Reorganising the Bureau

The management of any organisation such as the Bureau requires the development of a common belief among all members of staff that their work is important for the successful operation of that organisation. Len sought to achieve that aim by improving communication of information and objectives. He attached great importance to forward planning, setting objectives and timetables, coordinating and reviewing the efforts of a widespread and diverse staff and giving praise for initiative and achievement.

Len made no immediate moves to change staffing arrangements. J. C. Foley was Chief Scientific Officer, due for retirement on 18 June 1957. I had acted in that position and hoped I might be considered for promotion as permanent occupant. The position of Assistant Director (Administration) was occupied on an acting basis by John Hogan (1896–1970) and by Vic Bahr when he returned from a tour of duty as Administrative Officer in the WMO Secretariat in Geneva. Tom Hall, as Chief Clerk, provided significant administrative support in those early days of the Dwyer years.

Walter Dwyer remained as supervising meteorologist in charge of aviation services and was responsible for the overall direction of field staff procedures in providing service to aviation. Ralph Holmes assisted Walter as Inspector (Aviation) and Telecommunications.

Bill Brann continued in charge of Instruments and Observations, Harry Ashton was in Climate with Gerry O'Mahony in charge of the Statistical Section and Neil McRae in charge of Training and Publications.

The Divisional Offices still operated with a considerable degree of local initiative and independence. The field offices continued largely under the control of their OICs with Walter Dwyer giving overall guidance.

Bureau of Meteorology