Lasting Transformation

Our clients work with us when they need objective, experienced and tailored advice. They call on us when difficult decisions are needed, knowing that we will work with them sensitively and thoughtfully, taking account of the impact not only on their future viability but on their people.

Voluntary and public sector organisations are facing tough times, with increased demand for services and massive spending cuts – but there are also tremendous opportunities to fund and deliver services differently and demonstrate better outcomes for service users.

Lasting Transformation, a partnership established between experienced strategic leaders Shān Nicholas and Susie Parsons and now run by Shān Nicholas, supports Boards and Senior Management Teams to make difficult decisions and secure stability, sustainability and success.

Some of our current and recent assignments include:

• a structural review for Girlguiding and a Governance Review for the Arnolfini Arts Centre;
• helping to set up the College of Social Work and project managing the merger of three established organisations to form the British Psychotherapy Foundation;
• strategic and business planning support to the City Bridge Trust and the Roma Support Group;
• provision of interim Chief Executive services to Brandon Trust, Toynbee Hall, United Response, The Children's Society and the Refugee Council.

The Refugee Council is a complex organisation. To 'get it' as an interim chief executive demands familiarity not just with the basics of leading and managing a medium-sized operating charity in a high-profile, sensitive sector, but also familiarity with policy, advocacy, membership relations with grass-roots organisations, building co-operation in (at times) challenging relations with partner organisations, and negotiating with government on services. More than that: in very little time, the interim chief executive must establish the credibility of her values as well as her skills with staff as well as trustees, yet without becoming a larger-than-life figure who cramps the scope for a permanent successor. More than that, in 2012 the Refugee Council faced one of its most stressful years. Judged against these challenges, Shān was outstanding in her role as Interim Chief Executive, as well as a pleasure to deal with.
Douglas Board, Chair of the Refugee Council

Informed and disciplined governance is crucial to the effectiveness of all charities, whatever their size, nature and history. I knew of Shān’s work in this area from two previous commissions and had no hesitation in proposing Lasting Transformation to review Governance at Arnolfini, Bristol’s Contemporary Art venue of long standing. Shān very quickly grasped the key features of the task. She was admirably flexible in how and when she worked with us, going the extra mile to ensure we got all details right. Her advice was clear and authoritative, and her guidance of both trustees and staff was sensitive. All her suggestions for change have been welcomed by Trustees, approved and adopted.
Anna Southall, Chair, Arnolfini Arts Centre Bristol