Quarterlytics / Industrials / Specialty Business Services / Serco Group / FY2011 Annual Report

Serco Group
Annual Report 2011

SRP · LSE Industrials
Claim this profile
Ticker SRP
Exchange LSE
Sector Industrials
Industry Specialty Business Services
Employees 10,000+
← All annual reports
FY2011 Annual Report · Serco Group
Loading PDF…
Bringing service to life

Annual report and accounts 2011

Contents

Section 1 | Overview

01  |  Who we are
02  |  Serco in brief
04  |  How we performed – 2011 highlights

p02-03
Serco in brief

Section 2 | Our business

06  |  Our business 
12  |  What we offer our customers
13  |  Our business drivers
14  |  Our strategy
15  |  Key performance indicators (KPIs)
16  |  Our business model
18  |  A values-led and responsible business

Section 3 | Our performance

20  |  Chairman’s Statement
22  |  Chief Executive’s Statement
28  |  Market opportunities and drivers
32  |  Our strategy in action 
40  |  Operating Review
54  |  Finance Review
62  |  People
66  |  Corporate responsibility
70  |  Resources
72  |  Principal risks and uncertainties

Section 4 | Governance

82  |  Corporate Governance Report
90  |  Directors’ Report
93  |  Directors’ Responsibilities
94  |	 Directors’	profiles
96  |  Remuneration Report

Section 5 | Financial statements

108   |   Independent Auditor’s Report
109   |   Consolidated Income Statement
109   |    Consolidated Statement of 

Comprehensive Income

110   |    Consolidated Statement of Changes in Equity
111   |   Consolidated Balance Sheet
112   |   Consolidated Cash Flow Statement
113   |    Notes to the Consolidated 
Financial Statements

165   |   UK GAAP Audit Report – Parent Company
166   |   Company Balance Sheet
167   |    Notes to the Company Financial Statements
173   |   Supplementary information
174   |   Directors, Secretary and Advisors
175   |   Shareholder information
177   |   Financial calendar

p18-19
A values-led  
and responsible 
business

p22-27
Chief Executive’s 
Statement

p40-53
Operating 
Review

Look	for	page	references	or	flags	
for additional content throughout 
the text to help with cross 
referencing. Links are illustrated 
with the following markers:

Cross reference to a page  
with more information

Further information available online

 
Section 1 | Overview

Who we are

Serco delivers essential services that matter to millions of people 
around the world.

Our work for national and local governments involves us in the most 
important areas of services to the public, including providing safe 
transport,	delivering	efficient	and	reliable	IT	and	business	process	
outsourcing	(BPO)	services,	finding	sustainable	jobs	for	the	long-term	
unemployed, helping patients recover more quickly, improving and 
protecting the local environment, rehabilitating offenders, protecting 
borders and supporting the armed forces. 

Our private sector customers are industry-leading organisations in 
a wide variety of markets. We support them through effective facilities 
management, technology and BPO services. 

Serco has more than 50 years’ experience of helping our customers 
to achieve their goals. Many want us to improve their productivity 
and service quality. Others need us to support their rapid growth. 
Government customers face crucial issues such as economic 
development, congestion, security and climate change, as well as 
ever-increasing	demands	for	quality	and	efficiency	from	the	citizens	 
they	serve.	They	value	the	innovation	and	passion	we	bring	to	these	
challenges,	and	the	collaborative,	flexible	and	imaginative	way	we	work.

Serco is a values-led company and our culture and ethos are at the heart 
of everything we do. We give our people responsibility, so they can put 
their ideas into practice and make a real difference for our customers 
and the public. Our approach has made us one of the world’s leading 
service companies and our vision is to be the world’s greatest.

Our service ethos means that our customers come back to us again  
and	again.	These	long-term	relationships	help	us	to	meet	their	changing	
needs and to do what we do best…

…bringing service 
to life.

Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011 | 01

i

w
e
v
r
e
v
O

i

s
s
e
n
s
u
b
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
m
r
o
f
r
e
p
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
n
r
e
v
o
G

s
t
n
e
m
e
t
a
t
s

l

i

a
c
n
a
n
F

i

 
 
 
 
Section 1 | Overview

Serco in brief

What we offer
Serco operates in a broad and growing range of markets. We can 
do this because we can apply our experience of people-led service 
delivery and change management to so many customers. 
We transform service quality by:

●● designing effective organisations

●● finding	innovative	ways	to	meet	their	challenges

●● applying the specialist skills their sector demands, and

●● delivering excellent service.

Transferring	our	skills	from	one	market	to	another	allows	us	to	help	
customers around the world. Our international scale means our 
customers	can	benefit	from	the	knowledge	and	best	practice	we	
develop in the world’s most sophisticated markets.

As well as operating frontline services, we also support customers 
through our leading skills and capabilities in business process 
outsourcing,	helping	them	to	improve	their	middle	and	back	office	
functions.	This	enables	them	to	reduce	costs,	increase	efficiency	
and enhance the service they offer their own customers.

Building long-term customer relationships is fundamental to us. 
We devolve responsibility to our contract directors, allowing them 
to	anticipate	and	respond	to	customers’	needs.	The	Serco	
Management System, the framework which governs how we 
operate and behave, enables consistent service delivery and quality. 

For more on what we offer and how we work, see page 12

More information about the Serco Management System  
is available on our website www.serco.com

Our vision and strategy
Our vision is to be the world’s greatest service company. Everyone 
in Serco discovers their own interpretation of ‘greatest’, which 
supports what they do every day. However, it is not about revenue, 
profit	or	growth.	It	means	being	the	best	at	what	we	do	and	how	
we do it – bringing service to life.

Our strategy for achieving this vision has four elements:

1 Building a balanced portfolio: We aim to reduce risk and 
increase opportunity by building a balanced contract portfolio, 
spread	across	markets.	This	reduces	our	exposure	to	market	
fluctuations,	enables	us	to	select	the	best	opportunities	whichever	
market they are in, and allows us to transfer expertise from one 
market to another.

2 Delivering excellent service: This	means	meeting	–	and	often	
exceeding – customer expectations. We do this by having the 
responsible behaviours enshrined in our values at the heart of 
everything	we	do.	This	enables	us	to	build	long-term	customer	
relationships, to expand the scope and scale of contracts during 
their life, retain contracts at rebid and win new contracts.

02 | Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011

3 Making strategic acquisitions: While we are primarily focused  
on organic growth, we make acquisitions to gain skills which will  
be important for future growth and to enable us to enter markets 
where we see strong opportunities.

4 Developing new models: We respond to emerging 
opportunities	by	finding	new	ways	to	deliver	services.	This	may	
mean innovative approaches to assessing and rewarding our 
performance, collaboration between our divisions, bringing together 
skills and experience which few other companies can replicate,  
or partnering with our customer or the voluntary sector. Our ability  
to lead change keeps us at the forefront of our markets.

For more on our strategy, see page 14

 
i

w
e
v
r
e
v
O

i

s
s
e
n
s
u
b
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
m
r
o
f
r
e
p
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
n
r
e
v
o
G

s
t
n
e
m
e
t
a
t
s

l

i

a
c
n
a
n
F

i

Our track record of success
Implementing our strategy and bringing service to life for our 
customers	contributes	directly	to	our	financial	performance.	Our	
focus on service underpins our win rates of one in two for new bids 
and 90% of rebids and extensions, which in turn drive our revenue.

The future
Customers around the world are looking for help in transforming  
the	quality	of	their	services,	from	frontline	delivery	to	back	office	
efficiency.	This	creates	opportunities	for	Serco	in	new	and	
existing markets. 

Serco	has	a	long	track	record	of	financial	success.	Since	we	 
listed in 1988, we have consistently grown our revenue, primarily 
organically. Securing higher margin contracts and managing our 
cost	base	has	increased	our	profitability.	At	the	same	time,	we	have	
delivered	robust	free	cash	flow,	enabling	investment	in	our	future.	
Our operational success is recognised by others in the many 
awards we win for service excellence.

For more on our recent performance, see the Operating 
Review on pages 40 to 53 and the Finance Review on  
pages 54 to 61

Our prospects are supported by the high revenue visibility provided 
by our order book, our pipeline of opportunities and the growth 
potential we see across our markets.

For more on our markets and opportunities,  
see pages 28 to 31 

Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011 | 03

 
 
 
 
Section 1 | Overview

How we performed – 2011 highlights

Solid operational performance delivers  
strong financial result; global markets  
support confidence in future growth.

Market developments and identified 
opportunities provide an extensive pipeline
●● Ongoing	demand	for	efficient,	high-quality	and	innovative	
service provision from public and private sector customers

Solid operational performance and contract 
awards across the portfolio
●● Robust service delivery metrics and customer relationships

●● New business models and service lines developed, including 

middle	and	back	office	support

●● Continue to win 90% of rebids and extensions and one in two 

new bids

●● £5.1bn of awards in 2011; £4.7bn signed contracts and £0.4bn 

preferred bidder appointments

●● Order book of £17.9bn at 31 December 2011 (£16.6bn at 

31 December 2010)

●● 92% revenue visibility for 2012, 80% for 2013 and 70% for 2014

Strong financial result for 2011
●● Strong total revenue growth of 7.4%; good organic growth 

of 3.5%

●● Exceptional growth in AMEAA of 37% organic

●● Highest ever international mix, with 44% of total Group revenue 

now generated outside the UK

●● Adjusted	operating	profit	growth	of	12.1%,	representing	 

a margin increase to 6.2%

●● Group	free	cash	flow	of	£168.3m,	representing	the	return	 

to	a	more	usual	conversion	rate	of	profits

●● Total	dividend	up	14.3%	to	8.40p,	reflecting	growth	in	

adjusted	earnings

●● UK markets showing some signs of improvement; US federal 
outsourcing industry still faces uncertainties and short-term 
pressure; strongest growth opportunities in fast-developing 
AMEAA region and global BPO market

●● £30bn	pipeline	of	identified	opportunities	across	the	Group

Successful entry into global BPO market and 
organisational changes
●● Creation	of	significant	global	capability	in	the	fast-growing,	

higher margin, Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) market  
via Intelenet, smaller acquisitions and recent contract wins

●● Organisational	changes	to	reflect	customers	seeking	more	
integrated	and	end-to-end	services,	to	increase	efficiency	 
and deliver better services

●● Proactive contract and portfolio management to position  

the Group for the best future opportunities

Outlook supports continued resilience and 
encouraging future growth prospects
●● Breadth of portfolio provides resilience and enhances overall 

growth potential

●● For 2012, expect another year of strong total revenue growth, 
including further good organic growth, together with an  
Adjusted	operating	margin	increase	similar	to	2011

●● In the medium term, anticipate improvements in the rate of 
organic revenue growth, supporting the continued delivery  
of	strong	financial	performance

Notes:
Adjusted	operating	profit,	Adjusted	profit	before	tax	and	Adjusted	earnings	per	share	are	before	amortisation	of	acquired	intangibles	and	acquisition-related	costs,	as	shown	on	the	face	
of the Group’s Consolidated Income Statement and the accompanying notes. 
Group	free	cash	flow	is	free	cash	flow	from	subsidiaries	and	dividends	received	from	joint	ventures,	and	is	reconciled	to	movements	in	cash	and	cash	equivalents	in	Section	3	of	the	
Finance Review. 
Performance at constant currency has been calculated by translating non-Sterling revenue and earnings for the year to 31 December 2011 into Sterling at the average exchange rates for 2010. 
The	order	book	is	the	value	of	future	revenues	based	on	all	existing	signed	contracts.	It	excludes	contracts	at	the	preferred	bidder	stage	and	excludes	Indefinite	Delivery,	Indefinite	Quantity	
(IDIQ)	contract	vehicles	where	we	are	one	of	a	number	of	companies	able	to	bid	for	specific	task	orders	within	the	IDIQ.	
The	pipeline	is	the	estimated	value	of	all	future	potential	opportunities	that	are	clearly	defined	and	identifiable.

A year in the life of Serco – selected news

››

››

››

››

Merseyrail achieves the 
highest punctuality and 
customer satisfaction in 
the UK

Serco receives the Carbon 
Trust Standard, reflecting 
our work to reduce 
emissions

Acacia Prison’s 
performance is praised  
by the Western Australian 
Office of the Inspector  
of Custodial Services

Serco wins 24 safety 
awards from the Royal 
Society for the Prevention 
of Accidents

Dubai Metro wins the Best 
Rail Operator Award in the 
Middle East

04 | Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011

 
Revenue

Adjusted operating profit

Operating profit

£4,646.4m
+7.4%

2010: £4,326.7m 

£290.1m
+12.1%

2010: £258.7m 

£266.2m
+10.3%

2010: £241.3m 

Adjusted profit before tax

Profit before tax

Adjusted earnings per share

£262.2m
+13.4%

2010: £231.3m 

£238.3m
+11.4%

2010: £213.9m 

39.59p
+14.1%

2010: 34.69p 

Earnings per share

Dividend per share

35.70p
+12.0%

2010: 31.88p 

8.40p
+14.3%

2010: 7.35p 

Group free cash flow

£168.3m
(£17.5m)

2010: £185.8m 

 “I am pleased with our solid operational performance and the number of contract wins which 
have underpinned our strong financial result for 2011. Whilst challenges remain in the US and 
some UK markets, the breadth of our portfolio around the world and in the AMEAA region in 
particular, continues to present many new prospects. Our order book has grown, our pipeline  
of opportunities is large and we are now preparing for the next stage of growth which includes 
our entry into the global BPO market. This gives us confidence for the future.” 
Christopher Hyman, Chief Executive

››

››
››

››

››

Boeing recognises Serco 
as its supplier of the year  
in the technology category

Northern Rail wins Train 
Operator of the Year at the 
Rail Business Awards

Serco gains sixth Gold 
award in Business in the 
Community’s Corporate 
Responsibility Index

UK Prisoner Escort and 
Custody Services contract 
granted Investors in People 
champion status

National Physical 
Laboratory’s atomic clock 
proves to be the world’s 
most accurate

Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011 | 05

i

w
e
v
r
e
v
O

i

s
s
e
n
s
u
b
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
m
r
o
f
r
e
p
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
n
r
e
v
o
G

s
t
n
e
m
e
t
a
t
s

l

i

a
c
n
a
n
F

i

 
 
 
 
Section 2 | Our business

Our business

The following pages describe our operations around the world. This discussion is set out using 
the divisional structure that applied during 2011. In January 2012, we announced the creation  
of a Global Services division and the amalgamation of our UK and European operations into  
a single division. More information about our new structure can be found on pages 25 to 26.

Revenue by division 2011

Revenue by division 2010

17%

19%

18%

26%

20%

22%

11%

20%

26%

21%

●  Civil Government
●  Defence, Science and Nuclear
●  Local Government and Commercial 
●  Americas
●  AMEAA

●  Civil Government
●  Defence, Science and Nuclear
●  Local Government and Commercial 
●  Americas
●  AMEAA

Revenue by geography 2011

Revenue by geography 2010

27%

17%

20%

56%

20%

60%

●  United Kingdom
●  United States
●  Other countries 

●  United Kingdom
●  United States
●  Other countries 

More on the services provided by each of our divisions is 
included in the Operating Review, which begins on page 40

06 | Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011

 
Civil Government

2011 revenue

£1,199m
+6%

2010: £1,127m 

Civil Government includes our UK  
and European operations in transport, 
home affairs, welfare to work and 
clinical healthcare.

For more information on our Civil Government division, 
see pages 40 to 43

We are a key provider of transport services in the UK. 
With our partner Abellio, we run both Northern Rail,  
the UK’s largest train franchise, and Merseyrail, the UK’s 
most punctual train operator. In London, we operate  
the Docklands Light Railway, the Barclays Cycle Hire 
scheme and the East London Traffic Control System. 
We also deliver national motorway traffic infrastructure 
services and install and maintain road safety cameras. 

In home affairs, we are a leading private provider of 
custodial accommodation in the UK, operating four 
prisons, with a fifth becoming operational in 2012. 
We also run a young offender institution and a secure 
training centre. We provide prisoner escort and custody 
services, as well as electronically monitoring offenders 
within the community. We run two immigration removal 
centres and provide border control and security, and 
technology services.

In health, we have a groundbreaking pathology joint 
venture with Guy’s and St Thomas’ and King’s College 
Hospital NHS Foundation Trusts. We are one of the  
UK’s leading providers of occupational health services, 
supporting over 450,000 of our customers’ employees 
nationwide. We are also the leading independent 
provider of custodial health services, providing for 
thousands of people in custody across the UK. We 
deliver GP out-of-hours services in Cornwall and the Isles 
of Scilly, providing medical assistance to residents and 
tourists across the region. At Braintree Community 
Hospital, we offer a comprehensive range of clinical 
services including general and plastic surgery, 
orthopaedics, ophthalmology, diagnosis of ear, nose  
and throat disorders, outpatient and diagnostic services.

In welfare to work, we have two contracts supporting  
the UK Government’s Work Programme, under which  
we help long-term unemployed people into work in  
South Yorkshire and the West Midlands. We also have 
contracts with the UK Ministry of Justice, co-funded  
by the European Social Fund and National Offender 
Management Service, to help offenders into work in  
the South-East and East of England.

i
i

w
w
e
e
v
v
r
r
e
e
v
v
O
O

i

s
s
e
n
s
u
b
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
m
r
o
f
r
e
p
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
n
r
e
v
o
G

s
t
n
e
m
e
t
a
t
s

l

i

a
c
n
a
n
F

i

Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011 | 07

 
 
 
 
Section 2 | Our business

Our business

Defence, Science and Nuclear

2011 revenue

£939m
+3%

2010: £911m

Defence, Science and Nuclear brings 
together our businesses supporting 
the armed forces in the UK and 
Europe, our science-based 
businesses, our energy market 
operations and our nuclear safety  
and assurance business.

For more information on our Defence, Science and  
Nuclear division, see pages 44 to 45

08 | Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011

In the UK, we provide training, engineering and 
operational support to the Royal Air Force and the 
aviation arms of the British Army and Royal Navy. 
We also support the Royal Navy’s three main UK bases 
and operate and maintain strategic assets such as 
secure satellite communications, the Defence Academy 
of the United Kingdom, the Emergency Planning College 
and the UK’s ballistic missile early warning system.  
We provide systems engineering, safety assurance and 
risk management services, and support the essential 
research carried out at the Defence Science and 
Technology Laboratory. 

Serco has supported the German armed forces for  
more than 40 years, delivering training, logistics and 
operational support services. We also provide facilities 
management, prison and IT services to commercial 
companies and the German Government.

In the science market, we manage the UK’s National 
Physical Laboratory, one of the world’s major scientific 
establishments. With our partners Battelle and the 
University of Manchester, we also manage the National 
Nuclear Laboratory, one of the UK’s leading technology 
service providers and a centre of excellence in nuclear 
non-proliferation.

We have an integral role in the UK nuclear defence 
industry. Our joint venture with Lockheed Martin and 
Jacobs Engineering manages the Atomic Weapons 
Establishment, which provides the warheads for the  
UK’s nuclear deterrent. In addition we have provided 
nuclear safety advice to the Royal Navy’s submarine  
fleet for nearly half a century.

We also offer specialist technical support to the UK’s civil 
nuclear industry and the wider energy market, providing 
safety, environmental, risk and asset management advice 
and operational solutions. We support the operation of 
more than 20 nuclear reactors.

 
Local Government and Commercial

Our work in IT-enabled BPO services includes joint 
ventures and strategic partnerships with local authorities. 
We provide frontline capability with middle and back 
office operations ranging from property services to 
finance and human resources. Our acquisition of  
The Listening Company adds significant contact  
centre scale and expertise, strengthening our ability  
to deliver high-volume call handling and frontline 
customer services. We are also a leading provider  
of services to European institutions, including the 
European Commission, the European Central Bank  
and CERN. 

In integrated and environmental services, we provide  
a full range of waste management services, including 
refuse collection, recycling, street cleansing and grounds 
maintenance, to local authorities throughout the UK. 
We are a major provider of support services to hospitals,  
including the newly opened Forth Valley Royal Hospital  
in Scotland. We offer a full range of enabling services, 
allowing hospital staff to focus on patient care. Our 
facilities management customers also include many 
major companies, who look to us for services ranging 
from help desks to buildings maintenance.

Serco is one of the leading private sector partners in the 
education and children’s services sectors. We partner 
with councils and individual schools to provide school 
improvement and related services. Our other services 
include inspections on behalf of the Office for Standards 
in Education, Children’s Services and Skills (Ofsted), 
delivering training packages on behalf of the National 
College for School Leadership and providing 
management information systems for schools.

Our leisure business provides a comprehensive range of 
health, leisure, fitness, well-being and community focused 
services, managing 68 facilities on behalf of community 
leisure trusts, local authorities and universities.

Serco Consulting provides advisory, design and  
delivery expertise in the areas of operations strategy, 
transformation, programme delivery, outsourcing, people 
performance and selection, change management and 
research. It helps clients improve their business by giving 
them a competitive edge – growing revenue, reducing 
costs, becoming more efficient and improving customer 
service. It advises and helps deliver these benefits to 
both private sector companies as well as governments, 
in the UK and internationally. 

i
i

w
w
e
e
v
v
r
r
e
e
v
v
O
O

i

s
s
e
n
s
u
b
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
m
r
o
f
r
e
p
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
n
r
e
v
o
G

s
t
n
e
m
e
t
a
t
s

l

2011 revenue

£860m
+1%

2010: £854m

Local Government and Commercial 
(LG&C) is made up of our UK and 
European IT-enabled BPO services, 
integrated and environmental services, 
education, leisure, consulting and 
commercial businesses.

For more information on our Local Government and 
Commercial division, see pages 46 to 47

i

a
c
n
a
n
F

i

Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011 | 09

 
 
 
 
Section 2 | Our business

Our business

Americas

2011 revenue

£868m
-9%

2010: £954m

Our Americas business provides 
professional, technology and 
management services that are 
focused primarily on the US Federal 
Government, including every branch 
of the military, key civilian agencies 
and the intelligence community. 

For more information on our Americas division,  
see pages 48 to 49

10 | Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011

We apply our award-winning enterprise architecture to 
define, design and satisfy defense agencies’ Command, 
Control, Communications, Computer and Intelligence 
requirements. We provide communication system 
installations for the US Navy’s fleet and have a 15-year 
track record as one of the largest systems engineering 
and technical assistance contractors for the US Air Force 
Space Command, supporting a wide range of military 
satellite systems. We have installed detection systems  
in over 100 locations in 30 countries, to help prevent 
a nuclear threat from entering the US. 

We help soldiers’ transition to civilian life and have 
provided personnel and family services to more than two 
million military personnel and their families. We support 
military veterans with career counselling, employment 
workshops and job fairs to help them continue their 
career as a civilian within the Federal Government. 
We have designed software and now provide systems,  
data centres and call centres to support four million 
government employees with their retirement plans. 
We have issued more than 1.5 million identification 
cards to defense personnel at over 65 military ID card 
offices around the world.

We processed 36 million visa transactions in 2011 for the 
Department of State and managed more than 62 million 
active records and related immigrant applications for  
the Department of Homeland Security US Citizenship 
and Immigration Services. Our work includes performing 
the pre-classification of all US patents. We also  
provide web-based support for USA.gov and other 
e-government initiatives.

Our transportation business includes the management  
of 63 Federal Aviation Administration control towers  
and approximately 192,000 square miles of airspace  
in five countries. In Canada, Serco’s Driver Examination 
Services administer two million tests per year, including 
vision, knowledge and road tests for Ontario drivers.

 
AMEAA

2011 revenue

£780m
+62%

2010: £481m

AMEAA consists of Africa, the Middle 
East, Asia and Australasia, where we 
provide a range of services including 
transport, home affairs, health, defence, 
BPO and facilities management. 

For more information on our AMEAA division,  
see pages 50 to 53

In Australia, our two defence joint ventures make us  
a key provider of support services to the Australia 
Defence Force. Our two Australian prisons have received 
numerous awards and positive independent inspections, 
and we provide court security and custodial services  
to the Western Australian Department of Corrective 
Services. We work with the Australian Department of 
Immigration and Citizenship to transform its immigration 
services, and have entered the Australian health market 
through a significant contract at Fiona Stanley Hospital. 
In transport, we own and operate Great Southern Rail. 

Serco has the only contract in New Zealand for a 
privately operated prison, at Mount Eden Corrections 
Facility in Auckland. In Hong Kong, we are the largest 
operator of road tunnels.

The Middle East is home to some of Serco’s oldest 
contracts in aviation, which continue to expand as the 
region’s air traffic grows. We are the largest international 
player in surface transport in the region. Most notably,  
we operate the Dubai Metro, the world’s longest  
and most-advanced driverless light rail system.  
Our technology business serves the telecommunications, 
marine and biomedical sectors. We also provide 
integrated facilities management services to the 
education and commercial sectors. We concluded the 
acquisition of JBI Properties Services Company LLC from 
Mubadala in December 2011, which provides a stronger 
platform for our integrated facilities management 
services in the region.

India is the second-fastest growing economy in the  
world and presents significant opportunities for Serco. 
The acquisition of Intelenet in 2011 significantly added  
to the scale and depth of our capabilities, making Serco 
a leading provider of BPO services to the private sector 
around the world and number one in the domestic  
Indian market. Our BPO-related operations now provide 
transactional, process and voice support, finance  
and accounting services, and business transformation 
consulting, making us strongly placed to offer our 
customers around the world a broad range of end-to-end 
business services. India also presents opportunities 
beyond BPO. Our global frontline service capabilities 
offer entry into promising sectors such as rail, traffic 
management and aviation, as well as healthcare and 
education, with major infrastructure investment being 
made in each.

i
i

w
w
e
e
v
v
r
r
e
e
v
v
O
O

i

s
s
e
n
s
u
b
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
m
r
o
f
r
e
p
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
n
r
e
v
o
G

s
t
n
e
m
e
t
a
t
s

l

i

a
c
n
a
n
F

i

Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011 | 11

 
 
 
 
Section 2 | Our business

What we offer our customers

Serco operates in a broad and growing range 
of markets. We can do this because our 
experience of people-led service delivery and 
change management can be applied to so 
many public and private sector organisations.

Specialist and transferable skills
We combine our service and change management capability  
with the specialist skills our markets need, whether that means the 
knowledge of how to reduce reoffending, to deliver excellent clinical 
services, to design and operate innovative transport systems or to 
provide mission-critical services to the military.

People-led service delivery and 
change management
Our customers want more reliable, efficient and productive services. 
Increasingly, they are looking for end-to-end solutions that combine 
frontline capability with middle and back office operations, helping 
them to drive efficiency and better quality services. 

We start by analysing their problems and producing a bespoke 
solution, with improved people management at its heart.

This means that we design organisations to:

●● remove bureaucracy

●● enhance processes

●● instil our values, and

●● free people to deliver their best.

In particular, we:

●● use technology to increase efficiency

●● invest throughout the contract’s life, so our services keep pace 

with developments

●● make the best use of our customers’ assets, so we are as 

cost-effective as possible, and

●● share best practice and compare performance across contracts, 

to help us constantly improve.

We transfer our specialist skills between markets, so that customers 
gain from expertise we have honed in some of the world’s most 
sophisticated markets, and bring together unique combinations  
of skills from across Serco, to create innovative solutions to 
customers’ problems.

Increasingly we work in partnership with our customers, other 
companies or third-sector organisations. This allows us to draw  
on skills that together meet the contract’s precise requirements.

Focus on excellent service
Whatever service we provide, our focus is always on delivering 
excellence for our customers. We devolve responsibility to our 
contract directors, so they can act quickly and decisively to meet 
our customers’ needs.

How we work is as important to us as what we do. The Serco 
Management System sets out our approach to everything, from 
health and safety to our business ethics. And our Governing 
Principles (see pages 18 and 19) underpin the thousands of 
decisions our people make each day, ensuring that we always act 
responsibly. Our culture and way of working frees our people to put 
their service ethos into action.

Building long-term relationships
Our focus on excellent service comes with a desire to continuously 
improve. We are always looking to do better, to be more productive 
and to find new ways to help our customers.

We aim to build long-term and mutually beneficial relationships with 
our customers. The closer we are, the better we understand their 
goals. When our contracts come up for rebid or extension, we retain at 
least 90% of them, reflecting the value that we deliver for customers.

Our customers also frequently expand our contracts, as they see 
the benefits of our work at first hand.

12 | Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011

 
Our business drivers

Demand for high-quality and efficient services
The differing economic environments around the world present 
opportunities for Serco. These stem from governments’ need to:

Our competitive environment
Competition is necessary for our markets to operate, as it:

●● encourages customers to put services out to tender

●● provides a benchmark to ensure they are getting best value, and

●● drives innovation.

Our business breadth means we have a large number of 
competitors for both public and private sector contracts. These 
competitors are primarily companies but for government contracts 
they can include public sector and voluntary bodies. As we enter 
new markets, we meet competitors who specialise in those areas. 
While we see effective competitors in every market, no organisation 
competes with us in all of them and only a few operate in more 
than one.

●● deliver efficient and lower cost public services

●● invest to improve or create new services, and

●● tackle structural challenges including economic development, 
ageing and growing populations, unemployment, migration, 
security, congestion and climate change. 

Governments continue to recognise the benefits of opening  
new areas of public service to competition, to reduce cost and 
stimulate innovation. 

Our private sector customers are seeking help to improve their 
service quality and productivity. Our expanded BPO platform opens 
up a significant growth area for Serco as we seek to offer a wider 
range of services to both our public and private sector customers.

Good potential for market growth
Our markets are large but still have appreciable scope for growth. 
With only 10-15% of total spend typically opened up to competition 
in our major government markets, we have confidence in our 
medium- and long-term opportunities. Strong growth in the private 
sector BPO market is also expected.

The number of markets we can address also expands as we 
broaden our skills, either by combining skills from around our 
business, through acquisitions or by partnering with other 
companies, the voluntary sector or our customers. Our varied 
portfolio demonstrates this.

The scale of our markets means that we can be selective about  
the opportunities we bid for. It also means that our share of any  
one market does not affect our ability to grow.

For more on our prospects in our individual markets,  
see pages 28 to 31

i
i

w
w
e
e
v
v
r
r
e
e
v
v
O
O

i

s
s
e
n
s
u
b
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
m
r
o
f
r
e
p
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
n
r
e
v
o
G

s
t
n
e
m
e
t
a
t
s

l

i

a
c
n
a
n
F

i

Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011 | 13

 
 
 
 
Section 2 | Our business

Our strategy

Each element of our strategy contributes to reducing our 
exposure to market fluctuations, strengthening our position  
in our markets and developing new skills and capabilities  
for the future.

Strategy

Description

Key achievements in 2011

Building a  
balanced 
portfolio

We aim to reduce risk and increase 
opportunities by building a balanced contract 
portfolio, across markets. This reduces our 
exposure to market fluctuations, enables us to 
select the best opportunities whichever market 
they are in, and allows us to transfer expertise 
from one market to another.

Delivering  
excellent  
service

Delivering excellent service means meeting – 
and often exceeding – customer expectations. 
We do this by having the responsible 
behaviours enshrined in our values at the  
heart of everything we do.

This enables us to build long-term customer 
relationships, to expand the scope and scale 
of contracts during their life, retain contracts  
at rebid and win new contracts.

Making  
strategic  
acquisitions

While we are primarily focused on organic 
growth, we make acquisitions to gain skills 
which will be important for future growth  
and to enter markets where we see 
strong opportunities.

