The Westminster Tradition “It’s just a minor restructure” said no calendar ever
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Oct 13, 2025 The podcast explores the complexities of organizational restructure and why it often takes longer than expected. It emphasizes the importance of keeping service delivery stable during transitions. The hosts advocate for a bottom-up approach in aligning strategy with day-to-day functions, while also addressing the roles of middle managers as the glue of change. They discuss managing uncertainty and the necessity of clear communication with stakeholders. Additionally, the conversation highlights practical tips for engaging with unions and mapping out organizational functions.
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Build Realistic Timelines
- Work backwards from your go-live date and allow six to nine months for a restructure.
- Plan six months if rushed and nine months for a realistic schedule to avoid costly shortcuts.
Three Months Became Eight Months
- Alison expected a three-month restructure but it took eight months and revealed unexpected constraints.
- Delays included personal events and discovering unknowns like secondments and leave.
Function Before Form
- Start from the work and functions before drawing org charts or moving boxes.
- Connect the strategy to actual functions so structure follows what people do, not the other way around.