Discuss how NFP's senior management could effectively implement its strategy of integrating the VF business into NFP.

Mark scheme

Marking points from the official mark scheme (Oct/Nov 2017). The mark or mark type is shown in brackets.

1. [20] Strategic implementation is putting strategy into effect to achieve organisation's aims
2. [20] Reference to techniques that could be used e.g. Project champions, Contingency planning, Training, Communication, Involvement of staff, Resources
3. [20] Issues include: poor communication so far with employees – will this increase or reduce the risk of industrial disputes
4. [20] Employees could lose jobs or need to be retained – resistance to these changes is likely – how could NFP reduce resistance and make employees positive towards change? Communication? Shared vision? Methods of motivation to encourage cooperation?
5. [20] Culture change needed – away from “good value” and “low cost” to NFPs good image – need to change senior management and ensure an ethical code is adopted and observed?
6. [20] Dealing with future crises such as food contamination will be an essential part of this assimilation.
7. [20] NFP need to assimilate VF into its organisation as soon as possible to avoid conflicts/disputes and low production levels in order to achieve aim of making higher profits
8. [20] Need to update factory and install new machines – is CPA forecast correct in terms of timing?
9. [20] Likely to be focused on the "most important" factors that will determine whether VF can be incorporated quickly into NFP – need for justification of this based on case evidence.
10. [20] Sian's leadership style might be a serious problem – lack of openness and willingness to allow participation are not good signs and are the opposite of most "change management" techniques.