Powered Up a Small Business to Win Large Contracts  

A small, amibitious design and marketing agency was looking for growth, through winning high value contracts with prestigious organisations operating robust procurement processes.

What we did

• We developed and implemented a suite of bespoke policies that enabled access through the tendering process  
• We strengthened the business by producing a  bespoke staff-handbook reflecting their unique culture and company values 
• We supported growth plans, developed new job descriptions, recruitment materials, contracts of employment and range of flexible benefits
• Outcome: successful award of new contracts with two new high profile clients, expanding team now in place and aligned to company ethos and values

Increased productivity through implementing a web-based HR System for HR transactional processes

This is a retained client operating across multiple sites and employing over 130 employees. They were operating paper based or Excel systems - taking up valuable time for simple administrative HR procedures. 

What we did 

• Ran a 30 day pilot trial of a web-based HR System 
• Implemented a web-based HR System to support transactional HR processes e.g. holiday booking, absence management, employee acceptance of company policies 
• Configured access and permission rights within the system, uploaded all employee data
• Developed and published Staff Privacy Notice
• Configured management reports to support sickness and holiday management

Successful acquisition and smooth transfer of new employees into FMCG family-run business.

What we did 

• Advised on liabilities, risk and responsibilities, provided solutions to resolve
• Obtained relevant information regarding transferring employees well in advance of the proposed purchase date
• Managed all communications and consultation processes with the transferring employees 
• Issued relevant employment documentation to all affected on time
• Outcome: transferring employees were engaged  and ready to positively support their new employer from the outset

Implemented A Pay Policy in an Education Charity 

This influential and progressive organisation employs a highly qualified, experienced team of specialists.  Pay and Reward had evolved historically in an ad-hoc way, failing to offer progression, placing the charity at risk of losing talent. Lack of transparency posed a further risk in respect of equal pay.

What we did 

• Reviewed and updated all job descriptions
• Assessed all roles using an established job evaluation tool
• Benchmarked all roles against national database, taking account of turnover, number of employees, region and type of organisation
• Worked in partnership with the Senior Management Team throughout, providing support through the consultation phase
• Developed a banded, single pay scale that was competitive for all jobs within the regional and sector context 
• Produced a costed 5 year plan and obtained Board Approval. 
• Managed communication and employee correspondence. 

Resolution of Conflict: Grievance Investigation in Public School

This was a high profile public school with strong union representation. A performance management culture was being introduced to tackle long standing issues. A disenchanted employee launched a complex grievance against senior staff. 

What we did

• Advised on process to safeguard integrity of the investigation
• Conducted a thorough grievance investigation, including interviews with relevant persons
• Effectively management strong union representation
• Produced grievance report with clear findings, conclusions and recommendations
• Advised on options and risk to close the matter down

Conflict Resolution: Negotiated Settlement Agreement for Senior Executive 

A not-for-profit unionised organisation with complex post-change employee relations situation leading to collective grievances and entrenched positions being taken requiring an independent broker to break the impasse.

What we did

• Opened lines of communication and built relationships and trust 
• Evaluated options including risk assessment
• Agreed terms of reference, obtaining Board approval
• Negotiated comprehensive settlement package supported with legally binding settlement agreement
• Developed internal communications

 Disciplinary Investigation in a High Performing Further Education College 

This case involved misconduct & performance issues inter-twined, Due to the history of the individual, the College wanted a completely independent investigation undertaken by an external party to ensure impartiality and objectivity.

What we did

• Separated out conduct issues from capability issues
• Interviewed all witnesses
• Prepared statements
• Gathered all relevant evidence and information
• Produced detailed investigation report with clear conclusion
• Outcome : A‘fair and balanced report’