The End of Performance Politics

July 2024

Five days into the new Labour government and Keir Starmer’s appointments to his first Cabinet have been astute and well-reasoned. It’s clear the Prime Minister wants the best talent within his leadership team to have maximum impact and results.

James Timpson as prisons minister is the standout: scion of the Timpson business dynasty, brother of a Conservative MP, yes, but also chair of the Prison Reform Trust with real world experience, a track record of hiring prison leavers and helping reduce reoffending. Sir Patrick Vallance as a science minister – former senior GlaxoSmithKline leader and Chief Science Officer. Alan Milburn, health secretary under Tony Blair, as advisor on the NHS to new health Secretary of State Wes Streeting.

It’s a potent signal to send that the new government is about ‘public service’. It also shows Starmer is not afraid to be bold, to take a risk, and that he understands the importance of what know-how and expertise can bring.

BACK EXPERTISE AND PASSION

It reminds me of a time at Sellick Partnership. The Board wanted to expand and grow into new sectors. Interviewing Claire Harrison it became very clear that her expertise was within Housing Management, and not the area we had initially considered her for.
Alongside me on the Board was Nikki Kinsey, and Claire quite rightly made it clear that her expertise, heart and desire was in Housing Management.

We were impressed. A business plan was put together, more analysis and conversations were had. Then we took the decision to enter a new sector under Claire’s leadership and guidance. Her total expertise, knowledge, and drive for a market she loved and cared shone through.
Sourcing expertise, skill and knowledge into a particular field seems a no brainer, even though many organisations often undertake quite the opposite.

PREPARATION AND FIRST IMPRESSIONS
Any leader should only want the best for their organisation, their people, and the people they serve – be it customers or citizens.
Starmer is straight out of the traps with a seemingly well-organised strategy for key public service sectors like the NHS and prisons. These have been political footballs and overseen by individuals promoted well beyond their level of competence

Now it’s time for The Labour Party to stand up and be counted. And they will be and should be. But the first impressions are good.