Bill Midgley column

Jan 3 2007 By Bill Midgley, The Journal

One of the organisations of which I am chairman has, over the past two years, won two awards for being classed as a Top 100 Employer in a nationwide review of 65,000 organisations and businesses.

It operates in what is now commonly known as the third sector, halfway between a charity and a company, providing support for vulnerable people.

Its funding is 95% from Government sources, through a range of North-East agencies.

It may be thought odd, therefore, that an organisation which reflects the Government's aims of improving working practices counts for absolutely nothing when tendering for contracts with Government agencies, who seem to be concerned with paying the lowest price and too little about quality.

As a product of the private sector, I find it strange that there remains such a divide between the private and public sectors and attitudes to their workforce and productivity.

If business does not become leaner and meaner - and I do not necessarily mean with its workforce - it will struggle to survive, or prosper. The public sector would do well to follow.

Agencies which take on public procurement need to realise that while cost is important - and may be the single most important factor - it is by no means the only consideration. Quality and timeliness of delivery are essential.

Perhaps the public sector considers it its right to lecture, but should look within before doing so. Absenteeism, which runs far ahead of the private sector, increasing costs and delays in delivering decisions, does little to help any of us. And their own workforce become frustrated and disillusioned.

Every organisation should be a good employer. There is often a fine balance between the needs of the organisation and the workforce. But both sides have a common interest in ensuring continuing employment, career structures and a satisfied customer base. Failure to deliver these, in private or public sector, will inevitably result in unwanted change. We are all ultimately accountable!

Bill Midgley is a North-East businessman and past-president of the British Chambers of Commerce