Change management – how to prove you’re the best

Change is possibly one of the biggest challenges HR must face – but the HR team at Merck, Sharp & Dohm were forced to manage the biggest change that could have hit: the closure of their Australian manufacturing site and the loss of jobs.

The company recognised that consistent and accessible communication between employees and management, including a focus on face-to-face meetings rather than emails, would be critical.

Feedback from increased communication showed that employees wanted variety from their remaining time at Merck, and staff were given the opportunity to rotate between different areas of the site, as well as undertake short term assignments and projects in order to eliminate boredom and increase motivation.

Merck used its open door communication policy to benefit both the staff and the business. “Communication to employees focused on achieving targets,” said Jim Gazilas, Merck Australia’s executive director.

Ensuring the employability of its staff post-closure was another top priority, tied to the company’s mantra of ‘leaving a lasting legacy’. Skills such as communication, teamwork and planning, amongst others which are highly sought after, were developed to prepare employees for life after Merck.

It appears the company’s careful planning has paid off. Efficiency and productivity have improved by 12.5% each year following the closure announcement. Merck’s senior HR manager Barry Singer said that this is a consequence of “the successful planning and execution of our change and continuous improvement program”.

Merck have indisputably achieved their goal for 2014: “Together as one: Our Colleagues, Our Priorities, Our Legacy.”

“MSDA winning Best Change Management Strategy was incredibly well received by the MSD Global HR and MSD business community,” said Barry Singer, associate director of HR ANZ, Merck, Sharp & Dohm. “It was fitting, independent public testimony to the hard work and dedication of many.”