Each quarter we interview one of our clients to get an insight into their business. This issue we spoke to Jay Sharpe of Sharpe Workplace Solutions (SWS).
When did your business commence?
Sharpe Workplace Solutions (SWS) started in 2006 with an office in Toowoomba. SWS now has offices in Toowoomba, Brisbane and Gladstone.
What does your business do?
SWS is a progressive client focused Industrial Relations and Human Resource Consultancy firm. We provide a range of industrial relations and human resource services to small, medium and large businesses across both the private and public sectors in Australia. Our services include:
Industrial Relations
Enterprise Agreements & Employment Contracts
Employment Law, Award Interpretation & Advice
Fair Work & State Tribunal Advocacy & Representation
Dispute Resolution & Mediation
Discrimination Matters
Human Resources
Compliance (HR Audits)
Staff & Performance Management
Position Descriptions
Policy & Procedures
Succession Planning
Change Management
Training & Development
Bullying & Harassment (Discrimination)
Workplace Investigations
HR Staff Mentoring
Performance Management
Enterprise Bargaining
Workplace Investigations
SWS conducts thorough workplace investigations which result in robust, legally sound and compliant reports. Our professional and experienced team conducts investigations into matters such as bullying and harassment, discrimination, staff conduct capacity, performance issues and misconduct matters.
Workplace Health & Safety
WorkCover & Injury Management
WHS Advice & Support
What makes your business successful?
Knowing our clients' businesses well, which allows us to provide personalised and professional services with attention to detail.
What has been your biggest achievement to date?
Growing the business exponentially from very humble beginnings in 2006 and developing from scratch a new 'multi-skilled' employee classification structure for several Queensland Local Government Authorities, which resulted in a departure from their old rigid Award classification structures to a modern structure, allowing for greater workplace flexibility, productivity and efficiency.
What is one piece of advice you would give to someone starting up a business?
In business, staff are one of the most important resources, and how you manage your staff will have a direct impact on the success of your business. Keep staff management simple by establishing clear and straightforward terms and conditions of employment, and engage in regular and open communication with staff on any issues that may have an impact on them.
