Building the case for succession planning

• definition
• benefits and risks
• why have a succession plan?
• compelling business reasons for succession planning
• where it fits into the business planning cycle

Foundations for effective succession planning

• understanding the key drivers in your business environment
• business critical posts
• identifying key groups and competencies essential to business continuity
• why should good people stay?
• why do good people go?
• defining responsibilities in the process

Succession planning approaches

• replacement planning
• risk based planning
• holistic succession planning and management
• the advantages and disadvantages of different approaches e.g. open/closed
• links to other HR activities including career
• development and talent management

Essential skills

• mapping the skills and capabilities the organisation really needs to attract and retain
• identifying and targeting key performers
• assessing potential e.g. assessment centres/360-degree tools
• handling disappointments or changes to the plan
• understanding and avoiding the pitfalls 
  

Developing a succession plan

• case study: developing a succession plan tailored to the needs of your organisation
• a step by step approach to creating your succession plan and strategy

Action planning