The University has been reviewing the Level 4-7 appraisal and Level 1-3 Personal Performance Development Review (PPDR) processes. The aim of the review is to enhance our appraisal process and enable all staff to have good quality appraisal conversations, whilst maintaining fairness and consistency.
Methodology
Feedback on our existing process has been sought from managers and staff across all levels and over the last nine months we have been consulting with the three campus trade unions on potential improvements. Working together, these discussions have helped shape a set of proposals. In August, UEB reviewed and endorsed the final proposal.
Appraisal Review Proposal
The proposed changes, which will apply to staff at all levels, are:
- To align the different appraisal years into one appraisal year for all staff (Levels 1-7) starting on 1 August each year. All appraisal conversations will take place between 1 June and 31 August.
- The five numerical ratings, currently used for appraisees at Levels 4-7, will be replaced by four contribution descriptors. This will be used to provide an overall assessment.
- Ratings will no longer be required for each objective.
- Moderation will be replaced by a “consistency check” carried out by the appraiser’s line manager to ensure fairness and consistency. The indicative distribution curve will no longer be used.
Level 1-3 staff will adopt the online process and an improved, printable version of the appraisal form for staff with limited computer access will be available.
Next steps
The unions will engage their members on these proposals over the coming weeks with a view to ratifying them at a future Joint Negotiation Committee. If approved, guidance, training and other supporting resources will be developed with a view to implementing the changes from 2022 onwards.
In the meantime, all staff should continue to carry out their appraisals and PPDRs using the current process and further updates will be provided later this year.
Further information
- To keep updated on progress and see further details of the proposal, see the changes to appraisal and PPDR SharePoint page
- Read the full proposal document
- Read the detailed appendices to the proposal document
