Training & Development
In December of 2008 Investa launched an on-line Employee Performance and Development system that centrally houses information about employees experience, skills and qualifications and manages the process of performance review and development planning. The on-line system will provide greater transparency regarding individual development needs and increase the alignment between individual and organisation goals. It will also facilitate the management of talent and succession planning across the business. In addition, the system provides management reporting and statistics and the ability to track activities.
A wide array of formal training was provided in relation to sustainability, safety and environment over the year, much of which was led by in-house experts as part of their own professional development.
Internal training provided in relation to sustainability, safety and environment over the reporting period included:
- 749 employee hours of various risk management training topics undertaken within COG business unit between May and December 2008.
- Sustainability training for Clarendon sales staff, tender and contract presenters and colour selection studio staff in Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane.
- Thermal Performance training for Clarendon drafting and design staff in Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane (with the Building Designers Association).
- Urban Design and Sustainability training for all development, assistant development and project managers in Land Developments in Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane.
- NABERS awareness training for all NSW based Commercial Office and other staff (with NSW Government) and for Commercial Office staff in Queensland and Victoria.
- Green Star Accredited Professional training for all Commercial Developments, some Commercial Office and other staff in Sydney & Melbourne (with Green Building Council of Australia). Many staff have since passed their exams to become Accredited Assessors.
- Sustainability Awareness training for all Funds Management staff.
- Urban Design and Sustainability training conducted by Architectus for all development, assistant development and project managers in Land Developments in Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane.
Performance Management
One hundred percent of employees receive regular performance reviews. The use of the on-line system will enable better alignment between business plans and employee objectives. All employees will have a set of agreed objectives within the system and will receive regular structured feedback on the achievement of these objectives. This will enhance Investa’s current Performance Management process.
Reward and Recognition
In 2008 a peer nominated Employee of the Month Award was introduced to recognise outstanding example of Investa’s values of integrity, innovation teamwork and performance. This award is presented at the monthly CEO update and employees are also recognised on the intranet.
Case study
Investa Diploma of Sustainability in Practice
In 2008 we produced an innovative 40,000 word (approx.) 13 module online sustainability course to help all Investa staff explore the concept of sustainability as it applies to our business. The course outlines the business case for sustainability at Investa, in particular as it applies to leasing commercial office buildings. The course contains highly significant research and analysis, much of which has not yet been released to industry and academic audiences.
Over 100 staff have now commenced the Diploma and 32 staff have successfully completed. Investa staff who have completed the Diploma have been very positive about the course. One staff member summarised their experience thoroughly writing:
I have learnt a lot about how Investa approaches sustainability. The section where the impact upon energy consumption of certain capital projects at specific properties was analysed to show where value was or wasn't being added was particularly informative. While Investa is the world leader (particularly in relation to resource consumption reductions) there are certainly some areas where work can be done to continuously improve. The last module highlights areas such as social reporting, human capital development etc. Overall, I feel better informed about the initiatives Investa undertakes which will assist when selling the message externally.
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