5 challenges when setting up a shared service centre

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Mastering Shared Service Centre Challenges

Shared service centres (SSC) are becoming part of long-term business strategy and their numbers have increased significantly since the mid-80’s, but many companies are still mastering shared service centre challenges. Most organisations create SSC’s to improve efficiency, deliver cost savings and generally provide a better service for its customers and suppliers, as well as internal users.

But not all of them reap the benefits. Time and time again I hear about shared service centres failing and it’s usually down to one (or more) of the following challenges:

Leadership

Every shared service centre needs a good leader. When going through periods of change, you need a leader that can not only influence the team but customers, suppliers and stakeholders too. A good leader will show resilience and will also be approachable. A leader needs to be strategic, and drive the SSC forward, but also needs to manage it from an operational perspective. Having the wrong leader can leave a team unhappy and disengaged. A good leader will look beyond the SSC and look at the impact this will have on the wider business, as well as the end user.

Engagement

Mastering Shared Service Centres can be a challenge. For a shared service centre to be successful, engagement must be a priority. This doesn’t just mean engaging with people who are working within it, but anyone that uses the service. A clear and positive message needs to be delivered about any changes that are taking place and how it may affect them. Managing people’s expectations and thinking about how it will affect them but delivering the message about how the changes are beneficial to THEM. Communication is key! It’s important that the project teams provide progress updates so you can celebrate success and quick wins, but also ensuring how external stakeholders may be impacted. Find out what drives people and how you can make THEM successful.

Technology

Technology is one of the most important factors of a successful SSC. With emerging technologies such as RPA, blockchain, analytics and The Cloud, to name a few. Tech will be one of the biggest investments when setting up a shared service centre. People say if it’s not broken then don’t fix it, but just because it works, it doesn’t mean it’s the most efficient way of doing it. SSCs are utilising technology more than ever. It can reduce headcount, eliminate errors and be more time efficient, but if it’s implemented wrong, or isn’t fit for purpose, it can create more problems than anything. 

Planning & strategy

The planning and strategy behind setting up a shared service centre is the most important part, in my eyes. Will this be a captive SSC, or will some functions be outsourced to a third-party provider? Location is also key, and you will need to ensure that the talent pool is sufficient for your requirements. Processes need to be transitioned; systems need to be integrated but this will have an impact on BAU responsibilities. Once setup, forward planning is crucial too, as you look to expand or consolidate different business units/regions into the SSC.

People

“A business is only as good as its employees.” I’m sure we’ve all heard that before?

People are one of the most important factors of a shared service centre. Mastering Shared Service Centre without the right talent, SSC’s wouldn’t be able to deliver the service. It’s essential to have subject matter experts who can monitor compliance updates and implement the changes when needed. It’s important to gauge the talent pool in the area in which the SSC is located, as skill shortages can be a huge problem, particularly if it’s a European SSC with language speakers. Believe me European language speakers with specific experience is hard to find!

Although there are many more characteristics to think about, these will give you a strong foundation to have a great shared service centre.

OUR FOCUS ON LONG-TERM PARTNERSHIPS

At re:find we believe that recruitment is not a one-off transaction but rather a long-term partnership. We aim to build long-term relationships with our clients, providing ongoing support and advice to help them find and retain the best talent for their organisation.

We understand that every organisation is unique and that there is no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to recruitment. That’s why we offer bespoke recruitment solutions that are tailored to meet the specific needs of each client. Whether you need help with a single hire or a full recruitment campaign, we can help.

We are committed to providing our clients with the highest quality service. We take the time to understand your organisation’s culture and values, as well as the specific skills and experience needed for each role.

For more information on our central government executive search practice and our CCS framework please get in touch with our Managing Director, James Cumming.

Women Leading the Way in Aviation

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In the typically male-dominated world of aviation, women have often been left on the sidelines. But as the industry grows, especially in emerging markets, there’s a noticeable increase in female pilots, engineers, and executives who are reshaping the sector.

My blog looks at how these trailblazing women are key to its future.

How did we get here?

The male dominance in aviation is like many other technical and engineering fields. Historically it stems from a mix of societal norms, educational opportunities, and professional barriers that were skewed against women. Here’s a rundown of the main reasons why aviation has traditionally been a boys’ club:

