Dame Una O’Brien

A better inquiries system is needed to deliver lasting change
27 Feb Civil Service Reform
A better inquiries system is needed to deliver lasting change
People are looking for truth and accountability; but a form of lasting change is equally, if not more, important
A civil service duty of candour should signal a shift from defensiveness towards willingness to learn from failure
16 Sep 2024 HR
A civil service duty of candour should signal a shift from defensiveness towards willingness to learn from failure
The case for a duty of candour on the civil service has been growing for years. Now is the time to think about how it will work in practice
Civil service leaders must get better at deep listening
02 May 2024 HR
Civil service leaders must get better at deep listening
Does it bother you as much as it does me that across government, we can still be way too slow to spot and act on serious problems before they materialise or grow into national scandals?
Too many; time wasting; little value – meetings don't have to be this way
09 Feb 2024 HR
Too many; time wasting; little value – meetings don't have to be this way
A good meeting requires more than a tight agenda – the way we prepare, listen and engage is vital to developing presence and improving the experience for everyone
We're all in this together: How can civil service professions collaborate better?
04 Oct 2023 HR
We're all in this together: How can civil service professions collaborate better?
Changes in career pathway planning have altered how the civil service works. So, how do you make the best of expertise in the age of professions?
Thinking of quitting your civil service job? Here's what you should consider first
07 Jul 2023 HR
Thinking of quitting your civil service job? Here's what you should consider first
The “great resignation” has prompted many to change jobs. But could you get more satisfaction from the job you already have? Here are six questions to help clarify your career path
Silence is not golden: The civil service must enable a 'speak-up' environment
06 Apr 2023 HR
Silence is not golden: The civil service must enable a 'speak-up' environment
A culture of silence is dangerous for the workplace. Employees should be able to voice concerns without fear of reprisal