The Dean of St Paul’s resignation is a lesson to business leaders on how failing to handle an unforeseen event could cost you your job.
Graeme Knowles’ resignation from his calling as Dean is just another twist in the catalogue of mini crises that have hit the Cathedral. Ever since anti-capitalist protestors set up the ad-hoc village, after they were stopped from gaining access to the stock exchange by Met Police officers, the leadership at St Paul’s have not taken control of the situation as effectively as they could have done.
Whilst they could not be expected to remove protestors, they could have lead the conversation by bringing parties together and chairing meetings between protest leaders, the police and City officials.
The ultimate lesson for others is to reflect on include:
◦who their neighbours are (the best business continuity plans always think about external factors, such as the businesses around them)
◦clear communication channels (the best way to handle an incident is to know who you need to speak to, how regularly they need to be updated and what information you need from others)
◦stay alert (always keep abreast of situations in your area and industry… and think about how they could impact upon you).
You are welcome to contact Henry Platten henry@treble9group.com for more expertise.
