A city manager's package is negotiated in closed session while the published philosophy claims transparency in rewards. What should HR do?
Select an answer to reveal the explanation.
Short Explanation
You can't sell sunshine and then hide the biggest paycheck in a drawer. Closed session may be legal for bargaining, but the philosophy still has to show up when the law lets the numbers out. Change how the deal is communicated—not the slogan after the fact.
Full Explanation
Executive deals that contradict a transparency philosophy undermine the total-rewards story. Many jurisdictions allow closed-session negotiation but require post-action disclosure of compensation. HR's job is to align communication with the stated philosophy as law allows—not permanent secrecy, pre-vote leaks, or rewriting the philosophy to match a secret deal. Consistency between philosophy and executive practice is the strategic test.