Question: Case Study Essay – The Employee Experience at Southern Cross Health Society

26 Sep 2023,2:44 PM

Assessment 3: Case Study essay – The Employee Experience at Southern Cross Health Society

Case study: Southern Cross Health Society (40%)

You are to write an essay on “The Employee Experience” at a New Zealand company: Southern Cross Health Society.

 Background:

Southern Cross Healthcare Group, a collection of independent, health-oriented businesses in New Zealand, operates on not-for-profit principles and is New Zealand's largest non-public health care organisation. The Group's businesses include health insurance, private hospitals, travel insurance and pet insurance. The Group encompasses the Southern Cross Medical Care Society and the Southern Cross Health Trust and their respective subsidiaries.

The Southern Cross Medical Care Society, trading as Southern Cross Health Society, is a Friendly Society and New Zealand's largest health insurer. 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I3iCto5LgFg

Established in 1961, its founders believed New Zealanders deserved access to quality, private healthcare options. Today it helps more Kiwis, in more ways than ever, to look after their health and wellbeing.

The company’s careers page contains information on the benefits of working for Southern Cross. This video shows incoming CEO Nick Astwick meeting Southern Cross Employees and this one explains what it’s like to work at Southern cross. In a recent article for business desk, Nick Astwick discusses  his life and motivations.

In 2022 Southern Cross received the Rainbow Tick, and it also won the Canstar Most Satisfied Customer Award and conducted a Workplace Wellness Survey.

 

Southern Cross also recently won a award for outstanding customer service at the Reader’s Digest Quality Service Awards 2022. See Double gold in readers digest awards | Southern Cross NZ   Other videos link to ‘stories’ from employees at Southern Cross Healthcare

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ViaG5YYGkGM

Southern Cross have won several diversity and inclusion awards including the Manaki Tangata Innovation award for their Switch2Well programme which recognises its drive to create a healthier society from the inside out – that is – starting with its staff.

Southern Cross was a finalist in Diversity Awards NZ™ 2021.  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VFl3bA0ydps

The above information is provided as a starting point for your essay. You can obtain other information from other sources: internet, media sources, and social media are acceptable here.

The task:

Using information on Southern Cross (Health Society) you are required to write an essay that outlines the “Employee Experience” at Southern Cross. Simply put, “What is it like for employees to work at Southern Cross? What kinds of experiences do employees have by working at Southern Cross?”

The essay must refer to and discuss: (essential) 

• Initiatives / programmes adopted by Southern Cross and how these:
  • link to Human Resource functions*
  • correlate with engagement and productivity
  • adhere to and enhance Health and Safety, stress management and workplace wellbeing;
• Employment, Human Rights and Health and Safety legislation and how they have been followed at Southern Cross.

Your essay may also include: (recommended)

• Benefits to the employee of diversity management and an inclusive culture with links to stress management and wellbeing;
• Benefits to the employee of changing work patterns such as flexible work options;
• Discussion of rewards/remuneration both tangible and intangible. 

Although not essential you may choose to discuss: (optional)

• Stress management and well-being in a crisis/pandemic

*In your essay be sure that when referring to Human Resource Functions, you provide clear definitions and discuss how they apply to Southern Cross; you should include a wide range of the following HR functions in your essay:

• Career Development | Human Resource Development  
• Performance Management
• Remuneration and Rewards
• Health & Safety, Stress Management and Wellbeing
• Diversity Management

Format: 

Your essay should be a minimum of 1500 words (not including references and appendices).   

• The essay must use a professional writing style that demonstrates cohesion. Correct spelling, punctuation and grammar is vital. Further, the report must contain a reference list and in-text referencing using the correct APA style. All sources should be indicated in your reference list.   
• The essay must be referenced. Your reference list can include reports, edited books, media articles, the company website and your textbook.
• However, academic sources such as peer-reviewed articles are NOT essential in this assessment.

 

 

STUDY TIPS / DRAFT:

 

The Employee Experience at Southern Cross Health Society

Introduction

The employee experience is a critical aspect of any organization, as it directly impacts engagement, productivity, and overall workplace well-being. In this essay, we will explore the employee experience at Southern Cross Health Society, a prominent not-for-profit healthcare organization in New Zealand. We will delve into various initiatives and programs adopted by Southern Cross, their adherence to employment, human rights, and health and safety legislation, as well as the benefits of diversity management and flexible work options for employees.

