Following on from the first posting about this on 4 September, here is progress to date.
I have been working very closely with HR to update all PDs into a new format, which is being rolled out across the University. This exercise has also afforded the opportunity for the content of PDs to be reviewed, ensuring they are accurate and up to date and written in a consistent style across the Library. This project is not linked to job re-evaluation.
HR are assisting with the translation of all PDs into the new standardised format, and to date there are thirty-one different PDs for about 132 positions in the Library. This is a considerable reduction in the number of unique PDs that are currently in place. It reflects the reality that many positions carry out the same work, even though in different locations, but also that there still is scope to accommodate a description of genuinely unique work for an individual. It should be noted that only the FTE will be reflected in the PD, since each employee’s pattern of work hours is documented in their letter of offer.
New standardised PDs have already been rolled out for Band 2 Library Assistant roles in both Public and Collection Services. In all cases the opportunity for one-on-one discussion with the relevant manager/supervisor was offered. For this band there has been a return rate of 85% on new PDs that were offered for signing.
There has been considerable discussion and consultation with managers and supervisors regarding the translation of PDs to the new format. There has also been very useful feedback from the five focus group meetings that HR held with staff in bands 3 to 5. Any further feedback should be sent to me as soon as possible, rather than to HR. I am also sending a copy of the latest version of the Band 5 Public Services staff to those staff in this band, as a number of suggested changes have been incorporated. Again, any further comments should be back to me, prior to 4pm on Wednesday, 22 October.
When consultation is completed, all new format PDs will be taken to LLT for a final review. Following this, new format PDs for all Library staff will be rolled out in a similar manner to those for Band 2 staff; one-on-one discussion with the relevant manager/supervisor will be offered. Managers and supervisors have also been asked to allow time in team or departmental meetings for discussion on this process.
It is intended that all Library staff will have new format PDs some time late in October 2008, so that PD&R discussions taking place from October onwards will be based upon them.