  • Historical Norms and Perceptions: Back in the day, jobs that involved physical labour, machinery, and tech were seen as no-go areas for women. This was thanks to outdated gender stereotypes. Aviation, mixing mechanical engineering with hefty physical demands, especially in the early days, was no exception.
  • Educational Barriers: For a big chunk of the 20th century, women often had limited access to the science and tech education needed for a career in aviation. These educational paths were pretty much designed for and marketed to men, creating a hefty barrier to entry for women.
  • Legal and Institutional Restrictions: In many places, women were legally barred from certain jobs or working conditions. For instance, female pilots were often kept from flying commercial or military aircraft until well into the latter half of the 20th century.
  • Cultural Bias and Discrimination: Even when it was legal for women to join in, cultural biases often discouraged or outright excluded women from getting into or moving up in the field. This discrimination could come from within the industry through hiring practices, within training programmes, or socially through pressure and expectations about what jobs were ‘suitable’ for women.
  • Visibility and Role Models: A lack of female faces also keeps the cycle going where young women have fewer role models in the field. This lack of visibility can turn off interest and keep the gender imbalance going as fewer women enter the field, succeed, and act as role models for the next generation.
  • Work-Life Balance Challenges: Careers in aviation can involve weird hours, lots of travel, and long periods away from home, which can be extra tough for women who often take on bigger caregiving roles in their families.

How do we keep making aviation more inclusive?

To make sure the aviation industry becomes fully inclusive and keeps moving forward in gender diversity, we can take several proactive steps. These strategies focus on systemic change, education, policy implementation, and cultural shifts, and can be grouped into these subsections:

Education and Visibility:

Boost STEM Education for Girls: Encourage and support girls from a young age to explore science, tech, engineering, and maths (STEM) through school programmes, extracurricular activities, and community initiatives.

Scholarships and Financial Aid: Offer targeted scholarships and financial support for women entering aviation training programmes to help overcome financial barriers.

Spotlight on Success: Regularly highlight the achievements of women in aviation through media, seminars, and industry events to boost visibility and inspire the next generation.

Recruitment and Workplace Policies:

Inclusive Job Ads: Make sure job postings use welcoming language and clearly state that the organisation values diversity.

Diverse Hiring Panels: Use varied recruitment panels to help cut down on unconscious bias in the hiring process.

Flexible Work Options: Roll out flexible working hours and remote working options where possible to help employees manage work-life balance.

Fair Parental Leave: Offer fair parental leave for all parents, encouraging shared responsibilities at home and supporting women’s career continuity.

Professional Growth and Cultural Change:

Equal Opportunities for Advancement: Set clear, merit-based criteria for advancement to ensure women have the same chances to climb to senior roles.

Ongoing Training: Offer continuous training and professional development programmes to all employees, helping women gain the skills and qualifications needed to move up.

Anti-Discrimination Policies: Enforce strong policies against discrimination and harassment, with clear reporting mechanisms and consequences for misconduct.

Inclusive Culture Initiatives: Build an inclusive culture through workshops, training on unconscious bias, and regular chats on diversity and inclusion.

Industry-Wide and Community Initiatives:

Collaboration and Partnerships: Work with other companies, governments, and non-profit organisations to promote gender diversity across the industry.

Standards and Benchmarks: Set up and stick to industry-wide benchmarks for diversity and inclusion, with regular reporting and accountability.

Support Advocacy Groups: Partner with organisations that promote women in aviation, offering support through funding, resources, and joint initiatives.

Community Engagement: Get involved with local communities to educate and raise awareness about careers in aviation for women.

Breaking New Ground in Aviation:

For years, the image of aviation professionals was pretty uniform—typically male. But this image is changing, especially in emerging markets like India, China, and parts of Africa, where more women are getting into aviation careers. Educational institutions and training programmes are pulling in more female talent, showing that the sector is ready to embrace diversity.

Empowering Change in Aviation:

Several governments and aviation bodies in these markets are actively pushing for gender diversity. Initiatives like scholarships for female students, mentoring programmes tailored for women, and networking events are making a real difference. These efforts don’t just support individual women—they enrich the entire industry by bringing in new ideas and approaches.

Trailblazing Pilots:

The rise in the number of female pilots is one of the most visible signs of change. Women are now flying for both commercial giants and boutique carriers, and they’re doing so with exceptional skill and resilience. Their growing presence is not only inspiring but also crucial in breaking down outdated stereotypes.

Engineering the Future:

Beyond the cockpit, women are also leading innovations in aviation engineering and technology. From aerodynamic design to sustainability solutions, they are at the forefront of modern aviation challenges. Their contributions are vital in driving technological advancements and enhancing safety protocols across the industry.

Overcoming Challenges:

Despite these advances, women in aviation still face significant hurdles. Issues like gender bias, fewer opportunities for advancement compared to male counterparts, and the struggle to maintain work-life balance are still widespread. Addressing these challenges is essential for building a truly inclusive industry.

New Horizons:

An emerging topic of interest is the role of women in the development of sustainable aviation technologies. Now the industry focuses on reducing its environmental footprint. And female engineers and leaders are playing critical roles in crafting eco-friendly innovations.

Looking Ahead:

The future of aviation in emerging markets looks increasingly female. Encouraging inclusivity, diversity, and equality will unlock vast potential and drive significant growth within the industry. By supporting and promoting women in aviation, we can ensure a robust, dynamic, and equitable future.