Developing  
new models

We respond to emerging opportunities by 
finding new ways to deliver services. This may 
mean innovative approaches to assessing  
and rewarding our performance, collaboration 
between our divisions, bringing together skills 
and experience which few other companies 
can replicate, or partnering with our customer 
or the voluntary sector. Our ability to lead 
change keeps us at the forefront of our markets.

Our performance in 2011 shows the benefit of a balanced portfolio,  
with the strongest growth coming from the AMEAA region and 44%  
of our revenue now generated in markets outside the UK.

We also continued to strengthen our portfolio, with £4.7bn of contracts 
signed and a further £0.4bn of preferred bidder appointments.

The formation of our Global Services division in 2012 will further develop 
our balance, with its emphasis on middle and back office service 
provision for which there are significant opportunities in the private sector.

The quality of our service is reflected in our high contract win rates.  
We continued to win 90% of rebids and extensions, and one in two 
new bids.

We also frequently receive external recognition for our work. Some 
examples of our awards and commendations in 2011 can be found  
under ‘A year in the life of Serco’ on pages 4 to 5.

The acquisitions of Intelenet, a leading provider of international BPO, 
The Listening Company in the UK and Excelior in Australia significantly 
increased our ability to offer related services to companies and the 
public sector globally.

Other small acquisitions of specialist skills include: clinical and 
community healthcare skills through Braintree Clinical Services Limited; 
public sector debt management through Philips Collection Services 
Limited; and integrated facilities management expertise in the Middle 
East through JBI Properties Services Company LLC.

We have successfully introduced payment by results into the prison 
market, through our new contract to operate HMP & YOI Doncaster.  
We expect this to be featured in the development of this market. 
ACCESS, our joint venture with Glasgow City Council, has seen further 
organic growth in the year and supported the wins of new strategic 
partnerships, such as that for Peterborough City Council.

Developing our business strategy
Our strategy is the means for delivering our vision. To ensure  
our strategy remains on course, we have a planning process  
that follows a four-stage annual cycle: strategy (June), business 
planning (October), financial commitments (November) and people 
(March). Each stage informs the next, is clearly defined in terms  
of outcomes and expectations and is managed as a discrete 
programme of work. Group, divisions and business units all have 
specific roles in strategy development and the process is run in  
an inclusive, integrated manner.

The Serco Group plc Board sets our vision and corporate strategy:  
what and where we want to be and how we are going to get  
there. The Executive Committee is individually and collectively 
responsible for supporting our vision and delivering against the 
corporate strategy.

Divisions are responsible for creating five-year strategic plans  
on a rolling annual basis that cover, amongst other things:
●● detailed market and capability analysis
●● sources of competitive advantage
●● growth plans, both organic and through acquisition, and
●● the associated talent, resource and systems plans.

These plans are aligned to the vision and corporate strategy,  
and executed through business plans which translate the  
rolling five-year strategies into deliverables, revenue and costs. 
Divisions then implement processes that enable them to meet  
the requirements and timescales of the strategic planning cycle. 

Corporate functions are responsible for the overall corporate 
strategic plan, with each developing specific objectives and  
targets for their areas of responsibility.

14 | Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011

 
Key performance indicators (KPIs)

We use the following KPIs to monitor our 
performance over time. They are split between 
financial and non-financial measures.

Financial

Revenue (£m)

Adjusted operating profit (£m)

Revenue represents the amounts due 
for the services we provided during the 
year, and includes our share of revenue 
from joint ventures.

Adjusted operating profit is our 
operating profit before the amortisation 
of acquired intangibles and acquisition-
related costs. We believe it is the most 
appropriate measure for assessing the 
profitability of our business.

4,327

4,646

3,970

290.1

258.7

229.7

2,811

3,124

165.2

142.0

2007

2008

2009

2010

2011

2007

2008

2009

2010

2011

The 7.4% growth in the year  
represents a good performance  
against our strategic objectives,  
given the challenging environment.

The growth of 12.1% represents an  
increase in margin of 26 basis points 
to 6.2%.

Adjusted earnings per share (EPS) (p)

Group free cash flow (£m)

Adjusted EPS is our profit for the financial 
year (excluding the post-tax charge  
for the amortisation of intangibles  
arising on acquisition and acquisition-
related costs) divided by the weighted 
average number of shares in issue  
during the year. Adjusted EPS provides  
a measure of shareholder return that  
is comparable over time. The details  
of the calculation are shown in note 12  
to the financial statements.

Group free cash flow is the free cash 
flow from subsidiaries and dividends 
received from joint ventures. It represents 
the cash flow to which the Group has 
access. The calculation is shown in the 
Finance Review on page 56.

39.59

34.69

29.53

185.8

168.3

137.3

22.20

18.57

97.6

94.2

2007

2008

2009

2010

2011

2007

2008

2009

2010

2011

The 14.1% growth demonstrates  
the delivery of a strong financial  
result for 2011.

The reduction of £17.5m in Group free 
cash flow includes the anticipated £30m 
increase in net capital expenditure.

Non-financial

Reportable incident rate  
(per 100,000 employees)

Reportable incidents include work-related 
fatalities, major injuries, injuries resulting in 
absences from work of more than three days, 
work-related diseases and near-miss incidents. 
The rate measures our success in providing 
a safe and secure working environment.

1,084

999

679

711

577

2007

2008

2009

2010

2011

Our reportable incident rate was 577 per 100,000 
employees, a reduction of 18.8% from 2010 and 
42.2% below our 2008 baseline.

Carbon dioxide emissions  
(tonnes of CO2/£m revenue)

Reducing our carbon dioxide emissions is one  
of our key corporate responsibility objectives.  
We measure our emissions in relation to our 
revenue, to take account of our business growth.

73.00

70.78

64.44

62.17

2008

2009

2010

2011

The data here refers to our UK business, which 
generates around 80% of our CO2 emissions. 
We reduced our emissions relative to revenue by 
a further 3.5% in the UK, giving us a cumulative 
reduction against our 2008 baseline of 14.8%.

Investment into society
(£m)

Each year, we aim to invest 1% of our pre-tax 
profits into society. We do this through cash 
donations, gifts in kind, employee volunteering 
and management time.

2.53

2.27

1.77

1.75

1.07

2007

2008

2009

2010

2011

In 2011, we invested £2.53m, representing 1.06% 
of our pre-tax profit.

Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011 | 15

i
i

w
w
e
e
v
v
r
r
e
e
v
v
O
O

i

s
s
e
n
s
u
b
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
m
r
o
f
r
e
p
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
n
r
e
v
o
G

s
t
n
e
m
e
t
a
t
s

l

i

a
c
n
a
n
F

i

 
 
 
 
Section 2 | Our business

Our business model

Our business model draws on our competitive 
advantages, which enable us to create value  
for our stakeholders. In particular, we have:

●● a broad business with significant scope and scale, which allows 
us to pick the best opportunities in whichever market or country 
they occur

Summary of the Business Lifecycle  
Governance Process

●● the ability to transfer our skills around the world, helping us to 

open up new markets

●● the experience to bring fresh perspectives to customers’ 
problems, for example by creating new contracting or 
partnership models or bringing together unique combinations  
of skills from across the Group 

●● a devolved structure and a strong management system,  
which empower our people by pushing responsibility for  
service delivery to the contract level. This structure also makes 
our business scalable, enabling us to manage a growing 
contract portfolio

1 Selecting markets

2 Identifying opportunities

●● a strong track record of delivery and a reputation for high-quality 
service, which helps us to retain contracts and to win new ones

3 Bidding selectively

●● long-term customer relationships, some of which span several 
decades, which allow us to fully understand our customers’ 
needs, increase the scope of the work we do for them and 
enhance our chances of retaining the contract at rebid.

Our competitive advantages underpin our Business Lifecycle 
Governance Process, which formalises Serco’s approach to  
value creation and managing the associated risks.

The Business Lifecycle Governance Process
The Business Lifecycle Governance Process is part of the Serco 
Management System (SMS). We use it to:

●● determine the markets we want to be in

●● bid successfully for contracts that add most value

●● transition these contracts to deliver this value, and

●● retain and grow them.

4 Transitioning effectively

5 Delivering operational excellence

6 Deciding to rebid

Yes

No

7 Rebidding

8 Exit

16 | Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011

 
1 Selecting markets
We look for markets that:

●● are politically and economically stable

●● offer multiple contracts and good growth

●● provide appropriate margins and cash flow, and

●● allow us to differentiate ourselves from the competition.

We also analyse many other factors, including:

●● the market’s drivers

●● our understanding of the customers and the way they procure

●● any ethical or human rights issues, and

5 Delivering operational excellence
We aim to deliver operational excellence and continual improvement.

Devolving responsibility to our contract directors allows them  
to innovate and respond to our customers’ needs. The SMS sets 
out our control framework, ensuring we work safely and responsibly, 
and safeguard the needs of our stakeholders, people and Serco. 
Every decision we make must be in line with our Governing 
Principles (see pages 18 to 19).

Working in the right way helps us to build long-term relationships. 
This often leads to the customer expanding our contract during  
its life, which is important for our growth. It also positions us to win 
the contract at rebid.

6 Deciding to rebid
As we near the end of a contract, we decide whether or not to 
rebid it.

●● whether we can provide an attractive working environment  

for our people.

We will choose to rebid a contract because:

In new markets, we also consider our entry strategy and whether  
we need an innovative contracting model.

●● the market continues to grow and can support our margin 

requirements, and

●● the opportunity represents a good return on our investment.

7 Rebidding
Our long-term relationships and service quality help us retain 
around 90% of our contracts at rebid and extension.

We approach the rebid as if it were a new contract, designing ways 
to deliver even greater quality and productivity. Often the customer 
requests more services over a longer term, so a rebid can be 
considerably larger than the original contract.

Once we have secured the rebid, we return to the transition phase, 
bedding-in our innovations and any new services we have taken on.

8 Exit
When we finish a contract, we do so in the right way.

Where appropriate, we work closely with the incoming contractor  
to protect the interests of both the customer and any people who 
will transfer from us when our contract ends. This is also important 
because we may have other contracts with the customer or want  
to work with them in the future.

2 Identifying opportunities
Once we know the market is attractive, we identify opportunities  
to pursue. We then test the quality of each opportunity, including:

●● our understanding of the customer’s business and vision

●● their funding for the project, and

●● how likely they are to procure.

We also compare opportunities against each other, to determine  
the best use of our resources.

3 Bidding selectively
Bidding can be expensive and take many months, so we only bid 
for opportunities that meet our criteria and where we have a strong 
chance of winning.

The bidding stage has numerous steps, from our initial submission, 
to being shortlisted, to our final bid. During the process, we develop 
a detailed solution for the customer and test it thoroughly. At every 
step we review the opportunity and confirm that we want to proceed.

Once the customer selects us, the final step is to negotiate and sign 
the contract.

4 Transitioning effectively
Effectively transitioning a new contract is vital. We ensure that  
we have the right planning and controls in place to start work 
seamlessly on day one, as we implement the solution we developed 
during bidding. We also transfer knowledge from the bid team to 
the contract management, and continue to strengthen our customer 
and stakeholder relationships.

Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011 | 17

i
i

w
w
e
e
v
v
r
r
e
e
v
v
O
O

i

s
s
e
n
s
u
b
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
m
r
o
f
r
e
p
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
n
r
e
v
o
G

s
t
n
e
m
e
t
a
t
s

l

i

a
c
n
a
n
F

i

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Section 2 | Our business

A values-led and responsible business

A values-led business
Serco could not succeed without the skill and dedication of our 
people around the world. They embody our culture and our values, 
which underpin the way we run the Company.

Our values, which are encapsulated in our Governing Principles, 
inform every decision we make. They ensure that we deliver the 
excellent service on which our success depends.

The Governing Principles are integral to the Serco Management 
System (SMS), which is our mandatory management framework 
within which all parts of Serco must operate. Each policy area in the 
SMS reflects one or more of our Governing Principles, which means 
that working within the SMS ensures we are living our values.

Our Governing Principles

1 We foster an entrepreneurial culture

2 We enable our people to excel

We are passionate about building innovative and 
successful Serco businesses. We succeed by 
encouraging and generating new ideas. We trust 
our people to deliver. We embrace change and, by 
taking measured risks, encourage creative thinking.

Our success comes from our commitment and 
energy to go the extra mile. We are responsible  
to each other and can expect support when we 
need it most. We expect our people to achieve 
more by recognising and harnessing the power  
of individuals. We value people for their knowledge, 
ideas and potential to contribute.

18 | Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011

 
A responsible business
Our Governing Principles emphasise the importance of corporate 
responsibility (CR). We want to be good corporate citizens but 
acting responsibly is also essential to our strategy. Only by working 
in the right way can we deliver excellent service, continue to build 
our balanced contract portfolio and attract the partners with whom 
we create new contracting models.

We divide CR into four pillars – health and safety, people, 
community and the environment. The work we do for our customers 
encompasses all four pillars, but there are many things we do which 
go beyond our contractual or legal requirements. Our approach to CR 
also shapes the way we do business with our suppliers and partners.

For more on our approach to CR and our performance during 
the year, see pages 66 to 69 and our separate CR Report for 
2011, which is available on www.serco.com/cr2011

3 We deliver our promises

4 We build trust and respect

We do what we say we will do to meet expectations. 
We only promise what we can deliver. If we make 
mistakes we put them right. We are clear about 
what we need to achieve and we expect to make  
a fair profit.

We build respect by operating in a safe, socially 
responsible, consistent and honest manner.  
We never compromise on safety and we always 
operate in an ethical and responsible manner.  
We listen. In doing so, we treat others as we  
would wish to be treated ourselves and challenge 
when we see something is wrong. We integrate 
with our communities.

Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011 | 19

i
i

w
w
e
e
v
v
r
r
e
e
v
v
O
O

i

s
s
e
n
s
u
b
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
m
r
o
f
r
e
p
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
n
r
e
v
o
G

s
t
n
e
m
e
t
a
t
s

l

i

a
c
n
a
n
F

i

 
 
 
 
Section 3 | Our performance

Chairman’s Statement

Last year, as I spoke of my assessment of Serco’s principal strengths in my first statement  
as Chairman, I identified the breadth of Serco across both geography and sector; our ability  
to bring people together from across different parts of our business to share experience,  
skills and ideas; and our application of innovative thinking to derive better service outcomes.

That we have been able to achieve the quality of results of which 
Chris Hyman writes in detail in his Chief Executive’s Statement is 
testament to these strengths against the backdrop of challenging 
conditions in our largest markets. To have achieved good organic 
revenue growth, further improvement in operating margins, and 
contract awards totalling over £5bn when we have seen pressures 
in certain areas of UK Government spending, in particular in local 
government, and delays and cancellations of previously anticipated 
work in the US, is a great credit to our management and our 
people, to whom I give my thanks on behalf of the Board for all  
their hard work and commitment. 

Our strategic drive to broaden the base of our business in order to 
increase our resilience and our capability to pursue new commercial 
opportunities was exemplified by our acquisition of Intelenet, 
a leading provider of Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) services 
to the private sector around the world and in the domestic Indian 
market. Serco has historically been predominantly a provider of 
frontline services on behalf of the public sector. We have now 
added the ability to service a broad range of middle and back office 
requirements and a high-quality private sector customer base that 
provides excellent referenceability. These will enable us both to 
expand our BPO activity in existing and new markets and offer  
full service solutions – front, middle and back – to our extensive  
public sector customer base. The acquisition of Intelenet was 
complemented by smaller acquisitions of The Listening Company 
in the UK and Excelior in Australia, both leading providers of 
outsourced contact centre services in their domestic BPO markets.  
In his statement Chris sets out the enormous potential to be derived 
from bringing together all of our BPO related skills and capabilities 
as a new Serco Global Services division.

What these new capabilities make possible is amply evidenced by 
Serco achieving single bidder status to operate the Anglia Support 
Partnership, our first shared services proposition in the emerging 
market for middle and back office support to the UK health sector. 
Not only does this demonstrate the strength of our BPO credentials 
but also our growing presence in health operations. This is a sector 
where expertise demonstrated in one geography has enabled us  
to build a presence in another, which is a key feature of the Serco 
business model. Our being selected to provide non-clinical support 
services at the new Fiona Stanley hospital near Perth in Western 
Australia – a ten-year contract with a total value of A$1.3bn – drew 
on our proven hospital support services operations in the UK, such 
as at the NHS Forth Valley Royal Hospital in Scotland. In the same 
way as Forth Valley demonstrated Serco’s innovation including 
pioneering the use of robots within the service infrastructure, so  
at Fiona Stanley Serco will demonstrate its innovation through  
the integration of non-clinical services applying state-of-the-art 
technology to ensure the smooth running of the whole hospital.  
We see strong prospects for our healthcare services to grow  
further in both developed and emerging economies.

The design of innovative solutions to public sector service provision 
is central to Serco’s ability to grow profitably, particularly when 
governments are so focused on delivering more for less. As a  
for instance, when we successfully rebid the contract to operate 
Doncaster Prison, this was based on a new payment by results  
pilot – a first for the UK prison sector – under which 10% of Serco’s 
annual revenue is contractually dependent upon prisoners not 
reoffending in the year after their release. 

20 | Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011

 
Again, our justice sector is an excellent example of our application 
of capabilities and track record developed in one market to build 
strong positions in other geographies. During the year our contract 
for Acacia Prison in Western Australia was renewed for a further five 
years, and we signed and commenced a six-year contract at Mount 
Eden Corrections Facility in New Zealand to provide rehabilitation 
and reintegration programmes for prisoners, as well as logistics and 
infrastructure management. Pursuing this theme further, in the UK 
we have provided prisoner escort and custody services in London 
and the south-east since 2004 whilst in July we started a new 
contract to provide such services in Western Australia. 

In the same way as the balance of our business is changing 
between UK and overseas and between public and private sector, 
so too should, and is, the make-up of the Board. During the year  
we welcomed Paul Brooks, Angie Risley and Ralph D. Crosby Jr  
as new Non-Executive Directors. Paul, Group CFO of Experian,  
and Angie, Group HR Director of Lloyds Banking Group, brought 
significant private sector experience. Ralph has just retired as 
Chairman and CEO of EADS in North America and, therefore, 
brings us an in-depth understanding of the US, in particular the 
defence sector that represents a major part of Serco’s US business. 

Over the ten years Paul had held the role at Experian he had played 
a central part in the growth of a global business and we were deeply 
saddened by his recent untimely death. Although he had only been 
with us a short time he had already firmly established himself as  
a much respected and well-liked colleague whose contribution to 
boardroom debate was always relevant, clear and concise, drawing 
on both his wide commercial experience and his technical financial 
competence. He will be much missed. Whilst we are currently 
seeking someone to take Paul’s place, David Richardson has kindly 
agreed to defer his retirement as Chair of our Audit Committee and 
Senior Independent Director until the 2013 AGM, being the AGM 
following the ninth anniversary of his joining the Board.

With Serco now employing over 100,000 people across 30 
countries, the attraction, retention and development of appropriate 
talent is high on the Board’s agenda and it is of great benefit to 
have someone of Angie’s experience around the table. She will 
succeed Leonard V. Broese van Groenou as Chair of our 
Remuneration Committee when Leonard completes his current term 
in May 2012. Leonard joined the Board of Serco in April 2006 and  
I should like to thank him, on behalf of my colleagues and the 
Company, for his commitment and contribution to Serco’s success 
over this period. 

Whilst Serco has a ‘can do’ mentality, it is one built on the  
foundations of a strong management system that ensures rigorous 
analysis of potential opportunities and their inherent risks,  
followed by meticulous implementation. Integral to such a strong 
management system is an effective Board exercising appropriate 
governance over the business, in particular the selection of our 
strategic objectives; the understanding and mitigation of the  
risks that may prejudice the achievement of those objectives;  

the deliverability of managements’ plans to implement the  
agreed strategy through the right combination of people, 
processes, and systems; and the measurement of progress  
in that implementation. 

We have spent considerable time this year thinking about how  
our business needs to change over the next few years to apply  
our existing proven competencies and experience in new markets, 
delineated both by geography and sector, and to structure 
ourselves most effectively to meet the challenges of tighter 
economics in our core markets whilst taking advantage of the 
opportunities presented by rapid growth in other parts of the world. 
In his statement Chris outlines our plans to achieve these strategic 
objectives. Five years ago Serco derived revenues of £2.5bn at  
an operating margin of 4.8% of which 74% originated from the UK, 
generating Group profit before tax of £107m. Now close to half  
of our revenue is derived from outside the UK whilst we achieve  
an operating margin of over 6%, and are looking forward to total 
revenues of approximately double the 2006 level in 2012. These key 
metrics will all continue to develop as we implement our strategy.

Central to good governance is rigorous evaluation, and 2011 
marked the triennial independent review of our Board’s 
effectiveness. It was very encouraging, against the backdrop  
of a Board that was generally perceived to be performing well,  
to see directors, established and new to the Board, executive and 
non-executive, focusing on common areas, such as the importance 
of developing management talent for a growing complex business; 
the identification of relevant key performance indicators across our 
diverse activities; and the provision of regular feedback to directors  
as to their contribution and training needs. Equally important is 
effective management of the risks to which our Group is exposed, 
and these are set out in detail, alongside the way in which the risks  
are managed, later in this report. 

Businesses do not operate in isolation: they have a material  
impact within the communities in which they operate, none  
more so than a business such as Serco that delivers essential 
services that matter to millions of people around the world.  
This is why building trust and respect is one of our four governing 
principles: we aim to build respect by operating in a safe, socially 
responsible, consistent and honest manner, and to integrate  
with our communities. A summary of our approach to corporate 
responsibility, and examples of the contributions we make, can  
be found in our Corporate Responsibility Report on our website. 

Finally, may I thank our shareholders for their continued support 
and reiterate our desire to maintain with them an active dialogue  
as to our progress so that they may understand our objectives  
and both the challenges to, and our continued confidence in,  
their achievement.

Alastair Lyons CBE
Chairman

Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011 | 21

i

w
e
v
r
e
v
O

i

s
s
e
n
s
u
b
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
m
r
o
f
r
e
p
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
n
r
e
v
o
G

s
t
n
e
m
e
t
a
t
s

l

i

a
c
n
a
n
F

i

 
 
 
 
Section 3 | Our performance

Chief Executive’s Statement

Overview 
2011 has been another successful year for Serco. We have seen a solid operational performance 
and contract awards across our portfolio. This has delivered a strong financial result despite  
some challenging conditions. Our markets continue to develop and we have an extensive pipeline 
of opportunities to capitalise on global demand. We have successfully entered the global 
BPO market, and are positioning the Group for the best opportunities and future needs of our 
customers. We are therefore confident in the outlook for strong future growth of the Group, 
achieved through the commitment of our employees to deliver efficient, high-quality and 
innovative services that matter to millions of people around the world.

Solid operational performance and contract 
awards across the global portfolio
Serco has seen another year of robust service delivery and 
customer relationships. We have specific performance metrics  
in our contracts and the results of our continuous measurement 
against these have been very positive during 2011. Many of our 
operations, from custodial services through to transport operations, 
undergo formal inspections and independent reports, with these 
again showing pleasing outcomes. Further industry recognitions 
and awards have also acknowledged the delivery of excellence 
around the Group.

The year has seen the development of new service lines and 
business models. From 2012 our new Global Services division  
will bring many of these together – such as Intelenet as a leader  
in international BPO, The Listening Company with its UK contact 
centre expertise, and Excelior covering the Australian market.  
Wins, such as Peterborough City Council and being selected  
to operate the Anglia Support Partnership NHS shared services, 
reinforce our confidence in this new area of development.  
Growth in AMEAA has included new sectors such as health and 
new countries of operation in the Middle East. The success of new 
business models, such as joint ventures with customers including 
ACCESS in Glasgow, or introducing payment by results at Doncaster, 
have also been highlights of our continuous development.

Our focus on service excellence, building long-term mutually 
beneficial customer relationships and ongoing innovation during  
a contract underpins our 90% win rate for rebids and extensions. 
Our one in two win rate for new bids has also been maintained,  
with both of these measures driving our revenue growth.

In 2011, contract awards across our wide portfolio of markets and 
geographies totalled £5.1bn, with signed contracts valued at £4.7bn 
and preferred bidder appointments for a further £0.4bn. Our wins 
included smaller and medium-sized awards which are fundamental 
to our growth, as well as significant rebids, extensions, expansions 
and new contracts. The value of these wins does not include the 
Indefinite Delivery, Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) contracts in the US we 
won in 2011 as a prime contractor, which have a combined ceiling 
value of approximately US$2bn among awardees. These new IDIQs 
enable us to compete for specific task orders issued under the 
IDIQ, with the value of the task orders recognised when won and 
then included within our order book.

Among the notable rebids, extensions and new contract awards 
during the year were:

●● Prisoner Escort and Custody Services for London and the  

East of England, with a potential value to Serco of £420m over 
ten years;

●● HM Prison and Young Offenders Institution Doncaster, valued  

at around £250m over 15 years;

●● Barclays Cycle Hire scheme expansion, valued at approximately 

£50m over four years;

●● The Helios programme of capital projects and associated 

support equipment for the Defence Science and Technology 
Laboratory (Dstl), valued at around £80m over five years;

22 | Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011

 
●● UK Ministry of Defence prime contract for further deployment  
of innovative radar technology, with a contract value of £27m 
over two years;

●● Peterborough City Council strategic partnership for shared 
services, with an initial value of £100m over ten years;

●● A 15-year partnership for support services at two of Sport 
England’s National Sport Centres, valued at over £100m 
to Serco;

●● IT support services to a major European banking organisation, 
with a rebid valued at €20m over four years and a new win 
valued at €50m over eight years;

●● US Army task orders valued at US$169m under various 

HRsolutions IDIQs;

●● US Air Force Space Command task orders valued at US$115m 

under the C4I2TSR IDIQ;

●● US Navy task orders valued at US$33m under the C4ISR IDIQs;

●● Fiona Stanley Hospital near Perth, non-clinical integrated 

services with a total value to Serco of A$1.3bn over ten years;

●● Acacia Prison in Western Australia extended and expanded 

contract, valued at A$310m over five years;

●● Court Security and Custodial Services in Western Australia, 

valued at A$210m over five years; and

●● Anglia Support Partnership, chosen as single remaining bidder 
to provide middle and back office shared services to the NHS, 
with an estimated initial value of £120m over four years.

There has also been an encouraging level of contract awards 
following the end of the financial year. 

More details of the above and other contract awards can be found 
in the Operating Review. We also signed numerous other smaller 
and medium-sized contracts during the year, some of which are 
described in the contract news updates available on our website, 
www.serco.com.

Visibility of earnings remains high due to the signed contracts that 
make up our order book, contracts we expect to extend and rebid, 
and contracts at the preferred bidder stage which we expect to 
sign. At 31 December 2011, our order book stood at £17.9bn, 
compared with £16.6bn at 31 December 2010. This leads to 
revenue visibility of 92% for 2012, 80% for 2013 and 70% for 2014.

Left: We continued to win  
logistical support task orders  
from the US Navy.

Below: We renewed our contract to 
run Doncaster Prison for a further 
15 years. 

Bottom: The Barclays Cycle Hire 
Scheme expanded into new areas 
of London.

For more details of these and other contract awards,  
see the Operating Review on pages 40 to 43

For details of some of the many smaller and  
medium-sized contract wins, see our contract news  
updates at www.serco.com

Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011 | 23

i

w
e
v
r
e
v
O

i

s
s
e
n
s
u
b
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
m
r
o
f
r
e
p
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
n
r
e
v
o
G

s
t
n
e
m
e
t
a
t
s

l

i

a
c
n
a
n
F

i

 
 
 
 
Section 3 | Our performance

Chief Executive’s Statement

Strong financial result for 2011
Serco has delivered growth in revenues including good organic 
growth, increased the operating margin, and maintained a strong 
cash generation profile and financing position.

Total revenue growth was 7.4% to £4,646.4m. Growth at constant 
currency was also 7.4%, with the adverse movement on the US Dollar 
offset by the favourable movement on the Australian Dollar. Organic 
growth excluding acquisitions and currency effects was 3.5%.

This growth demonstrated the resilience of our portfolio and our 
ability to develop capabilities in new sectors and geographies.  
This has been achieved at the same time as headwinds have been 
felt in some UK and US markets. Revenue growth was exceptionally 
strong in AMEAA, reflecting growth from both existing contracts  
and those recently won. In the UK, performance was varied: Civil 
Government grew, benefiting from previous contract wins and 
expanded operations; Defence, Science and Nuclear saw modest 
growth; while Local Government and Commercial saw strong 
growth in its strategic markets offset by sharper headwinds from 
specific austerity measures. The Americas saw constant currency 
growth achieved in the first half of the year move into a decline for 
the year overall as the very challenging conditions for US federal 
contractors took hold. Our divisional performance is described fully 
in the Operating Review.

Adjusted operating profit rose by £31.4m or 12.1% to £290.1m,  
with a 26 basis point increase in the Adjusted operating profit 
margin to 6.2%. Adjusted profit before tax grew by £30.9m or  
13.4% to £262.2m and Adjusted earnings per share increased  
by 14.1% to 39.59p.

Group free cash flow was £168.3m compared with £185.8m 
in 2010, representing the return to a more usual conversion rate 
of profits. Net capital expenditure increased by £30m, reflecting 
a return towards a more normal underlying level of capital 
investment, together with the anticipated investment in SAP 
systems in 2011.

Our policy is to increase the total dividend each year broadly  
in line with the increase in underlying earnings. Accordingly, the  
Board has proposed a final dividend of 5.90p per share, bringing 
the total dividend for the year to 8.40p, up 14.3% compared  
with the previous year. The final dividend will be paid, subject  
to shareholder approval, on 22 May 2012 to shareholders on  
the register on 9 March 2012.

Our earnings, cash flow, financing and related matters are 
described fully in the Finance Review.

24 | Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011

Below: We run Prisoner Escort and 
Custody Services in partnership 
with Wincanton.

Market developments and identified 
opportunities provide an extensive pipeline
Our pipeline of identified opportunities around the world has a total 
estimated value of some £30bn. We therefore see good prospects 
to continue driving future growth across the Group.

Ongoing demand is expected for efficient, high-quality and 
innovative service provision from public and private sector 
customers around the world. Demand is driven by the need to 
achieve efficiencies and cost savings in services, investment to 
improve or create new services, and structural challenges including 
economic development, ageing and growing populations, 
unemployment, migration, security, congestion and climate change.

Public service reform continues to increase the potential for our 
markets. With only 10-15% of total spend typically currently opened 
up to competition in our major government markets around the 
world, we remain confident in the medium- and long-term market 
opportunities and drivers of growth for Serco. Recognition  
is widely held of the benefits such as reducing cost and stimulating 
innovation when public service markets are competed. Of note  
was the UK Government’s 2011 Parliamentary White Paper on  
Open Public Services, which we expect to deliver upon its stated 
aim of commissioning more services rather than the state 
continuing to provide these themselves.

 
Below left: Providing community 
health services in Braintree, Essex. 

Left: We operate New Zealand’s 
only private prison.

Below: We will deliver nearly  
30 non-clinical services at the  
new Fiona Stanley Hospital near 
Perth, Australia. 

In the UK, markets appear to have stabilised and are starting to 
show some signs of improvement; our financial performance was 
stronger in the second half of the year and the amount of potential 
tender opportunities appears to be increasing, together with further 
signs of markets opening up to support growth in future years. 
Some risk, however, still remains that further austerity measures  
may bring additional short-term pressures.

