Uncomplicating the complicated

I have extensive experience in change and transformation, across a range of different business areas and sectors. For example, I oversaw a £1.4m digital transformation programme that included a new website, a brand-new data solution, an online events system and a marketing solution. This transformation led to an increase in website traffic and an increase in participation of events. I also designed and led a pioneering change programme for 1500 volunteers to coordinate, modernize and evaluate their activities. A challenge to begin with (most change programmes are!) but resulted in a very successful outcome with greater volunteer engagement. I also introduced a change programme to a well-established group of trustees, with revised rules and regulations, a more streamlined board structure and a more efficient secretariat servicing the trustees.

All change requires consultation, communication and that critical point of bringing everyone on the journey; no easy task but made easier when you have someone experienced like me, who has been through and led change, to support you along the way.

I have recently been working with a change expert, and in partnership with Birmingham City University, in developing a digital tool for organisations looking to change. This tool can quickly assess an organisation’s change readiness position, and very quickly ascertain the chances of the changes sticking and not being a waste of time, money, and effort. You can read more about this in the services ‘Change and transformation’ tab.

During my career I have both sat on, and serviced, several different Boards. This varied experience means I have an excellent grasp of the important issues and challenges facing most trustees and the Boards they sit on.

I have designed and led several reviews of Board effectiveness. The reviews included a restructure of the Board and its committees, the development of revised terms of reference for the sub-committees, the introduction of a delegated authority statement, the introduction of a ‘statement of internal controls’ process and a review Articles of Association. I have also introduced new, data focused Board Information Dashboards, providing key, up to date headline information that provided a strategic and operational view of the business, invaluable in supporting evidence-based decision making. I also led the introduction of a digital Board Information Dashboard that included the secure storage, access, and management of all Board documentation, providing evidence of due practice and procedure for the organisation.

I am currently working with a small consultancy and large insurance company developing a Board Effectiveness Review system. It comprises a digital questionnaire that can be deployed to board members; it is relevant to any sector and can quickly provide insight into a Board’s strengths and areas for development.

I have developed, created and, where appropriate, implemented several strategies across several organisation. The strategies had the buy-in of trustees and staff and have provided clarity of purpose and a clear direction of travel, and greatly enhanced the offering and service within the respective organisations.

I have a breadth of experience across the public sector, and the not-for-profit and charity sectors. This unique experience has helped me develop a varied and extensive skill set which will benefit most organisations and businesses, irrespective of the business sector they operate in. My professional approach and ability to quickly understand complex issues, and translate them into pragmatic, actionable, easy to understand plans would make me a perfect choice for an organisation’s interim needs.