The landscape of aviation across emerging markets is undergoing a profound transformation. Thanks to the relentless efforts of pioneering women, the industry is not only meeting the challenges of the 21st century but is poised to redefine what is possible. Their achievements pave the way for future generations, ensuring that the sky is no limit.

OUR FOCUS ON LONG-TERM PARTNERSHIPS

At re:find we have been in Executive Search for over 20 years. We believe that recruitment is not a one-off transaction but rather a long-term partnership. We aim to build long-term relationships with our clients, providing ongoing support and advice to help them find and retain the best talent for their organisation.

In addition, as a business, we understand that every organisation is unique and that there is no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to recruitment. That’s why we offer bespoke recruitment solutions that are tailored to meet the specific needs of each client. Whether you need help with a single hire or a full recruitment campaign, we can help.

We are committed to providing our clients with the highest quality service. As part of this, we ensure that we take the time to understand your organisation’s culture and values, as well as the specific skills and experience needed for each role.

For more information on our executive search practice and our CCS framework
please get in touch with our Managing Director, James Cumming.

Please visit our website to see more of our knowledge hub: https://refind.co.uk/

Your first 30, 60 and 90 days in a shared service leadership role

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Starting a new role in shared services can be a little overwhelming. Imagine starting a new position managing a team in excess of 30, 50 or 100 people, with new systems and new processes, in a completely new environment.

Where would you start? Most of your first 30 days is a learning curve, and a chance to absorb as much info as possible. Break it down into smaller chunks…

30 Days

  • Introduce yourself:

First impressions count. It is important that you understand your team, and they understand you. What are their frustrations, what makes them tick, and what motivates them to go that extra mile? It is important to understand the dynamics of the team initially and they understand your reasons for being hired. Most managers within a shared service are appointed to make change and drive efficiencies within their function. The whole team need to understand the journey you’re on as they will be a fountain of knowledge to help you reach it.

  • Define your role:

Why have you been appointed? Most roles within shared service have a purpose, and you need to define your existence in the role and what you are there to achieve. The team need to understand your motivations too, so you need to be transparent around this and what you are trying to achieve. This way the team will understand why changes are being made.

What is the business strategy? What are the business’ long term goals? Is it to reduce costs, headcount, make processes more efficient or to grow the team to manage an acquisition? Whatever it is, your team in most cases need to be aware of it, to understand your vison and to help you achieve the journey that you’re on. Understanding the product or service of the business is key, as you will need to think outside the box and consider any challenges that the business may face, and how that will impact the wider shared service.

  • Evaluate your own performance:

Monitoring your performance over a 30, 60, and 90-day period is important. Set yourself achievable objectives, short and long term based on what you have set out with your line manager. Once you’ve set yourself these objectives, it is important not just to deliver them but to go above an beyond.

  • Plan…plan…plan….

60 Days

  • What were your observations in the first 30 days?

Start by looking back on your first 30 days. What have you achieved, what objectives did you meet/not meet and how realistic were they?

Did you identify any risks, skills shortages or areas for improvement? This is the perfect time to reflect on your observations and speak up.

  • Implementing new strategies/processes

What needs to be changed? Is it people, process or systems? This is where you will need to consider the changes you want to drive, and again what impact this may have on the wider business. Most importantly, your team, key stakeholders, and wider business should all be ‘bought in’ to the change agenda and just as importantly your customers and suppliers should be too, if the changes could potentially affect them.

  • Start building your own personal brand

It’s important to start building your own personal brand and be recognised for doing things well. You want to use this next 30 days to really step up and show people why you were hired, and what you do well. By now you should have established relationships within the business and have started to help develop your team and potentially upskill them in in certain areas. By now you should understand your key stakeholders too, and how much influence is needed.

  • Get some feedback

It is important now that you obtain regular feedback to ensure your vision aligns with your line managers. Talk around your observations, and future planning, and some of the key points you’re considering changing.

  • Plan, plan, plan…..

90 Days

  • Create an internal comms plan

Align your plan with the business, and create your own strategy and objectives to share with your team and stakeholders, so they have a clear understanding of the journey you’re on. 

  • Present your gatherings

After spending 60 days analysing and absorbing info, it’s now time to present your findings. Show your stakeholders your problems and create solutions of how to make improvements and how you will measure success.

Now it’s time to really get your sleeves rolled up and start making the changes!

Making a good first impression is important when you’re starting any management role, and by now your confidence should have grown and you will have made an impact on the team in some shape or form. Planning your first 30,90 and 60 days is important if you want to achieve your goals.

If you would like to discuss further, email me at sam@refind.co.uk.

You can view more about Sam Perry our Shared Services Executive Search expert here.

Why won’t top performing shared service professions join your business? And what to do about it. Download our free eBook here.

