Full steam ahead

Scoping and identification of the issues within our member networks began almost two years ago, and the process has seen our members, our staff and our external partners, Korn Ferry, working together to create a future vision for our networks.

In reality, however, I know that the process of reviewing our networks predates those two years by quite some way, with other paused and unsuccessful attempts having been made in the past. That shows the scale and complexity of the challenge, but it's made everyone involved even more determined to achieve a long-term solution that works for all of us.

One of the reasons that previous attempts have fallen short was perhaps that we didn't have everyone on board and working together in the way that we have this time, and I think this is a really positive change to how we approach big, difficult projects as a community.

We recently recruited for a steering group to take forward the recommendations from the last phase of the review, which is made up of Senate members, trustees and staff whose day-to-day work involves supporting our networks.

The group has held its first meetings, and we'll soon be launching a dedicated webpage for the review where you'll be able to find out more about the members of the group and updates as progress is made.

The changes being explored are fundamental to the way the society and its networks interact, and an overhaul such as this won't happen overnight, but I'm completely confident that we are on the right track and definitely won't be looking back at any more false dawns.

While the steering group will oversee the direction of the project from now on, it's really important that members from across the society continue to get involved and help to shape how things come together.

You can get in touch with the team running the project at any time by email, and we'll let you know through the website and member update email when there are specific opportunities to have your say.

You will have seen in this month's email that we're now recruiting for the new Chair of the Board of Trustees position, which is being introduced as part of the changes members voted in favour of earlier this year.

It is a key position that will be responsible for making sure we are always operating in our members' interests, complying with our charitable objectives, protecting our assets and reputation and ensuring long-term health and sustainability.

It's open to both members and non-members – if you think you've got the right skills and experience, I would really encourage you to apply. More details about the position are available on our website.

We'll also shortly be opening applications for three new appointed trustees. Keep an eye on the BPS website for further details in the coming weeks.