WHAT DOES YOUR NEW ROLE INVOLVE?
I'll be looking after 5,000 staff, and a strategic HR team of 30. I willbe undertaking the important task of helping HR and the organisationalign in terms of expectations and outputs. I'm a fan of outsourcing andWestminster Council is already a long way down that road. We've justkicked off a new programme called Worksmart, which comprises 20 majorprojects. Our vision is to be world-class, so that's an excitingchallenge.
WHAT ATTRACTED YOU TO THE ROLE?
It's wonderful to come into an organisation that is already world-class.Its prestige and reputation, as well as its vision for the future, iswhat attracted me, even though I have to commute 500 miles from Belfast.It is always striving to do better, and there is a real chance for me toshow HR can add value.
WHAT SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE DO YOU BRING?
I've got 25 years' human resources experience in policing, heavyengineering, manufacturing, hauling, central government and localgovernment.
WHAT'S THE GREATEST CHALLENGE OVER THE NEXT 12 MONTHS?
Completely restructuring reward and recognition, including the tools weuse, will be challenging. Another challenge will be developing employeeself-service.
WHAT DO YOU DO TO UNWIND?
I play the trumpet and cornet in the Salvation Army, as well as bassguitar and clarinet to unwind. And my youngest son has taught me how toskateboard. He's currently teaching me how to in-line skate.