In the US, Congress’s challenges in reaching agreement on 
a budget for 2011 created uncertainty for federal government 
agencies and the inability to fund new programmes. Economic  
and political challenges relating to the US debt ceiling and deficit 
reduction plan will likely result in continued short-term pressure  
for the US federal outsourcing market, with further delays and the 
risk of cancellations of bids and awards possible in 2012. Looking 
beyond, the opportunities in the federal government and wider  
US contracting industry remain substantial, with strong growth 
prospects in certain specific sectors.

The AMEAA region continues to exhibit the strongest growth 
opportunities. Whilst not without some potential risk, in general 
these areas of economic and population expansion are leading 
to growth in various infrastructure management markets, as are 
government programmes specifically targeted to improve social 
infrastructure. We have demonstrated our ability to internationalise 
our skills and capabilities into this region, and across multiple 
markets such as the transportation, home affairs, health and 
defence sectors.

The global BPO market is also fast-developing and presents 
substantial opportunities for the Group.

Successful entry into global BPO market  
and organisational changes
2011 has seen Serco add significant global capability in the 
fast-growing, higher margin, business process outsourcing (BPO) 
market. The Intelenet acquisition is strategically important for 
Serco’s development in this area. Firstly, it provides access to 
attractive markets: the international and domestic Indian BPO 
markets are large, forecast to grow around 15% per annum in the 
medium term, and have margins reflective of high-value services. 
Secondly, it broadens our customer and geographic reach: in line 
with our strategy of building a balanced portfolio, Intelenet’s diverse 
and international private sector customer base will further increase 
our spread across markets. Thirdly, it adds to our scale and depth 
of capabilities: together with our existing BPO-related operations  
we will have around 40,000 employees providing transactional, 
process and voice support, finance and accounting services, and 
business transformation consulting, making us strongly placed to 
provide our customers with a broad range of end-to-end business 
services. Other in-fill acquisitions, such as The Listening Company  
in the UK and Excelior in Australia, have added additional specific 
customer contact capabilities and geographic reach.

Serco’s existing strength in these areas includes our IT-enabled 
BPO service delivery for local authorities. Recent contract wins  
here have added both experience and capability. Of particular  
note is Serco being chosen as the single remaining bidder for  
the Anglia Support Partnership (ASP), which would add a further 
strategic partnership – in this instance with the UK’s National  
Health Service – to our growing health support services and  
BPO operations. This bid was an opportunity to use the Group’s 
combined capabilities for an integrated offering to transform  
public services in this area.

Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011 | 25

i

w
e
v
r
e
v
O

i

s
s
e
n
s
u
b
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
m
r
o
f
r
e
p
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
n
r
e
v
o
G

s
t
n
e
m
e
t
a
t
s

l

i

a
c
n
a
n
F

i

 
 
 
 
Section 3 | Our performance

Chief Executive’s Statement

Above left and left: The acquisition 
of Intelenet gives us access to 
attractive markets around the world. 

Above: The Listening Company 
extends our customer contact 
capabilities.

To reflect developments in market needs and opportunities such  
as ASP, we are progressing with organisational changes that have 
already begun in 2012. A part of this is the creation of a new global 
BPO division, our first global business, bringing together all of 
Serco’s middle and back office skills and capabilities. The new 
Serco Global Services division will both improve the services we 
provide to customers and enable us to better target opportunities 
around the world in both the public and private sectors.

Serco’s customers around the world are increasingly looking for 
more end-to-end services that combine frontline capability with 
middle and back office operations, helping them to drive more 
efficiency and better quality services. Our Global Services division 
will therefore work alongside the regional divisions in order to 
deliver fully integrated services for their customers. 

As Serco continues to grow we regularly review our opportunities, 
our structure, the way Serco delivers services for customers and 
how we target future growth. We are therefore creating a single UK 
and Europe division, to increase efficiency and support the delivery  
of better services. As part of achieving this, the Global Services 
division will operate a wider-reaching shared service centre for the 
Group itself. These changes are likely to lead to reductions in 
headcount of around 500 people in management and in our own 
back office support functions out of our 100,000 employees around 
the world, including 35,000 in the UK.

These changes will help us achieve greater economies of scope 
through closer working relationships, position us better for more 
integrated and larger service delivery, as well as achieve greater 
efficiencies and scale economies for our customers.

We also continue to proactively manage our portfolio of contracts, 
assessing our operations for appropriate levels of performance, 
returns and strategic fit. Our stated strategy is to reduce risk and 
increase opportunities by building a balanced business, spread 
across markets. Where appropriate, this includes disposals and 
acquisitions. This helps to manage our exposure to market 
fluctuations, enables us to select the best opportunities whichever 
market they are in, and allows us to transfer expertise from one 
market to another.

While we are primarily focused on organic growth, we will continue 
to acquire new skills and capabilities where they support expansion 
into new markets and sectors. In the BPO market, there may be 
opportunities for in-fill acquisitions of specific areas of expertise  
or geographic strength. While facing short-term challenges,  
the US market remains fundamentally attractive and may present 
opportunities in higher growth specialised areas. Strengthening  
our presence in vertical markets such as health, or entering new 
emerging economies such as South America may also yield 
acquisitions from which to further develop our operations organically.

26 | Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011

 
Left: We provide personnel and 
family support services to the  
US Army. 

Below: The Dubai Metro continued 
to achieve high levels of availability 
and punctuality.

Outlook supports continued resilience  
and encouraging future growth prospects
The breadth of our portfolio across different markets and economies 
continues to provide resilience while at the same time enhancing 
our growth potential.

People
We have a clear strategy for managing and developing our people, 
which, in turn supports our vision – to be the world’s greatest 
service company, we have to be the best at managing people.

I am pleased that we have made good progress against each part 
of our people strategy in 2011. More information on how we 
achieved this can be found on pages 62 to 65.

Serco has grown during 2011 and we now have more than 100,000 
people delivering services around the world. Our success comes 
from their hard work and commitment to our values. I thank them for 
their contribution to Serco and our customers.

Christopher Hyman CBE
Chief Executive

For 2012, we are forecasting another year of strong total revenue 
growth; this includes the contribution from acquisitions completed  
to date, together with further good organic growth. At this early 
stage of the financial year, our forecasts reflect the balance of risks 
and opportunities; we expect challenging conditions to remain in 
the US, but anticipate some further improvement in UK markets and 
another strong performance in AMEAA. We are forecasting a further 
increase in our full-year Adjusted operating margin, similar to that 
achieved in 2011. Net finance costs are expected to increase to 
around £45m, driven principally by the incremental cost of funding 
the acquisitions made during 2011. 

The phasing during 2012 is likely to see organic growth weighted 
to the second half and the contribution from completed acquisitions 
weighted to the first half. Organisational changes are expected to 
have a broadly neutral impact on the full-year margin, but due to the 
timing of the implementation costs are likely to more than offset the 
underlying improvement in the first half.

Improving market conditions around the world, should they 
continue, would allow the Group to anticipate a modest 
improvement in the rate of organic revenue growth in 2013 and 
further improvement into the medium term. This would support 
the continued delivery of strong financial performance by Serco.

Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011 | 27

i

w
e
v
r
e
v
O

i

s
s
e
n
s
u
b
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
m
r
o
f
r
e
p
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
n
r
e
v
o
G

s
t
n
e
m
e
t
a
t
s

l

i

a
c
n
a
n
F

i

 
 
 
 
Section 3 | Our performance

Market opportunities and drivers

This section on market opportunities and drivers reflects  
our new organisational structure:
 ● UK and Europe
 ● Americas
 ● AMEAA (Africa, Middle East, Asia, and Australasia)
 ● Global Services.

Right: The UK custodial sector 
continues to open up and modernise.

UK & Europe
The UK represents our most developed market, accounts for the 
vast majority of our operations in Europe as a whole, and continues 
to show future growth potential with markets such as justice and 
healthcare already becoming increasingly active. As well as an 
increasing focus on economic growth, there remains a clear fiscal 
imperative for the UK’s coalition government to reduce the country’s 
budget deficit within its originally prescribed timeline. This deficit 
reduction plan has led to spending cuts in public sector markets. 
However, competitive outsourcing remains a solution to funding 
pressures as well as a means of improving the standard of services, 
with numerous markets already presenting new opportunities or 
being under active review.

Demonstrating continued political will in this direction, The Open 
Public Services White Paper represents ambitious plans to introduce 
greater competition and reform into more areas of public services. 
There is a particular emphasis on the promotion of more complex 
contract and delivery vehicles, greater involvement of the third 
sector and SMEs, partnering models and payment by outcomes. 
Serco is highly experienced in these areas and has a proven track 
record of efficient, high-quality and innovative service provision. 
We therefore expect to continue making progress in our core market.

Home Affairs
Following an initial market testing of existing public sector prisons 
in early 2011, a further nine prisons (eight in the public sector and 
one being run by a private sector operator) are currently being 
competed with the outcome expected in late 2012. This forms 
part of the UK Ministry of Justice programme of opening up and 
modernising the custodial sector, set out in its ‘Competition 
Strategy for Offender Services’ published in July 2011.

In the area of non-custodial sentencing, other opportunities include 
Community Payback schemes, the first of which to come to market 
is the London region, with Serco bidding in partnership with the 
London Probation Trust. We are also on a national framework to bid 
for further regions. In the growing market for court fines enforcement, 
Serco acquired in October 2011 Philips Collection Services Limited, 
the UK’s largest independent revenue recovery company.

Serco was recently selected by the UK Border Agency as preferred 
bidder to deliver the COMPASS project in two regions, providing 
accommodation, associated services and transport for asylum 
applicants. Expected to commence in late 2012, this contract would 
draw upon our skills in a number of related services, reinforces an 
already strong customer relationship and positions Serco for further 
similar opportunities in other markets.

The demand for police operational support is expected to grow as 
forces, such as West Midlands and Surrey, seek to concentrate on 
frontline delivery of service to the public and look for private sector 
partners to manage their middle and back office functions.

Health
In health we are seeing the emergence of a global market for 
enabling services that combine facilities management, support 
services and patient administration to improve service quality and 
productivity. These services are enabled by high-quality technology 
solutions and an engaged workforce. Our successes in the UK 
and recently in Western Australia position us well in this market.

In clinical services we continue to develop opportunities to operate 
both hospital and community-based services, either on our own  
or in partnership with some of the world’s best clinical operators.

28 | Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011

 
Above left: We are developing 
opportunities to operate hospital 
and community-based clinical 
services. 

Above: A global market is emerging 
for health support services.

Left: The UK’s armed forces are 
seeking new ways of delivering  
and supporting frontline services.

In the UK, the market is driven by the impact of fiscal pressure 
and the proposed structural reforms, whilst in global markets 
we anticipate that investment in establishing healthcare systems 
will underpin both enabling and clinical service opportunities.

Transport, Welfare and Local Government
In transportation, our recent contract to expand the Barclays Cycle 
Hire scheme and the operation of the Docklands Light Railway 
through the Olympic period will support short-term growth. Serco 
now has excellent credentials in urban transport systems which 
position us well for future growth in the UK and elsewhere around 
the world. Our other UK rail franchises in Northern Rail and 
Merseyrail continue to deliver growth in passenger numbers 
and achieve strong operational metrics.

As a leading welfare to work provider, we continue to assess 
the market potential in what is a significant area of government 
expenditure both in the UK and internationally. Our two Work 
Programme contracts have started well and build upon our 
experience and success in the previous Flexible New Deal 
contracts. Our place on the Department for Work and Pensions’ 
‘Framework for the Provision of Employment Related Services’ 
enables us to bid for tenders in seven UK regions, including 
opportunities that attract European Social Fund support.

In local government frontline services, reductions in funding and 
increased service demands from citizens are driving more interest 
in strategic partnering, service sharing and personalisation of 
services. This is expected to support growth in environmental 
services and other opportunities in integrated facilities management.

Defence and Science
After recent reviews into the structure and management of the 
MOD and the UK’s armed forces, new ways of working and more 
radical approaches are being sought for the delivery and support  
of frontline services. Serco is well placed to provide support for 
innovative models for change management, transition and the 
provision of other complex integrated services.

Additional opportunities are expected to emerge in the defence 
market for such services as infrastructure management and asset 
management, business process and whole enterprise outsourcing, 
and technical and engineering services. In the energy field there 
is an emerging market for delivering energy management services 
to industry to help businesses reduce their energy bills and thereby 
reduce their carbon footprint and become more efficient.

Our involvement in managing and operating critical assets such 
as the Atomic Weapons Establishment and leading Public Sector 
Research Establishments such as the National Nuclear Laboratory 
and National Physical Laboratory, also present a number of related 
opportunities. This includes further whole enterprise outsourcing  
as well as delivering growth through existing customer relationships 
as we add additional responsibilities to drive further efficiencies.

Americas
The US federal government services industry faced dramatic 
challenges in 2011 given the federal budget pressures, growing 
national debt and uncertainty created by the inability of the 
government to reach agreement on budget priorities. This 
uncertainty resulted in delays in contract awards, cancellations to 
previously anticipated work and the reduction in scope of existing 
task orders. The bidding environment in many segments has 

Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011 | 29

i

w
e
v
r
e
v
O

i

s
s
e
n
s
u
b
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
m
r
o
f
r
e
p
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
n
r
e
v
o
G

s
t
n
e
m
e
t
a
t
s

l

i

a
c
n
a
n
F

i

 
 
 
 
Section 3 | Our performance

Market opportunities and drivers

become increasingly competitive, reinforced by the government’s 
greater emphasis on price. For the government fiscal year to 
September 2012, all federal budgets have been approved with 
relatively flat spending levels compared to the previous year. 
However, the industry is likely to face continued short-term attrition 
due to the ongoing uncertainty regarding budget levels beyond this. 
Given the upcoming Presidential election and gridlock in Congress 
on how to deal with the national debt, we do not expect much clarity 
or improvement in contracting conditions until 2013.

Despite these challenges, Serco continues to see attractive 
medium- and longer-term growth opportunities in the Americas 
division. The US Federal government services market remains the 
largest in the world, with over $300bn spent annually on contracted 
services, out of which $125bn is addressable by Serco. Within this 
market, Serco focuses on six key areas, with an established  
track record in each: Communication & Information Systems;  
Logistics & Program Management; National Intelligence; Human 
Capital Management; Business Process Outsourcing; and 
Transportation & Asset Management.

As the federal government seeks to adjust to a tightening budget 
environment, we expect to see a broad range of opportunities 
to grow our business by helping customers to achieve more  
with limited resources. We are focusing our portfolio towards 
long-term higher growth markets that are less susceptible to  
margin pressures, so as to respond to the new fiscal realities  
and competitive landscape.

Within information technology-related services, Command,  
Control, Communications, Computer, Intelligence, Surveillance  
and Reconnaissance support continues to be in strong demand, 
reflected by further task orders from the US Navy and US Air Force. 
Related opportunities with the federal civilian agencies are expected 
from government-mandated migration of data and applications to 
the cloud, enabling the government to eliminate redundant data 
centres and infrastructure, and lower operating costs. The 
Department of Defense is expected to increase its focus on areas 
such as Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance, unmanned 
assets, space and cybersecurity. Specifically for our navy customers, 
we expect growth through modernisation work to extend the service 
life of the existing fleet.

Demand for human capital management services will be supported 
by future changes to the size and shape of the armed forces,  
as the military transitions returning combatants to domestic stations 
and civilian status, and looks to provide increased health and  
social services. Defence and federal civilian agencies are adopting  
new tools and technologies for recruiting and training, as well  
as other specialised human capital services to manage 
transformation programmes.

In BPO, modernising legacy systems and delivering more 
cost-effective solutions are expected to result in considerable 
opportunities in areas such as records and application 
management. In another area, Serco has been providing economic 

30 | Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011

cost analysis to help the military and other government agencies 
to achieve procurement cost savings. Incorporating these skills  
into our programme management support services can provide 
additional opportunities with the Intelligence community and across 
the defense sector.

The transportation and infrastructure asset management markets 
are also expected to see good growth opportunities. The growth 
of global air travel and the move to space-based air traffic control  
sees Serco well placed as one of the world’s largest private sector  
Air Navigation Services Providers. In surface transportation, our 
growing reputation in traffic management systems, operations and 
back office processing may open up further prospects in state and 
local markets in the US and Canada.

While general market conditions are likely to remain challenging 
in 2012, the Company continues to pursue a strong pipeline of 
opportunities across the federal government including the US Army, 
US Navy, US Air Force, Department of Homeland Security, Federal 
Aviation Administration, Veterans Affairs, the intelligence community, 
Department of State, and various Canadian government bodies.

AMEAA
The AMEAA region is experiencing the fastest growth of our portfolio 
and still presents some of our strongest market opportunities and 
drivers for future growth. Having grown to represent around 17% 
of Group revenue, the region accounted for over a quarter of the 
Group’s pipeline as at 31 December 2011. Our existing operations 
in Australasia, the Middle East and India each present strong 
prospects, with other territories in the Middle East and South East 
Asia offering possible further potential.

 
Opposite page, top: We continue  
to see attractive medium- and 
longer-term opportunities in the 
Americas division. 

Opposite page, bottom: The 
AMEAA region presents some of 
our strongest market opportunities. 

Right: We expect the BPO market to 
continue to show attractive growth. 

In Australia, while volume-related activity in contracts such as  
our work with Australia’s immigration services may reduce, there 
remains a growing range of opportunities. In the justice sector  
we see a number of new-build and existing prisons being put  
to the market as governments deal with capacity and efficiency 
challenges. Serco is strongly placed through its excellent track 
record and recent wins in the custodial markets in Australia and 
New Zealand. Following recent contract awards there are related 
opportunities in the youth justice and court escorting markets,  
as well as other areas of justice support. Our defence strategy  
in Australia has a firm base of garrison support and navy support 
contracts to build from, with further potential from systems 
integration and back office function support as performed  
in some of our other geographic markets.

We continue to pursue the emerging health markets in Australia, 
Hong Kong and the Middle East, as governments encourage  
the private and voluntary sectors to develop models for the build, 
finance and operation of hospitals. The Fiona Stanley Hospital 
contract represents a significant development, building upon 
substantial experience and expertise from our operations within  
UK hospitals and our other healthcare services in Australia.

The Middle East continues to show strength and resilience to the 
economic downturn as governments progress with their social 
infrastructure improvement programmes while seeking value for 
money and whole-life asset management. Growth in the region  
will be supported from expansion both in terms of new sectors  
and new territories. Significant opportunities are emerging in  
the healthcare market and other integrated facilities management 
areas including in the education and commercial sectors; in 
support of this, we made a small acquisition of JBI Properties 
Services Company LLC, which specialises in integrated facilities 
management in the region.

Building on our leadership in air traffic control and metro  
systems we continue to see a strong pipeline in aviation, urban 
transportation and related services. Countries such as Saudi 
Arabia, Qatar and Kuwait have taken significant steps to improve 
transparency and adopt international best practices for their 
procurement processes, and are starting to present new longer-
term prospects for the Group.

In India, our frontline service capabilities offer opportunities  
in sectors such as transport (including rail, traffic management  
and aviation), as well as healthcare and education, with major 
infrastructure investment being made in each. For example, 
a number of light/metro rail and urban traffic projects are being 
developed. Our presence in the Indian domestic BPO market has 
been significantly enhanced to a leading position by the acquisition 
of Intelenet.

Global Services
As referenced in the Chief Executive’s Statement section on pages 
25 to 26, Serco is forming a new Global Services division. This new 
division will bring together a number of related operations and 
capabilities currently reported and managed in different Serco 
divisions. It will enhance our market position and bring together the 
common market opportunities and drivers in the provision of middle 
and back office services.

As companies and public sector organisations seek out new ways 
to improve their service and reduce costs, we expect the BPO 
market to continue to show attractive growth and opportunities.  
Our acquisition of Intelenet has significantly enhanced Serco’s 
positioning in this market, bringing highly valued capabilities and  
a strong customer base, which together with economies of scale, 
and a presence across four continents mean we can access new 
opportunities and strengthen our existing propositions. Intelenet has 
a significant pipeline of opportunities across its five vertical markets 
of: Banking, Financial Services & Insurance; Travel, Hospitality & 
Transportation; Healthcare, Utility, Retail & Manufacturing; Telecom, 
Technology & Online Services; and Media, Education & Government. 
With the selection for the Anglia Support Partnership, the first 
revenue synergies arising from having Intelenet within Serco are 
already being developed. With new capabilities in middle and back 
office services, our integrated offering will present further such 
opportunities to transform public services.

Our work with local authorities to help them transform their services 
show a strong pipeline of opportunities. Serco’s existing IT-enabled 
BPO service delivery and credentials are strong, as represented by 
existing operations at Hertfordshire County Council and Glasgow 
City Council, both of which have been expanding, and recent  
wins such as Peterborough City Council. There are numerous 
similar strategic partnerships in our pipeline, with local authorities 
increasingly looking for a customer-centric approach and private 
sector expertise.

The smaller acquisitions of The Listening Company in the UK 
and Excelior in Australia are also key components of our future 
proposition as their significant onshore contact centre capabilities 
allow us to promote easier access to frontline services as well as 
encouraging the migration to the use of more effective and efficient 
customer contact channels. We expect this to enhance our 
capability to deliver both public sector transformation programmes 
and improve our market position to support the private sector.

Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011 | 31

i

w
e
v
r
e
v
O

i

s
s
e
n
s
u
b
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
m
r
o
f
r
e
p
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
n
r
e
v
o
G

s
t
n
e
m
e
t
a
t
s

l

i

a
c
n
a
n
F

i

 
 
 
 
Section 3 | Our performance

Our strategy in action

Serco has a clear strategy for achieving our 
vision. The case studies on the following 
pages show some of the ways that we put 
this strategy into action during 2011. We have 
grouped the case studies into key themes  
for our business – partnership, new ideas, 
developing new markets and transferring 
skills around the world.

partnership, for example, can help us to build 
a balanced portfolio and ensure that we 
deliver high-quality service. New ideas can 
include developing new models or finding 
ways to enhance our service. Developing 
new markets through strategic acquisitions 
will, in turn, give us a platform for organic 
growth that broadens our contract portfolio.

The contracts and businesses in these  
case studies typically illustrate more than  
one aspect of our strategy. Working in 

More information on our strategy and our achievements 
during the year can be found on page 14

 Partnership

Working in partnership is fundamental to our business. It can mean forming a relationship  
with other companies or the third sector, working hand in hand with our customers or  
acting alongside public and community bodies.

32 | Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011

 
Above: Our partnership with 
Catch22 and Turning Point  
at Doncaster Prison aims to  
reduce reoffending.

Top right: Part of our work with the 
Defense Ammunition Center is to 
ensure military personnel have the 
latest explosive safety information.

Left: Working with Wincanton  
will help us deliver further savings 
and innovation for our customer.

Right: Joining with local partners  
has helped us create jobs in  
Rhyl, Wales.

Serco has provided prisoner escort and custody services to the UK 
Ministry of Justice since the mid-1990s. When the contract came up 
for renewal, we wanted a partner who could help us deliver further 
savings and innovation.

Our partnership with Wincanton combines Serco’s custodial and 
people care expertise with Wincanton’s knowledge of logistics  
and vehicles. For our 1,240 employees, managing 184 vehicles, 
covering 131 police stations, 73 courts and 25 prisons in London 
and the East of England, Wincanton has helped introduce new 
routing and scheduling technology which is vital to our operation 
with some 650 daily prisoner transfers and movements. Together, 
we have developed more adaptable vehicles, allowing us to cater 
for differing prisoner needs, such as for pregnant women and 
young people. We have optimised our bases, using two existing 
Serco and five new Wincanton sites. The outcome is lower cost, 
greater visibility of our vehicle availability and deployment, reduced 
waiting times for prisoners and a more flexible service.

At HMP & YOI Doncaster, our partnership with charity Catch22 and 
social enterprise Turning Point aims to reduce reoffending. It draws  
on our work inside the prison and our partners’ volunteer networks, 
which support young people and those with substance abuse 
problems. Prisoners are allocated a Catch22 case manager on 
arrival, who assesses their needs and works with them during their 
time in custody and, crucially, in the community following their 
release from prison when they are most at risk of reoffending. 
Doncaster is now the world’s first prison to have fully scaled 
payment by results built into its contract. This means that 10%  
of our revenue depends on achieving a five percentage point 
reduction in reconviction rates. We believe our shared values  
and alliance with specialist organisations will allow us to succeed.

The Defense Ammunition Center (DAC) is the US military’s 
‘one-stop shop’ for explosive safety. Our contract started in 2004, 
with four Serco people supporting DAC’s purchase of a learning 
management system to provide tools and training to support  
the storage and handling of explosive materials, both at home and  
in overseas theatres of war. Since then, through our successful 
partnership with DAC, this project has grown to include 20 full-time 
Serco people providing training, academic services, knowledge 
management and support to DAC’s programme management 
office. Our close relationship also helps us to innovate and meet 
DAC’s evolving needs. For example, Serco has developed two 
iPhone applications to give military personnel access to the latest 
learning materials and explosive safety information.

Our welfare-to-work contracts use partnerships with the third  
sector to help long-term unemployed people into work. But we’ve 
also created another partnership – with the Welsh Assembly, 
Denbighshire County Council, Rhyl City Strategy and Jobcentre 
Plus – to catalyse the regeneration of Edward Henry Street in Rhyl, 
part of one of the most deprived communities in Wales. By locating 
a business processing centre there, we have created local jobs  
for local people. Several of our employees from Rhyl have already 
gone on to other roles within Serco, a real achievement in an  
area where many thought they would never work again. The local 
authority and the Welsh Assembly have since bought houses  
in the street with the aim of building on our initiative and turning  
the street into an in-town business park. 

Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011 | 33

i

w
e
v
r
e
v
O

i

s
s
e
n
s
u
b
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
m
r
o
f
r
e
p
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
n
r
e
v
o
G

s
t
n
e
m
e
t
a
t
s

l

i

a
c
n
a
n
F

i

 
 
 
 
Section 3 | Our performance

Our strategy in action

 New ideas

Our customers often need to achieve more with tight budgets, so they value fresh thinking  
and new perspectives. This might mean using technology, creating systems that improve 
efficiency or developing new contracting models.

34 | Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011

 
Left: We use the latest technology 
to provide excellent patient 
nutrition to support patient care.

Below: Our unique project tracking 
system saved our customer money 
when we fitted a new computer 
system on the USS Nimitz.

Opposite page: We developed 
a collaborative model to finance 
alternative radar technology.

At the Forth Valley Royal Hospital in Scotland, we use the latest 
technology to support patient care. Uniquely, we were able to 
contribute to the hospital’s design, ensuring it was simple to clean 
and maintain and that it could accommodate robotic systems. 
These systems take care of logistical tasks such as moving waste, 
linen and catering around the hospital. This allows our people to 
concentrate on making a difference to the patient experience.

assurance and earned value management. Every day, our people 
submitted reports, which were fed into the system and weighted 
according to the project stage. We audited the installation as we 
went along, testing the tracker’s accuracy and giving our customer 
comfort. This allowed us to adjust our staffing levels, saving the 
customer US$0.5m from a US$10m budget. We have since rolled the 
system out across our Engineering business unit in North America.

Nutrition is vital to patient welfare, for example, so we introduced an 
electronic food ordering system. A ward housekeeper comes to the 
patient’s bedside and enters their meal choice into a PDA, sending 
it to chefs who cook the meals on-site. Food is delivered to the 
wards using robots, keeping it fresh and allowing our staff to plate  
it at the bedside. They can then adjust portions to the patient’s 
appetite, making the meal more appealing and cutting waste to  
less than 5%. In a recent NHS Scotland survey, Forth Valley scored 
99% for standards of patient nutrition and we have also received 
numerous awards for innovation and cleanliness. 

In the US, a Serco-developed system has enhanced our project 
management and saved money for customers. When we installed 
a new computer system on the USS Nimitz, we needed an accurate 
way of tracking our progress. The USS Nimitz is one of the world’s 
largest warships, so the job was vast, involving 40 racks of 
equipment and more than 100 miles of cable.

Traditionally progress could only be estimated, so projects were 
often heavily staffed to ensure that deadlines were hit. Our solution 
was a unique tracking system that showed objectively what we 
had achieved. The system, known as Serco’s Program Integrated 
Reporting and Installation Tracker (SPIRIT), combines quality 

In the UK, we have developed a model that combines the introduction 
of technology with new funding. This is enabling major windfarm 
projects, which will help the Department of Energy and Climate Change 
to meet its commitments to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Windfarms interfere with radar systems that form a vital part  
of UK security. Serco has gained a detailed knowledge of radar 
performance through a long-standing maintenance contract.  
We knew that introducing an alternative radar technology would 
solve the problem and allow the government’s defence and 
renewable energy commitments to co-exist. 

With the government facing budget constraints, we instigated 
a collaborative model, under which the energy companies that are 
building the windfarms pool their budgets, raising enough money 
to finance an area radar solution and safeguarding the companies’ 
substantial investments. We have installed one device, with a 
second scheduled for 2012 and a third for 2013, which will ensure  
that all the stakeholders’ interests are met.

Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011 | 35

i

w
e
v
r
e
v
O

i

s
s
e
n
s
u
b
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
m
r
o
f
r
e
p
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
n
r
e
v
o
G

s
t
n
e
m
e
t
a
t
s

l

i

a
c
n
a
n
F

i

 
 
 
 
Section 3 | Our performance

Our strategy in action

 Developing
 new markets

Broadening our contract portfolio provides an additional platform for organic growth.  
Making strategic acquisitions often assists this. They allow us to gain new skills and to enter 
markets where we see attractive opportunities.

36 | Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011

 
In 2011, we built a significant capability in business process 
outsourcing, a fast-growing and higher margin segment of the 
services market. 

Innovative customer management capability like this opens new 
opportunities for Serco to provide truly transformational solutions 
for organisations in both the public and private sectors.

As part of this, we acquired The Listening Company, a UK-based 
business employing over 4,000 people providing multichannel 
customer management services to organisations in the public and 
private sectors. 

Faced with the challenge to reduce costs while still attracting, 
retaining and developing customer relationships, organisations  
are increasingly turning to lower cost web self service channels  
to expand the capabilities of the traditional contact centre.  
The Listening Company has used web chat to successfully  
drive incremental online sales for BT since 2007.

Visitors to BT’s consumer and business websites can browse  
for information on BT’s products and services. If they appear  
to be having difficulty, they can be presented with a personalised 
invitation to chat directly with a specialist at The Listening Company, 
who will seamlessly guide them through what they want to achieve. 
Through The Listening Company, BT is able to proactively reach 
more customers, to sell more products and services, and feed 
information directly into their marketing teams, strengthening the 
consistency of brand messages and improving the quality of 
their website.

Health is another growth market for Serco and in 2011 we bought 
the company which manages Braintree Community Hospital in  
the UK, which delivers NHS care on behalf of Mid-Essex Primary 
Care Trust. This gives us direct experience of clinical delivery,  
to add to our long-standing capabilities in non-clinical services.  
The hospital provides a range of clinical services, including day 
surgery, outpatients, imaging, physiotherapy, endoscopy, a rapid 
assessment unit and a 24-bed inpatient ward. 

