Case Studies

Pennon and South West Water

Pennon, a leading utility company, embarked on a significant transformation following changes at the highest levels of leadership. A new set of corporate values were introduced as a “charter” defining expectations for customers, partners, and employees.

Rostrup, a renowned training provider, developed a highly interactive workshop to align Pennon’s workforce with these new values. The workshop focused on challenging existing ways of working, introducing a fresh leadership style, and fostering commitment to the transformational change envisioned by senior leadership. Team Leaders and Managers were identified as key role models for these new behaviours.

Key Content Areas

• Expectations of Leadership:
  • Understanding the role of a leader at Pennon
  • Embracing and living the Pennon Values
  • Cultivating a positive organisational culture
  • Adopting a fresh approach to leadership success
  • Building trust through authentic leadership
  • Managing performance with accountability
  • Setting effective expectations and delegating tasks
  • Allocating work equitably to develop capability
  • Providing feedback and coaching for individual development
  • Empowering employees through delegation

Workshop Delivery and Outcomes

The workshop was a one-day offsite event, bringing together leaders from across the Pennon Group in sessions of 10-20 participants. The interactive format challenged assumptions, encouraged diverse viewpoints, and promoted open discussion of the new values. Moreover, real-life work simulations were used to reinforce the skills and concepts presented. Finally, participants also received individual feedback from the facilitator.

Over a six-month period, Rostrup delivered the programme to over 450 Team Leaders and Managers. Participant feedback highlighted increased leadership confidence, greater empowerment within teams, and a positive shift towards a culture of responsibility and ownership. Furthermore, the previously detached workforce became more accountable, leading to the commissioning of a second phase of programmes focused on feedback and coaching to further build capability.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Rostrup’s tailored workshop played a pivotal role in Pennon’s transformation. By equipping leaders with the skills and mindset necessary to embrace the new corporate values, the programme fostered a more engaged, empowered, and accountable workforce. This, in turn, contributed significantly to the company’s overall success and strategic goals.