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Combining a powerful operating system with an overarching approach to people strategy proved a recipe for success for globally respected manufacturing business Inciner8. Discover how they deployed the right mix of expertise to guarantee long-term success.
Aligning leadership for growth
Darren Spencer, the newly appointed CEO of Southport-based manufacturer Inciner8, knew he needed his senior team pulling in the same direction for future growth. Recognising the need for a multifaceted approach, he enlisted People Director Sarah Humphreys from People Puzzles and EOS Implementer Alice Jordan to address organisational structure, leadership alignment, and employee engagement.
Implementing EOS and embedding values
Sarah joined Inciner8 in December 2023 to understand its operations, workforce, and challenges. She identified transparency issues and departmental silos. In February 2024, Alice introduced the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS), a framework designed to instil structure, consistency and discipline. Sarah added to Alice’s work with a more holistic, people-centric approach, ensuring the transformation went beyond just processes.
An example of this working well is around the business values. Alice ran an EOS workshop to help define the company values. Sarah then took the baton and ensured that the values ran through the DNA of the whole business by considering what those values actually mean for individuals. She has made sure that they underpin behaviour in every aspect of the business from performance reviews to being embedded into the recruitment process.
Strengthening collaboration and strategy
Sarah updated employment terms to improve workforce engagement and facilitated better communication within the senior team. Her extensive experience allowed her to spot inefficiencies and enhance collaboration across departments.
“My role is to work closely with the department heads, develop the people, and make sure we have the right people in the right seats throughout the organisation as we implement changes,” explains Sarah.
Monthly management meetings were introduced to track progress on key objectives, while a strategic two-day workshop helped define target markets and departmental plans.
Developing talent for sustained growth
Sarah also spearheaded a “develop and achieve” review process, providing employees with growth opportunities and embedding a culture of two-way communication. The next step is to identify targeted learning and development needs to future-proof the business.
Delivering tangible results
Inciner8 has seen increased sales, a stronger order book, and an enhanced sales department. The senior team now has clarity about their direction, aided by using the vision / traction organiser (VTO) – a key part of the EOS toolkit. And the process of embedding the values is on track.
“Sarah brings 35 years of experience, and that outside perspective has been invaluable,” said Darren. “She’s helped us build the right foundations, put the people agenda front and centre, and create a clear path forward for Inciner8.”
By integrating EOS with a people-first strategy, Inciner8 has transformed its operations and positioned itself for sustainable success. This case highlights the power of combining structured processes with a focus on people to unlock a business’s full potential.