Serco has effectively transformed the hospital, developing improved 
policies, procedures and processes, and enhancing its systems. 
A critical innovation was building a partnership with the Mid-Essex 
Hospital Services NHS Trust, creating a unique arrangement under 
which Mid-Essex provides consultants to Braintree. It also includes 
an agreement for the types of cases Braintree should handle, with 
more complex cases referred directly on to Mid-Essex. The result 
has been a transformation in service quality, with many of Braintree’s 
key performance indicators such as waiting times turned from ‘red’ 
to ‘green’. We have also maintained a 0% infection rate since taking 
over the hospital.

Braintree now gives us a valuable reference point for future bids. 
The hospital straddles both community and acute care, which will 
help us to bid for community health services and potentially for 
other failing hospitals. Our experience is also giving us pointers 
for enhancing our non-clinical services and we will be using this 
knowledge as we design the services we will be providing at the  
Fiona Stanley Hospital in Australia.

Opposite page and top: 
Acquisitions such as Intelenet and 
The Listening Company give us 
significant global BPO capability.

Left: Our work at Braintree 
Community Hospital gives us  
a valuable reference point for  
future bids.

Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011 | 37

i

w
e
v
r
e
v
O

i

s
s
e
n
s
u
b
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
m
r
o
f
r
e
p
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
n
r
e
v
o
G

s
t
n
e
m
e
t
a
t
s

l

i

a
c
n
a
n
F

i

 
 
 
 
Section 3 | Our performance

Our strategy in action

Transferring skills

Our ability to transfer skills around the world and adapt them to local needs opens up new  
and exciting opportunities for us.

38 | Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011

 
The Mount Eden Corrections Facility in New Zealand is the first in  
the country to be transferred from the public to the private sector. 
In February 2011, we signed the contract to run Mount Eden, using  
an operational model based on the one we developed at HMP & 
YOI Doncaster in the UK. For example, one of the key concepts  
in our bid was to introduce performance measurement around 
reducing reoffending, drawing on the work we have done at 
Doncaster. We are also building strong links to the local community.

The transition process was complex: we took over an existing 
prison, closed an old one and opened a new site within three 
months, while implementing the first-ever national ban on smoking 
in prison. We achieved this without disrupting services to the  
courts or suffering a major incident. We also worked hard with 
manawhenua groups to incorporate Maori values alongside our 
own value system, as we introduced an ethos of decency and 
respect for prisoners. This has already delivered important changes 
at Mount Eden. Our strong brand of prisoner engagement helped 
reduce violent incidents by around 15% and virtually eliminated  
self-harm incidents at the new site.

In 2011, we signed a major new contract with the Western 
Australian Department of Health to provide non-clinical support 
services at the new Fiona Stanley Hospital near Perth. The winning 
bid was the result of a partnership between our AMEAA and UK 
divisions, drawing on experience of UK hospital services and 
AMEAA’s deep understanding of the customer, local government 
procurement and the health system.

Serco will be responsible for providing nearly 30 different 
non-clinical services, ranging from procurement to IT to human 
resources. When the hospital opens in 2014 we will use state-of-the-
art technology to integrate our work with the clinical services and 
staff, creating a seamless environment. The contract team benefits 
from our experience at our UK hospitals, including Forth Valley 
Royal Hospital in Scotland, where we provide many similar services 
in a high-technology environment, but the breadth of our role at 
Fiona Stanley is even greater and will in turn develop new and 
valuable skills for us.

We have an outstanding reputation for air traffic control (ATC) 
services. Nowhere is this reputation stronger than in the Middle 
East, where we have successfully operated in the ATC market for 
some 60 years. This stood us in good stead as Iraq emerged from 
a post-conflict era. It recognised the importance of rejoining the 
aviation community and needed a partner that could help it develop 
ATC services to international standards. We were able to leverage 
our global ATC knowledge to win the contract.

In a team effort, experienced Serco staff from the Middle East 
helped to manage the mobilisation and transition of the contract. 
Our people on the ground, meanwhile, also had to adapt to Iraq’s 
unique and challenging conditions. During 2011, the US military 
handed vast tracts of airspace back to the Iraqi civilian authorities, 
with substantial assistance from Serco. These processes can take 
years but we achieved it all in less than ten months. In addition,  
we introduced internationally recognised ATC procedures,  
to increase the capacity for aircraft flying through the airspace – 
generating more revenue for Iraq – and have begun training local 
people to develop Iraq’s ATC expertise. The outcome has been 
significant month-on-month growth in air traffic, outstripping global 
and regional growth by some margin. Serco’s efforts have resulted 
in an approximate 30% increase in overflying traffic since the 
contract started on 1 January 2011.

Above: Our operational model at 
Mount Eden Corrections Facility  
in New Zealand is based on one 
we developed in the UK.

Left: The contract team at Fiona 
Stanley Hospital near Perth 
benefits from our experience  
at our UK hospitals where we 
provide similar services.

Opposite page: We are leveraging 
our global air traffic control 
experience in Iraq.

Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011 | 39

i

w
e
v
r
e
v
O

i

s
s
e
n
s
u
b
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
m
r
o
f
r
e
p
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
n
r
e
v
o
G

s
t
n
e
m
e
t
a
t
s

l

i

a
c
n
a
n
F

i

 
 
 
 
Section 3 | Our performance

Operating Review | Civil Government

The Operating Review is presented according to the five 
divisions into which we were organised in 2011:
 ● Civil Government
 ● Defence, Science and Nuclear
 ● Local Government and Commercial
 ● Americas
 ● AMEAA (Africa, Middle East, Asia and Australasia).

The section outlines contract wins which are significant because 
of their value or their strategic contribution to our business.  
We have also won numerous other smaller and medium-sized 
contracts, details of some of which can be found on our website 
at www.serco.com.

Civil Government includes our UK 
and European operations in transport, 
home affairs (custodial, immigration 
and field services, and border security 
and control), welfare to work and 
clinical healthcare.

Revenue on a reported basis grew 6% to £1,199m (2010: £1,127m) 
and represented 26% of Group revenue. Revenue on an organic 
basis also increased 6%. Adjusted operating profit, before 
corporate expenses, increased by 20%, with the margin increasing 
from 5.9% to 6.6%.

Revenue growth was supported by previous large contract awards 
that became operational or saw revenues build through the course 
of 2010 and 2011. These included the timing of revenues earned 
under the previous Flexible New Deal welfare to work contracts and 
passenger growth on the Docklands Light Railway. The expansion 
of the GSTS Pathology joint venture to include King’s College 
Hospital NHS Foundation increased revenues but challenged  
the achievement of efficiency improvements. The overall margin 
improvement reflected the higher than average bid costs in 2010 
and the strong performance in 2011.

Transport
Northern Rail continues to perform well, with 2011 punctuality 
metrics of 91.7%, just ahead of the industry average and 
maintaining the significant improvement achieved over our 
operation of the franchise. Northern Rail was named Public 
Transport Operator of the Year (Rail) at the 2011 National Transport 
Awards, awarded the top transport title from the Royal Society for 
the Prevention of Accidents for the third year running, as well as the 
‘Sustainable Business of the Year’ for 2011 in the Environment and 
Energy Awards, supported by Sustainable Business. In May 2010, 
Northern Rail was awarded an extension to its franchise through  
to September 2013. We expect a further short extension through  
to April 2014, which would see the rebid process begin next year.

Merseyrail has also had a strong operational performance in the 
year, with the majority of its business indicators showing a stable 
and healthy performance, including punctuality at 95.1%, well above 
the industry average. This comes on top of being the UK’s most 
punctual rail operation as well as the most highly rated in terms  
of customer satisfaction during 2010. Merseyrail has also achieved 
the Investors in Excellence Standard, an internationally recognised 
mark of quality, for achieving continuous improvement as well as 
ongoing success and sustainability.

Docklands Light Railway saw customer satisfaction improve to 
96.7% in December 2011, the best result for four years. Service 
reliability has also increased to an average throughout the year  
of 97.7% of trains running to schedule and passenger growth has 
continued following the previous year’s increase in capacity with  

40 | Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011

 
Opposite page, top: The Barclays 
Cycle Hire Scheme continued to 
grow its customer numbers. 

Below: Our Prisoner Escort and 
Custody Services contract handles 
650 prisoner movements each day.

Top left: Merseyrail’s punctuality  
is well above the industry average. 

Top: Northern Rail was Public 
Transport Operator of the Year.

Above: Docklands Light Railway  
is a key part of the London 2012 
Olympic transport network. 

the full roll-out of the three-carriage service. Docklands Light 
Railway was highly commended twice in the annual Light Rail 
Awards for the quality of its customer communication and 
community engagement. In August 2011, the Stratford International 
extension opened, a key part of the London 2012 Olympic and 
Paralympic transport network; it includes four new stations and 
connects five Games venues.

Serco’s partnership of the Barclays Cycle Hire scheme continued  
to see growth in customer numbers which brought some 
operational challenges; Serco has implemented a number of 
changes to deliver improved service standards on this innovative 
scheme. Since the launch in August 2010, more than ten million 
journeys have been made. The success of the scheme has seen 
Serco awarded an expanded contract by Transport for London  
to support growth to East London, adding new docking stations  
in West London and an increase in the number available in the 
existing area. The expansion will add over 200 new docking 
stations, approximately 4,500 new docking points and 2,300 new 
bikes into the scheme. On average 25,000 customers use Barclays 
Cycle Hire each day and the scheme now has over 140,000 
registered customers. The contract expansion is in total valued at 
approximately £50m and will run until 2015, in line with the existing 
£140m six-year contract awarded to Serco in August 2009. 
Recognition for the scheme has included an ‘Infrastructure Award’ 
at the Institution of Civil Engineers Awards, ‘Innovative Transport 
Project’ at the London Transport Awards and a ‘Design of the Year’ 
award at the Brit Insurance Design Awards for innovation from 
around the world.

Home Affairs
The UK Government’s Ministry of Justice awarded Serco a contract 
to provide Prisoner Escort and Custody Services within the new 
National Offender Management Service (NOMS) region of London 
and the East of England, with a potential value to Serco of £420m 
over ten years. This new contract replaces Serco’s previous 
agreement to provide prisoner escorting services to the NOMS 
regions of London and the South-East, which had reached the  
end of its seven-year term. Serco is working in partnership with 
Wincanton plc to provide the safe, timely and secure transportation 
of prisoners between police stations, courts and HM Prisons.  
Whilst at court, Serco staff manage custody suites and accompany 
prisoners in courtroom docks. The contract solution brings together 
experience and expertise to deliver an innovative approach, 
high-quality services and considerable savings for the taxpayer.

Serco was awarded the contract to continue operating HM Prison 
and Young Offender Institution Doncaster in the UK. The new 
contract commenced in October 2011 and is valued at around 
£250m over 15 years. As part of the contract, management and 
staff are working in partnership with social enterprise Turning Point 
and the leading charity Catch22 to pilot a rehabilitation programme, 
on a payment by results basis, to reduce reoffending. This is the 
first such pilot in the UK, and the Secretary of State for Justice has 
described its success as central to the Government’s rehabilitation 
reform strategy.

Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011 | 41

i

w
e
v
r
e
v
O

i

s
s
e
n
s
u
b
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
m
r
o
f
r
e
p
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
n
r
e
v
o
G

s
t
n
e
m
e
t
a
t
s

l

i

a
c
n
a
n
F

i

 
 
 
Section 3 | Our performance

Operating Review | Civil Government

Far right and below right:  
Serco is working with a strong 
network of organisations to help 
long-term unemployed people  
into employment.

Right: We are piloting an offender 
rehabilitation programme on a 
payment by results basis at  
HMP & YOI Doncaster.

The new prison at Belmarsh West in London, to be known as 
HMP Thameside, will become operational from 30 March 2012.  
The contract has a value to Serco of approximately £415m over 
26½ years. Serco-operated HMP Lowdham Grange received the 
highest possible performance rating in NOMS’ annual survey and 
was described by the HM Chief Inspector of Prisons’ recent report 
as ‘among the most impressive category B training prisons in the 
system’. HMP & YOI Ashfield was also described as ‘impressive’ by 
the Chief Inspector, and HMP Dovegate, working with Staffordshire 
University, has helped to professionalise prison staff by developing 
the first Foundation Degree in Offender Management.

Our contract to manage Yarl’s Wood Immigration Removal Centre 
has been extended by two years. The contract has also been 
expanded to include provision for male residents, increasing the 
total value of the extension to approximately £25m.

Serco signed a new contract as prime contractor with the UK 
Border Agency to provide service management for the e-Borders 
system, valued at £29m over two years. Having successfully agreed 
the cessation of the previous arrangements as a subcontractor,  
the new contract means Serco continues to operate the e-Borders 
service and the National Border Targeting Centre, which is the 
central hub of the multi-agency border security system. Together 
with our ongoing support to the UK Border Agency’s CYCLAMEN 
programme, which provides radiological and nuclear scanning  
at ports, this means that Serco is making a significant contribution 
to national security and public safety.

Welfare to Work
On 30 June 2011, Serco began operating two new contracts  
to deliver the Work Programme in the West Midlands and  
South Yorkshire for the UK Department for Work and Pensions. 
Serco is working with a strong network of some 33 organisations, 
around half of which are from the voluntary sector, so jobseekers 
can benefit from a rich mix of experience and expertise. For the 
same start-up period, our Work Programme performance is ahead 
of that under the previous Flexible New Deal contracts. In initial 
performance data released by the Department for Work and 
Pensions, our contracts are ranked top out of all 40, thereby  
ranking Serco the top provider out of all 18.

Revenues received under our previous Flexible New Deal contracts 
were greater than the previous year. This reflected the anticipated 
build-up of activity in the first half of the year and the successful 
cessation of the contracts in July 2011. These contracts have 
supported the entry of over 25,000 people into sustainable 
employment since October 2009.

Serco has been awarded two new contracts by the UK Ministry  
of Justice to help ex-offenders into work in the South-East and  
East of England. The four-year contracts, valued in total at £15m, 
are the second phase of an initiative called ‘Job Deal’ which aims  
to support ex-offenders into work by improving their employment 
prospects and tackling barriers to employment. Serco already 
delivers the first phase of Job Deal in these two regions via  
a network of subcontractors from the charitable, voluntary and 
private sectors. The contracts are co-financed by the European 
Social Fund and NOMS.

42 | Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011

Far right and centre: Our GSTS 
Pathology joint venture added 
King’s College Hospital as  
a partner. 

Below and right: Braintree 
Community Hospital provides a 
comprehensive range of services 
to day surgery patients.

Health
To expand our clinical capabilities, Serco has acquired for £1.6m 
Braintree Clinical Services Limited, which manages and operates 
the Braintree Community Hospital in the UK on behalf of the 
Mid-Essex Primary Care Trust. The recently built hospital provides  
a comprehensive range of services to day surgery patients  
under one roof. These include general surgery, plastic surgery, 
orthopaedics, ophthalmology and the diagnosis of ear, nose and 
throat disorders. It also provides outpatients, diagnostic services 
and has 24 community in-patient beds. Serco’s aim is to make the 
best use of the state-of-the-art facilities to improve local healthcare.

Serco has consolidated its position as one of the UK’s leading 
providers of primary healthcare support with the signing of a 
renewed contract with NHS Cornwall and Isles of Scilly for GP 
out-of-hours care. Serco has provided this service to more than  
half a million people since April 2006, working closely with local 
acute healthcare providers and community services to manage 
unscheduled care in its entirety. The five-year contract has a total 
value of approximately £32m.

Our GSTS Pathology joint venture has now obtained substantial 
scale having added King’s College Hospital as a further partner. 
This increased 2011 revenues compared to the previous year.  
There remains significant management focus on delivering greater 
efficiency improvements in 2012.

Above: We are a leading provider  
of custodial health services.

Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011 | 43

i

w
e
v
r
e
v
O

i

s
s
e
n
s
u
b
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
m
r
o
f
r
e
p
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
n
r
e
v
o
G

s
t
n
e
m
e
t
a
t
s

l

i

a
c
n
a
n
F

i

 
 
 
Section 3 | Our performance

Operating Review | Defence, Science and Nuclear

Defence, Science and Nuclear  
brings together our businesses 
providing support to the armed 
forces in the UK and European 
defence markets, science-based 
businesses such as our contracts at 
the Atomic Weapons Establishment 
(AWE), the National Physical 
Laboratory and the National Nuclear 
Laboratory, our energy market 
operations and our nuclear safety 
and assurance business.

Revenue on a reported basis grew 3% to £939m (2010: £911m)  
and represented 20% of Group revenue. Revenue on an organic 
basis also increased 3%. Adjusted operating profit, before 
corporate expenses, increased by 3%, with the margin held  
at 8.5%.

Revenue progress in 2011 has reflected a number of short-term 
project awards, and was achieved in the face of strong competitive 
pressures and some delays to decision making and major contract 
awards as a result of customer budgetary reviews. Progress in 
other areas, including an exceptionally strong performance at AWE 
and a greater number of smaller value contract awards, has offset 
particular challenges in the level of higher margin discretionary 
project work and the timing of efficiency improvements in our 
marine services business.

In the UK defence market, Serco provides a range of operational 
support, engineering and training services, known as Multi-Activity 
Contracts (MAC), at various bases for the UK’s armed forces, with 
these relationships continuing to strengthen. Our maintenance and 
support services at the Depth Maintenance Facility for the Royal 
Navy’s Merlin helicopter fleet at Royal Naval Air Station Culdrose  
in Cornwall had its contract renewed with AgustaWestland, valued 
at £33m to Serco over five years, with our engineers also awarded  
a Commander-in-Chief Fleets Commendation for outstanding 
support to flying training. A new MAC was won for RAF Valley, 
supporting their crucial role in training fast jet pilots for both the  
RAF and the Royal Navy, valued at £20m over five years. After the 
year-end, there were further MACs successfully rebid, with a 
combined total potential value to Serco of over £100m.

44 | Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011

As strategic partner appointed by the Defence Science and 
Technology Laboratory (Dstl) in 2006, Serco has now been  
awarded additional work to oversee and deliver part of Dstl’s  
Helios programme, which was granted Ministerial approval to 
proceed in June 2011. The Helios Programme will see the 
relocation of all of Dstl’s activities from its Fort Halstead site to,  
and the provision of new facilities at, its Head Office at Porton 
Down. The programme will enable Dstl to achieve its future strategic 
goals, to protect technical capability and to provide additional cost 
benefits. With the new buildings and facilities to be provided by 
2016, the capital projects and associated support equipment has  
a total value to Serco of around £80m, and follows the successful 
completion of Project INSPIRE, which delivered award-winning, 
state-of-the-art science facilities at Dstl Porton Down.

Serco has been awarded a five-year extension to its contract to 
provide air traffic control, air traffic engineering, flight briefing and 
operations support services at Cranfield Airport, Bedfordshire in the 
UK. Serco has provided similar services at Cranfield Airport, which 
is owned and operated by Cranfield University, continuously since 
the 1950s. We have also secured an extension for the Woolwich 
Ferry, valued at approximately £14m.

Opposite page and below left:  
We have Multi-Activity Contracts  
at several bases for the UK’s  
armed forces. 

Left: The National Physical  
Laboratory continues to deliver  
world class research.

Below: Our joint venture at AWE  
continues to achieve excellent results.

Our joint venture with Lockheed Martin and Jacobs Engineering, 
which manages and operates AWE, continues to achieve excellent 
results. The contract incentivises us to save money against the 
future programme and our results reflect the benefit of providing 
substantial savings whilst achieving excellent performance in  
the quality and timeliness of our delivery. Following the building  
of the largest plasma physics research facility in the UK in recent 
years, the technical schedule continues apace. In addition,  
an AWE-led consortium was selected as preferred bidder to  
deliver elements of the Strategic Weapons Systems support  
at Royal Naval Armament Depot Coulport.

Operations of the National Physical Laboratory continue to develop. 
We achieved a record number of peer-reviewed publications (240) 
and received international recognition for the world’s most accurate 
atomic clock (precise to one second in 138 million years). We have 
tripled third-party income since 2004 to represent around one third 
of overall income. The Shareholder Executive has extended our 
contract with Battelle and University of Manchester to manage the 
National Nuclear Laboratory (NNL). In 2011, NNL won work from  
the European Space Agency that will utilise NNL’s world-leading 
expertise and state-of-the-art facilities to evaluate powering future 
European space missions.

In support of the UK Ministry of Defence’s nuclear propulsion 
programme, Serco has been awarded a new three-year framework 
contract by Rolls-Royce Marine for the provision of research and 
technology services, with a total value of £15m. In addition, Serco 
was also awarded a new contract by the MoD to build a series  
of five test rigs that will be used to study environmentally-assisted 
corrosion of materials. Other smaller wins in technical services 
include those for the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority 
Radioactive Waste Management Directorate. 

In our European defence operations, we have seen significant 
growth in our German revenue. Key contract wins have included  
our multi-activity contract for MBDA, a world leader in missiles and 
missile systems, which was successfully rebid. Mainly comprising 
facilities management services at Schrobenhausen in Germany, 
 the contract is worth €14m over two years. Serco is also providing 
installation and support of a new radar system for Germany’s 
Ministry of Defence.

Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011 | 45

i

w
e
v
r
e
v
O

i

s
s
e
n
s
u
b
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
m
r
o
f
r
e
p
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
n
r
e
v
o
G

s
t
n
e
m
e
t
a
t
s

l

i

a
c
n
a
n
F

i

 
 
 
Section 3 | Our performance

Operating Review | Local Government and Commercial

Right: The Listening Company 
opened its ninth major UK  
contact centre.

Below right: We are a major provider 
of support services to hospitals. 

Below: We made good progress in 
our first year operating our largest 
environmental contract at Sandwell, 
in the UK.

Local Government and Commercial 
comprises our UK and European 
IT-enabled BPO services, integrated 
and environmental services,  
leisure, education, consulting  
and commercial businesses.

Revenue on a reported basis grew 1% to £860m (2010: £854m)  
and represented 18% of Group revenue. Excluding the revenue 
contribution from the acquisition of The Listening Company, 
revenue on an organic basis declined by 7%. Adjusted operating 
profit, before corporate expenses, reduced by 6%, with the margin 
reducing from 6.5% to 6.1%.

has transferred to Serco, along with delivery of support services 
including customer services, procurement, revenues and benefits 
collection and payment, and property services. The partnership  
with Peterborough is expected to grow, with further services  
being brought into scope as part of Serco’s involvement in the 
Council’s transformation.

The organic revenue decline was driven by the impact of 
government spending reductions in a number of areas and  
the return of education services to Bradford Council following  
our successful ten-year intervention contract. The majority  
of our regional Business Link services have closed and our 
businesslink.gov.uk contract significantly scaled back as a  
result of the funding cuts borne by Regional Development  
Agencies and central government departments. Following the  
2010 Comprehensive Spending Review, we have continued to see 
some customers delay decisions on discretionary project work, 
which has also impacted margin. Strong performances in our 
strategic growth markets, including our citizen-centric partnership 
contracts with local authorities, have not been sufficient to offset  
the impact of these other areas of funding cuts. Although we  
expect some further impact of the current economic climate,  
this does not alter our belief in the significant market opportunities 
and the drivers of future growth in this sector.

Supplementary work has been added to our other local authority 
relationships. Our ground-breaking strategic partnership with 
Hertfordshire County Council commenced in April 2011, providing 
front and back office operations including information and 
communication technology (ICT) services, business processes 
such as finance, payroll and HR, and support services such as 
facilities management, customer contact centres and occupational 
health. The initial 350 staff increased to over 450 in 2011 with the 
addition of Hertfordshire’s customer services centre. Since the start 
of full operations, we have been awarded an extension to the scope 
of our core contract to transform the customer experience and 
deliver a much wider scope of services, including adult social care 
and highways, which will take staff numbers to over 600 by April 
2012. Serco’s property and IT joint venture with Glasgow City 
Council, known as ACCESS, has been extended to include ICT 
support for the authority’s secondary schools. Since the joint 
venture begun in 2008, our contract value has grown by over 40%.

IT-Enabled BPO Services
Serco won a significant new local authority strategic partnership 
with Peterborough City Council. Providing frontline and back  
office support services, the contract has an initial value of £100m 
over ten years. The Council’s in-house shared service centre  

In March 2011, Serco acquired The Listening Company, a UK-
based provider of outsourced customer contact services to both 
private and public sector organisations. It specialises in bespoke 
solutions for managing customer interaction ranging from customer 
acquisition to retention, renewal and growth, and it operates across 

46 | Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011

Right: We continue to grow  
our IT-enabled BPO work with  
local authorities. 

Below right: Serco is one of the 
leading private sector partners in 
education and children’s services.

multiple communication channels. The business therefore adds 
significant contact centre scale and expertise which strengthens  
our capability to deliver high-volume call handling and frontline 
customer services. Wins at The Listening Company included 
becoming the new provider of West Sussex County Council’s UK 
contact centre. During the year The Listening Company opened  
its ninth major UK contact centre. This will manage sales and 
customer service activity for a range of UK-based organisations, 
including Shop Direct Group, the UK’s largest online and home 
shopping retailer.

Serco has continued to strengthen its position as a leading provider 
of services to European institutions. A contract was successfully 
rebid to provide a wide range of IT operational and support services 
to a major European banking organisation, valued at €20m over 
four years. This was followed by a new win at the same organisation 
to provide IT development, security engineering and maintenance 
activities across the organisation’s IT infrastructure and application 
services, worth an estimated €50m over eight years. A contract  
was renewed to provide specialist technical engineering support 
services at the European Organization for Nuclear Research 
(CERN), valued at €42m over seven years. Other smaller contracts 
were won at the European Organisation for the Exploitation of 
Meteorological Satellites, the European Space Operations Centre 
and the Italian Space Agency.

Reflecting the delivery of synergies with The Listening Company, 
Serco expanded its existing IT support services to a major 
European institution by winning a contract to provide a voice- 
based contact centre. This multilingual contact centre will maintain 
a base capability of at least nine languages but will also support  
all 25 EU languages whenever required.

Integrated and Environmental Services
Serco signed a 15-year partnership with Sport England to provide 
support services at two of Sport England’s National Sports Centres, 
Bisham Abbey and Lilleshall. Under the contract, valued at over 
£100m, Serco will provide a number of services to these centres  
as well as playing a major part in the development of new 
accommodation and sporting facilities at both sites, and upgrading 
existing facilities and conference venues. This contract will focus 
upon delivering the best customer experience at each site. 
Supporting the National Governing Bodies of Sport and UK Sport 
based at these facilities, emphasis will be placed on youth 
development, community engagement and ensuring the facilities 
are managed to give home-grown athletes a competitive  
advantage as they prepare for the London 2012 Olympic and 
Paralympic Games.

Under challenges to meet government recycling targets and reduce 
costs such as landfill taxes, Serco has won a new contract for 
refuse and recycling services for Wandsworth Borough Council 
valued at £44m over eight years. Good progress has also been 
made in the first year of operating Serco’s largest environmental 

contract, the Sandwell 25-year Waste Improvement Plan, valued  
at around £650m. The new waste transfer station is under 
development, an improved recycling service has been introduced, 
with strong links forged with the local community through a series  
of successful community engagement initiatives to improve the 
local environment.

Education
Reflecting changes to UK government policy within the Education 
Bill 2011, Serco is partnering with councils where schools buy back 
for the provision of school improvement and related services, with 
wins in the second half including North East Lincolnshire Council, 
Warrington Borough Council and Halton Borough Council. The 
combined total value of these and other recent education-related 
contracts is estimated at approximately £50m over the next three  
to five years.

As previously announced, our ten-year contract with Bradford 
Council came to an end in September 2011 and we transferred the 
responsibility for all education services back to the Council. We are 
delighted with the significant improvements that have been made 
over the duration of the contract. In 2001, SATS Key Stage 2 pupils 
achieving Level 4 or higher was 66% for English and 59% for Maths, 
with this improving to 71% in each subject in 2011. In 2001, GCSE 
pupils achieving five A*–Cs was 34.3%, improving to 79% in 2011. 
Our contract in Walsall has been delivering similar successes,  
and its schools were confirmed as the eighth most improved at  
five A*–C GCSEs in 2011. The contract will end in 2013, reflecting 
the shift to direct funding to purchase services previously provided 
through government grants to local education authorities.

Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011 | 47

i

w
e
v
r
e
v
O

i

s
s
e
n
s
u
b
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
m
r
o
f
r
e
p
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
n
r
e
v
o
G

s
t
n
e
m
e
t
a
t
s

l

i

a
c
n
a
n
F

i

 
 
 
Section 3 | Our performance

Operating Review | Americas

Our Americas segment provides 
professional, technology and 
management services focused 
primarily on the US Federal 
government, including every  
branch of the military, a broad  
range of civilian agencies and the 
National Intelligence community.  
We also provide services to the 
Canadian government, selected  
US state governments and  
municipal governments.

Revenue on a constant currency as well as on an organic basis 
declined by 6%. Revenue on a reported basis, given the weakening 
of the US Dollar, fell by 9% to £868m (2010: £954m) and 
represented 19% of Group revenue. Adjusted operating profit, 
before corporate expenses, reduced by 6% on a reported currency 
basis, with the margin slightly increasing to 8.4%, reflecting efficient 
cost management.

The funding of the US Federal government functioned under a 
series of continuing resolutions for most of 2011 due to partisan 
gridlock and rising concerns about federal deficits. Having still 
grown constant currency revenues by 3% in the first half of the year, 
the impact was felt greatest in the second half of the year given 
a particularly strong performance in the equivalent period in 2010. 
The challenges facing the 2011 budget process included 
government agencies postponing contract award announcements, 
delaying work under existing contracts and cancelling or reducing 
the scope of many contracts and task orders. Within this context, 
Serco has been focusing on markets that we expect will continue  
to receive funding support and on assisting government customers 
to achieve greater efficiencies and higher productivity with 
constrained resources.

US government agencies are increasingly using multi-award 
contract vehicles to issue task orders on a rapid-cycle, competitive 
basis. Qualifying for and winning business under such Indefinite 
Delivery, Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) contract vehicles is a key 
contributor to Serco’s growth.

48 | Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011

Above: Serco provides mission-
critical services to the US Air Force 
Space Command. 

During 2011, Serco was one of four awardees that won an 
important IDIQ vehicle, the US Navy’s Space and Naval Warfare 
Systems Command (SPAWAR) Sea Enterprise Global contract  
with a ceiling value of US$1.4bn over five years. Under this contract  
we support Command, Control, Communications, Computers, 
Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (C4ISR) systems  
on US Navy surface ships and shore stations, and in 2011 we won 
task orders under this new contract valued at US$13m. Further task 
orders valued at US$18m had been won earlier in 2011 under the 
predecessor Sea Enterprise I IDIQ contract. A further IDIQ contract 
win to provide engineering, testing, and support services to 
SPAWAR has a ceiling value of US$34m to Serco over five years.

Serco provides similar services to the US Air Force Space 
Command, with the customer electing to exercise an additional 
two-year option period on the Command, Control, Computer, 
Communications, Intelligence and Reconnaissance (C4IT2SR) IDIQ 
contract. Serco is the sole prime contractor under this US$800m 
contract, under which we provide a range of mission-critical 
engineering and IT services, and we were awarded new task orders 
during 2011 with a total value of US$115m. These services include 
engineering, systems integration, hardware procurement, software 
development, technical support, installation testing, operations 
and maintenance.