What makes a good shared service leader?

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A good shared service leader

Shared services is a continuously evolving function, and with emerging technologies and ever-changing job titles, it’s important that you set yourself apart from the crowd if you want to become a well-known leader within the industry.

Traditionally, shared service leaders were always judged on their hard skills. Shared services are set up to reduce costs, make processes more efficient and deliver results. However, not all shared service functions have an internal focus, and some are more focussed on delivering a better quality of service their customers, stakeholders and wider business.

So, what skills do you need to be a successful  shared services leader?

Leaderships Skills

Well this one is pretty obvious, really. Leadership skills is one of the most important things you need to have. You need to be the ‘anchor’ for the team and show resilience when going through periods of change. 

Ability to influence

In order to be a successful shared service leader, you will need to have the ability to influence. You will need to influence customers, stakeholders, suppliers as well as your wider team and perhaps the board. You will need to get their buy-in whilst delivering transformation through periods of change.

Commercial mindset

The best leaders within shared service functions will have a commercial mindset and will be more operational than transactional. It’s all about looking at the wider business and understanding how decisions can impact other operations and sometimes the end user.

Tech Savvy

With the rise of robotics, AI and cloud-based systems, it’s important that you can keep up to speed with the latest technologies. With mundane processing tasks being eliminated, this is a great chance to take away some of the tasks the team may call ‘painful’, allowing you to upskill them and utilise them more, which leads nicely to my next point…

Talent attraction and retention

You’re only as good as your team. Building a team with exceptional talent can be difficult. Retaining the team is even harder. In such a candidate driven market it’s important keep your team motivated and challenged as they will no doubt explore opportunities externally. Rotational training, incentive, and continuous development is what most staff want – ensure you get the best team and keep them – enabling you to do the best job possible!

Purpose-driven

Whilst there are some nice shiny job titles and sexy remuneration packages the best share service leaders, in my opinion, are the ones that are passionate about delivering change effectively. It’s all about wanting to add value and pushing to deliver results for the business.

What can I do to develop my skills?

  • Complete online courses/webinars to develop specific skills.
  • Speak at conferences and events.
  • Become a mentor.
  • Attend networking events.
  • Get involved in all aspects of the company and suggest improvements.

What skills do you feel make a good shared services leader? If you would like to discuss further, you can email me at sam@refind.co.uk.

You can view more about Sam Perry our Shared Services Executive Search expert here.

Why won’t top performing shared service professions join your business? And what to do about it. Download our free eBook here.  

Emerging Markets within the Aviation Industry

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Diving into the aviation industry within emerging markets. This is a bit like embarking on an exhilarating journey to an unknown destination. It’s full of potential but not without its fair share of turbulence. Especially when it comes to the all-important aspect of finding and hiring the right crew to navigate these skies. So, let’s have a natter about the challenges organisations face and the savvy ways they’re overcoming them, shall we?

The Talent Turbulence

Imagine you’re at the helm of an aviation company looking to expand into, say, Southeast Asia or Africa. The view from the cockpit is promising. There is rising demand for air travel and burgeoning middle classes with disposable income. And, less saturated skies than in the West.

But there’s a catch. Where do you find skilled professionals to fly your planes, manage your operations, and maintain your fleet?

The first hurdle is the sheer shortage of qualified personnel. Aviation requires an extremely specific set of skills. From, pilots trained in the right aircraft types to engineers and safety inspectors who know their stuff inside out. In emerging markets, where the aviation sector is just… well, emerging, there might not be a deep pool of local talent to dip into.

Then there’s the issue of regulations and standards. Each country has its own rules of the air, and navigating these can be as tricky as a night landing in fog. Training staff to meet both local and international safety standards is a task that’s both critical and costly.

Having the right Leadership

Ah, the power of a strong senior leadership team in the aviation industry, especially when venturing into the bustling skies of emerging markets, cannot be overstated. It’s like having an experienced pilot and co-pilot in the cockpit during a particularly tricky landing; their expertise, foresight, and ability to navigate through turbulence are invaluable. Let’s delve into why the right leadership team is critical for steering through the unique challenges and opportunities these markets present.

1. Navigating through Turbulence of Aviation

First off, emerging markets are a mixed bag of incredible opportunities tempered by equally daunting challenges. From fluctuating economic conditions and regulatory landscapes to cultural nuances and infrastructure gaps, the terrain is tricky. A seasoned leadership team brings a wealth of experience and a steady hand to the controls, guiding the organisation through these uncertainties with strategic decision-making and risk management.

2. Setting the Course in Aviation

A robust senior leadership team sets the strategic direction for the company. They’re the ones charting the course, making pivotal decisions on which markets to enter, the scale of operations, and how to differentiate from competitors already circling these new territories. Their vision for growth in these markets is not just about expanding the route map but ensuring sustainable operations that adapt to local needs and regulations.

