PROMOTION POLICIES

My company elevated an employee from another dept to Sales Supervisor. The Sales Department was not told of the new post and no one from Sales was interviewed. Is this right?

It is "right" because they have the authority to do it. The question is, is it smart?

Management's highest responsibility is to assure the survival and profit of the company. No company, no jobs.

A sales management position is created to address under-performance or prepare for expected changes. When companies grow it is not unusual to import an "outside expert." The company may need to be reshaped for "going public," a change of direction or any other desired goal.

Elevating from the ranks a person with no experience in the area raises concerns for disgruntled employees and managerial propriety.
Employees can quit en masse -- now manage that!
Questions about nepotism and personal improprieties surface -- now manage that!

Consider:
Did management explain the function of the new post and individual? Ordinarily, a heavy hitter is introduced with fanfare. Slipping in a nephew is done quietly.

Were concerns of the sales force brought to management? Discussion should include corporate strategy and employee concerns. Emotions must be considered to avoid chaos.

Are other sales jobs available? Will sales force run for the door?
Will poor morale result in reduced sales or profit?
What is the net impact on company from all perspectives?
Does this move signal something more to come?

Reasonable people exchange views in a professional manner or under parliamentary rules. Silence is not golden. Management should offer a proper forum for discussion. It is not "the law" but it is good business.

I don't know if the new person and position is right or wrong, but circumstances cry out for clarification.

Everybody's Uncle