Under our HRsolutions IDIQ with the US Army we won a 
recompeted US$33m task order to support the US Army’s 
OneSource initiative, which was established to provide 
comprehensive community support and service delivery for soldiers 
and their families regardless of geographic location. Also under 
HRsolutions, we renewed a US$52m, three-year contract to provide 

Below right: Our logistics team  
in Williamsburg, Virginia, works 
with the US Navy Expeditionary 
Medical Support Command.

Below: We provide air traffic control 
services at 63 towers for the 
Federal Aviation Administration. 

Far right: We support the US 
Navy’s procurement, handling and 
disposal of hazardous materials.

Right: We provide driver 
examination services in  
Ontario, Canada. 

transition and employment assistance to soldiers and family 
members transitioning out of the military under the Army’s Career 
and Alumni Program. Serco has provided career counselling 
support to over 2.2 million service members, army civilians and their 
families over the past two decades under this programme. 
Additionally, Serco won a new US$10m, three-year task order to 
provide civilian workforce transition services and a new US$9 million 
three-year task order to provide financial management services to 
the Army Defense Military Pay Office locations. During 2011, Serco 
won task orders with a total value of US$169m under our three 
HRsolutions IDIQs.

We were one of seven large contractors to win an IDIQ contract  
to provide training services to the US Army’s Maneuver Center  
of Excellence at Fort Benning, Georgia, with a ceiling value  
of US$458m over five years. We also won an IDIQ contract to 
provide Manpower, Personnel, Training and Education (MPTE) 
planning support, policy and programme analysis, financial 
programme management and training solutions for the US Navy, 
with a ceiling value of US$47m over three years.

Other defense-related contracts included: a renewed five-year, 
US$12m contract with the US Navy for Training and Operational 
Readiness Information Services (TORIS) to provide web-based 
training support and capture readiness data for all US Navy surface 
ships; a renewed three-year, US$13.5m contract with the US Air 
Force Special Operations Forces for engineering, financial and 
logistics management; and a US$15m contract extension for 
personnel management support services at the Walter Reed 
National Military Medical Center.

Growth in the intelligence arena came from an expansion of 
programme management work and from success in growing our 
footprint with a new intelligence customer. Serco also recompeted 
and was awarded a contract with an intelligence agency.  
The contract is valued at US$15m over five years to provide 
pre-employment processing for potential employees for the agency.

Other contract awards included a US$25m, five-year rebid contract 
to provide fleet management and maintenance services to Louisville 
Gas & Electric, a utility company based in Kentucky.

During 2011, Serco was awarded a one-year extension and 
expansion to the VA for Vets contract with the Department of 
Veterans Affairs. Under this contract we are providing: programme 
management; a knowledge management-based web portal with job 
hiring tools, e-Learning elements and simulations, videos and chat 
rooms; mobile web technologies; a call centre and career coaching. 
Serco also manages the MyArmyBenefits website, providing site 
architecture, IT development, programming, content management, 
benefits help desk and retirement and survivor planning. This 
contract was renewed with a three-year total value of US$10m.

Serco was selected by the Boeing Company as its ‘Supplier of  
the Year’ in the technology category. This is a tremendous honour, 
especially when considering that Boeing gave awards to only 16 out 
of its more than 17,500 suppliers worldwide. This award recognises 
Serco for its enterprise architecture work. This is the second time 
Serco’s enterprise architecture team has received Boeing’s Supplier 
of the Year award. Vetrepreneur Magazine cited Serco as one of  
the ‘10 Best Corporations for Veteran-Owned Businesses to work 
with in 2011’. This achievement emphasises Serco’s continued 
dedication to working with the veteran community.

Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011 | 49

i

w
e
v
r
e
v
O

i

s
s
e
n
s
u
b
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
m
r
o
f
r
e
p
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
n
r
e
v
o
G

s
t
n
e
m
e
t
a
t
s

l

i

a
c
n
a
n
F

i

 
 
 
Section 3 | Our performance

Operating Review | AMEAA

Our AMEAA segment consists  
of Africa, the Middle East, Asia and 
Australasia, in which we provide a 
range of services including transport, 
justice, immigration, health, defence, 
BPO and facilities management.

Revenue on a reported basis grew 62% to £780m (2010: £481m) 
and represented 17% of Group revenue, up from 11% in 2010. 
Revenue on a constant currency basis, which excludes the impact 
of the strong Australian Dollar, grew by 56%. Excluding the revenue 
contribution from acquisitions, principally Intelenet, revenue on an 
organic basis grew 37%. Adjusted operating profit, before corporate 
expenses, increased by 70% on a reported basis, with the margin 
increasing from 6.8% to 7.1% which includes the contribution of the 
higher margin Intelenet operations which more than offset higher than 
average bid and related costs for major contracts won in the year.

The exceptionally high organic revenue growth reflects new 
contracts that became operational in late 2010 and during 2011  
as well as the expansion of existing contracts.

Our home affairs business in Australia works with the Australian 
Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC) to transform  
its immigration services. Serco is committed to continuous 
improvement in the delivery of a dignified service for the people  
in our care. The average number of people in immigration detention 
in 2011 was higher than 2010. The increases in the contract values, 
since the contracts were originally signed, reflects the significant 
expansion of the detention network; as a result of this volume-related 
growth, the operations are currently now one of the largest of the 
Group. Over the life of the contract, Serco has been recognised by 
our customer for the transformation we have achieved, our humane 
approach and success in dealing with the challenges of substantially 
higher volumes than originally anticipated. The number of people in 
immigration detention reduced throughout the second half of 2011, 
reflecting government policy initiatives and improvements in visa 
processing times. We are working closely with DIAC to respond 
effectively to their changing needs.

Top and right: Serco successfully 
completed a complex transition  
at Mount Eden Corrections Facility, 
taking over an existing prison, 
closing an old one and opening  
a new site within three months. 

Above: We work with the Australian 
Department of Immigration  
and Citizenship to transform  
its immigration services.

Serco signed a new contract with the Western Australian 
Department of Corrective Services to provide Court Security  
and Custodial Services including key services such as  
inter-prison transfers, court security services, and the operation  
of court custody centres. The contract, which commenced  
on 31 July 2011, has a value to Serco of around A$210m 
(approximately £140m) over five years, with two options to  
extend to a maximum ten-year term. This contract builds on our 
achievements and record at Acacia Prison in Western Australia,  
as well as our expertise in providing this vital part of the criminal 
justice system in the UK.

Our contract for Acacia Prison in Western Australia was renewed  
in May 2011. The previous five-year contract awarded to Serco  
in 2006 had a total value of A$155m, while the new five-year 
contract is valued at approximately A$310m and has the potential 
for extension. Under the new operating contract, Serco will deliver  
all prison services working alongside the Department of Corrective 
Services which is managing the development of new living units 
and supporting infrastructure to accommodate a further 387 
prisoners, bringing the total capacity to 1,387. Revenues will 
increase through the lifespan of the contract as the prison 
capacity increases.

Serco’s commendable performance at Acacia Prison was validated 
by the independent report by the Western Australian Office of the 
Inspector of Custodial Services, released in May. This stated that 
Acacia is ‘without doubt one of the best performing prisons in 
Western Australia, if not the best and it is also providing a financial 
saving to the State.’

50 | Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011

i

w
e
v
r
e
v
O

i

s
s
e
n
s
u
b
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
m
r
o
f
r
e
p
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
n
r
e
v
o
G

s
t
n
e
m
e
t
a
t
s

l

i

a
c
n
a
n
F

i

For the same customer, Serco is preferred bidder to operate 
and maintain a new young adults facility in Western Australia. 
The facility is the first of its kind in Western Australia and marks 
Serco’s entry into the youth justice sector in this region. The 
contract is valued at around A$50m for five years with two extension 
options of five years. The contract is expected to commence  
shortly with the facility accommodating up to 80 male offenders 
aged 18-24 years. Serco will provide: rehabilitation and reintegration 
services; care and well-being services; custody and containment 
services; and facilities management. Our bid emphasised the 
importance of seamless case management, coupled with a 
through-care approach, specifically focused on individual 
rehabilitation and reintegration into the community.

A new five-year contract has been signed with Queensland 
Corrective Services to manage and operate the new 300-bed 
high-security South Queensland Correctional Centre in Gatton, 
transferring operations from Borallon Correctional Centre near 
Brisbane. The contract, which commenced on 1 January 2012,  
is valued at around A$100m over five years, with an option to 
extend to ten years. This replaced and extended a similarly valued 
five-year contract, due to end in January 2013, to manage the 
Borallon Correctional Centre which is one of the oldest facilities  
in Queensland and is being temporarily decommissioned as  
part of a wider reorganisation of the state’s prisons.

Serco signed and commenced its contract at Mount Eden 
Corrections Facility in Auckland for the New Zealand Department  
of Corrections. The six-year contract, to provide rehabilitation and 
reintegration programmes for prisoners as well as logistics and 

infrastructure management, has an option for extension for a further 
four years, and is valued at around NZ$300m over the full ten years. 
Responsibility for managing the prison facility began in May, with 
the transition completed in August 2011. 

In defence, DMS Maritime (our 50:50 joint venture with P&O 
Maritime Services) which provides harbour and offshore services  
to the Royal Australian Navy, had its contract renewed in 2010. 
In 2011, a new contract was signed for the support of patrol boats 
under the Australian Department of Defence Pacific Patrol Boats 
Programme. This provides participating Pacific Island countries  
with patrol boats to police their Exclusive Economic Zones.  
DMS will provide technical, engineering and logistic support 
services for the 19 patrol boats in 11 countries and refits for eight  
of those vessels, for a period of five years, with options to extend  
for a further 12 years. The contract is worth around A$50m to  
Serco over the entire contract life of 17 years.

Serco signed a new contract with the Australian Defence Force 
(ADF) to provide logistics and base support services in the Middle 
East. The two-year contract is valued at around A$50m and has two 
one-year extension options. Under the contract, Serco will deliver 
fully integrated support services in the Middle East, ensuring the 
provision of high-quality services in areas such as healthcare, 
maintenance, ground refuelling, accommodation and catering 
services. Drawing on our 15-year experience of working with the 
Australian military as a trusted provider of complex, integrated 
services, together with our well-established capabilities in the Middle 
East, we are ideally placed to provide these vital services for the ADF.

Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011 | 51

 
 
 
Section 3 | Our performance

Operating Review | AMEAA

Right: The Dubai Metro has more 
than tripled ridership and won  
the Best Rail Operator Award in  
the Middle East.

In 2010 we expanded into a new market with the appointment by 
the Western Australian Department of Health as preferred bidder to 
provide vital non-clinical support services at the new Fiona Stanley 
Hospital near Perth. The ten-year contract was signed in July 2011  
at a total value to Serco of A$1.3bn (approximately £850m) and  
also has two five-year extension options. During the current 
pre-operational phase annual revenues will be approximately 
A$30-50m. From the opening of the hospital in 2014, annual 
revenues will be approximately A$160m.

The 783-bed hospital will be one of the leading hospitals in Australia 
and the major tertiary hospital serving communities south of Perth 
and across Western Australia. Under the Facilities Management 
Services contract, Serco will integrate non-clinical services through 
state-of-the-art technology to ensure the smooth running of  
the whole hospital. We will be responsible for 30 service lines, 
including: procurement for the fit-out of the hospital; management 
and maintenance of hospital assets including medical equipment; 
information and communication technology (ICT) services;  
estate and property management; recruitment and HR processes  
for all clinical staff; safety and incident management; design  
and provision of integrated bedside information and patient 
entertainment systems; the management of patient electronic 
medical records and a wide range of other support services.

Great Southern Rail’s revenue has been broadly stable in 2011 
despite the adverse market conditions from the strong Australian 
Dollar and weak consumer spending impacting the Australian 
tourism market. For the second year running, The Ghan was 
awarded ‘best luxury rail journey’ in Luxury Travel magazine’s 
esteemed Gold List Awards, winning over competition from various 
famous international rail journeys. A new marketing campaign,  
new travel schedules, the expansion of the Platinum Service on  
the Indian Pacific and a second successful season of our newest 
train, Southern Spirit, have contributed to this result.

In the Middle East, the Dubai Metro has sustained its high level  
of service, with availability and punctuality continuing to exceed 
99%. Ridership has more than tripled from 60,000 per weekday  
on opening in September 2009 to 206,000 per weekday in January 
2012. In November 2011, the total number of customer journeys 
reached 100 million. The Dubai Metro won the Best Rail Operator 
Award in the Middle East in 2011 for outstanding performance, 
while the Palm Jumeirah Monorail which we also operate was 
shortlisted among other finalists. The Green Line of the Dubai  
Metro commenced service in September 2011, adding a further 
24 kilometres of track, 18 additional stations, 17 more trains  
and a third depot.

52 | Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011

Left: The Ghan was awarded ‘best luxury  
rail journey’ for the second year running. 

Below left: We have a 60-year history  
of providing air traffic control services  
in the Middle East, experience which  
is helping us in Iraq.

Below: Intelenet has opened new  
delivery centres in India and Dubai  
to support new contract wins.

Intelenet’s order book is now approximately £600m. Since 
acquisition, contracts with a combined total value of over £50m 
have been awarded, including good traction with existing clients  
in both the international BPO and the Indian domestic markets.  
The opening of new delivery centres has also supported this and 
future growth, with openings in Lucknow in India and in Dubai to 
support new contract wins in the Middle East. Also of significance  
is Intelenet’s involvement in the selection as single remaining bidder 
to operate the Anglia Support Partnership (ASP), Serco’s first 
shared services proposition in the emerging market for middle and 
back office support to the UK health sector. ASP was not included 
in the value of 2011 awards. Further revenue synergies such as this, 
where the Group’s combined capabilities and breadth of integrated 
offering are able to transform public services, are expected to 
continue to emerge in the future.

In the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the contract to deliver operations 
and maintenance consultancy services to the Al Mashaaer Al 
Mugaddassah Metro Southern Line in Makkah has been extended 
by one year, with an annual value of around £5.2m. This extension 
strengthens Serco’s position as a leader in the global light 
rail market.

Serco has successfully secured an extension for air traffic control 
and aeronautical engineering services to the General Civil Aviation 
Authority of the UAE, valued at approximately £30m over three 
years. This complements the successful rebid earlier in 2011 of  
air navigation services at Abu Dhabi International Airport, Al Ain 
International Airport and Al Bateen International Airport valued at 
£22m over two years, and reaffirms Serco’s position as a leading 
aviation services provider in the Middle East region. During 2011, 
Serco has also completed the full transfer of air traffic control 
services for lower airspace in Iraq.

In July 2011, Serco acquired Intelenet, a leading provider of  
BPO services to the private sector around the world and in the 
domestic Indian market, for up to £386m. The revenues and 
Adjusted operating profit consolidated by Serco since July were 
£84m and £10.7m respectively, reflecting the delivery of organic 
growth and maintained margins during this period. The integration 
of Intelenet into Serco is largely complete and Serco’s existing  
India BPO operations have been incorporated into Intelenet to  
the full satisfaction of customers and with all operational 
performance measures maintained or improved.

Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011 | 53

i

w
e
v
r
e
v
O

i

s
s
e
n
s
u
b
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
m
r
o
f
r
e
p
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
n
r
e
v
o
G

s
t
n
e
m
e
t
a
t
s

l

i

a
c
n
a
n
F

i

 
 
 
Section 3 | Our performance

Finance Review

Overview 
Our business delivered a strong financial performance in 2011, with revenue growing 7.4% and 
Adjusted operating profit increasing by 12.1% to £290.1m. Excluding currency effects, revenue 
growth was 7.4% (3.5% organic) and Adjusted operating profit growth was 12.4%. Our Adjusted 
operating margin increased by 26 basis points. Adjusted profit before tax grew by 13.4%.  
Group free cash flow decreased by £17.5m to £168.3m, principally as a result of an increase  
in net capital expenditure.

1. Income statement
Serco’s income statement for the year is summarised in Figure 1 below. This includes the results of joint ventures which are 
proportionately consolidated.

Figure 1: Income statement

Year ended 31 December 

Revenue 

Gross profit 
Administrative expenses 

Adjusted operating profit 
Investment revenue and finance costs 

Adjusted profit before tax 
Amortisation of acquired intangibles 
Acquisition-related costs 

Profit before tax 
Tax  

Profit for the year 

Effective tax rate 
Adjusted earnings per share 
Earnings per share  
Dividend per share 

54 | Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011

2011
£m

2010 
£m 

Increase

4,646.4

4,326.7 

700.4
(410.3) 

290.1
(27.9) 

262.2
(20.0) 
(3.9) 

238.3
(63.1) 

175.2

26.5%
39.59p
35.70p
8.40p

644.3 
(385.6) 

258.7 
(27.4)

231.3 
(17.4) 

–

213.9 
(57.1) 

156.8 

26.7%
34.69p 
31.88p 
7.35p 

7.4%

8.7%
6.4%

12.1%

13.4%
14.9%

11.4%
10.5%

11.7%

14.1%
12.0%
14.3%

 
1.1  Revenue
Revenue grew by 7.4% to £4,646.4m (7.4% excluding currency effects). Organic revenue growth, excluding currency effects and 
acquisitions, was 3.5%, reflecting the growth of existing contracts and the contribution of new contracts started in 2010 and 2011. 

1.2  Adjusted operating profit
Following the significant acquisitions announced in the period, the calculations of Adjusted operating profit, Adjusted profit before tax and 
Adjusted EPS are now shown before acquisition-related costs as well as amortisation of acquired intangibles. There is no impact on the 
comparative results. Adjusted operating profit increased by 12.1% to £290.1m, representing an Adjusted operating profit margin of 6.2%. 
Adjusted operating profit margin increased by 26 basis points (28 basis points excluding currency effects). 

1.3  Investment revenue and finance costs
Investment revenue and finance costs totalled a net cost of £27.9m (2010: £27.4m), an increase of £0.5m. The increase excluding currency 
effects was £0.9m. The principal reason for this increase was due to additional loans raised to finance acquisition activity, offset by greater 
interest receivable on retirement benefit obligations compared to the previous period. 

1.4  Adjusted profit before tax
Adjusted profit before tax was £262.2m, an increase of 13.4%. 

1.5  Acquisition-related costs
These represent incremental costs arising from acquisition activity during the year. £3.1m of the costs incurred related to the acquisition 
of Intelenet.

1.6  Tax
The tax charge of £63.1m (2010: £57.1m) represents an effective rate of 26.5% (2010: 26.7%).

1.7  Earnings per share (EPS)
Adjusted EPS rose by 14.1% to 39.59p. EPS grew by 12.0% to 35.70p. EPS and Adjusted EPS are calculated on an average share base  
of 490.5m during the year (2010: 491.5m). The decrease in the average share base resulted principally from the full weighting in 2011 of own 
shares purchased in 2010 to satisfy options granted under the Group’s employee share option schemes.

2.  Dividend
Serco’s policy is to increase the total dividend each year broadly in line with the increase in underlying earnings. The Board has proposed  
a final dividend of 5.90p per share, representing an increase on the 2010 final dividend of 14.6%, and bringing the total dividend for the  
year to 8.40p, a growth of 14.3%. The final dividend will be paid, subject to shareholder approval, on 22 May 2012 to shareholders on the 
register as at 9 March 2012.

i

w
e
v
r
e
v
O

i

s
s
e
n
s
u
b
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
m
r
o
f
r
e
p
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
n
r
e
v
o
G

s
t
n
e
m
e
t
a
t
s

l

i

a
c
n
a
n
F

i

Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011 | 55

 
 
 
 
Section 3 | Our performance

Finance Review

3.	Cash	flow
The Group generated a free cash inflow of £168.3m (2010: £185.8m), with the reduction arising principally as a result of an increase in net 
capital expenditure.

Figure 2 analyses the cash flow. As in previous years, we have designed the analysis to show the underlying cash performance of the 
Group – the cash flows generated by subsidiaries plus the dividends received from joint ventures. It therefore differs from the consolidated 
cash flow on page [112], which proportionately consolidates the cash flows of joint ventures. The adjustment line in Figure 2 reconciles the 
movement in Group cash to the consolidated cash flow.

Figure 2: Cash flow 

Year ended 31 December 

Adjusted operating profit excluding joint ventures 
Non cash items 

Adjusted EBITDA excluding joint ventures 
Working capital movement 

Operating cash flow excluding joint ventures 
Interest 
Tax  
Net expenditure on tangible and intangible assets 
Dividends from joint ventures 

Group free cash flow 
Acquisition of subsidiaries
Acquisition-related costs 
Purchase of own shares and issue proceeds of share capital 
Financing 
Special pension contribution 
Dividends paid 

Group net decrease in cash and cash equivalents 
Adjustment to include joint venture cash impacts 

Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents before exchange (losses)/gains 
Exchange (loss)/gain 

Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents 

2011 
£m 

208.5 
64.2 

272.7 
(32.3) 

240.4 
(32.7) 
(32.2) 
(71.5) 
64.3 

168.3 
(325.3) 
(3.7) 
(6.7) 
236.0 
(40.0) 
(37.3) 

(8.7) 
(15.1) 

(23.8) 
(0.7) 

(24.5) 

2010
£m

194.1
61.8

255.9
(30.6)

225.3
(25.2)
(24.0)
(41.8)
51.5

185.8
(2.3)
 –
(14.7)
(173.4)
(20.0)
(32.3)

(56.9)
8.7

(48.2)
8.1

(40.1)

Note: Adjusted EBITDA excluding joint ventures is earnings from subsidiaries before interest, tax, depreciation, intangible amortisation and other non cash 
items. Group free cash flow also excludes the cash impact of acquisition-related costs.

56 | Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011

 
3.1  Operating cash flow excluding joint ventures
Operating cash flow excluding joint ventures of £240.4m (2010: £225.3m) reflects a conversion of Adjusted EBITDA into cash of 88%  
(2010: 88%). The working capital movement of £32.3m (2010: £30.6m) reflects the requirements of a growing business.

3.2  Interest
Net interest paid increased to £32.7m (2010: £25.2m), principally reflecting higher Group recourse net debt following acquisitions  
in the period.

3.3  Tax
Tax paid was £32.2m (2010: £24.0m). The increase in cash tax is principally as a result of higher overseas taxable profits arising in the 
period. Cash tax remains below the equivalent charge in the income statement, principally as a result of the availability of accelerated 
capital allowances and other timing differences.

3.4  Net expenditure on tangible and intangible assets
Net expenditure on tangible and intangible assets increased significantly to £71.5m (2010: £41.8m). This resulted from the planned 
additional investment in SAP systems in 2011 and a return to a more normal underlying level of contract capital investment compared  
to last year. This represents 1.9% of Group revenue excluding joint ventures (2010: 1.2%). 

3.5  Dividends from joint ventures
Dividends received from joint ventures totalled £64.3m (2010: £51.5m), reflecting a higher than normal conversion rate of joint ventures’ 
profit after tax into dividends of 100%. 

3.6  Purchase of own shares and issue proceeds of share capital
This represents a £24.0m (2010: £23.0m) purchase of own shares for the Employee Share Ownership Trust in order to satisfy options 
granted under the Group’s share option schemes net of cash inflows of £17.3m (2010: £8.3m) relating to proceeds from the issue of share 
capital and exercise of share options.

3.7  Financing
The movement in financing is primarily due to acquisition funding.

3.8  Special pension contribution
This £40.0m represents the second instalment of a special pension contribution into the Group’s main defined benefit pension scheme 
which was agreed following the triennial actuarial valuation in 2009. The first payment of £20.0m was made in December 2010.

i

w
e
v
r
e
v
O

i

s
s
e
n
s
u
b
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
m
r
o
f
r
e
p
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
n
r
e
v
o
G

s
t
n
e
m
e
t
a
t
s

l

i

a
c
n
a
n
F

i

Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011 | 57

 
 
 
 
Section 3 | Our performance

Finance Review

4. Acquisitions
On 14 March 2011, the Group acquired The Listening Company Limited, a leading UK provider of outsourced contact centre services. 
The initial cash cost of the acquisition was £40.9m, comprising cash to the existing shareholders of £25.0m, plus the repayments of  
£15.9m of debt immediately after acquisition. In addition, deferred consideration with a fair value of £12.5m is payable, contingent on  
the financial performance in the two-year period from 1 March 2011 to the end of February 2013. The acquisition gave rise to goodwill  
of £39.4m. Intangible assets arising on the acquisition have been recognised at £6.6m and will be amortised on a straight-line basis  
over their expected lives. 

On 7 July 2011, the Group acquired 87% of the share capital of SKR BPO Services Private Limited and its subsidiary companies (together 
Intelenet) for an initial cash consideration of £249.3m. A further £35.7m was paid on 19 October 2011 for the remaining 13% of share 
capital. Net debt acquired was £51.1m, comprising £55.5m of acquired loans and £4.4m of acquired cash balances. There are contingent 
deferred consideration cash payments of up to £49.8m through to December 2013. The contingent cash payments are dependent 
principally on the delivery of revenue targets. The fair value of this contingent deferred consideration is £23.7m. Intangible assets arising  
on the acquisition have been recognised at £44.2m and will be amortised on a straight-line basis over their expected lives. The acquisition 
gave rise to £289.2m of goodwill. Intelenet is a leading provider of business process outsourcing (BPO) services to the private sector 
around the world and in the domestic Indian market. It operates from 34 global delivery centres across seven countries, providing a broad 
range of middle and back office services and has a strong customer base of international organisations, predominantly across the financial 
services, travel, healthcare and telecom sectors.

During the year, the Group also made a number of smaller acquisitions. Between March 2011 and December 2011, the Group acquired 
Braintree Clinical Services Limited, a UK-based company providing clinical and hospital services to Strategic Health Authorities; Philips 
Collection Services Limited, a UK-based company engaged in the provision of debt collection and fine management services; Excelior Pty 
Limited, an Australian registered company providing contact centre services; and JBI Properties Services Company LLC, a UAE-based 
company engaged in the provision of facilities management services. The total consideration for these acquisitions amounted to £31.5m,  
of which £7.8m is deferred. These acquisitions in aggregate gave rise to goodwill of £29.2m.

£3.9m of acquisition-related costs incurred on the above acquisitions have been expensed to the income statement. The cash flow impact 
of these acquisition-related costs included in the cash flow statement was £3.7m.

58 | Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011

 
5.  Net debt
Figure 3: Net debt

At 31 December 

Group – cash and cash equivalents 
Group – loans  
Group – obligations under finance leases 

Group recourse net debt 
Joint venture – cash and cash equivalents 
Joint venture – loans  
Joint venture – obligations under finance leases 

Total recourse net debt 
Group non recourse debt  

Total net debt 

2011 
£m 

194.6 
(819.4) 
(45.0) 

(669.8) 
60.2 
(7.9) 
(0.9) 

(618.4) 
(15.5) 

(633.9) 

2010 
£m

204.0
(482.6)
(25.0)

(303.6)
75.3
(7.8)
(1.4)

(237.5)
(23.7)

(261.2)

5.1  Group recourse net debt
Group recourse net debt increased by £366.2m to £669.8m. The increase was principally a result of acquisition activity. Sources of funding 
are described in section 7 below.

Cash and cash equivalents includes encumbered cash of £5.5m (2010: £10.9m). This is cash relating to customer advance payments.

5.2  Group non recourse debt
The Group’s debt is non recourse if no Group company other than the relevant borrower has an obligation to repay the debt under a 
guarantee or other arrangement. The debt is excluded from all of our credit agreements and other covenant calculations, and therefore  
has no impact on the Group’s ability to borrow. 

Group non recourse debt reduced by £8.2m to £15.5m, as a result of £7.9m payments made in line with the debt repayment schedule on 
debt relating to our Driver Examination Services contract in Canada and £0.3m decrease in non recourse debt due to exchange movements.

6.  Pensions
The Group is a sponsor of a number of defined benefit schemes and defined contribution schemes. At 31 December 2011, the net 
retirement benefit asset included in the balance sheet arising from our defined benefit pension scheme obligations was £16.8m  
(2010: net liability £83.0m), on a pension scheme asset base of £1.7bn. 

Figure 4: Defined benefit pension schemes

At 31 December 

Group schemes – non contract specific  
Contract specific schemes: 
– reimbursable 
– not certain to be reimbursable 

Net retirement benefit liabilities  
Intangible assets arising from rights to operate franchises and contracts  
Reimbursable rights debtor  
Deferred tax (liabilities)/assets 

Net balance sheet assets/(liabilities) 

2011 
£m 

58.8 

(188.7) 
(26.5) 

(156.4) 
6.3 
188.7 
(21.8) 

16.8 

2010 
£m

(76.1)

(123.4)
(26.7)

(226.2)
8.9
123.4
10.9

(83.0)

i

w
e
v
r
e
v
O

i

s
s
e
n
s
u
b
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
m
r
o
f
r
e
p
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
n
r
e
v
o
G

s
t
n
e
m
e
t
a
t
s

l

i

a
c
n
a
n
F

i

Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011 | 59

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Section 3 | Our performance

Finance Review

The total pension charge included in operating profit for the year ended 31 December 2011, including the proportionate share of joint 
ventures, increased to £112.3m (2010: £106.5m). Within this charge, the Group’s contributions to UK and other defined contribution 
pension schemes increased to £80.4m (2010: £76.0m). The service charge relating to the Group’s defined benefit schemes increased  
to £31.9m (2010: £30.5m), principally as a result of changes to the discount rate and inflation assumptions as at the end of 2010 and 
increases in payroll costs.

Serco has three main types of scheme which are accounted for as defined benefit pension schemes. Each type has its own accounting 
treatment under International Financial Reporting Standards. These are:

●● Non contract specific – schemes which do not relate to specific contracts or franchises. For these schemes we charge the actuarial  

gain or loss for the year to the consolidated statement of comprehensive income (the SOCI);

●● Reimbursable – schemes where we have a right of full cost reimbursement and therefore include both the pension scheme deficit  

and offsetting reimbursable rights debtor in the balance sheet; and

●● Not certain to be reimbursable – schemes relating to specific contracts or franchises, where the deficit will pass back to the customer  
or on to the next contractor at the end of the contract. For these schemes, we charge the actuarial gain or loss on our share of the 
deficit for the year to the SOCI, recognise a recoverable intangible asset on the balance sheet at the start of the contract or franchise 
and amortise the intangible asset to the income statement over the contract or franchise life.

Serco has limited commercial risk in relation to the contract specific schemes, due either to the right of cost reimbursement or because the 
deficit will, in general, pass back to the customer or on to the next contractor at the end of the contract. Among our non contract specific 
schemes, the largest is the Serco Pension and Life Assurance Scheme (SPLAS). At 31 December 2011, SPLAS had a surplus of £122.3m 
(2010: deficit of £16.4m). This is calculated under IAS 19 using market-derived rates at 31 December 2011. It therefore reflects the effect  
of the market conditions on investment returns in the year and the net impact of a decrease in inflation assumptions offset by a decrease  
in the applicable discount rate.

The estimated actuarial deficit of SPLAS as at 31 December 2011 was approximately £27.3m. The value calculated in the latest triennial 
review was a deficit of £141m at 6 April 2009. Following the 2009 review, the Group agreed with the Trustees to make a cash contribution  
of £60m to the scheme, of which £20m was paid in December 2010 and £40m in January 2011. We continue to review the level of benefits 
and contributions under the scheme in the light of our business needs and changes to pension legislation. 

Figure 5 shows the sensitivity of the liabilities of our pension schemes to changes in discount rates and to adjustments in the actuarial 
assumptions for the rate of inflation, members’ salary increases and life expectancies. 

