thinking. It's normal to be nervous on Zoom, so don't feel intimidated.

Started with a phone call and then a 1-hour interview with the team leader and someone from recruitment. They were nice and helpful, and also truthful about how my lack of industry knowledge might affect my application. They asked a lot of questions about dealing with workplace conflict and typical questions about why I want to work for Mace. Even though I was referred by someone there, and I followed up 3 times, the HR person never responded, which was disappointing.