Category: Article
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The CERN Ombud, a unique resource as we return from the summer break
The CERN Ombud, a unique resource as we return from the summer break As the summer draws to a close and we all gradually return to work and meet our colleagues again after the holidays, I thought it would be useful and appropriate to remind you of the Ombud’s role in serving the CERN community
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From lone wolf to inclusive leadership (Act III)
From lone wolf to inclusive leadership (Act III) In this article, we again meet Stefano*, an experienced leader in the Organization who has decided to move from being a lone decision maker to an inclusive, open-minded leader. As a first step, Stefano reflected on why he was so attached to his former authoritarian management style.
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From lone wolf to inclusive leadership (Act II)
From lone wolf to inclusive leadership (Act II) In the previous issue of the Ombud’s Corner, we met Stefano*, an experienced leader in the Organization who is reflecting on whether the authoritative management style that he has cultivated for years is still working for his career and, above all, for the well-being of his team.
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From lone wolf to inclusive leadership (Act I)
From lone wolf to inclusive leadership (Act I) Stefano* has extensive experience as a leader. He has been deploying a management style that is authoritative and leaves little space for collaborative decision making. Stefano has been successful for many years, but he realises that the members of his team may be more competent than him
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No judgement… Really?
No judgement… Really? The principles underpinning the Ombud’s work, as set out in the Code of Ethics of the International Ombuds Association, are confidentiality, informality, independence, neutrality and impartiality. In my opinion, another important principle – namely freedom from judgement – is not sufficiently reflected in the Code, even though it is partially covered by
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Managers and burnout – put your own oxygen mask on first!
Managers and burnout – put your own oxygen mask on first! One of the new trends observed in the Ombud’s Office in 2022 was supervisors feeling a lack of support. As the CERN Ombud Annual Report for 2022 highlights: “The few managers who come to discuss challenging managerial situations with the Ombud complain of lack
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Let’s talk about excellence
Let’s talk about excellence I recently published an article in which I explained that infringements of the Code of Conduct had been observed in all of the situations brought to my attention in 2022. I appreciate the comments that I’ve received from some of you since its publication. They revolved in particular around this question:
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2022 Annual Report by the Ombud – Why read it?
2022 Annual Report by the Ombud – Why read it? The 12th Annual Report by the Ombud is now available on CDS at this address. I hope you enjoy reading it. This year, for the first time, the full, detailed version is accompanied by a more concise PowerPoint version giving the key points. The annual
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The voice/silence calculator
The voice/silence calculator In my recent article “No, don’t do anything”, I shared with you my concern that colleagues very rarely authorise me to intervene, outside our discussion, to help them solve the issue they are confronted with. They explain that their reluctance comes from the fear of negative consequences for their career and/or their
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Labels stick
Labels stick Katarina* doesn’t know what to do: she has a chronic health problem and her doctor has recommended that she take sick leave for the sake of her health. At CERN, she’s part of a team that’s working to a tight schedule and has ambitious goals. She’s very worried that her absence will affect