“One of the fundamental characteristics of executives in superior-performing organizations is the recognition that the ability to successfully formulate and execute a coherent business strategy is intrinsically linked to formulating and executing a robust leadership strategy.
Bridging the Strategy/Performance Gap—How Leadership Strategy Drives Business Results (Center for Creative Leadership, 2014)
Challenge
The client, a partner in primary health care in Ontario, entered a new phase in its evolution, from project based to full incorporation. They got to the point of needing to establish a clear structure, including defined roles and responsibilities, consistent leadership practices and a system of accountability throughout the organization. They were looking for outside counsel to make some strategic direction on how to make their required organizational shifts.
Strategic Approach
The goal of our selected approach was to dig deep and examine what real solutions looked like, considering the environment, business objectives and the needs of employees. So we:
- Conducted a full assessment and provided a detailed report on the organization’s mission, vision and strategic plan; the existing policies and key processes, competencies, and performance management system.
- Made recommendations on what may have been missed over the rapid growth period and on changes, including the organizational structure needed to most effectively meet their mandate.
- Conducted a ‘team retreat’ which was a celebration of the work and success that had been achieved in the first years and to position the team for the challenges ahead.
- Put a newly structured senior management team in place and facilitated the development of several of their strategic planning meetings, with outcomes being: terms of reference, operating principles, practices and procedures.
- Provided ongoing leadership coaching over a two-year period.
Result
The client has been able to create a refreshed organizational structure with accountability. Ultimately this translated into increased service to clients. Once the organization was fully established, demand for their services has risen exponentially, which requires consistent development processes. They are building capacity and capability among all employees.
The organization is able to more effectively recruit employees to key positions and provide appropriate development plans and programs to ensure their employees are successful and their clients are satisfied.