Challenge
Southern Water faced significant organisational change. A lack of communication around these major changes risked the perception that there was poor leadership and mistrust.
Operational teams lacked clarity around the reasons for change, and the supporting technology infrastructure was not fully prepared, thereby complicating delivery and adoption.
Approach
Copper was appointed to lead internal communications and change management activity for a major operational transformation across more than 3500 sites.
The team:
- identified key influencers and internal stakeholders to drive top-down communications
- developed a clear messaging strategy to explain the purpose, value and structure of the change
- delivered 1:1 on-site support to operational teams, creating space for real-time engagement, problem-solving and visible support
- co-created change tools and communications in partnership with teams to build trust, adapt to local needs and embed long-term behavioural change.
Value delivered
- Supported the successful rollout of new ways of working across 3500+ operational sites
- Reduced resistance and change fatigue through tailored, human-centred engagement
- Increased leadership visibility and ownership, enabling stronger direction and alignment
- Established a scalable internal communications model for future phases of the transformation programme