3. Building Local Alliances

One of the keys to success in emerging markets is understanding and integrating into the local culture and business landscape. Effective senior leaders know the importance of building strong relationships with local partners, authorities, and other stakeholders. They are adept at negotiating partnerships or joint ventures that can ease the entry and expansion process, ensuring that the company’s operations are both compliant and culturally sensitive.

4. Talent Navigation

As we’ve touched on before, finding and nurturing the right talent is a significant hurdle in emerging markets. A forward-thinking leadership team recognises the need for investing in local talent development and creating a work culture that attracts the best in the field. They champion initiatives like training programs, leadership development, and career progression opportunities that not only fill the immediate talent gap but also build a loyal and skilled workforce for the future.

Leveraging Technology and Innovation

The aviation industry is on the cusp of digital transformation, from how airlines operate to how they engage with customers. Leaders who are tech-savvy and open to innovation can drive the adoption of new technologies to improve efficiency, safety, and customer experience. In emerging markets, where technological leaps can sometimes outpace more established markets, this openness to innovation can be a significant advantage.

Navigating the Talent Clouds in Aviation

How are companies managing to recruit and retain the right talent, then? They’re getting creative – and strategic.

Take Emirates, for example. Recognising the need to prepare for future growth, they confronted a problem head-on and established the Emirates Flight Training Academy in Dubai. This state-of-the-art facility isn’t about nurturing home-grown talent; it’s a magnet for aspiring pilots from across the globe.

The academy offers an integrated training programme, combining classroom learning with hands-on experience in modern training aircraft. But here’s the clincher: by investing in training and development, Emirates isn’t just filling the current talent gap. They’re building a pipeline of skilled professionals ready to take the industry to new heights.

Other Turbulences

But it’s not all smooth flying. Beyond the challenge of finding and hiring talent, there’s the issue of infrastructure. Many emerging markets are playing catch-up when it comes to airport facilities, air traffic control systems, and maintenance capabilities. Then there’s the volatile nature of fuel prices and currency fluctuations, which can throw a spanner in the works of the best-laid plans.

What Have We Learned?

Embarking on the adventure of expanding into emerging aviation markets is not for the faint-hearted. The talent challenge is real, but as our case study of Emirates shows, it’s not insurmountable. It requires a blend of innovation, investment in training, and a long-term vision.

The lessons here? First, that building a skilled workforce from the ground up can not only solve the immediate talent shortage but also contribute to the sustainable growth of the aviation sector in these markets. Second, that the journey into emerging markets is as much about navigating local regulations and infrastructure challenges as it is about strategic recruitment and training.

In essence, while the skies over emerging markets may be less crowded, the route to success is filled with its own unique set of obstacles. But for those willing to invest in their crew and innovate their approach, the potential rewards are sky-high. So, here’s to the brave aviators charting their course into new territories – may your ventures be as thrilling as they are prosperous!

OUR FOCUS ON LONG-TERM PARTNERSHIPS

At re:find we have been in Executive Search for over 20 years. We believe that recruitment is not a one-off transaction but rather a long-term partnership. We aim to build long-term relationships with our clients, providing ongoing support and advice to help them find and retain the best talent for their organisation.

In addition, as a business, we understand that every organisation is unique and that there is no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to recruitment. That’s why we offer bespoke recruitment solutions that are tailored to meet the specific needs of each client. Whether you need help with a single hire or a full recruitment campaign, we can help.

We are committed to providing our clients with the highest quality service. As part of this, we ensure that we take the time to understand your organisation’s culture and values, as well as the specific skills and experience needed for each role.

For more information on our executive search practice and our CCS framework
please get in touch with our Managing Director, James Cumming.

Please visit our website to see more of our knowledge hub: https://refind.co.uk/

How you’ll benefit from a shared service function

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Benefit from a shared service function

Shared Service Centres have been around since the mid 80’s, and more and more frequently, large corporates are moving towards outsourcing and the shared service model.

Typically, a shared service organisation is a central hub, and is responsible for handling specific operational tasks. Finance tends the be the most popular function within a shared service, with HR following just behind.

Companies usually implement the shared service model for a number of reasons:

Cost reduction:

When back office functions are consolidated and the work is migrated into one department, this will inevitably reduce cost of transaction processing. In addition to labour savings, shared services contribute to reductions in infrastructure costs such as technology, facilities and services, and administrative overhead costs.

Making processes more efficient:

Replacing dispersed IT infrastructure with the latest technology can eliminate processing time. When standardisation and continuous improvement of processes and systems is being carried out, this leads to a reduction in processing time, less errors and an improved quality of service. This way, your teams time can be freed up so they can focus their time and efforts on more strategic and more ‘human’ tasks.

