Leadership & Corporate Culture Transformation at Georgia Power

Well meaning leaders often bring attention to workplace culture issues through surveys and employee communications. The leadership of Georgia Power, however, knows that the act of surveys and communications alone will not bring about needed change. In practice, surveys create an expectation that change is going to come—an expectation that is often unfulfilled.

Under the direction of Mike Garrett, CEO, Frank McCloskey, vice president of diversity, and Shelton Goode, director of diversity, Hipple&Co. developed an integrated cultural transformation strategy of leadership communications, management training and accountability tied to corporate goals. During the past four years, more than 1,100 managers have participated in ongoing workshops, reinforced by corporate communications and performance management objectives.

By emphasizing core values of trust and inclusion, this strategy puts words into actions to help Georgia Power strengthen a collaborative and high performing culture. By paying attention to and being intentional about cultural transformation, the company also is reducing its liability for inappropriate management behavior, while positioning itself to attract top talent and retain the talent currently within the company.