From my experience, there seems to be a separation or possibly a disconnect between teams. Whilst this doesn't affect day to day workings, it does make work feel slightly redundant with no real cross department communication outside of what is essential. Reactions seem to be reactive rather than proactive. There is also a sense that initiatives are sometimes directed from above without meaningful involvement from those setting the expectations. Greater engagement from leadership during both the planning and implementation stages would likely improve both morale and outcomes.
There is seemingly a sense of apathy across the business which is both contagious and, I believe, with the correct incentives and communication, solvable. Over time this can contribute to a culture where people focus only on what is strictly required rather than taking initiative, which ultimately limits both innovation and engagement across the business. I'm uncertain whether management are ignorant to the thoughts of the common folk, unable to do anything about it or are indifferent to the problem, however it is evident across the business.
Between centralisation, salary misalignment and the previously mentioned culture of apathy, it does leave people feeling deflated and unmotivated. I'm inclined to say the higher wages and high miles between those in Manchester and those who are not create a disparity which again, with the correct engagement isn't an impossible problem to solve, but there is no display of effort. Similarly, there appear to be differing pay rates for roles that are very similar, if not identical, across different areas of the business. Greater transparency and alignment in pay structures would likely improve morale and perceptions of fairness.
Given the number of businesses acquired over the past decade, there still appears to be a lack of consistency in contractual arrangements across the group. Greater standardisation could help reduce confusion and ensure employees feel they are being treated fairly regardless of which part of the business they operate within.
When business decisions are made, there is often limited visibility around the reasoning behind them or ownership of their outcomes. Greater transparency and clearer accountability would likely improve trust and alignment across the organisation. Empathy and a willingness to show face after business choices have been made would be appreciated at the very least.