And they're off!

This morning I chaired my first management board meeting of the year. Thanks to modern technology, there are no longer ‘bad surprises’ for managers returning to their offices, for we’re never really out of touch. These may be famous last words, but everything seems to be ticking over nicely. I don’t mean that there aren’t challenges ahead, but the machine clicked into place and everybody is at their station and knows what to do. Therein lies the rub. For the first time, I am starting the year with my full management board in place. My deputies are there. All the directors are there. Nobody – and especially not me – is ‘acting’ director of something else. And, to boot, there is an excellent team spirit and everybody is rested and relaxed. Frankly-speaking, it’s a good feeling and a good start to the year.