WITN03430107 - Memorandum from Neville Bain to Post Office Board re Follow up to board appraisals

Evidence on official site

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MEMORANDUM
11 OCT 2000
TO: Post Office Board FROM: Neville Bain
DATE: 10 October 2000

[SUBJECT: FOLLOW-UP TO BOARD APPRAISALS

I have now had individual discussions with each Board member, including the
Group Managing Directors. The discussions did not re-visit the areas covered
at the Board. Opportunity was given for individuals to raise any additional
items, for two-way feedback on personal contribution to the meetings, and for
any development needs to be considered. The following points were raised:

« Good process. Meetings are seen as constructive, and in many cases
enjoyable.

* While the Board exercised good judgement on issues, it was felt that
perhaps the Board did not always offer a robust challenge to papers put
forward.

* The Board is a team with different contributions to bring. It is a pity that
there are gaps in attendance, especially Away Days.

= The need to clarify the relationship with Government and the Board is seen
as the big issue.

= Top-level salaries need to be addressed if we are to recruit, retain and
motivate people with the right skills for the future.

= The value of specific meetings such as “Away Days” and extended Board
with dinner for the Strategic Plan are valued by NEDs and executives alike.

* NEDs value informal meetings with the Chairman and CEO but we have
difficulty in finding convenient dates!

= Some concern expressed over the business model we are following for the
future and whether this will deliver the returns we need in the new
environment. I indicated that this was an item for the Strategic Plan
discussion.

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= The importance of business risks was emphasised including Health &
Safety. Some surprise expressed by NEDs at big, adverse changes in the
numbers (projects and forecasts).

= The importance of excellent communication for internal and external
consumption was emphasised, especially given our public interest status,
and the size of the change programme,

I valued the opportunity of talking about individual’s contributions to the
Board meetings and how these can be optimised.

There were also some individual training needs identified which I will follow
up with the individuals concerned.

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11 OCT 2000

PASSED TO sJOHN Lloyd _

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