CLIENT STORY: Talent, transformation and triumph. An awarding-winning tale of organisational change.
The Solicitors Disciplinary Tribunal (SDT) is an independent statutory tribunal which deals with serious disciplinary issues that arise within the UK legal profession.
As a small but dynamic organisation, with a vital role to play in its industry, the SDT, for various reasons had gone through significant change. However, with a new Board in place and a clear vision for the future, the organisation had a good foundation for moving forward with the recruitment of key strategic roles.
THE CHALLENGE.
Working across the whole organisation, Psychology Works were engaged to partner with the SDT to assist with the appoint of these key strategic roles, including the selection of a new CEO/Chief Clerk.
Through conversations it also became clear there was an opportunity to facilitate a wider transformational effort to rebuild and reinvigorate the organisational culture and improve employee wellbeing. The objective became to shape the SDT as an organisation fit for the future; aligning with ambitious goals, and resolve some of the confusion and sense of disconnection that people were feeling.
THE ACTION.
To address these challenges, a comprehensive set of interventions were meticulously designed to target the identified challenges. This included improving communication and transparency, developing people skills among leaders, and the revision of policies, procedures, and training programmes, to foster a culture of respect and collaboration… and recruiting the new CEO!
To support these wider transformational objectives a whole-company interactive behaviours workshop was run. The aim, to create a safe space for open dialogue, learning, and skill-building, as well as fostering a culture of respect, collaboration, and effective communication. The enthusiastic participation and feedback from the staff was wonderful and really demonstrated their commitment to embracing and creating a positive and inclusive work environment.
THE RESULT.
An unexpected restructure.
Whilst not part of the original brief, it quickly became clear that to truly be fit for purpose, and in the best shape for meeting their ambitious strategic plans, then the first thing needed was an organisational restructure. Unnecessarily hierarchical for its size, with our help, the SDT were able to flatten the structure, streamline reporting lines, improve channels of communication and enhance operational efficiencies.
Specifically, three new positions were created addressing specific organisational needs, ensuring that the talent pool aligned with the strategic objectives of the organisation, and while not an objective of the program, it also resulted in quantifiable payroll savings. In addition, four redundant positions were identified and phased out, allowing for better resource allocation and cost savings.
Finding hidden talent…
With the new structure in place, the SDT was able to gain clarity on what roles and skills would be needed to take it forward. With this clarity and a fresh pair of eyes (Psychology Works!), a wealth of hidden talent was uncovered.
Four internal promotions were made, recognising talents and capabilities of deserving individuals within the organisation, including the new Chief Clerk/CEO.
Applying the rigour…
The Chief Clerk/CEO role is a key strategic role for the SDT, reporting directly into the SDT Board, as well as having an important public facing role. It was absolutely critical that the SDT got the appointment right.
Initially expecting to hire externally, with a fresh perspective and a bit of help from Psychology Works, the SDT were able to devise a rigorous but development process that would enable them to assess their internal talent first.
Drawing drew on our wealth of assessment expertise, we devised a robust but fair process – including psychometrics, competency-based interview and assessment centre. Equally important, was ensuring a positive and developmental experience for the internal candidates, so follow up 1-2-1 coaching sessions were also built in.
The process was a huge success and the SDT were able to successfully appoint their new Chief Clerk/CEO from within, which marked a significant milestone for the organisation. This internal promotion not only demonstrated the organisation's commitment to nurturing and recognising internal talent but also highlighted the positive impact of identifying and leveraging untapped potential.
(We love a happy ending!)
WHAT NEXT?
After such a successful Phase 1 for the SDT, culminating in the appointment of their new Chief Clerk/CEO, work on Phase 2 is already underway!
As everyone settles into their new roles, Psychology Works are chuffed to be asked to also help the SDT with this next round of work.
The focus is now on embedding in the new structure and implementing a next round of improvements in their systems, processes, procedures and governance. An office-move and full rebrand is also underway. Last but not least, on the people side, coaching/mentoring for the new senior appointees and a range of activities to build out and embed the culture change they are working towards.
(We love a good sequel!)
“I think that the input from Psychology Works has been outstanding and promises a transformational future”.
SDT Board member.
Find out more…
If you would like to know more about organisational change and the services Psychology Works offer in this area, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
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The encore.
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