Figure 5: Pension assumption sensitivities 

Discount rate 

Price inflation 

Salary 

Longevity 

* Post retirement mortality range for male and female, current and future pensioners.

Assumption 

4.70% 

2.90% (RPI) 
and 2.10% (CPI) 

3.30% 

Change in 
assumption 

+0.5% 
(0.5)% 

+0.5% 
(0.5)% 

+0.5% 
(0.5)% 

20.9–24.6* 

Increase by  
one year

Change in
liability

(9)%
+10%

+9%
(8)%

+2%
(2)%

+3%

60 | Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
7.  Treasury 
The Group’s committed bank credit facilities total £726.7m (2010: £698.9m). As at 31 December 2011, £241.3m had been drawn down  
on these combined bank facilities (2010: £329.8m). The facilities comprised:

●● a £400.0m syndicated revolving credit facility, maturing in September 2013;

●● a syndicated amortising term loan of £75.0m repayable over three years to June 2014;

●● a syndicated amortising term loan for US Dollar 258.4m (£166.3m) repayable in September 2012 and September 2013. The next 

scheduled repayment of US Dollar 138.0m is due in September 2012; and

●● bilateral credit facilities for £85.4m, of which £75.0m matures in September 2013 and Euro 12.5m (£10.4m) matures in April 2012.

In addition to the bank credit facilities, Serco has US private placements totalling £502.8m which will be repaid between 2012 and 2023. 
This includes £408.6m of US private placement notes issued in 2011. All of the Group’s credit facilities detailed above are unsecured.

8.  Going concern
The Directors have acknowledged the guidance ‘Going Concern and Liquidity Risk: Guidance for Directors of UK Companies 2009’, and 
‘An update for Directors of Listed Companies: Responding to increased country and currency risk in financial reports’, published by the 
Financial Reporting Council in October 2009 and January 2012 respectively. Whilst the current economic environment remains uncertain, 
the broad base of our contract portfolio and with over 90% of our customers being government bodies, the Group is well placed to manage 
its business risks successfully (as discussed in the section ‘Principal Risks and Uncertainties’) and has adequate resources to continue  
in operational existence for the foreseeable future. 

The Group’s revenues are largely derived from long-term contracts with governments. Historically, these contracts have been relatively resilient 
to changes in the general economy. The contract portfolio is diverse and a downturn in any particular market, sector or geography has a 
more limited effect on the Group as a whole. In addition, with an order book of £17.9bn and high visibility of future revenue streams (92% in 
2012; 80% in 2013 and 70% in 2014), the Group is well placed to manage its business risks despite the current uncertain economic climate.

As at 31 December 2011, the Group’s principal financing is through revolving credit facilities, term facilities and US private placements.  
The Group has approximately £1,230m of committed credit facilities. The headroom on the facilities was approximately £485m as at 
31 December 2011. Scheduled repayments in 2012 in respect of amortising term loans are for £25m in June against the £75m term  
loan and US Dollar 138m (£89m) in September against the US Dollar 258m term loan. The Group fully expects to meet these repayments 
through operational cash flows. Based on the information set out above, the Directors believe that it is appropriate to prepare the financial 
statements on a going concern basis.

i

w
e
v
r
e
v
O

i

s
s
e
n
s
u
b
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
m
r
o
f
r
e
p
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
n
r
e
v
o
G

s
t
n
e
m
e
t
a
t
s

l

i

a
c
n
a
n
F

i

Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011 | 61

 
 
 
 
Section 3 | Our performance

People

Serco’s growth means that the 
number of people we employ 
is continually increasing.  
This year we welcomed 40,000 
people into the Serco family. 

This means we need a clear 
framework for managing and 
developing our people, so we 
can help them to be as good 
as they can be and to enable 
us to deliver great service to 
our customers.

Our people strategy therefore has three components. We want to:

●● develop leaders who are fit for the future and who will thrive as 

Serco grows

Head. This relates to intellectual and personal capacity. We want 
leaders who can solve complex problems, take a long-term view, 
inspire and influence others, focus on outcomes, innovate, be 
resilient and be adaptable to a situation’s needs.

●● employ people who bring service to life, who are fully integrated 
and engaged with Serco and who we can develop to achieve 
their full potential, and

Hands. This covers skills, knowledge and experience. We want  
our leaders to be skilled at shaping and delivering the plans and 
capabilities that will drive our performance and growth.

●● make it easier to manage our people by continually enhancing 

our systems and processes.

Developing our leaders
As a devolved and fast-growing organisation, Serco needs capable 
and motivated leaders who have the potential to grow with us. They 
are responsible for managing operations, securing our growth and 
creating the environment in which our people can do what they do 
best: serve customers with passion and skill. The way they lead is 
as important as what they deliver.

Our leadership model is known as H³ – Heart, Head and Hands. 
These components describe how great leaders in Serco behave, 
with an emphasis on our Governing Principles and our customers.

The components of the model are summarised as:

Heart. This covers our leaders’ motives and demonstration  
of our Governing Principles. We want them to create our culture 
through personal example and to have the courage to stand by 
their convictions.

Behind each of these components is a further set of criteria,  
which explain in detail the desired behaviours and the standards 
against which we appraise our leaders’ performance.

Leadership talent reviews and succession planning 
In 2011, we once again undertook leadership talent reviews  
across Serco. The reviews were led by our Chief Executive, Group 
Human Resources Director and the respective Divisional CEOs  
or Corporate Functional Directors. The key areas of focus were:

●● understanding our current leadership capability

●● future requirements to support our growth agenda

●● the depth of our talent pipeline, and

●● the depth of succession cover for the Global Management  
Team (GMT). The GMT is made up of around 80 of our most 
senior leaders.

62 | Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011

i

w
e
v
r
e
v
O

i

s
s
e
n
s
u
b
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
m
r
o
f
r
e
p
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
n
r
e
v
o
G

s
t
n
e
m
e
t
a
t
s

l

i

a
c
n
a
n
F

i

We also launched a global talent management database,  
to improve access to and analysis of the leadership  
information and talent metrics captured in the talent reviews.

Serco has several programmes to further strengthen our 
talent pipeline:

●● the ‘Emerging Leaders Programme’ provides training and 

development to employees who apply or who are identified as 
future leaders. The programme began in the UK and is being 
rolled out internationally, with a first cohort selected in the 
Middle East this year

●● the ‘Future Leaders Group’ identifies a small number of 

emerging leaders that are considered to have the greatest 
potential. Over the course of a year, they have regular contact 
with the Executive Committee and are able to get involved in 
the business

●● the ‘Fast Tracker’ programme identifies candidates (including 
external individuals) who have between two and five years’  
work experience and want to accelerate their careers by taking 
on work placements

Leadership Academy – GMT development curriculum
The GMT development curriculum has been created as part of  
our Leadership Academy. The curriculum is organised around  
the needs of three distinct groups: newly recruited GMT members; 
established GMT members; and GMT members who have 
advanced or specialist requirements. The aim is that all GMT 
members will have a minimum of 35 hours of development each 
year, captured in a continuous professional development scheme. 

Global Management Team mentor programme
This programme allows GMT members to request mentoring from 
either the Executive Committee or Serco Alumni Masters, who are 
retired Serco Directors who act as consultants for bids and the 
Group generally. Around one third of GMT members have taken 
advantage of this so far, with mentoring lasting for three to 
six months.

Integrating, engaging and developing our people
We are dependent on the skill and enthusiasm of our people. They 
enable us to deliver great service to our customers and contribute 
considerably to the strength of our reputation and ability to grow.

We therefore need to integrate new joiners, effectively engage with 
all our people and help them achieve their potential. We recognise 
their outstanding achievements through our global Pulse Awards.

Integrating new people
Serco’s growth means that thousands of people can join us every 
year. The increase in 2011 was unprecedented, with our employee 
numbers rising by 40,000 to more than 100,000, driven in particular 
by the acquisitions we made, as well as new contracts won that 
became operational during the year.

The Welcome Experience helps new joiners become part of Serco. 
This is a range of materials and events which ensure that joining 
Serco is welcoming and engaging, and is in addition to any 
induction at a local level. The materials include:

Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011 | 63

 
 
 
Section 3 | Our performance

People

●● Discover Serco Passports, which help guide and direct new people

●● the People Pack, which helps new leaders understand the 

importance of their role and the tools available to enable them  
to be a great leader

●● Discover Serco e-learning, which is available for any new 
employee through the Serco Business Academy, and

●● Discover Serco contract visits.

We want to ensure that everyone in Serco understands and lives 
our values. The best way of demonstrating our values is for our 
people to see them in action. Our leaders have a key role to play,  
by making decisions in accordance with our values. We also 
prioritise communication with our people, particularly in the 
transition phase after we have won a contract, so that they 
understand Serco and the way we work.

Our approach – and the outcome – is the same around the world. 
While there are always cultural differences between countries, our 
values are universal and our people embrace them wherever they 
are based.

Integrating acquisitions
We made several acquisitions in 2011, including Intelenet, 
The Listening Company and Excelior. From a people perspective, 
the integration activities we undertook included reorganising 
management, mapping leadership roles onto Serco’s levels of 
leadership, reviewing key capabilities and communicating with 
employees, including briefing them about Serco.

Engaging with our people
We once again undertook our annual global employee survey, 
called Viewpoint. This gives us important insights into how we  
can improve the working experience at Serco, resulting in greater 
engagement with our people and enhanced service for customers.

Results from the survey show trends and areas on which to focus. 
An online tool gives materials to cascade and enables managers  
to prepare action plans to drive improvement.

We are developing case studies that highlight engagement best 
practice and which will help our managers put the associated ideas 
into practice. We are also studying the links between employee 
engagement and vital aspects of our business performance,  
such as customer advocacy and our financial results.

Serco continues to support the UK government’s Engagement 
Taskforce. We have seconded a Serco leader to the taskforce to 
contribute to this initiative and to coordinate one of the taskforce 
groups, building best practice in employee engagement.

Developing our people
Developing our people is critical if we are to enable them to excel, 
which is one of our Governing Principles. Development ranges  
from informal on-the-job training through to specialist and technical 
training. We use a ‘blended learning’ approach, with a balance  
of face-to-face and web-based learning.

Management Foundations programme 
The Management Foundations programme, aimed at developing 
values-led management, continues to be very successful.  
The programme was developed in the UK and is being expanded 

64 | Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011

internationally, with our Middle East operations now offering it.  
A further five training modules are in the process of being written.

skills, at the right time. Empower will ultimately give our people 
greater visibility of career opportunities within Serco and provide 
better access to their personal information.

In addition, we are creating a Leadership Foundations programme. 
This will be a two-day programme, aimed at a level above 
Management Foundations. 

Recognising achievement
Our Pulse Awards are designed to celebrate the very best qualities 
and achievements of Serco people, our customers and partners. 
The awards are closely linked to our Governing Principles. They 
recognise people who excel at innovation, inspire through their 
leadership, demonstrate outstanding commitment and make an 
exceptional impact on communities, the environment or in areas 
such as safety and ethics. Forty-eight individuals and teams will 
receive an award for their work in 2011.

Managing our people
We continually look to improve our efficiency, including the ways  
we manage our people. Our aim is to have intuitive, easy-to-use 
tools, processes and systems which make it easier to manage our 
growing workforce and deliver even higher levels of productivity  
and service as a result.

A change programme called Empower is transforming how we 
manage people across our business. By introducing new systems, 
tools and ways of working, Empower will help us to support our 
business and our customers with the right people, with the right 

Empower includes what we call the ‘HR Backbone’, a standard 
global application that will hold core people data from all of our 
operations and give us a comprehensive view of our employee 
population. During the second half of 2011, the HR Backbone went 
live in the UK, Europe, Australia, Hong Kong, Singapore and part  
of our Indian operations.

We are now developing the next Empower application, Common 
Core People Management, which will incorporate a greater range  
of information and tools, including ‘My HR’ self-service functions 
that employees can use to maintain their personal information and 
book annual leave online. The self-service tool will give managers 
better visibility and control of their team information, the ability  
to carry out people management activities online, and access  
to reports to support planning and decision-making. We have also 
created a new People Management Operating Model, which will 
ensure that we deliver expert HR services consistently across 
Serco. These activities will allow us to implement shared service 
delivery and to develop capabilities that came to Serco through  
the acquisition of Intelenet.

The full Empower functionality is now live in Australia and will  
be introduced across the UK, North America and the Middle East  
in the second quarter of 2012.

Objectives and performance

Result

Ongoing

Ongoing

Ongoing

2011 Objective

To make it easier to 
manage people. The focus 
will be to develop and 
implement the programme 
called ‘Empower – 
Transforming People 
Management’.

To develop leaders who are 
fit for the future. We will be 
looking to further embed 
the talent review and 
succession planning 
process across a wider 
proportion of our 
management population.

To engage and motivate 
employees to bring service 
to life. We will continue to 
research and analyse the 
link between engagement 
and performance.

Comment

The Empower programme represents a significant investment by Serco in improving the 
effectiveness of its workforce by developing and embedding a common best practice in people 
management globally. The programme will deliver standard global processes for managing 
people, supported by common IT systems and new shared services. At the heart of these 
systems is a single global database of our workforce, providing us with one source of truth 
about our people. This was successfully rolled out, on time, across the UK, Europe and Hong 
Kong in the first half of the year and then in Australia in November. Additional software to 
support staff scheduling and self-service has been deployed first in Australia, and full roll-out  
of Empower to all countries will be completed in the first half of 2012.

During 2011, we extended our talent review and development process throughout the pipeline 
of developing and existing leaders. Development programmes have been introduced that take 
leaders from their early days with Serco and support their progress throughout their career.  
This end-to-end curriculum now includes The Fast Tracker Programme, the Emerging Leaders 
Programme (called Aspire), The Management Foundations programme, The Future Leaders 
Group, the Leadership Academy for the Global Management Team and the emergence of 
functional programmes such as the Finance Global Curriculum. The Executive Committee  
set the example this year by undertaking its own development programme with Professor  
Bill George of the Harvard Business School.

The 2011 employee engagement survey, Viewpoint, tells us much about maintaining employee 
engagement as we manage tougher trading conditions in some of our businesses and continue 
to grow in others. The Viewpoint process has given us a strong platform to further improve  
the way we run our business through creating meaningful dialogue across the Company.  
Our surveys are followed up by action plans across the business that are developed and  
owned by local managers and aimed at addressing the key issues raised by their employees.

2012 objectives
●● To make it easier to manage people by implementing a single 

●● To motivate and engage employees to bring service to life by 

HR programme and common core processes

linking engagement to performance

●● To develop leaders who are fit for the future by embedding the 
talent review and succession planning process across a wider 
proportion of our management population

Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011 | 65

i

w
e
v
r
e
v
O

i

s
s
e
n
s
u
b
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
m
r
o
f
r
e
p
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
n
r
e
v
o
G

s
t
n
e
m
e
t
a
t
s

l

i

a
c
n
a
n
F

i

 
 
 
Section 3 | Our performance

Corporate responsibility

Achieving our vision to be  
the world’s greatest service 
company requires us to  
work in the right way and  
to meet our responsibilities  
to customers, the public,  
our employees, partners  
and suppliers. As a result, 
corporate responsibility (CR)  
is part of who we are and  
how we behave.

Further information available online 
www.serco.com

Above: Sally Hughes, one of our 
former apprentices, now teaches 
engineering and underwater safety 
at Royal Navy Air Station Yeovilton. 

We divide our approach into four pillars – people, health and  
safety, community and the environment. Our work for customers 
encompasses all of these areas, but there are many things  
we do which go beyond our contractual or legal requirements.

Our approach to managing our responsibilities is summarised 
below. We also publish a Corporate Responsibility Report each 
year, which gives more detail of our activities and the way  
we embed CR in our business. The full report is available at  
www.serco.com/CR2011

Managing corporate responsibility
Serco is a devolved organisation, which operates in multiple markets 
around the world. Our Group CR model provides overall guidance 
but our business units have the flexibility to implement regional and 
local strategies that meet the needs of their stakeholders.

Responsibility for shaping and delivering our overall CR strategy 
rests at the very top of our organisation. The Health, Safety and 
Environment Oversight Group reports to the plc Board through  
the Group Risk Management Committee. The Human Resources 
Directors’ forum ensures the best governance of our people,  
while community activities are overseen by the Community 
Investment Forum, which also reports through the Executive 
Committee to the plc Board.

During 2011, we reviewed and relaunched the Serco Management 
System (SMS) globally, to ensure it was properly aligned to our 
business and strategy. The system provides accountability and 
effective controls and provides the framework within which we 
operate and behave. The Governing Principles are embedded 

within the SMS, so each of the system’s policy areas reinforces  
one or more aspects of our principles. 

Our Code of Conduct helps to embed the SMS into our working 
culture by providing an overview of the behaviour we expect from 
our staff. Last year, we launched a training programme to give our 
people guidance on the ethical issues associated with our Code  
of Conduct and the UK Bribery Act.

Our people
Pages 62 to 65 explain our people strategy, our 2011 initiatives  
to improve the ways in which we develop, engage, motivate and 
manage them, and our objectives for 2012.

Health and safety 
Our aspiration is to achieve zero harm. Nothing we do is so urgent 
or important that we cannot do it safely. 

Wherever they work and whatever their role, our people must 
adhere to stringent health and safety procedures. These procedures 
are embedded in the SMS and are the minimum standards that 
must be applied. To maintain these standards, we audit ourselves 
against them, looking for best practices that we can apply more 
widely within our business. We address any inadequate 
performance and put in place new, better practices. 

As part of the SMS refresh, we have reviewed and updated our health, 
safety and environment (HSE) policy. In brief, this means we now:

●● define policy and procedures to protect the environment and  
the health and safety of those to whom we owe a duty of care

66 | Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011

●● meet and, where appropriate, exceed any legal and other 

requirements that apply

●● identify and assess HSE hazards, impacts and risks from our 

activities and services

●● set HSE objectives and targets that reflect legal requirements 
and any identified risks, and show that we are seeking to 
continuously improve

●● consider the input of employees and others when  

making decisions on HSE matters, and understand local 
sustainability challenges

●● develop and introduce plans to agreed objectives and manage 

identified risks

●● identify, train and use necessary, competent resources within  
a defined structure and allocate HSE responsibilities to people 
who have the necessary skills

●● investigate and report on incidents to identify areas where  

we need to make improvements and prevent further problems

●● monitor, review and report on our performance at group, division 
and contract level, measured against set objectives and targets

●● regularly review our systems’ suitability and effectiveness, identify 
any procedural improvements needed, and share best practice.

A strong HSE performance ensures the safety of our staff and can 
help to distinguish us in the market and enhance our reputation. 
This demands consistent, co-ordinated and properly resourced 
initiatives, driven from within the business, with best practice shared 
across the Group.

We already have an effective HSE management system and processes 
but to drive consistency and efficiency, we are working to implement 
a single, company-wide HSE integrated management system.

Serco operates in a number of safety-critical areas that are heavily 
regulated, which places stringent requirements upon us. We have 
the systems in place to deliver these requirements and this is 
reflected in the regulatory approvals and licences we have to 
operate under. This also means that we have regular regulatory 
oversight. Together, these factors give us a strong controls 
framework with which to manage our HSE responsibilities.

In 2011, Serco businesses, contracts and joint ventures in the UK 
were awarded 24 accolades by the Royal Society for the Prevention 
of Accidents. Our contract at RAF Fylingdales was granted the 
Order of Distinction, an award that marks the contract’s sixteenth 
successive Gold Award. President’s Awards, given in recognition  
of high levels of safety maintained over a number of years, were 
bestowed upon other Serco services, including the joint venture at 
the Atomic Weapons Establishment and for marine services to the 
Royal Navy.

Objectives and performance

2011 Objective

To continue focusing on 
reducing our lost time 
incident rate (LTIR).  
We aim to be back on 
trajectory to reach our 
target of a 50% reduction 
in our LTIR (against the 
2008 benchmark) by  
the end of 2012.

To continue focusing  
on reducing reportable 
incidents (RI). Based on 
current performance, we 
have revised our target  
to 599 to reflect a 40% 
reduction in staff RI rate  
by the end of 2012 against 
the 2008 benchmark.

To develop systems and 
processes to manage and 
monitor near-miss events 
more effectively. Our target 
remains to establish a 
baseline for future 
improvements for 2012.

Result

Target 
on plan

Target 
met

Comment

We achieved an LTIR of 1,000, a reduction of 15.9% against 2010 (1,189) and 37.2% lower  
than the 2008 baseline (1,593). The LTIR has received significant management attention.  
A number of initiatives, particularly focused around our higher-risk custodial and transportation 
businesses, improved our performance in 2011. This performance improvement was also 
helped by the acquisition of Intelenet, which added a large number of staff in low-risk roles. 
However, there has been a negative shift in the risk profile in some of our higher-risk business 
areas. For example, our immigration business has grown in scale as well as seeing an increase 
in detention periods, resulting in more assaults and injuries to our people. This is an important 
area of focus in 2012. The longer-term trend remains positive. Along with a reduction in 
incidents, the average number of days lost per incident reduced in 2011 by 30% against 2010.

Our reportable incident rate was 577 per 100,000 employees, a reduction of 18.8% from 2010 
(711) and 42.2% lower than our 2008 baseline (999). As with our improvement in lost time 
incidents, this has been helped by the addition through acquisition of a large number of staff  
in low-risk roles. Whilst we have achieved our target a year early, we will continue to drive further 
reductions, particularly in our transport and immigration businesses where some risk factors are 
increasing. Recognising this changing risk profile, we are keeping our target at a rate of 599 and 
aim to remain just under this level.

Ongoing

We continue to strengthen our data capture processes through ASSURE™, our intranet-based 
data capture system. During 2011, more than 33,000 events were entered on ASSURE™.  
With this improved data available, we will consider an appropriate baseline during 2012 and 
consider specific objectives.

2012 objectives
●● To achieve an LTIR of 796, a 50% reduction against the 

2008 baseline

●● To achieve a 40% reduction in the staff reportable incident rate 

against the 2008 baseline

●● To establish a baseline of near-miss events against which future 

performance can be tracked

Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011 | 67

i

w
e
v
r
e
v
O

i

s
s
e
n
s
u
b
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
m
r
o
f
r
e
p
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
n
r
e
v
o
G

s
t
n
e
m
e
t
a
t
s

l

i

a
c
n
a
n
F

i

 
 
 
Section 3 | Our performance

Corporate responsibility

Right: Puppy training at Southern 
Queensland Correctional Centre, 
Australia, supports rehabilitation  
of prisoners and helps people  
with disabilities.

Community
Serco’s devolved structure helps us to integrate into the 
communities in which we operate, and our aim is to have a positive 
and lasting impact on them. We do this by employing local people 
when we can, providing training opportunities and work experience, 
and by using local suppliers where possible. 

In the UK, the government’s drive to reduce youth unemployment 
has seen the launch of a new work experience scheme aimed at 
18–24 year olds. The scheme targets the creation of 100,000 work 
experience placements of two to eight weeks in length over the next 
two years. Serco has committed to offering 1,000 placements and 
500 apprenticeships. 

Our commitment is reflected in our target to reinvest 1% of our 
pre-tax profits into wider society. Last year, we invested £2,532,175 
through donations to community projects and charities, as well as 
the donation of assets and time.

Across Serco, our people engage in many different activities, as 
individuals or as part of the wider Serco community. These activities 
range from local community projects, such as volunteering to help 
homeless people, to raising money to help international disaster 
relief efforts, such as the floods in Thailand. We also support 
organisations whose work touches our own, such as the Military 
Child Education Coalition in the US, which helps children affected 
by their parents’ relocation and deployment.

Serco is also taking part in an industry-led initiative, supported  
by the UK government, to develop an online careers platform for 
young people. This will provide a single starting point for young 
people to explore their work ambitions and to plan how to achieve 
them. The website will be launched in 2012. 

Our results in the 2011 Business in the Community Corporate 
Responsibility Index, the UK’s leading benchmark of corporate 
responsibility, reflect the difference we make. Serco was rated  
Gold for the sixth year running, while our community investment 
(benefits and impact) was rated 100% across all five areas that 
were measured.

Objectives and performance

2011 Objective

To continue to invest 1%  
of our pre-tax profits 
into society.

Result

Target 
met

To continue to promote the 
theme of employability.

Ongoing

Comment

We invested £2,532,175, representing 1.06% of our pre-tax profits.

In the UK, we have continued to engage with the theme of employability through the promotion 
of work experience and apprenticeship opportunities within our business. Working with 
JobCentre Plus, we have identified and made available 1,000 work experience placements  
for young people and currently have 1,400 apprentices in training.

To continue to develop our 
relationships with charities, 
social enterprise and 
community organisations.

Ongoing

During 2011, a UK internal advisory group was formed whose members are experienced in 
working with third sector organisations. This forum meets as and when required to consider 
Serco’s relationships with the third sector as partners and suppliers.

To promote employee 
volunteering.

Ongoing

To promote payroll giving.

Ongoing

The promotion of employee volunteering remains a high priority for our businesses and is 
embedded within the Business Ethics and Conduct section of the Serco Management System. 
CR strategies for our businesses in the Americas and Australia, for example, clearly articulate  
a need to develop employee volunteering. In the UK, our contracts continue to support on  
a case-by-case basis employees who request time off to volunteer.

During 2011, the UK developed a relationship with Payroll Giving in Action, to develop a 
communications campaign to encourage employee giving, to be implemented during 2012. 
Employee giving is also a high priority for our businesses in the US, Australia, New Zealand 
and India.

2012 objectives
●● To continue to invest 1% of pre-tax profits back into wider society

●● To promote employee volunteering

●● To continue to promote the theme of employability

●● To promote payroll giving

●● To continue to develop our relationships with third 

sector partners

68 | Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011

Right: We provide environmental 
services to UK local authorities that 
help improve their environmental 
performance.

Environment
Serco’s aspiration for zero harm applies as much to the 
environment as it does to health and safety. 

Our environmental policy is driven by the desire to do what is right 
for the world we live in and because it makes good business sense 
to protect our reputation and reduce our energy consumption and 
environmental impact.

Although Serco’s activities are typically managed at a local level,  
we are united in our strategy of measuring our impact and reducing 
our environmental footprint. This supports many initiatives in our 
operations around the world. These range from reducing water 
usage in Australia, to improving recycling levels at US contracts  
and reducing electricity use in UK prisons.

We also have contracts that help our customers to improve  
their environmental performance. For example, Serco provides 
environmental services to UK local authorities, which help our 
customers to reduce the volumes of waste sent to landfill sites.

Our environmental efforts are reflected in the recognition we 
receive. In the UK, we achieved Carbon Trust Standard certification 
at the beginning of 2011, as a result of our work to reduce carbon 
emissions. We also improved our position in the UK’s Carbon 
Disclosure Project FTSE 350 report, which measures carbon 
disclosure and performance. Our score rose from 78% in 2010  
to 88% and we were placed in the Carbon Disclosure Leadership 
Index. Serco was also one of only seven organisations to achieve 
band A (the highest) in the Carbon Performance Leadership Index.

Objectives and performance

2011 Objective

To achieve a 15% reduction 
in CO2 tonnes/£m revenue 
against the 2008 benchmark 
by end of 2012.

Result

Target 
met

Comment

Our UK business generates around 80% of our CO2 emissions. We reduced our emissions 
relative to revenue by a further 3.5% in the UK, giving us a cumulative reduction against our 
2008 baseline of 14.8%.

To retain the Carbon 
Trust Standard.

Target 
met

We retained the Carbon Trust Standard in 2011, reflecting our commitment to reducing 
our emissions.

2012 objectives
●● To achieve an 18% reduction in our UK business’s CO2 

tonnes/£m revenue against the 2008 benchmark

●● To retain the Carbon Trust Standard

i

w
e
v
r
e
v
O

i

s
s
e
n
s
u
b
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
m
r
o
f
r
e
p
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
n
r
e
v
o
G

s
t
n
e
m
e
t
a
t
s

l

i

a
c
n
a
n
F

i

Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011 | 69

 
 
 
Section 3 | Our performance

Resources

Business relationships

Customers 
Developing long-term relationships with our customers is central to 
our business. Day-to-day responsibility for meeting our customers’ 
needs lies with our contract directors. Our approach to working with 
our customers is set out in our Governing Principles (see pages 18 
to 19), which aim to empower our contract directors and ensure that 
we deliver high-quality service.

We maintain relationships at all levels with our customers, so they 
are aware of how we can help them and we can anticipate their 
changing needs and identify opportunities at an early stage.  
These relationships lie with our divisional and Group leaders.

Our reputation with our existing customers is also vital in winning 
new work. Many factors influence our reputation, including:

●● the quality of our service

●● our values and service ethos

●● our capacity to innovate, and

●● our engagement with our employees and other stakeholders, 

such as local communities.

We believe that our high rebid and new bid win rates demonstrate 
the strength of our reputation with new and existing customers.

Suppliers
Effective procurement contributes to achieving our vision  
and delivering high-quality service to our customers. We are 
professional in all our dealings with suppliers and aim to  
establish mutually beneficial relationships.

We have a Procurement and Supply Chain team, which is 
responsible for putting this approach into practice. Our businesses 
have many common purchasing needs which we strive to fulfil with 
preferred suppliers, enabling us to achieve better terms and 
conditions and make the most of our scale. In 2011, we put in place 
a number of commercial arrangements for services we buy globally, 
such as telecoms. Our teams also procure services locally when 
appropriate, drawing on the expertise of our divisional procurement 
specialists to manage the process effectively.

We continue to focus on developing our supplier relationships. 
During 2011, we introduced a supplier relationship management 
strategy, which will help us to further improve the way we work  
with our suppliers. 

70 | Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011

As part of this, we have enhanced the governance of our key 
supplier relationships. This includes defining the key points of 
contact between us, writing account plans which set out what  
we both intend to achieve and commitments to regular meetings.

In the UK, we held a conference attended by 50 of our largest 
suppliers, enabling us to brief them on our business, as well  
as ways we could work together more closely. In 2012 we will  
be organising informal regional events for our suppliers to meet  
key Serco people and to network with each other.

Serco works with thousands of small- and medium-sized (SME) 
suppliers and we continue to improve our interaction with them. 
This includes setting up a Small Business Advisory Body in the UK, 
with representatives of SMEs from across the business. The Body 
guides us on our communications with and support to SMEs.

In the US, we have a supplier mentor programme which provides 
guidance to small businesses on key matters such as growing their 
businesses and creating budgets. We received a Commendation of 
Excellence award from the Department of State for exceeding small 
business subcontracting goals, one of only three contractors to be 
recognised in this way.

Our other initiatives include developing a welcome pack, which we 
send to all new suppliers. This provides information such as how to 
register as a supplier and how our payment process works. We also 
moved to standard payment terms of 30 days in the UK, aligning us 
with the Government’s guidelines on supplier payment.

i

w
e
v
r
e
v
O

i

s
s
e
n
s
u
b
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
m
r
o
f
r
e
p
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
n
r
e
v
o
G

s
t
n
e
m
e
t
a
t
s

l

i

a
c
n
a
n
F

i

Strategic partners 
We often deliver services as part of a consortium, either as prime 
contractor or as a subcontractor. This allows us to bring together 
companies with the skills to meet the precise requirements of a bid. 

