Transforming Performance Management in the Public Sector: John Barrand

From Workplace Stories by RedThread Research by Stacia Garr & Dani Johnson

April 29, 2026 · 50 min · Episode 126

About this episode

John Barrand discusses the transformation of performance management in the public sector in Utah.

In this episode, we sit down with John Barrand, CHRO for the State of Utah, to discuss an inspiring transformation in public sector performance management. John led a bold effort to overhaul Utah’s performance management system—moving it from a culture of “adequacy” and silence to one focused on learning, growth, connection, and accountability. John shares how he and his team achieved legislative change requiring quarterly check-ins, implemented management training, and shifted the state’s mindset around performance and development. You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in... [01:16] Initial state of Utah’s performance management system [06:23] Value of continuous learning and curiosity in government [10:06] Defining the “why” for performance management in Utah [17:02] Risks and Resistance in Systemic Change [20:06] Quarterly employee check-ins initiative [25:59] Balancing fairness and measurement without alienating staff [34:28] Creation of a system-wide talent mobility program [40:01] Development of incentive structures and bonus allocations [44:22] Sustainability and future of the program Performance Management is a Sector-Spanning Challenge Performance…

People in this episode

Hosts: Stacia Garr, Dani Johnson

Guest: John Barrand

Topics covered

performance management
public sector
organizational change
employee engagement
continuous learning
legislative change

Keywords

performance management
public sector
Utah
employee check-ins
management training
talent mobility
incentive structures

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: State of Utah