When it’s done right, a restructure can set your business up for smoother operations and long-term growth.

But when it’s handled badly?

You could end up with legal headaches and staff morale issues—something no Hibiscus Coast business wants to deal with.

An insightful breakdown from Employment Relations Consultant Lisa Oakley outlines the many ways restructuring can go sideways, even when your intentions are good.

And given how many small to medium-sized businesses operate here on the Coast, her advice couldn’t be more relevant.

The biggest misstep?

Rushing into change without a clear organisational design.

As Lisa explains, structure should always follow strategy—yet many restructures are launched before anyone’s stopped to ask, “What problem are we solving?”

Whether it’s reducing costs, cutting duplication, or boosting communication, you’ll need solid evidence to back up your plan.

Timelines are another trap.

“Ambitious” schedules often skip over the time needed for proper consultation and feedback.

That’s risky—especially when Coasties know their rights.

A rushed restructure can leave businesses vulnerable to personal grievances, even if the business case is sound.

Then there’s the human side.

Change makes people emotional—sometimes even those not directly affected.

Good communication is key. So is getting your selection criteria and position descriptions watertight.

The devil really is in the detail.

Lisa also warns against the misuse of restructuring to deal with underperforming staff.

If you're disestablishing roles only to rehire into near-identical ones, expect trouble.

It’s a red flag for unjustified dismissal claims—and Coast employers need to be especially cautious given how tight-knit our business community is.

One smart piece of advice?

Consider a s149 Settlement. It’s a formal, legally binding agreement signed off by a mediator—and it can protect your business from future disputes.

If you're navigating change or planning a restructure, Lisa is running a workshop titled Restructuring Misconceptions and Unintended Consequences at the EMA in Auckland on 28 May.

It's a chance to learn from real-world examples and avoid mistakes that could cost you time, money, and peace of mind.

Restructuring isn’t something to fear—but it is something to plan properly.

For Coast businesses doing it right, the results can be transformative.

But without the right process, it’s a recipe for disruption. And in a community like ours, reputation matters.

Seen something local we should cover?

Let us know at [email protected]