The Importance of Competent Supervision in Managing Operational Risk

Supervisors are well recognised as the link between operational field staff and management. They are responsible to ensure appropriate work mechanisms support organisational objectives. A risk review should consider the appropriateness or otherwise of supervisory functions, processes and systems as deficiencies often flow down to operational field staff and their level of performance.

The system for effective supervision of operational field staff must include:

1. Role designation- the parameters of the supervisor’s role must be clearly designated. The creation of supervisory controls within a risk strategy will eliminate duplication of controls and therefore operational conflicts;
2. Competence – the supervisor must not only be people oriented but also competent in core areas such as strategic leadership skills, managing performance of self and others, understanding the organisation, able to work as part of a team, and outstanding communication skills;
3. Key links and reports - staff linkages should be clearly identified that encourage an integration not segregation of staff levels, accountability and reporting functions;
4. Formalised system – requires the supervisor to work within a documented and structured framework that is well recognised by key stakeholders;
5. Accountability – takes responsibility for the supervisory role, is accepting of criticism and regards feedback (whether positive or negative) as an opportunity for continual improvement across the board ; and
6. Proactive, not reactive- is constantly looking at the system of work i.e. physical, personnel and protocols measures to further enhance operations whilst minimising operational risks.

An integrated system of supervision that links executive and operational performance will substantially minimise risks across an organisation. Again, there is clear evidence that human error, reduced productivity and poor staff morale are closely aligned with systemic deficiencies. A key intervention to minimise risk aligns with competent supervision – Dr Tony Zalewski