Improving the customer journey:

Not all organisations create a shared service model to reduce costs. Sometimes the strategy behind a centralised model is to improve the customer journey or service levels of an organisation. The most successful shared service centres, in my opinion, are the ones that focus on adding value as a centre of expertise. When metrics are implemented to a SSC (KPI’s/SLA’s) they help drive performance and service levels.

Upskilling existing staff:


With the rise of technology and automation within shared service functions, staff are being utilised in many other ways. Not only does it make staff more productive, it also improves their skillset and gives them a more rounded knowledge of a business, enabling them to really add value.

When you have motivated teams that have a clear message on what they are trying to deliver, then efficiency, cost reduction and economies of scale are usually improved naturally. It’s about the leadership team creating a clear message and vision on what you’re trying to achieve.

For more info on the role leadership plays within shared services then please see my blog here.

If you would like to discuss further, email me at sam@refind.co.uk.

You can view more about Sam Perry our Shared Services Executive Search expert here.

Why won’t top performing shared service professions join your business? And what to do about it. Download our free eBook here.  

AI in the world of Change

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We’re in an age where technology is evolving at an unprecedented pace. Artificial Intelligence (AI) stands out as a beacon of transformative power. Especially in the realms of business change, transformation, and IT.

For senior leaders steering their organisations through this digital renaissance, understanding AI’s potential to revolutionise operations, strategies, and competitive landscapes is paramount. However, as with any disruptive technology, AI brings its share of challenges and ethical considerations.

The Pros and Cons of AI in IT

Pros:
  • Increased Efficiency and Automation: AI’s ability to automate routine tasks frees up human resources for complex problem-solving and innovation. And as a result, enhancing operational efficiencies across sectors.
  • Enhanced Decision-making: Through data analysis and predictive modelling, AI provides insights that enable more informed decision-making, reducing risks and uncovering opportunities.
  • Innovative Customer Experiences: AI-driven personalisation has revolutionised customer engagement, allowing businesses to offer tailored experiences, thereby improving satisfaction and loyalty.
Cons:
  • Job Displacement Concerns: The automation capabilities of AI spark fears of job displacement, highlighting the need for reskilling and upskilling initiatives.
  • Ethical and Privacy Issues: AI’s use raises ethical questions around bias, privacy, and data security, necessitating robust governance frameworks.
  • High Implementation Costs: The initial setup, integration, and ongoing maintenance of AI systems can be prohibitively expensive, particularly for SMEs.

The Impact of AI So Far

AI has already made its mark across various business functions—from automating customer service interactions with chatbots to streamlining supply chain logistics. In IT, AI-driven tools are enhancing cybersecurity, facilitating predictive maintenance, and enabling agile development practices through automated testing and DevOps.

However, AI’s capability to replace human intuition, creativity, and empathy remains limited. Its current role is more about augmenting human abilities rather than replacing them outright.

The Transformative Impact of AI on Jobs

  1. Automation and Efficiency: AI is undeniably transforming jobs that involve repetitive or predictable tasks across sectors like manufacturing, administration, and customer service. Automation through AI can lead to greater efficiency and productivity, but it also means that some roles are becoming less necessary or are being redefined.
  2. Job Creation: While AI displaces certain types of work, it also creates new jobs and industries. Roles in AI development, machine learning, data analysis, and cybersecurity are on the rise. Furthermore, AI enables the emergence of new services and technologies, leading to job creation in areas we might not yet imagine.
  3. Skill Shifts: The demand is growing for skills that AI and automation cannot easily replicate, such as creative problem-solving, empathy, and interpersonal communication. This shift is prompting a reevaluation of education and training programs to prepare the workforce for a more AI-integrated world.
  4. The Augmentation Effect: In many cases, AI doesn’t replace jobs but rather augments them. By taking over routine tasks, AI allows humans to focus on higher-value activities, enhancing job satisfaction and opening up new possibilities for innovation and creativity.

The Complex Reality

  • Sector-Specific Impact: The effect of AI on jobs varies widely across industries. While it may lead to significant job displacement in sectors like transportation (through autonomous vehicles) and basic customer service (through chatbots), it also significantly boosts demand for jobs in tech, healthcare, and education.
  • Geographical and Socioeconomic Factors: The impact of AI on employment is unevenly distributed across different regions and socioeconomic groups. Areas with a high concentration of industries susceptible to automation may face greater challenges, while those with burgeoning tech sectors may see economic booms.
  • The Role of Policy and Education: Governments, educational institutions, and businesses play a crucial role in mitigating the negative impacts of AI on the job market. Policies that encourage lifelong learning, skills development, and social safety nets are essential to help the workforce adapt to changes.

Remote Work, Education, and AI

The rise of remote work and learning has been significantly supported by AI technologies. Tools like virtual assistants, collaborative platforms, and automated scheduling have made remote environments more manageable. Nevertheless, concerns about AI’s role in facilitating academic dishonesty highlight the need for ethical AI use and the development of systems that promote integrity and fairness.

