Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to discuss the process and options available to conduct a staff realignment exercise. By approaching financial changes to the organization strategically, staff can be repurposed instead of being made redundant. Design/methodology/approach – The paper offers several options on how to integrate changes in staffing to meet emerging trends and future anticipation of needs. Findings – This point of view is based on an unnamed case study that has proven to be successful. Research limitations/implications – The practices discussed are commonly used in a business environment that undergoes consistence assessment of its operation. Practical implications – These actions can set a precedent for changing an organizational culture toward self-assessment. Originality/value – The author played a major part in the case study at his home institution.