What to do and how to do it
Short list
Unless there is an obvious choice, draw up a short list of candidates. Make sure they understand the importance and purpose of the role. It’s easier to push at open doors – if there is somebody at board level already interested in energy or environmental issues, they may be the best choice.
Qualities
Try to choose the person with the best mix of authority, interest in the role and likely commitment. Alternatively, ask the most senior manager to appoint one of the senior management team.
Appoint someone who can provide clear direction to others, is in good standing with the rest of the management team and is good at clearing roadblocks! Above all, the person has to make sure that the Energy MAP gains widespread support.
Formalise
Make the appointment formal, through a letter of appointment or similar. As a management function the role needs to have defined objectives and responsibilities.
Tip: take advantage of links between energy and other programmes such as environment. If a director or senior partner already has related duties then try combining the roles.
Possible problems and how to deal with them
Other duties
Other duties will restrict the time and effort that a senior manager can apply to your Energy MAP. Make sure that this is recognised as a formal role; keep energy on the agenda as a regular item at senior manager meetings.
Substitute
Don't let initial enthusiasm ebb away - if the original appointment can't maintain the commitment then look for another senior manager to take on the role.
How long does it take to complete this step?
If there is an obvious choice, then it should be possible to select a suitable senior manager almost straightaway. The formal appointment could take a few weeks.
How do I know when I have completed this step?
You have completed this step when there is a letter of appointment or other formal record of the chosen manager's Energy MAP role.
What do I do next?
Once the senior manager has been appointed, you should appoint the Energy Team and the Energy Coordinator – this is the person who will have day-to-day responsibility for implementing the programme.