Case Studies: AI in Action

  • A multinational retailer implemented AI for inventory management, reducing stockouts by 30% and overstock by 25%.
  • An online education platform used AI to personalise learning paths for students, resulting in a 15% improvement in course completion rates.

Is AI Taking Over Jobs?

The question “Is AI Taking Over Jobs?” touches on a complex and nuanced issue that is at the forefront of discussions about the future of work. The answer is not a simple yes or no, but rather an exploration of how artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping the nature of employment, the types of jobs available, and the skills required in the modern workplace.

While AI is automating certain tasks, it’s also creating new job opportunities that require a blend of technical and soft skills. The narrative is not about AI taking over jobs but transforming them. Workers are now tasked with overseeing AI operations, analysing AI-generated data, and performing tasks that require human insight.

Looking Ahead: Embracing AI Responsibly

For businesses and IT leaders, the journey ahead with AI is full of potential. The key to success lies in embracing AI not just as a tool for operational efficiency but as a catalyst for innovation and ethical growth. This involves:

  • Investing in workforce development to bridge the skills gap.
  • Implementing robust data governance and ethical AI use policies.
  • Exploring AI’s potential to drive sustainable and inclusive growth.

As AI continues to evolve, its true value will be realised by those leaders who view it as a partner in their strategic vision, balancing its benefits against its challenges with wisdom and foresight.

Conclusion

The AI revolution is reshaping the landscape of business change and IT, promising unparalleled efficiencies, insights, and opportunities. Yet, it demands a cautious approach, mindful of the ethical, social, and economic implications. For senior leaders, the path forward involves leveraging AI’s potential while fostering an environment of continuous learning, ethical use, and innovation.

OUR FOCUS ON LONG-TERM PARTNERSHIPS

At re:find we have been in Executive Search for over 20 years. We believe that recruitment is not a one-off transaction but rather a long-term partnership. We aim to build long-term relationships with our clients, providing ongoing support and advice to help them find and retain the best talent for their organisation.

In addition, as a business, we understand that every organisation is unique and that there is no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to recruitment. That’s why we offer bespoke recruitment solutions that are tailored to meet the specific needs of each client. Whether you need help with a single hire or a full recruitment campaign, we can help.

We are committed to providing our clients with the highest quality service. As part of this, we ensure that we take the time to understand your organisation’s culture and values, as well as the specific skills and experience needed for each role.

For more information on our executive search practice and our CCS framework
please get in touch with our Managing Director, James Cumming.

Please visit our website to see more of our knowledge hub: https://refind.co.uk/

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How to nurture HiPo’s to benefit your business

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High potential employees – or HiPo’s – increase the value of a business. They outperform their peers, doing more work and putting in more effort. Most businesses will have recognised that between 3-5% of their staff are high potential employees. There are 3 important attributes for a HiPo who is likely to succeed and get a senior position: aspiration, ability and engagement.  There are many factors that fall into these 3 attributes – leadership abilities, performance, competency and confidence when challenged.

HiPo’s need minimal supervision, are fast learners, reliable, can complete any tasks, work well under pressure and aspire to rise to leadership. They are a huge asset to your business.

So how can you nurture them to fulfil their potential and benefit your business?

 

Nurturing HiPo’s

The important thing to remember when discussing programs to retain and progress HiPo’s is that these individuals have been identified as having potential. They are not fully-fledged leaders, ready to step into a senior or critical role – yet. They likely will be, but they need developing and nurturing.

Training onsite and offsite, coaching, workshops and seminars can all help in the nurturing process, supporting the individuals to enable them to reach their potential. Real-life situations are really helpful, just be aware that it’s not too much, too soon.

 

Reducing risk

SHL’s ‘How to Reduce Risk and Realise More Value in Your HiPo Programme’ eBook says:

“Through objective assessment of all three factors (above), you can accurately identify your top talent while ensuring you avoid the most common HiPo programme risks:

  • The risk that they will fail to rise to a senior position
  • The risk that they won’t be effective in a more challenging role
  • The risk that they will leave to join competitors, diluting your bench strength”

 

Benefits of a successful program

HiPo’s represent a company’s strongest leadership pipeline. Investing in the success of them, means you are investing in the future of the company as a whole, because they will:

  • Deliver strong results
  • Master new types of expertise
  • Have a good attitude and a drive to excel
  • Have the desire to seek new ideas and the ability to convert them into productive action

 

By identifying, cultivating and investing in employees with exceptional aspirations, rare abilities, and greater engagement, you can ensure that the next generation of leaders within your organisation will be equipped to boost performance, foster innovation, and maximise corporate growth.

What are you doing with your HiPo’s and what successes have you had? If you have stories to share, I’d love to hear them, email me on carl@refind.co.uk.

