Fiery passion for change: Arch assists the local auxilairy service districts
At Arch, we are proud to have had the opportunity to work with several auxiliary service zones in Flanders over the past few years. We have been supporting them through their challenging change processes since 2015. In this, we have always been able to prove ourselves as a reliable and valuable partner.
What challenges lay ahead?
The assistance zones were facing serious changes in recent years. Of course, there was the realization of economies of scale. Zone formation gave new opportunities, but also required new cooperation models and adapted organizational forms. Our consultants deployed their extensive expertise in organizational design, as well as solid change management know-how.
In addition, it was also a form of region formation. For the first time, cities and municipalities began to cooperate extensively with 12 or even 20 neighboring municipalities. Our consultants guided various MATs, zone colleges and zone councils in their search for the right forms of consultation. These had to be set up correctly in order to correctly handle tricky issues such as the need for barracks or determining the allocation key for the municipal grant.
Third, there was the issue of affordability. The new legislation created more tasks, higher standards in terms of turnout times and intervention approach, additional training requirements and an adjusted statute. But the energy crisis and inflation also put unprecedented pressure on zonal budgets. Our consultants advised various zones on savings opportunities and guided them in making bold but responsible choices.
How did we manage to do that?
With abandon, like a good firefighter. We gladly committed ourselves to working with you and your team to meet the challenges and ensure directional change, even in turbulent times. We made sure the solutions were always creative and pragmatic. All possible scenarios were tested and evaluated for their added value. We handled the (sometimes complex) validation processes in a well-considered manner in order to achieve supported results. We were often the lubricant between the fire department and politicians. We calculated and substantiated decision proposals, and ensured effective decision-making. We always responded appropriately to resistance and went on to convince others with our enthusiasm and drive. Just like firefighters do.
What did we accomplish?
We were already able to help multiple zones develop risk-based policy plans, barracks plans, and custom staffing plans. Our consultants were already in charge of optimizing support services such as HR, ICT and logistics, but also offered help with very concrete questions, such as the energy issue or the optimization of task and role allocations.
Our solutions exceeded expectations every time. Our sector knowledge and pragmatic basic attitude proved decisive. We know the scope and impact of our proposals. We feel at home at consultation moments with mayors or trade associations. And above all: we share the fire department's passion for optimal service.
Would you like to find out more? Then feel free to contact Pieter Haesbrouck at pieter.haesbrouck@arch.partners.
