In this episode of the Care CEO Success Stories podcast, Adam James of Springup PR speaks with Kevin Humphrys, CEO of the Oakland Care Group, which includes Oakland Courts and Oakland Grange in West Sussex.
Kevin is also the director of the West Sussex Partners in Care.
Kevin discusses the importance of leading by example, particularly in creating and sustaining a positive culture within care teams.
He shares his journey into social care, emphasising how diverse experiences have shaped his leadership style.
Kevin also highlights the significance of being approachable, actively participating in daily activities, and the value of transparent and empathetic communication.
He underscores the importance of mistakes as learning opportunities and emphasises consistent internal communication to foster a strong organisational culture:
- Kevin emphasises the importance of leading by example to create a positive culture within care teams.
- His path to becoming a CEO was winding, with experiences in recruitment, banking, and car hire before social care.
- How Kevin’s experience in various areas of social care has shaped his leadership style.
- Kevin highlights the need for leaders to be “approachable, participate in daily activities, and show genuine care for residents and staff”.
- Mistakes are seen as opportunities for learning and improvement; transparency and accountability are crucial.
- Effective communication methods include Teams, emails, intranet, and text messages to keep staff informed and engaged.
- The use of an app called “Vivup” allows for celebrating achievements and encouraging positive behaviour.
- Kevin emphasises the importance of “being present in the homes,” and spending at least one full day each week in each home.
- “A culture that values compassion, understanding, and time fosters a positive environment for both staff and residents”.