Carl Hinett is our Director & Executive Search Specialist. If you’ve got a hard-to-fill role and need some help, get in touch

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Let’s talk about time management

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We’ve all heard of it and, although it’s something that comes around like clockwork, whenever it’s time for a performance review, it’s still something that we ironically don’t always have the time to work on, me included.

It’s easy to be ‘busy’ at work, but are we busy in the right context? Or are we all just busy being fools? And how can we make our time at work more productive?

Alleviate pressure

We live in a world where we are always switched ‘on’. Our smartphones constantly alert us to any new messages and emails, our smartwatches vibrate all day long and alert us whenever we make so many steps, and we always seem to be on the computer where there is no shortage of information being directed our way.

There’s pressure from our peers, directors, business owners and employees asking us questions, and there’s no longer an off switch for anyone.

So, how can we implement some simple structure that will help alleviate some of this pressure?

Plan, plan, and then plan a bit more. It’s not the most revolutionary answer I’ll admit, but it works.

Most people don’t plan for the following day, but you’ll be surprised at how effective setting aside time to assess the rest of your week can be.

Get organised

Create your own spreadsheet or write a list of all of your tasks for the week, whichever method works for you, and take a break every hour to assess what you’ve achieved since you last checked over your list. You will either be amazed at how much you’ve done, or surprised at how much you’ve procrastinated!

Treat your time like you would your finances – keep a close eye on them!

The most important thing is to be honest with yourself, and question how you should delegate your time. Doing this will help you identify your biggest waste of time, so you can change it!

To have a chat about your executive search, contact me at carl@refind.co.uk

You can view more about Carl Hinett our Executive search of HR professionals specialist here.

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Managing stress in the workplace

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Managing stress in the workplace

Stress in the workplace: Are you tired? Do you feel irritable? Do you suffer from headaches, muscle tension, and struggle to concentrate at work? If so, you may be one of the millions of people across the country who are feeling the effects of occupational stress. So how can we manage stress in the workplace?

Occupational stress in the workplace

Occupational stress in the workplace has many emotional symptoms such as feeling overwhelmed, feeling depressed, feeling anxious about going to work, lacking confidence, and experiencing mood swings. Alongside this, many people report physical symptoms such as general aches and pains, feeling nauseous, losing or gaining weight, and pain or tightness in the chest.

According to a 2019 report by Qualtrics, more than a quarter (29%) of UK workers reported that they felt stressed or emotional because of work, either ‘always’ or ‘most of the time’. Work-related stress, anxiety or depression accounts for around 44% of all cases of ill health and is estimated to cost the UK £34 billion per year. Worst of all, however, chronic stress has been shown to exacerbate many serious health problems such as mental health disorders, cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, heart attacks, and strokes.

It’s very clear that stress is not something that should be brushed away by employers and employees alike, but rather has to be recognised and managed for the benefit of both the individual and the business.

The cause of stress in the workplace

Occupational stress can be caused by a lot of things. Excessive workloads or unrealistic deadlines are some of the most common, along with difficult relationships with colleagues, disagreements with the management style, being micro-managed, being unclear about what it is that you are meant to be doing, and feeling as though your skills and abilities are being wasted. Stress can be caused by one of them, all of them, or it may be something different. Every person is unique. The important thing is to take some time and think about what is it that is specifically causing these feelings of stress at work.

The approach to managing stress

As many of these causes are due to difficulties imposed upon the employee by the employer and, aside from raising concerns, there is little that the employee to change these causes. What can be changed, is the approach that we take to manage stress in our day to day lives. Try to take a walk during lunch hours to clear your mind for half an hour, work regular hours and take the time off that you are entitled too, make an effort to manage your time both in and outside of work, reflect on your thoughts and feelings often, try to develop relationships in work, and accept that there are some things that you do not have control over.

One of the best treatments for work-related stress is exercise. Aerobic exercises such as running, swimming, dancing, and walking increases the production of endorphins in the brain improving your mood. Exercise also offers the perfect opportunity to reflect on the things that have been causing you stress. Many people report that engaging in exercise allows them to think more clearly and find solutions to their problems that they previously could not work through. Naturally, this can have great benefits to both mental health and performance at work.

Finally, finding time to unwind with people in a friendly and sociable environment is essential to keeping on top of stress. Human beings are inherently social beings. Socialisation, whether that be by talking with friends, going for a coffee with a co-worker, or going for some food after work, has been shown to decrease stress-related anxiety, make us feel more confident, and promote a sense of attachment to those we are close to. This is one of the reasons that we love to host events that bring together people from across different industries to enjoy time together in a friendly environment.

Want to talk more about stress at work or interested in coming to one of our events? You can contact me at carl@refind.co.uk.

 

You can view more about Carl Hinett our Executive search of HR professional’s specialist here.

 

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