Leadership Development Programme Saves £2 million
/>Costain Group PlcHigh Potential ProgrammeThe NeedAs part of succession planning the client required a high potential development programme for managers across the Group who had the potential to achieve Senior Management and/or Directorships within the organisation. UnderstandingCreative Edge Consulting (CEC) understands that in the development of high potential managers it is important they develop the knowledge, skills and attitudes (KSA's) that will enable the client to be successful. This must be aligned with the future strategy of the company since KSA's can become obsolete over time. For this purpose CEC held a half day workshop with the client's Directors and senior managers to forecast the future operating environment and strategy. From this the KSA's were established. SolutionSelection of the high potential candidates needed to be objective and fair, allowing equal opportunity to all candidates. A combination of self nomination and manager nomination was used. All candidates were interviewed by a CEC consultant and the Client HR manager. Characteristics candidates were required to demonstrate included self-motivation, communication skills, commercial awareness, and leadership. Twelve candidates were selected for this first High Potential Programme (HPP). The programme lasted 18 months and comprised of a series of seven modules which included elements such as, construction business education, leadership development, coaching, facilitation and problem solving skills, and action learning. Action learning involves working as a board (meeting monthly) to solve real business issues. Each participant is supported by a mentor (Client) and an executive coach (CEC). Participants learn the effectiveness of their ability to manage both tasks and people. From this awareness they can build on improving these skills.Business BenefitParticipants on the HPP are immediately able to apply their learning to create a more successful business and realise a significant return on investment. Already the programme is on track to generate a £2 million saving within the business. The HPP is running successfully with its third intake and continually adapting to ensure unique client fit and strategic alignment."CEC have worked very closely with Costain to understand our business needs and create a HPP that has tangible impact on the business, enhancing our innovation and deepening our succession plan." Jeremy Galpin, Group Skills and Development Manager.