We have supported an established financial advisory firm with around 25 employees. When we first started working with them, the business was experienced and successful – but their HR processes needed streamlining.
During our initial HR review, we quickly realised their appraisal system was taking far more time than necessary. The CEO was undertaking everyone’s review, taking handwriting notes, then typing them up later – this was adding nearly a full week’s extra admin time for the CEO as he was doing this himself.
We introduced a straightforward change: asking team members to type their notes directly into digital appraisal forms and sign electronically. This simple switch saved the CEO a whole week’s worth of tedious typing and freed up valuable time for more strategic tasks.
This positive shift sparked something bigger. While working closely with Alison Benney from enlightenHR, the CEO’s PA developed a genuine passion for HR. She realised this was her career calling and enrolled in formal CIPD training, supported by one-to-one coaching with Alison.
Thanks to her determination and the tailored support she received, she quickly progressed within the company, ultimately moving into senior HR roles. Today, she’s thriving as an HR Director in a large financial advisory business, demonstrating how small changes and personal coaching can ignite big career journeys.
This career development, identified through her appraisal, meant that the Company could work with her to support her aspirations, both by investing in her development journey and providing opportunities within the business. This investment paid huge dividends as the business expanded organically and through acquisition, ultimately merging with a national IFA.
Alison excels in managing change, handling employee transitions, setting up effective consultation processes, and supporting line managers with discipline and grievance matters.
Her unique blend of operational and HR skills makes her an invaluable asset to clients, addressing both day-to-day challenges and strategic growth opportunities.
Need Advice?
If you need a hand with any of this, or anything else when it comes to the people and practices in your business, we’d love to help. We are always happy to debate the pros/cons, dos/don’ts with you so please do talk to us if we can help in any way, we are here to support you. Just give us a call and arrange a free consultation. You can talk to Alison directly on 07967 221595 or email info@enlightenhr.com