Our values and the open and honest way in which we work also 
make us an attractive partner for voluntary sector organisations, 
who often lack the scale and experience to access major 
government programmes. Examples include:

●● our model for providing welfare to work services in the UK, 
which utilises a network of commercial and voluntary sector 
partners, and

●● our partnership with Catch22 and Turning Point at HMP & YOI 
Doncaster, UK, to reduce reoffending rates and help integrate 
ex-offenders back into society.

Responsibility for relationships with our strategic partners lies  
with the relevant contract and divisional management.

Joint venture partners 
Serco has many joint ventures with commercial partners and 
customers, examples of which are set out below.

In the UK, AWE Management Limited, our highly successful  
joint venture with Lockheed Martin and Jacobs Engineering  
Group Inc., manages the Atomic Weapons Establishment.  
We also have a joint venture with Wincanton to provide prisoner  
escort and custody services.

In Australia, DMS Maritime, our joint venture with P&O Maritime 
Services, is a key partner for the Australian Defence Force (ADF) 
and other agencies. In partnership with Sodexo, we deliver garrison 
support services to the ADF through Serco Sodexo Defence 
Services Pty Limited.

We also have successful joint ventures with customers.  
For example, GSTS Pathology is a joint venture with Guy’s and 
St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust and King’s College Hospital 
NHS Foundation Trust. ACCESS is our joint venture with Glasgow 
City Council, designed to streamline and maximise the use of the 
Council’s property and ICT assets.

Strong relationships, based on mutual trust and respect and clarity 
of roles, are essential ingredients if a joint venture is to deliver 
excellent customer service. Our divisional management teams  
are responsible for relationships with our joint venture partners, 
supported by members of the Group Executive Committee and 
Board as appropriate. This includes holding regular strategy and 
review meetings with our partners.

Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011 | 71

 
 
 
Section 3 | Our performance

Principal risks and uncertainties

Serco has a well-established 
and embedded system of 
internal control, including 
financial, operational and 
compliance controls and  
risk management, designed  
to safeguard shareholders’ 
investments and our assets 
and reputation.

The Board has overall responsibility for our internal control  
system and for reviewing its effectiveness, and has delegated to 
management the implementation of policies on risk and control. 

Risk management is fundamental to how we manage the business. 
We have developed robust systems and processes to identify and 
manage the key risks facing each of our businesses and the Group 
as a whole, and all parts of the business have appropriate risk and 
crisis management plans that meet defined policy standards. 

Whilst divisional boards review quarterly the risks they face, the 
Group Risk Management Committee (GRMC), a formal committee 
of the Executive Committee, meets quarterly to provide governance 
and oversight of risk across the Group. The Board receives a 
quarterly report on the GRMC’s assessment of the principal risks 
facing the Group and the action being taken by management to 
mitigate risks that are outside of the Group’s risk appetite.

Our risk management policies, systems and processes conform  
to the requirements of the Combined Code and form part of the 
Serco Management System (SMS). 

Such systems and processes, however, can only be designed to 
mitigate, rather than eliminate, the risk of failure to achieve business 
objectives, and can only provide reasonable and not absolute 
assurance, against misstatement or loss. The Board confirms that 
this process has been in place for the year under review and up  
to the date of approval of the annual report and accounts.

Our	approach	to	risk	within	the	Serco	
Management	System
The SMS sets out policy standards, systems and processes  
that identify, review and report risks at all levels of our business  

and in the Group as a whole with the aim of safeguarding  
our shareholders’ investments and our assets and reputation.  
At each level within our business, risk management processes 
reflect the nature of the activities being undertaken and the 
business and operational risks inherent in them, and therefore  
the level of control considered necessary to protect our interests 
and those of our stakeholders. 

These controls and processes fall into four main areas: 
Identification, Assessment, Planning and Control, and Monitoring, 
so that we:

●● identify business objectives that reflect the interests of all 

stakeholders, and the risks associated with the achievement  
of these objectives

●● regularly assess our exposure to risk, including through the 

regular measurement of key risk indicators

●● control and reduce risk as far as reasonably practicable  

or achievable through cost-effective risk treatment options 

●● identify new risks as they arise and remove those risks that  

are no longer relevant.

Risk identification
In identifying the potential risks associated with the achievement  
of our business objectives, we consider both external factors arising 
from the environment within which we operate, and internal risks 
arising from the nature of our business, its controls and processes, 
and our management decisions. 

72 | Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011

Once identified, we document risks in risk registers, which are 
maintained at a contract, business unit, programme, divisional and 
Group level. These risk registers change as new risks emerge and 
existing risks diminish, so that the registers reflect the current key 
risks. We review risk registers at least quarterly and more frequently 
as required. The GRMC reviews the Group risk register quarterly 
ahead of formal review by the Board.

Risk assessment
We assess the potential effect of each identified risk on the 
achievement of our business objectives and wider stakeholder 
interests. To do so, we use a risk scoring system based on our 
assessment of the probability of a risk materialising and the effect  
if it does. This is assessed from three perspectives:

●● the risk’s significance to the achievement of our business 

objectives

●● the risk’s significance to society, including its impact on public 

safety and the environment, and

●● our ability to influence, control and mitigate the risk.

Analysis of our key risks allows us to assess the probability of 
disruption to our business objectives, and highlights critical areas 
that require management attention. 

Risk planning and control
We assign each identified and assessed risk to a risk owner, who  
is responsible for controlling and managing it and developing a 
robust and effective plan to reduce or mitigate the risk. Risk owners 
are required to report to the GRMC or, as appropriate, the Board on 
specific risks. Either may ask for additional information or request 
an audit to provide additional assurance. 

Risk reduction involves taking early management action to remove 
or reduce identified risks before they can affect the contract or 
project. We consider options to eliminate, reduce or control the 
risks as part of the risk identification and analysis process. 

Risk mitigation involves us identifying appropriate measures, 
including contingency plans, to reduce the severity of the impact  
of the risks, should they occur. This includes developing crisis 
management plans in response to risks whose potential impact 
warrants a specific management process.

Our risk monitoring process therefore regularly monitors changes  
to our business and the external environment, to ensure that we 
respond appropriately to reduce the impact of emerging risks. 

Principal risks
The Group risk register identifies the principal risks facing the 
business, including those that are managed directly at Group level. 
They are managed through a formal process.

The Group’s key stakeholders include, but are not limited to, 
shareholders, customers, suppliers, staff, trade unions, government, 
regulators, banks and insurers. The way we operate as a responsible 
company recognises the interests of the community in areas such 
as social, environmental and ethical impact, as described under 
Corporate Responsibility on pages 66 to 69.

The most significant risks relate to our reputation, and to operational 
and financial performance. A number of our risks reflect social, 
environmental and ethical issues, but these do not currently 
represent significant threats to achieving our strategic objectives.

Summarised on the following pages are the key risks we have 
identified that could have a material impact on our reputation, 
our operations or our financial performance.

We also have material investments in a number of joint ventures, 
where we have joint control over management practices. Our 
representatives within these companies ensure that their processes 
and procedures for identifying and managing risk are appropriate 
and that internal controls exist and are regularly monitored. 

We keep reputational and emerging risks under active review and 
inform the Board of changes. Emerging risks cover longer-term 
risks that could represent a threat to our activities but which are 
not yet sufficiently defined to be included as active risks. 

Managing and mitigating risk
Our risk management process enables us to understand our 
operational risk profile. While operational risk can never be 
eliminated, we endeavour to minimise the impact by the consistent 
implementation of the SMS, ensuring that appropriate infrastructure, 
controls, systems, staff and processes are in place.

Some of our key management and control techniques defined  
in the SMS are set out below:

The SMS requires every contract to develop a risk management 
plan reflecting assessed risks and supported by appropriate 
measures and contingency plans to mitigate the impact of the risks.

●● our operating processes fully reflect the principles of clear 

delegation of authority and segregation of duties

Risk monitoring
Changes in our external environment, internal structures and 
management decisions may all affect the nature and extent  
of the risks to which the Group is exposed. 

●● our GRMC meets quarterly to ensure that risks, internal control 
and business assurance are effectively managed and reviewed

●● comprehensive business review processes ensure we meet 

customer expectations, regulatory requirements, and 
performance criteria including operational effectiveness, 
investment returns, cash flow requirements and profitability

Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011 | 73

i

w
e
v
r
e
v
O

i

s
s
e
n
s
u
b
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
m
r
o
f
r
e
p
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
n
r
e
v
o
G

s
t
n
e
m
e
t
a
t
s

l

i

a
c
n
a
n
F

i

 
 
 
Section 3 | Our performance

Principal risks and uncertainties

●● we monitor and regularly review key performance indicators. 

These include analysis of business performance and variances 
from plan, occupational health and safety incidents, and error 
and exception reporting

The Head of Internal Audit is responsible for delivery of the 
assurance strategy, ensuring our assurance programme remains 
aligned to test the key controls managing the Group’s risks.  
Internal audit is delivered at three levels across the business:

●● selective recruitment, succession planning and other human 
resource policies and practices ensure that staff skills are 
aligned with Serco’s current and future needs

●● we maintain insurance policies against losses arising from 
circumstances such as damage or destruction of physical 
assets, theft, legal liability for third-party loss and professional 
advice. We review the adequacy of our insurance cover at 
regular intervals

●● our Investment Committee meets regularly to ensure appropriate 
governance and the management of risk associated with larger 
or higher risk bids, acquisitions, disposals and areas of 
significant capital expenditure

●● we apply robust project management and change 

implementation disciplines to all major projects including new 
contract transitions, acquisitions, new technology applications, 
change programmes and other major initiatives

●● the Directors’ Report describes our approach to health, safety 
and environmental protection. Qualified and experienced staff  
in each business unit provide advice and support on health, 
safety and environmental issues and undertake regular audits

●● we have safety specialists in our aviation, rail, defence, nuclear 
and marine businesses who report to the Board and maintain 
and further develop the very high standards expected in 
these industries

●● the Chief Information Officer is responsible for ensuring  
that systems and processes are in place to ensure the 
confidentiality, integrity and availability of sensitive information 
and the associated information systems that support our 
business activities

●● our Ethics Committee has responsibility for the review of ethical 

issues that may arise from our current and future activities

●● the Company Secretary manages a confidential reporting 

service, to which staff can report illegal, dangerous, dishonest or 
unethical activities. This process was enhanced and relaunched 
at the end of 2010

●● we have crisis and business continuity plans in place to manage 

crisis events, both within divisions and the Group.

Internal audit
An integral part of risk management is assurance that the controls 
identified to manage risks are operating and effective. 

●● Group internal audit

●● functional internal audit, and

●● divisional internal audit.

The Head of Internal Audit leads the Group internal audit 
programme, which is independently delivered by KPMG LLP. 
Its findings are reported directly to the Group Audit Committee. 
In addition to the audits conducted by KPMG, the Head of  
Internal Audit supplements the programme by conducting periodic 
special reviews as requested by the Serco Group plc Board  
or Executive Committee. 

The functional internal audit programme supplements the Group 
internal audit programme. It addresses finance processes and 
controls, through a centrally provided audit programme delivered 
by divisional management on a peer to peer basis, as well as audit 
programmes completed by Group functional specialists covering 
health, safety and environment, and IT systems and security 
policy compliance. 

In addition to these programmes, each operating division maintains 
a divisional risk register, from which we develop a divisional internal 
audit programme. This programme selects a number of contracts 
for review based on certain key risks. These reviews are completed 
through a self-assessment programme focused on testing the 
controls which manage and mitigate these key risks. Divisional 
audit committees, which track and report on the progress of the 
divisional internal audit programme, meet three times a year.

The Head of Internal Audit oversees the internal audit process, as 
well as acting as the conduit for sharing best practice and flagging 
emerging risks to ensure each part of the business benefits from 
the wider scale of the Group’s assurance activity. 

In addition to internal audit, many parts of our business are subject 
to other reviews of their controls by third parties, including industry 
regulators, ISO Standards, customers and other external audits. 
This third-party scrutiny significantly increases the scope of auditing 
conducted across the Group each year. 

The Board confirms that the actions it considers necessary are 
being taken to remedy the failings and weaknesses which it has 
determined to be significant from its review of the internal controls 
across the Group. The Board confirms that it has not been advised 
of material weaknesses in financial reporting as part of the review  
of the internal control system.

74 | Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011

Market risks

Risk

Significant	change	in	Government	policies,	expenditure	levels	and	budgetary	constraints

Description/Comment

Impact

Mitigation

As a major proportion of Serco’s customers are governments and 
governmental agencies, a substantial part of the business is dependent 
on government policies, budget priorities and regulatory or political 
constraints, in particular those regarding maintaining and improving 
public infrastructure, which could have a significant impact on the size, 
scope, timing and duration of contracts and orders under them and 
therefore on the level of business that we may win. As such, these 
businesses are susceptible to changes in government, government 
policy, budget allocations and the political environment, primarily in  
the UK and the US. Any reduction in such government expenditure  
and funding could result in a suspension, cancellation, termination or 
non-renewal of contracts. Revenues may also be adversely affected  
by changes to the UK Government’s or US Government’s policy in 
respect of outsourcing.

●● Reduction in market 

opportunities

●● Changes to terms of existing  

or new contracts

●● Failure to meet growth  
or profit expectations

●● Business strategy
●● Diverse business across 
geographies and markets

●● External Affairs monitor  
political landscape and 
government activities

●● Business significantly focused 
on developed markets with 
strong and established legal 
systems providing protection  
to changes in contract terms

Risk

Failure	to	win	a	strategic	or	significant	bid	or	rebid

Description/Comment

Impact

Mitigation

Failure to win material bids or renew material contracts could restrict 
growth opportunities for the future or have an adverse impact on  
Serco’s business, financial condition and results of operations. Further,  
a significant number of Serco’s contracts with the UK Government,  
the US Government and other public sector customers, including 
renewals and extensions of previous contracts, are awarded through 
formal competitive bidding processes. Competitive bidding processes 
present a number of risks, including substantial cost and management 
time and effort to prepare bids and proposals for contracts that may not 
be won. In addition, there is often a long period between a successful 
competition tender offer and entering into definitive contractual 
documentation and financial close, and in some cases financial close 
may not occur. 

●● Failure to meet growth  
or profit expectations
●● Significant financial loss  

or cost overrun

●● Damage to reputation  

resulting in loss of existing  
or new business

●● Impact on strategic objectives

●● Business Lifecycle Governance 
process embedded in SMS
●● Governance structure managed 
through Investment Committee, 
programme and project boards, 
divisional and contract boards

●● Business strategy and  

targets managed through 
internal boards

●● Regular review and monitoring 

of risk registers

●● Gate review and formal  

sign-off process

i

w
e
v
r
e
v
O

i

s
s
e
n
s
u
b
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
m
r
o
f
r
e
p
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
n
r
e
v
o
G

s
t
n
e
m
e
t
a
t
s

l

i

a
c
n
a
n
F

i

Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011 | 75

 
 
 
Section 3 | Our performance

Principal risks and uncertainties

Operational risks

Risk

Any harm to the Company’s reputation could adversely impact business

Description/Comment

Impact

Mitigation

The Company is dependent on maintaining its reputation in each 
jurisdiction in which it operates in order to maintain and grow its 
business. It is exposed to the risk that litigation, misconduct, operational 
failures and negative publicity could harm its reputation. In addition,  
the Company’s reputation could also be adversely affected if its services, 
or the services performed by its subcontractors, do not perform as 
expected. Any harm to its reputation could have a material adverse  
effect on its business, financial condition and results of operations.

●● Failure to meet growth  
or profit expectations
●● Significant financial loss  

or cost overrun

●● Loss of contract revenue 
related to operations and 
service charges

●● Inability to attract the  

human and financial capital 
necessary to grow or expand 
into new markets

●● Damage to reputation  

resulting in loss of existing  
or new business

●● Impact on strategic objectives

●● Robust bidding and contract 
review process including 
financial, technical and 
commercial reviews

●● Governance structure managed 
through Investment Committee, 
programme and project boards 
and divisional boards

●● Business strategy and targets
●● Regular review and monitoring 
of risk registers and operational 
performance indicators
●● Customer engagement  

and employee engagement 
strategies

●● Relationship management and 
communication with external 
stakeholders

●● Gate review and formal  

sign-off process

●● Quality management systems

Risk

Failure	of	significant	programmes,	including	operating	within	agreed	fixed	costs

Description/Comment

Impact

Mitigation

Serco has a number of complex programmes which it is contracted  
to deliver for the customer. These are often let on a fixed price basis 
irrespective of the actual costs incurred, and therefore if costs exceed  
the contract ceiling the Company may not be able to obtain full 
reimbursement. Further, some projects require delivery in accordance 
with specified milestones on agreed dates. Significant adverse financial 
consequences can be imposed where milestones are not met or a 
project is not delivered on time. The length and complexity of such 
projects mean that management estimates can be particularly difficult  
to make and could turn out to be inaccurate.

●● Failure to meet growth  
or profit expectations
●● Significant financial loss  

or cost overrun

●● Loss of contract revenue 
related to operations and 
service charges

●● Damage to reputation  

resulting in loss of existing  
or new business

●● Impact on strategic objectives

●● Robust bidding and contract 
review process including 
financial, technical and 
commercial reviews

●● Governance structure managed 
through Investment Committee, 
programme and project boards, 
divisional and contract boards

●● Robust cost accounting
●● Internal audit
●● Business strategy and targets
●● Regular review and monitoring 

of risk registers

●● Gate review and formal  

sign-off process

●● Quality management systems

Risk

Lack of preparedness for the 2012 London Olympics

Description/Comment

Impact

Mitigation

In summer 2012, London will be hosting the 2012 Olympics which will  
be Britain’s ‘largest peacetime logistical exercise’. In a relatively short 
time frame, it is anticipated that over 11 million game spectators and 
almost 300,000 athletes, officials, media and other ‘Games Family’ 
members and workforce will descend upon the city. The majority of 
spectators will take public transport, walk or cycle to the Games and 
activities. Although Serco are not providing specific support directly to  
the Olympics, at least 23 of our current contracts have potential moderate  
to very high impact. The top three contracts with very high potential 
impact are: DLR, London Cycle Hire and Traffic Streets.

●● Damage to reputation  

resulting in loss of existing  
or new contracts

●● Failure to meet customer 
performance and service  
level requirements

●● Escalation of cost leading  

to profit erosion

●● Disruption to contract delivery 
in the event of a terrorist attack 
at the Games

●● Steering Committee 

established several months ago 
to monitor/track/guide risks
●● Programme Office established 
to identify and work all risks 
across all contracts

●● Risks have been identified 
across each contract and  
are being vetted

●● Support is being provided for 
planning and implementation 
where gaps are identified
●● Planning and scenario testing 
schedules in place in directly 
impacted contracts

●● Development of mitigation 

strategies and contingency plans

76 | Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011

Risk

Failure	to	deliver	operational	efficiency

Description/Comment

Impact

Mitigation

To deliver our commitments we must ensure that we have efficient 
operations. Our operational efficiency programme facilitates delivery  
of business transformation, operational change and sustainable margin 
improvement. Failure to deliver may impact our ability to deliver 
business commitments.

●● Erosion of profit
●● Impact on competitiveness
●● Damage to reputation  

resulting in loss of existing  
or new business
●● Failure to meet  

customer expectations  
and business strategy

●● Business strategy and 

supporting plans

●● Internal governance structure
●● Business review
●● Internal audit
●● LEAN/Continuous Improvement 

programme

●● Quarterly management 

reporting

Risk

Major information security breach

Description/Comment

Impact

Mitigation

Serco must comply with restrictions on the handling of sensitive 
information (including personal and customer) and provide for secure 
transmission of such information. This is a heightened risk, particularly 
with respect to government contracts, due to the sensitive and 
confidential nature of government data. Despite controls to ensure the 
confidentiality of such information, Serco may breach restrictions or be 
subject to attack from computer programs that attempt to penetrate its 
network security and misappropriate confidential information.

●● Loss of service to 
our customers

●● Damage to reputation resulting 

in loss of existing or new 
business (disqualification  
from future tenders, contract 
termination, etc.)

●● Impact on strategic objectives
●● Costly to rectify and  
potential for dilution  
of shareholder returns
●● Criminal and civil action
●● Contract and business external 

accreditations withdrawn
●● Significant media attention  

and future scrutiny

●● Security and information 

systems policies, systems  
and embedded 
governance structure

●● Think Privacy campaign to  

raise staff awareness, provide 
training, promote incident 
reporting and strengthen 
control processes

●● User and data management 
including data encryption, 
information classification, 
identity management, data 
cleansing and access controls 
(strong authentication, 
passwords etc.)
●● Regular risk reviews
●● ISO 27000 certification
●● Internal and external audit

Risk

Major IT failure or prolonged loss of critical IT systems

Description/Comment

Impact

Mitigation

The IT Strategy is focused on standardising common processes, 
establishing common business systems and enabling ways of working by 
providing and embedding tools that support what we do. Within this the 
Company has defined enterprise applications. These are key information 
technology-based business systems within Serco. They include SAP for 
Finance, Procurement and Human Resources; Payroll, Risk Management, 
Safety Assurance, email, intranet and Nimbus Control for Process 
Excellence systems. Failings in the systems have the potential to 
seriously impact the management of the business.

●● Damage to reputation  

resulting in loss of existing  
or new business

●● Impact on strategic objectives
●● Inability to meet contract 
requirements or perform  
core business processes

●● Costly to rectify and  
potential for dilution  
of shareholder returns

●● Significant media attention  

and future scrutiny

●● Information systems policy, 
systems and embedded 
governance structure
●● Data recovery capability 
designed into systems  
and periodically tested
●● Design out single points 

of failure

●● Server and system 

performance monitoring 
and reporting

●● Capacity management
●● Data back-up and business 
continuity plans in place

i

w
e
v
r
e
v
O

i

s
s
e
n
s
u
b
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
m
r
o
f
r
e
p
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
n
r
e
v
o
G

s
t
n
e
m
e
t
a
t
s

l

i

a
c
n
a
n
F

i

Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011 | 77

 
 
 
Section 3 | Our performance

Principal risks and uncertainties

Governance risks

Risk

Significant	incident	of	bribery	or	corrupt	practice

Description/Comment

Impact

Mitigation

Serco operates in international markets, which brings with it inherent  
risks including bribery and corruption, particularly in certain developing 
nations. Serco operates in a number of countries which are recognised 
as having a higher bribery and corruption risk. Increasing legislation 
significantly increases the consequences of bribes and other corrupt 
practices. As we expand into new services and geographic markets that 
are considered a higher risk in the context of corrupt practices we must 
ensure our policies and procedures are fully and effectively applied.

●● Legal action and fines against 

the Company

●● Debarment from tender lists
●● Damage to reputation  

resulting in loss of existing  
or new business

●● Significant media attention  

and future scrutiny

●● Policies and systems 
embedded in SMS

●● Code of Conduct
●● Ethics Committee
●● Speak Up process
●● Ethics and compliance 
programme and training

●● Risk assessment
●● Third-party contracts

Risk

Major accident or incident

Description/Comment

Impact

Mitigation

It is possible that a major catastrophic event, such as a major train 
derailment or air traffic accident, could occur at one of the projects in 
relation to which Serco has provided professional design, construction, 
engineering or support services. Such a catastrophic event could result  
in the personal injury or death of one or more employees of the Company, 
employees of other subcontractors working on the project or members  
of the public, significant, actionable environmental harm, and/or extensive 
damage to third-party property. In the event that such a catastrophic 
event is found or perceived to be caused by the negligence of Serco,  
it could subject the Company to claims for personal injury, wrongful 
death, property damage by customers, subcontractors, governments, 
employees or members of the public, which could lead to the payment  
of extensive damages and result in significant adverse publicity and 
reputational harm. Such adverse publicity and reputational harm could 
lead to a loss of business.

●● Deaths or serious injuries  

to employees or third parties
●● Major environmental damage
●● Severe financial impact (fine  
by regulators, suspension  
of operating licence, 
compensation, clean up, etc.)

●● Loss of business 

(disqualification from  
future tenders, contract 
termination, etc.)

●● Contract and business external 

accreditations withdrawn

●● Significant media attention and 

future scrutiny

●● Criminal and civil action against 

Company or individuals

●● Robust management systems 
subject to external, regulatory 
and internal audit

●● System certification and 
regulatory approval

●● Formal oversight through 

GRMC, Health, Safety and 
Environment Oversight Group, 
divisional and internal boards

●● Crisis management and 

business continuity plans 
in place
●● Insurance
●● Strategy, objectives, targets 

and regular reporting

●● Formal assurance structure 
operating within defined 
competencies

●● Staff induction and training

78 | Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011

Risk

Significant	changes	in	energy	and	carbon	costs	and	reporting	requirements

Description/Comment

Impact

Mitigation

We must understand our environmental impacts, manage them and 
measure our performance to demonstrate improvement. Fuel poverty is 
impacting energy prices. We have seen increases in energy costs and 
expect these to rise further in the future. We need to make sure we are 
managing our consumption to minimise the cost and reduce our carbon 
emissions. We also need to recognise and respond to increasing 
legislation and reporting requirements. 

●● Legal action and fines  
against the Company
●● Significant financial loss
●● Debarment from tender lists
●● Damage to reputation  

resulting in loss of existing  
or new business

●● Significant media attention  

and future scrutiny

●● Environmental policy 

and systems 

●● Environment Oversight Group
●● Aspects and impacts 

assessment

●● ISO 14001
●● Carbon Trust Standard
●● Reporting methodology 

and systems

●● Environmental strategy 
objectives and targets

Risk

Compliance	with	complex	laws	and	regulations

Description/Comment

Impact

Mitigation

Serco must comply with laws and regulations relating to the formation, 
administration and performance of government contracts that affect  
how it does business and may impose added costs. Further, it is required 
to obtain environmental and safety permits from various government 
authorities which require periodic renewal or review of their conditions. 
Failure to comply with any of these regulations could result in civil and 
criminal penalties and administrative sanctions, including termination  
of contracts, forfeiture of profits, harm to its reputation, suspension of 
payments, fines and suspension or debarment from doing business 
with governments.

●● Substantial monetary damages 

and/or criminal violations

●● Damage to reputation  

resulting in loss of existing  
or new business

●● Debarment from tender lists
●● Significant media attention  

and future scrutiny

●● Policies and systems 
embedded in SMS

●● Code of Conduct
●● Risk assessment
●● Third-party contracts
●● System certification and 
regulatory approval
●● Internal board and 

governance structure

●● Staff induction and training
●● Internal compliance 

programmes

i

w
e
v
r
e
v
O

i

s
s
e
n
s
u
b
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
m
r
o
f
r
e
p
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
n
r
e
v
o
G

s
t
n
e
m
e
t
a
t
s

l

i

a
c
n
a
n
F

i

Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011 | 79

 
 
 
Section 3 | Our performance

Principal risks and uncertainties

People risks

Risk

Failure to attract and retain senior management and other key employees

Description/Comment

Impact

Mitigation

The success of the Company depends on the efforts, abilities, experience 
and expertise of the senior management teams and on recruiting, 
retaining, motivating, effectively communicating with and developing 
highly skilled and competent people at all levels of the organisation. 
There can be intense competition for personnel from other companies 
and organisations and there may at any time be shortages in the 
availability of appropriately skilled people at all levels within Serco. 
Further, the Company cannot guarantee the retention of such key 
executives and technical personnel. The failure of the Company to retain 
and/or recruit additional or substitute senior managers and/or other  
key employees could have a material adverse effect on its business. 

●● Increased cost in recruitment 
activity and time taken to 
fill roles

●● Instability and loss of 
business continuity

●● Dilution of brand and values
●● Reduced employee 

engagement through loss 
of compelling leadership
●● Strengthen competitors  
(loss of leaders to them)

●● Impact on business –  

risk of not achieving level  
of planned growth

●● People policies and  

systems, strategy and targets 
supported by governance 
structure, including 
Remuneration Committee

●● Succession planning
●● Leadership model
●● Annual external (independent) 

remuneration review

●● Job structure and 
grading system

●● Talent database and leadership 

development programme
●● Employment engagement 
strategy, including annual 
staff survey

Risk

Failure to manage union/industrial relations

Description/Comment

Impact

Mitigation

A significant number of Serco’s employees are members of trade unions 
in the UK and a number are members of trade unions in the US and  
other countries. These include operations where a failure to manage 
relationships may result in industrial action by Serco staff in high-profile 
business operations, i.e. where there will be significant reputational 
damage, client or media attention. Some sectors of the business are 
subject to union recognition agreements. The Company maintains a 
number of relationships with trade unions and staff through work councils 
and other bodies.

●● Failure to deliver contractual 

requirements

●● Instability and loss of 
business continuity

●● Dilution of brand and values
●● Reduced employee 

engagement 

●● Damage to reputation  

resulting in loss of existing  
or new business

●● Significant media attention  

and future scrutiny

●● Policies and systems 
embedded in SMS

●● Industrial relations strategy
●● Industrial Relations 
Working Group 

●● Stakeholder management  

of key relationships

●● Annual external (independent) 

remuneration review

●● Job structure and 
grading system

●● Employment engagement 

strategy

80 | Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011

Finance risks

Risk

The	impairment	of	goodwill	could	adversely	impact	reported	results

Description/Comment

Impact

Goodwill accounts for just over one-third of Serco Group’s recorded total 
assets as at 31 December 2011. Serco evaluates goodwill for impairment 
annually, or more frequently when evidence of potential impairment 
exists. Any decrease in expected cash flows or a deterioration in market 
conditions could require Serco to record impairment charges that could 
have a material impact on the financial position and results of operations.

●● Inability to meet profit 

expectations

●● Damage to reputation and 
shareholder confidence

●● Impact on strategic objectives

Mitigation

●● Internal board and 

governance structure

●● Strategic plans
●● Business plans
●● Business Lifecycle 

Governance process

●● Financial review and reporting

Risk

Additional funding requirements for pension schemes

Description/Comment

Impact

Mitigation

Serco operates defined benefit pension schemes for qualifying 
employees of its subsidiaries in the UK and other European countries.  
In addition, we have interests in joint ventures, which operate defined 
benefit schemes for qualifying employees. The nature of a defined  
benefit scheme means that the funding levels of the schemes are subject 
to factors outside Serco’s control, including the introduction of new 
legislation, which could create or impact a deficit in the scheme at future 
actuarial valuations. If the deficit in the scheme increases at future 
actuarial valuations, the Group may be required to make additional cash 
contributions to the schemes in the future, preventing the use of cash  
for other purposes, which could have a material impact on the Group’s 
business, financial condition and results of operations over the long term.

●● Inability to meet 

profit expectations

●● Reduction in cash availability

●● Obtain actuarial assessment  

of scheme liabilities
●● Appropriate investment 

management and independent 
measurement of asset returns
●● Ensure robust monitoring via 
HR policy, systems and 
governance structure including 
review by the Audit and 
Remuneration Committees  
and Board of Pension Trustees

Risk

Fluctuations	in	foreign	currency	exchange	rates	that	are	not	effectively	hedged

Description/Comment

Impact

Mitigation

The international nature of Serco’s business means it is exposed to 
fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates in relation to various 
currencies, primarily the US Dollar, the Australian Dollar and the Euro, 
arising from the translation of earnings. In addition, some of Serco’s  
bank debt is denominated in currencies other than pound Sterling.