Initiatives and Programs at Southern Cross

Southern Cross Health Society has a rich history dating back to its establishment in 1961, driven by a mission to provide quality private healthcare options to New Zealanders. Today, it continues to prioritize the well-being of its employees through various initiatives and programs.

1. Career Development and Human Resource Development: Southern Cross recognizes the importance of nurturing talent within the organization. They offer career development opportunities, including training and mentorship programs. This not only helps employees enhance their skills but also aligns with Human Resource Development principles, ensuring a capable and motivated workforce.

2. Performance Management: Performance management is a critical HR function, and Southern Cross employs robust performance appraisal systems. Employees receive regular feedback, setting clear expectations and goals. This approach promotes accountability and continuous improvement.

3. Remuneration and Rewards: Southern Cross understands the significance of fair and competitive remuneration. Their commitment to rewarding employees fairly contributes to job satisfaction and retention. The organization's recent accolade, the Canstar Most Satisfied Customer Award, likely reflects the positive impact of such practices on employee morale.

4. Health & Safety, Stress Management, and Wellbeing: Health and safety are paramount in the healthcare sector. Southern Cross places a strong emphasis on ensuring a safe working environment, which aligns with Health and Safety legislation. Additionally, the organization offers stress management programs and promotes overall employee well-being. This not only complies with relevant regulations but also contributes to a healthier and more engaged workforce.

5. Diversity Management: Southern Cross has received recognition for its commitment to diversity and inclusion, winning awards like the Manaki Tangata Innovation award. A diverse and inclusive culture not only fosters a sense of belonging among employees but also contributes to stress management and overall wellbeing by reducing discrimination and bias.

Employment, Human Rights, and Health and Safety Legislation

Southern Cross Health Society adheres to employment, human rights, and health and safety legislation to ensure a fair and safe workplace environment. Compliance with these regulations is crucial for upholding employees' rights and well-being.

1. Employment Legislation: Southern Cross follows New Zealand's employment laws, ensuring fair employment practices, including equitable pay, working hours, and leave entitlements. This commitment ensures that employees are treated fairly and have access to employment-related benefits.

2. Human Rights Legislation: The organization respects human rights by promoting diversity and inclusion. They have been recognized for their efforts in this regard, including being a finalist in Diversity Awards NZ™ 2021. Compliance with human rights legislation creates a more inclusive and welcoming workplace.

3. Health and Safety Legislation: The healthcare industry inherently prioritizes health and safety. Southern Cross complies with relevant health and safety legislation to protect both employees and patients. This includes providing training, maintaining safe facilities, and addressing workplace hazards.

Benefits of Diversity Management and Flexible Work Options

Diversity management and flexible work options offer significant benefits to employees, contributing to their overall well-being and job satisfaction.

1. Diversity Management: Southern Cross's commitment to diversity management not only fosters a culture of inclusivity but also reduces stress among employees. When individuals feel accepted and valued, they are more likely to experience lower levels of workplace stress and better overall well-being.

2. Flexible Work Options: In today's dynamic work environment, flexible work options are highly valued. Southern Cross likely provides these options, allowing employees to achieve a better work-life balance. Flexible work arrangements can reduce stress related to commuting and family responsibilities, ultimately enhancing employee well-being.

Rewards and Remuneration

Southern Cross's approach to rewards and remuneration is designed to recognize and motivate employees.

1. Tangible Rewards: Tangible rewards such as competitive salaries, bonuses, and benefits like health insurance contribute to employee satisfaction and well-being. These rewards align with Southern Cross's commitment to providing quality healthcare options.

2. Intangible Rewards: Recognition and appreciation are also essential intangible rewards. Southern Cross's receipt of the Reader's Digest Quality Service Award in 2022 reflects the recognition of outstanding customer service, which likely extends to recognizing and appreciating employee contributions. Intangible rewards boost morale and engagement.

Conclusion

The employee experience at Southern Cross Health Society is shaped by a combination of initiatives and programs that align with Human Resource functions, strict adherence to employment, human rights, and health and safety legislation, and a commitment to diversity management and flexible work options. This holistic approach not only enhances employee engagement and productivity but also fosters a culture of well-being and inclusivity within the organization. Southern Cross's dedication to its employees is exemplified by its achievements and recognition in various awards and surveys, making it a noteworthy case study in the realm of employee experience.