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Make no mistake, unless we build a quality workforce and maintain an adequate infrastructure, Wales' is not even at the starting line of international competitiveness. However I do emphasise the word "start." Because, at the end of the day, no-matter how talented the team, it is the skills, abilities, insights, visions, confidence, courage and sharpness of management that will determine how successful we can be. Weak or stagnant management will ultimately stunt the growth of the Welsh economy while high performing management, on the other hand, could help Wales punch well above its weight in the world. Just look at what tiny Singapore has achieved. The calibre of management matters at all levels. That's why it's vital Wales' decision-makers, in both the public and private sectors, take the skills development of the country's 160,000 plus managers more seriously. That's why managers themselves - including particularly those working in the smaller companies which make up the bulk of Welsh industry - need to give their own skills and professional development greater priority.
Following extensive research and consultation we now have an "Agenda for Action for Management and Leadership in Wales." This sets the scene for the future but there is much more to be done in order to get all Welsh management moving in the direction it needs to go. Don't misunderstand me. There is already a wealth of excellent management to be found in many parts of the Welsh economy and we need to share these good practices around. However more businesses need to do a stock-take of the capabilities of their managers, measure this against what their enterprises will require over the next few years and then make plans to fill the gap. The public sector likewise needs to consider how much it is prepared to invest to facilitate and encourage the improvement of management performance in Wales. That means appropriate provision for management skills development that is both accessible and affordable. There is some urgency about this. Good management is like good health. We all know it is important and we know what needs to be done about it. But what is the trigger that makes us take more exercise and adopt a healthier lifestyle. We can't wait for a crisis before we give it the attention is deserves. Just as one jog won't stop a heart attack, a belated blitz to boost management skills when things are unravelling for the individual business or the economy won't do the trick. It's got to be a sustained process and we need to step up a gear as soon as possible. Christopher Ward is Chief Executive of Wales Management Council
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