The process of Succession Planning helps managers to identify critical positions and identify possible successors and development plans or recruiting strategies to ensure these positions can be efficiently filled if needed. Effective succession planning will:

• Improve the time to fill critical vacancies, reducing the risks associated with losing the individual in this role.
• Ensure that the manager has a clear understanding of the responsibilities of the critical role and the skills necessary for success and organization stability.
• Create career pathways for individuals ready to assume new or increased responsibilities.
• Make informed decisions related to professional development and recruiting.

Succession planning doesn’t happen once a year. Managers should review their success plan periodically throughout the year to ensure it is up to date. Specifically, we recommend looking at succession plans at the start of the budget process, during the end of year review process, when a vacancy arises, and prior to any career progression decisions.

To learn more about this process, access the Workforce Planning Toolkit for Managers.