Issue - meetings

The Committee considered an exempt report of the Managing Director which set out supplementary information relating to the Managing Director’s Progress Update. A copy of the report, marked ‘Agenda Item 9’, is filed with these minutes.

The exempt report was not for publication as it contained information relating to the financial or business affairs of a particular person (including the authority holding that information).

The Managing Director responded to questions and discussions related to the following:

o   Noted that ESPO had continued to perform well despite challenging market conditions and trading standards, and had increased market share, had growth in new customer accounts and continued progress in a number of key business areas.

o   Noted continued success of My School Fund, including its growth and external recognition.

o   Considered survey findings on staff satisfaction, and were advised that further work would be undertaken to understand the context behind survey findings, including through a focus group and further action led by HR.

o   Members emphasised the importance of maintaining multiple channels through which staff could raise concerns.

o   Noted a drug and alcohol test had been conducted in line with policy, and appropriate management action had been taken.

o   Sought further clarification on the future approach to gas purchasing and the extent to which ongoing geopolitical instability might affect timing of procurement decisions.

o   Received assurance that specialist governance and trading arrangements were in place to manage market fluctuations within agree parameters.

It was moved by Cllr. Bridgwood and seconded by Cllr. James that the update provided by the Managing Director be noted.

RESOLVED:

That the update provided by the Managing Director be noted.