●● Material effect on the Group’s 
future results of operations  
and financial position

●● The Group hedges short-term 
transaction risks that are 
material in value

●● Management of translational 
risk by the part currency 
matching of borrowings  
with the net assets of 
overseas subsidiaries

Risk

Fluctuations in interest rates

Description/Comment

Impact

Mitigation

Historically, Serco has financed its operations partly through draw down 
of funding facilities. Adverse movements in interest rates could therefore 
impact profitability and net assets.

●● Inability to meet profit 

expectations and associated 
impact on net assets

●● Impact on competitiveness

●● Fixed rate debt instruments  

and interest rate derivatives that 
swap floating for fixed rates 

i

w
e
v
r
e
v
O

i

s
s
e
n
s
u
b
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
m
r
o
f
r
e
p
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
n
r
e
v
o
G

s
t
n
e
m
e
t
a
t
s

l

i

a
c
n
a
n
F

i

Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011 | 81

 
 
 
Section 4 | Governance

Corporate Governance Report

Introduction
In managing the affairs of the Group, the Board of Serco Group plc is committed to achieving high standards of corporate governance, 
integrity and business ethics for all of its activities around the world. A fundamental part of the Group’s corporate governance processes  
is the Business Conduct and Ethics Standard that the Company and Group have adopted. 

Throughout 2011 Serco Group plc complied fully with the provisions of the UK Corporate Governance Code issued by the Financial 
Reporting Council (the Code). The paragraphs below, together with the ‘Our performance’ section on pages 20 to 81 and the Remuneration 
Report on pages 96 to 107, provide details of how the Company has applied the principles and complies with the provisions of the Code. 

The Board of Directors
Board composition
Currently the Board has seven members: the Chairman, two Executive Directors and four Non-Executive Directors. Following the 
retirements of Margaret Ford and Tom Corcoran at the end of 2010, three Non-Executive Directors, Paul Brooks, Angie Risley and Ralph D. 
Crosby Jr, were appointed in the year. 

With the sad and untimely passing of Paul Brooks in January 2012, an externally led recruitment process is underway for his successor. 

As announced on 20 March 2012, Leonard V. Broese van Groenou will be retiring from the Board at the end of the Company’s Annual 
General Meeting, being held on 14 May 2012 and hence will not stand for re-election. Angie Risley will succeed Leonard as Chairman  
of the Remuneration Committee. 

No individual or group of individuals dominates the Board’s decision-making. The Board considers all of the Non-Executive Directors  
to be independent. In coming to this conclusion the Board has determined that each Director is independent in character and judgement 
and there are no relationships or circumstances which are likely to affect, or could appear to affect, the Directors’ judgements.

Each Director brings a valuable range of experience and expertise to the Board. The profiles of all Directors can be found on pages 94 
and 95. 

Diversity
With reference to the report by Lord Davies of Abersoch entitled ‘Women on Boards’, Serco strongly supports the principle of boardroom 
diversity, of which gender is one, but not the only, key aspect. Diversity of thought, experience and approach are all important and we  
will always seek to appoint on merit against objective criteria, including diversity.

The Board aims to achieve an appropriate diversity across all elements of Serco’s management. As, over time, we recruit new members  
we would, therefore, expect to address the issue of diversity in general, and to increase the proportion (currently 14%) that women 
constitute of our plc Board.

The role of the Board
The Board has responsibility for the overall management and performance of the Group, the approval of its long-term objectives and 
commercial strategy and for ensuring that any necessary corrective action is taken promptly. Reporting to the Board, the Governance 
function is tasked by the Group to develop and oversee corporate processes for the identification and management of business risks  
and the appropriate application of the Serco Management System (SMS) and corporate responsibility activities throughout the Group.  
The ‘Our Performance’ section on pages 20 to 81 details the internal control and risk policies, procedures and management framework 
adopted by the Group. The Corporate Responsibility Report is available online at www.serco.com and illustrates how Serco’s approach to  
corporate assurance and responsibility translates from the Board into everyday working practices. 

Conflicts of interest
The Company’s Articles of Association, as approved by shareholders at the Company’s 2010 Annual General Meeting, include provisions 
reflecting recommended practice concerning conflicts of interest. The Board has in place procedures for Directors to report any potential  
or actual conflicts to the other members of the Board for their authorisation where appropriate. In deciding whether to authorise a conflict  
or potential conflict of interest only non-interested Directors (i.e. those that have no interest in the matter under consideration) will be able  
to take the relevant decision; in taking the decision the Directors must act in a way they consider, in good faith, will be most likely to 
promote the Company’s success. In addition, the Directors may impose conditions or limitations when giving authorisation if they think  
this is appropriate. 

The process of reviewing conflicts disclosed, and authorisations given, is repeated at least annually. Any conflicts or potential conflicts 
considered by the Board and any authorisations given are recorded in the Board minutes and in a register of Directors’ conflicts which  
is maintained by the Company Secretary.

82 | Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011

 
Reserved and delegated authorities
There is a formal schedule of matters reserved to the Board. This schedule, which is reviewed annually, includes approval of: 

●● Group strategy 

●● Annual financial and operating plans

●● Major capital expenditure, acquisitions or divestments

●● Annual and half-year financial results

●● Satisfying itself as to the integrity of financial information

●● Dividend policy

●● Ensuring adequate succession planning for the Board and senior management and appointing and removing Directors, the Company 

Secretary and Committee members

●● Treasury policy

●● Review of the effectiveness of the Group’s system of internal control and risk management process

●● Training and development of the Board and the Company Secretary.

Other specific responsibilities are delegated to Board Committees which operate within clearly defined terms of reference. Details of  
the responsibilities delegated to the Committees are given on pages 86 to 88. Each Committee has an appropriate balance of skills, 
experience, independence and knowledge of the Company.

Information flow
Senior executives below Board level attend certain Board meetings at which they make presentations on the results and strategies of their 
divisional units and functional areas of the Group. Board members are given appropriate documents in advance of each Board meeting 
and each Committee meeting, as appropriate. 

Board meetings are scheduled six times a year, four over two days at a time, and two meetings held for one day each. Board meetings  
are structured to allow open discussion of the strategy, trading and financial performance and risk management of the Group. One of the 
two-day meetings is dedicated to the review of the longer-term strategy of the Group. Board and Committee meetings are held at varying 
locations, including overseas units, and the opportunity is used to combine the formal business of the Board with site visits and divisional 
presentations and discussions. Additional Board meetings are scheduled as required.

The attendance of individual Directors at Board meetings held during the year is shown in the table on page 85.

Company Secretary and independent advice
The Company Secretary is responsible for advising the Board on all corporate governance matters, ensuring that all Board procedures are 
followed, good information flows and facilitating induction programmes for Directors. All Directors have access to the advice and services 
of the Company Secretary. 

The Board has approved a procedure for Directors to take independent professional advice, if necessary, at the Company’s expense.

Chairman and Chief Executive
The roles of the Chairman and the Chief Executive are separately held and the division of their responsibilities is clearly established,  
set out in writing, and agreed by the Board.

As Chairman, Alastair Lyons is responsible for: 

●● Ensuring the effectiveness and successful operation of the Board, its agenda and processes 

●● Promoting the highest standards of corporate governance and ensuring appropriate communication with shareholders on these 

standards and the Group’s overall performance

●● Ensuring appropriate Director training and development takes place

●● Board succession planning.

i

w
e
v
r
e
v
O

i

s
s
e
n
s
u
b
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
m
r
o
f
r
e
p
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
n
r
e
v
o
G

s
t
n
e
m
e
t
a
t
s

l

i

a
c
n
a
n
F

i

Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011 | 83

 
 
 
 
Section 4 | Governance

Corporate Governance Report

The Chief Executive, Christopher Hyman, is responsible for: 

●● The formation and implementation of the Group’s global strategy 

●● Delivery of the Group’s business plan

●● Providing motivation and leadership to the operating divisions, chairing the Executive Committee and setting its style and tone

●● Setting the overall policy and direction of Serco’s business operations, investments and other activities within a framework of prudent 

and effective risk management and ensuring that divisions and functions control those risks satisfactorily

●● Providing leadership and representation of the Group with major customers, shareholders and industry organisations.

Senior Independent Director
David Richardson was appointed to the role of Senior Independent Director in January 2011. As part of this role, David is available 
to shareholders if they have any issues or wish to discuss any aspects of the Company’s business without the Executive Directors 
or Chairman present. Additionally, in accordance with the provisions of the Code, David is available to provide a sounding board  
for the Chairman and to act as an intermediary for Non-Executive Directors when necessary.

External directorships for Executive Directors
The Board considers that Executive Directors can gain valuable experience and knowledge through appropriate and limited non-executive 
appointments in other listed companies or independent sector organisations. The Board is careful to ensure that any such appointments 
do not compromise the effective management of the Group and that these are approved in advance of any appointments being taken up. 
Details of the fees received by Executive Directors for external appointments can be found in the Remuneration Report on page 102. 

Significant other commitments of the Chairman
Alastair Lyons is non-executive Chairman of Admiral Group plc, Deputy Chairman and Senior Independent Director of Bovis Homes 
Group PLC, Senior Independent Director of Phoenix Group Holdings and Chairman of the Towergate Insurance Group. 

The Board believes that Alastair holds a well-balanced portfolio of positions which allow him to perform his duties as Chairman appropriately.

Re-election of Directors
The Company’s Articles of Association stipulate that each Director shall retire (but be eligible for re-election) at the annual general meeting 
held in the third calendar year following the year in which he or she was elected or last re-elected by the Company. Any Directors appointed 
by the Board since the last annual general meeting must stand for re-election at the next annual general meeting. Any Non-Executive 
Directors, excluding the Chairman, who have served for more than nine years will be subject to annual re-election.

Notwithstanding the above, in accordance with provisions contained within the Code all Directors retired and stood for re-election at the 
2011 Annual General Meeting and will do so on an annual basis at each annual general meeting. Their names are set out in the Notice of 
Annual General Meeting. 

The Non-Executive Directors 
Independence
All the Non-Executive Directors are independent of management and have no cross-directorships or significant links which could materially 
interfere with the exercise of independent judgement. 

Term of appointment
All Non-Executive Directors are appointed for an initial term of three years. Thereafter, subject to satisfactory performance, they may serve 
one or two additional three-year terms, with a thorough review of their continued independence and suitability to continue as Non-Executive 
Directors being undertaken if they are to remain on the Board for more than nine years. The terms and conditions of the appointment of the 
Directors are summarised in the Remuneration Report on page 102 and are available on request from the Company Secretary. 

Meetings of Non-Executive Directors
Non-Executive Directors meet separately (without the Chairman or Executive Directors being present) at least once a year principally to 
appraise the Chairman’s performance (with input from Executive Directors as described below). This meeting is chaired by the Senior 
Independent Director. 

84 | Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011

 
Board meetings and attendance
Board meetings were held on a bi-monthly basis with ad hoc meetings in between as required. During the year, three such ad hoc  
meetings were held to discuss matters relating to the Intelenet acquisition. The frequency and content of Board meetings are reviewed  
by the Board annually. 

The attendance of the individual Directors at Board and Committee meetings of which they were members during 2011 was as follows:

Alastair Lyons 
Christopher Hyman 
Andrew Jenner 
Leonard V. Broese van Groenou  
David Richardson 
Paul Brooks 
Angie Risley 
Ralph D. Crosby Jr 

Board 
(9 meetings)  

Audit 
(3 meetings) 

Remuneration 
(6 meetings) 

Nomination 
(3 meetings)

9 
9 
9 
9 
9 
6 (7) 
5 (6) 
4 (4) 

n/a 
n/a 
n/a 
3 
3 
3 
n/a 
n/a 

4 (4) 
n/a 
n/a 
6 
6 
n/a 
4 (4) 
n/a 

3
1 (1)
n/a
n/a
3
1 (1)
0 (0)
n/a

Notes:
1. 

 n/a means that the specified Director is not a member of that Committee, although he or she may attend meetings at the invitation of the Chairman  
of the Committee.

2.  Where a number is given in brackets against a Director’s attendance, this is the number of meetings which took place during their tenure. 

Board effectiveness
Induction
On joining the Board, Directors are given background information describing the Company and its activities. They receive an induction  
pack which includes information on all the governance processes of the Group, the roles and responsibilities of the Board, Committees  
and other management teams and a range of other appropriate information about the Group, its activities and its advisors. Meetings are 
also arranged with a number of key people from across the Group on a structured basis to assist with a Director’s induction. Visits are also 
made, where possible, to a number of contracts around the country. Paul Brooks, Angie Risley and Ralph D. Crosby Jr undertook a number 
of meetings and site visits on joining the Group, both in the UK and overseas, and Alastair Lyons has continued to further his knowledge of 
the Group with a comprehensive ongoing programme of contract visits, numbering in excess of 40 since joining the Board. 

Continued professional development
During 2011 the Board members were all engaged in a range of training and professional development activities. Board members attended 
a workshop on the UK Bribery Act during the year. This included not only consideration of the legal implications but also the Company’s 
wider approach to compliance and refresher training on the Company’s procedures around anti-bribery and corruption as specified within 
the Serco Management System. 

The Board considers the training needs of the Executive and Non-Executive Directors plus the Company Secretary. All Board members  
are encouraged to attend relevant training courses at the Company’s expense. The development needs of the Directors and the Company 
Secretary fall within the remit of the Chairman who reviews and agrees these individually.

Performance evaluation 
The Group recognises the importance of a comprehensive evaluation process for the Board and ensures that comments and 
recommendations are considered carefully and implemented where appropriate to ensure its continued development. 

In 2011, the Board commissioned an external review completed by an independent consultant, who, it is confirmed, is not connected  
with the Company in any way. The objectives of the review were:

●● To provide an independent evaluation of the Board’s structure and composition, processes and decision-making, performance  
and outcomes and alignment of the Board’s priorities to Company strategy, in line with UK corporate governance standards;

●● To review the effectiveness of the Audit Committee, Nominations Committee and the Remuneration Committee;

●● To provide insight into areas of strength and areas that would further increase the effectiveness of the Board and its Committees.

i

w
e
v
r
e
v
O

i

s
s
e
n
s
u
b
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
m
r
o
f
r
e
p
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
n
r
e
v
o
G

s
t
n
e
m
e
t
a
t
s

l

i

a
c
n
a
n
F

i

Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011 | 85

 
 
 
 
 
 
Section 4 | Governance

Corporate Governance Report

Each Board Member completed a detailed, structured questionnaire about the Board’s effectiveness and was then interviewed to  
clarify views where necessary and discuss common themes emerging from the research. The consultant interviewed the Company 
Secretary, a number of members of the Executive Committee and selected Company advisers to understand their perspectives on  
the Board’s effectiveness.

A presentation to the Board was given of the results of the evaluation on its conclusion. 

The review concluded that the Board operates effectively under strong leadership from the Chairman. Members participate fully in open 
and constructive debate and appropriate focus is given to key areas of risk and strategy. 

Recommendations have been made with respect to increasing Board contact with the key talent and rising stars from across the Group 
and reviewing the format of management information provided at and between Board meetings. Further, the Board recognised the value  
of previous detailed sessions held on City and Investor Relations and the evaluation has recommended including another such meeting  
in the next two years. These, along with more administrative recommendations, have been given due consideration by the Board and 
actions for each have been agreed accordingly. 

In addition, an evaluation of the Chairman’s performance led by the Senior Independent Director (taking into account the views of both  
the Non-Executive and Executive Directors) was carried out during the year. It is considered that the Chairman provides strong leadership 
of the Board, his time commitment to learning about the Group not only gives him a more informed view of the Group but enables him  
to provide a strong sounding board for the Executive Directors and there is a good level of trust between him and the Chief Executive.  
The value to Serco employees of the Chairman’s commitment to contract and site visits was also acknowledged. 

Board Committees
The Board has delegated authority to a number of permanent Committees to deal with matters in accordance with written terms of 
reference. The terms of reference for all Committees are reviewed on a regular basis by the Board to ensure they are still appropriate  
and reflect any changes in good practice and governance; these are available online at www.serco.com. 

Committees are authorised to obtain outside legal or other independent professional advice if they consider it necessary. 

The Audit Committee and Audit Committee Report
Membership: The Audit Committee consists solely of independent Non-Executive Directors. It is chaired by David Richardson and 
comprises Leonard V. Broese van Groenou and, from February 2011 until his passing in January 2012, Paul Brooks. 

The Chairman of the Committee has recent and relevant experience for this role. The Audit Committee met three times during the  
year. At the invitation of the Committee, the Finance Director, the Head of Internal Audit, KPMG LLP (the Group’s internal auditor),  
and Deloitte LLP (the external auditor) attend meetings. The Committee meets with each of the internal auditor, external auditor and  
the Head of Internal Audit separately at least once a year. All Directors have access to the minutes of the Audit Committee meetings. 

Responsibilities: The main responsibilities of the Audit Committee are: 

●● To monitor the integrity of the financial statements of the Company, including interim management statements, and any formal 

announcements relating to the Company’s financial performance, reviewing significant financial reporting judgements contained  
in them

●● To monitor and review the internal audit programme and ensure that the internal audit function is adequately resourced and has 

appropriate standing with the Company 

●● To review management’s and the internal auditor’s reports on the effectiveness of systems for internal financial control, financial 

reporting and risk management

●● To consider the appointment, reappointment and removal of the external auditor and assess independence and objectivity of the 
external auditor, ensuring that key partners are rotated at appropriate intervals and relevant UK professional and regulatory  
requirements are taken into account

●● To recommend the audit fee to the Board and pre-approve any fees in respect of non-audit services provided by the external auditor 

and to ensure that the provision of non-audit services does not impair the external auditor’s independence or objectivity

●● To discuss with the external auditor, before the audit commences, the nature and scope of the audit and to review the auditor’s  

quality control procedures and steps taken by the auditor to respond to changes in regulatory and other requirements

●● To oversee the process for selecting the external auditor and make appropriate recommendations through the Board to the 

shareholders to consider at the annual general meeting

●● Review the Company’s procedures for detecting fraud and its systems and controls for the prevention of bribery and receive reports  

on non-compliance.

86 | Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011

 
Additionally, in accordance with the Code, the Committee is responsible for a formal whistle-blowing policy and procedure which applies 
throughout the Group. Responsibility for the operation of this policy has been delegated to the Company Secretary. 

Members of the Audit Committee have received updates on accounting standards and generally accepted accounting practice on  
a quarterly basis as part of the Finance Director’s report to the Board, and also on a half-yearly basis from the external auditor.

During 2011 the Audit Committee discharged fully its responsibilities listed above and, in doing so, considered the following:

●● Corporate Governance Report and the Statement of Directors’ Responsibilities for inclusion in the 2010 Annual report and accounts

●● 2011 Half Year Report and Auditor’s report thereon

●● 2011 external audit fees

●● Review of the whistle-blowing process and significant reports from that process

●● Evaluation of the Audit Committee and the achievement of its Terms of Reference 

●● 2011 internal audit programme and the proposed 2012 programme 

●● The continuing independence of the external auditors.

Due to the nature and complexity of the business and its contracts, in considering the integrity of the financial statements of the Company the 
Committee paid particular attention, amongst other matters, to contract accounting, goodwill impairment, pensions accounting and taxation.

Non-audit services: The Committee has reconfirmed its policy on the provision of audit and non-audit services by Deloitte LLP. 
It determined three categories of services: Approved (e.g. audit and related assurance services), Permitted (e.g. tax compliance  
and due diligence) and Not Permitted (e.g. design/implementation of financial information systems and quasi management services).  
The Committee, the Company and Deloitte LLP all monitor compliance with the policy and review at each meeting the fees earned  
and the estimates for the year. 

The Committee acknowledges that the Group’s external audit firm will have a significant understanding of the Group’s business and  
this knowledge and experience can be utilised to the Group’s advantage in many areas thus ensuring efficiency in costs to the Group.  
They also operate to professional codes of conduct including the management of conflicts of interest. Accordingly, the external auditor  
may be engaged for the following non-audit services:

a)  assistance in tax compliance activities (including the preparation of tax returns);

b)  tax advisory services;

c)  accountants’ reports for any Stock Exchange purposes;

d)  ad hoc reporting on historic financial information for any other purpose and ad hoc accounting advisory services;

e)  due diligence activities associated with potential acquisitions or disposals of businesses;

f) 

 other corporate finance advisory services required in support of potential transactions or bids including the review of financial models 
for internal consistency and compliance with Group financial accounting policies;

g)  any other services which are not prohibited and are authorised by the Finance Director or Group Company Secretary.

Where such services are considered to be recurring in nature approval of the Committee may be sought for the full financial year at the 
beginning of that year. Approval for other permitted non-audit services has to be sought on an ad hoc basis: where no Audit Committee 
meeting is scheduled within an appropriate time frame the approval is to be sought from the Chairman of the Committee (or his nominated 
alternate). The Committee may establish fee thresholds for pre-approved services and similar approvals are required for work awarded to 
accounting firms other than firms’ auditors where fees are expected to exceed pre-approved limits. The Group Company Secretary is 
nominated by the Audit Committee as the point of review and approval for the engagement of non-audit services.

The Group has complied with the policy throughout the year. Where appropriate, non-audit services have been provided by companies 
other than Deloitte LLP to safeguard auditor objectivity and independence. The fees paid to Deloitte for audit, audit-related and non-audit 
services for 2011 can be found in note 6 to the Consolidated Financial Statements. The principal areas of engagement of Deloitte LLP for 
audit-related and non-audit services were commissioned in full compliance with the above policy and a formal tender exercise was 
undertaken where appropriate. The services principally related to taxation advice, IT security testing and due diligence and other corporate 
finance advisory services. 

Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011 | 87

i

w
e
v
r
e
v
O

i

s
s
e
n
s
u
b
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
m
r
o
f
r
e
p
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
n
r
e
v
o
G

s
t
n
e
m
e
t
a
t
s

l

i

a
c
n
a
n
F

i

 
 
 
 
Section 4 | Governance

Corporate Governance Report

Auditor’s independence: The independence, objectivity and effectiveness of the external auditor have been examined by the Committee 
and discussions were held regarding their terms of engagement and remuneration. The Senior Statutory Auditor is Richard Knights who 
was appointed to the role at the beginning of 2011. There are no contractual obligations that restrict the Company’s current choice of 
external auditor and consideration was given to the merits of appointing an alternative external audit firm. Following an assessment of  
the relative strengths and weaknesses of an alternative provider against the continued engagement of the incumbent provider, the 
Committee recommended to the Board that Deloitte LLP be proposed for reappointment at the forthcoming 2012 Annual General Meeting. 
This recommendation has been accepted and will be proposed to shareholders.

The Nomination Committee
Membership: The Nomination Committee is chaired by Alastair Lyons and comprises David Richardson, Angie Risley from 1 April 2011  
and Christopher Hyman who was appointed to the Committee on 10 May 2011. Paul Brooks was also a member of the Committee from 
1 February until 10 May 2011. The Committee met three times during 2011.

Responsibilities: Matters considered during the year included succession and contingency planning, Board structure and composition  
and the recruitment of Paul Brooks, Angie Risley and Ralph D. Crosby Jr. 

The Committee has responsibility for the identification and nomination of candidates to fill Board vacancies as they arise, engaging external 
search consultants when necessary. Approval of appointment is a responsibility of the Board. 

The Nomination Committee has engaged relevant external executive search consultants for the appointment of new Non-Executive 
Directors. In consultation with the chosen search consultants, specifications were drawn up for the roles and attributes were identified that 
were felt to be essential for their effective performance, including what would be considered acceptable in terms of time commitment. 

The Remuneration Committee
Details of the Remuneration Committee and its policies together with the Directors’ remuneration, emoluments and interests in the 
Company’s share capital are set out in the Remuneration Report on pages 96 to 107.

Executive Committees
Throughout 2011, an Executive Committee has operated which is chaired by the Chief Executive and comprises 11 other members, 
including the Group Finance Director, Divisional Chief Executives and other selected Corporate function heads. The Committee has 
delegated responsibility from the Board to ensure the effective direction and control of the business and to deliver the Group’s long-term 
strategy and goals. The Committee met 12 times during the year to review the Group’s activities and discuss management and operational 
issues. Representatives from across the Serco business were invited to the meetings to discuss aspects of their business or give 
presentations on specific topics. 

Relationship with shareholders
The Company’s relationship with shareholders is given a high priority. The Annual report and accounts is available to all shareholders  
both in hard copy and online at www.serco.com. 

We no longer produce a printed report of our half-year results. Instead, a letter summarising those results is issued to shareholders and  
a copy of the full stock exchange announcement is available on request. 

Regular trading updates are published ahead of close periods and before the annual general meeting by press release. In addition,  
press releases and stock exchange announcements are made regarding significant contracts or transactions. All trading announcements 
are also posted on the Group’s website www.serco.com.

Annual general meeting
Individual shareholders have the opportunity at the annual general meeting (AGM) to question the Chairman and, through him, the Chairs 
of the various Board Committees and other Directors. Details of the meeting are set out in the notice of meeting which is sent to shareholders 
and which contains the text of the resolutions to be proposed and explanatory notes. Shareholders attending the AGM are invited to vote  
by means of a poll. A poll reflects the number of voting rights exercisable by each member and is considered by the Board to be a more 
democratic method of voting. Shareholders are advised of the total number of votes lodged for each resolution, in the categories ‘for’  
and ‘against’ together with the number of ‘votes withheld’. This information is also posted on the Group’s website www.serco.com. 

88 | Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011

 
Institutional investors
The Chief Executive and Finance Director have regular dialogue with institutional investors. The Chairman also meets with significant 
institutional investors from time to time. The Company’s investor relations programme and day-to-day activities are managed by the Head 
of Investor Relations. As part of the role of Senior Independent Director, David Richardson is also available to meet shareholders, should it 
be required.

The Board receives an investor relations report at each meeting. This reviews share price movements and valuation, changes in the  
share register, the Company’s recent and planned investor relations activities, communication with shareholders, analyst recommendations 
and significant news from the market and support services sector. The report ensures that the Board has a clear understanding of the 
Company’s investor relations performance and enables them to develop an understanding of the views of major shareholders. 

Group website
The Group website www.serco.com is a primary source of information on the Group. The site includes an area tailored for investors, 
including information such as an archive of all reports, announcements, presentations and webcasts, share price tools, the terms of 
reference for all Board Committees, the Corporate Responsibility Report, and information on voting at the annual general meeting. It also 
has a link directly to the Company’s registrars, allowing shareholders to view their shareholding online and to vote on the resolutions set  
out in the notice of annual general meeting.

Business conduct
Serco Group operates within a Management System that defines the policies, standards and processes to be applied wherever we operate. 
Integral to this is our policy on Business Conduct and Ethics that applies to all business divisions, operating companies and business units 
throughout the world. This policy outlines the Group’s position on a wide range of ethical and legal issues including conflicts of interest, 
financial inducements, human rights and legal and regulatory compliance. It applies to Directors and to all employees regardless of their 
position or location. Recognising that ethical dilemmas may arise in a growing company the Group has an Ethics Consultation Process that 
is to be followed to determine the Group’s position on particular issues. To support this process an Ethics Committee, comprising members 
of the Executive Team with a quorum of three and chaired by the Corporate Affairs Director, meets as required. As the leadership of the 
Company, the Executive Team will make any fine judgements about what it considers acceptable or otherwise. 

Serco’s outsourced Ethics Hotline operated throughout the year, which enables employees to report any concerns they may have, or report 
any wrongdoing, that they do not feel able to raise with their line manager, human resources colleagues or through other reporting 
channels. In addition to the Hotline, which is available toll-free worldwide in several languages, employees can also make reports via email 
or the internet. The Company Secretary investigates independently any issues raised and reports back to the Audit Committee and, as 
required, the Board. During the year new territories and languages have been efficiently integrated to encompass the extended coverage  
of the Group as a result of acquisitions.

The Group maintains a position of impartiality with respect to party politics. Accordingly, it does not contribute funds to any political party. 
It does, however, contribute to the public debate of policy issues that may affect it in the countries in which it operates. 

Internal control and risk management
Further to the comments above regarding Governance, details of the Group’s internal control and risk management processes are 
contained in pages 72 to 81 of the ‘Our Performance’ section. The Board confirms that the actions it considers necessary have been taken 
to remedy any failings and weaknesses which it has determined to be significant from its review of the Group’s internal controls and risk 
management processes.

Going concern
The Directors have acknowledged the guidance on ‘Going Concern and Liquidity Risk: Guidance for the Directors of UK Companies 2009’ 
and ‘An Update for Directors of Listed Companies: Responding to increased country and currency risk in financial reports’, published by 
the Financial Reporting Council in 2009 and January 2012 respectively. This is discussed in the Finance Review starting on page 54. 

Approved by the Board of Directors and signed on its behalf by:

Joanne Roberts
Secretary 
27 February 2012 

i

w
e
v
r
e
v
O

i

s
s
e
n
s
u
b
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
m
r
o
f
r
e
p
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
n
r
e
v
o
G

s
t
n
e
m
e
t
a
t
s

l

i

a
c
n
a
n
F

i

Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011 | 89

 
 
 
 
Section 4 | Governance

Directors’ Report

Annual report and accounts
The Directors have pleasure in presenting the Annual report and accounts of the Group for the year ended 31 December 2011. 
Comparative figures used in this report are for the year ended 31 December 2010. The Corporate Governance Report set out on pages 82 
to 89 forms part of the statutory Directors’ Report.

Activities
Serco Group plc is a holding company which operates via its subsidiaries and its joint ventures to improve services by managing people, 
processes, technology and assets more effectively. Serco supports governments, agencies and companies who seek a trusted partner  
with a solid track record of providing assured service excellence. Our people offer operational, management and consulting expertise in the 
aviation, BPO, defence, education, environmental services, facilities management, health, home affairs, information and communications 
technology, knowledge services, local government, science and nuclear, transport, welfare to work and the commercial sectors.

The Chairman’s Statement and the remainder of the ‘Our Performance’ section on pages 20 to 81 report on the activities during the year, 
post-balance sheet events and likely future developments. The information in these reports which is required to fulfil the requirements of the 
Business Review is incorporated in this Directors’ Report by reference. 

Share capital
The issued share capital of the Company, together with the details of shares issued during the year, is shown in note 29 to the Consolidated 
Financial Statements.

The powers of the Directors to issue or buy back shares are restricted to that approved at the Company’s annual general meeting.

The rules relating to the appointment and replacement of Directors are contained in the Company’s Articles of Association. Changes to  
the Articles of Association must be approved by the shareholders in accordance with the legislation in force from time to time.

Dividends 
An interim dividend of 2.50p (2010: 2.20p) per ordinary share was paid on 14 October 2011. The Directors recommend a final dividend  
of 5.90p (2010: 5.15p) per ordinary share which, if approved by shareholders at the annual general meeting, will be paid on 22 May 2012  
to those shareholders on the register at the close of business on 9 March 2012. 

Interests in voting rights
As at 27 February 2012* the Company had been notified under Rule 5 of the Disclosure Rules and Transparency Rules of the Financial 
Services Authority of the following holdings of voting rights in its shares (the percentage figure is at date of notification): 

UBS Investment Bank 
Morstan Nominees Limited 
Capital Research and Management Company 
AXA S.A. 
Lloyds Banking Group plc 
Fidelity International Limited 
Baillie Gifford & Co 
Newton Investment Management Limited 
BlackRock Inc 
HBOS plc 
Legal & General Group plc 
Ignis Investment Services Limited 

Number of shares 
(millions) 

% held

29.1 
25.1 
25.0 
24.4 
24.2 
23.9 
24.0 
23.6 
21.8 
20.5 
19.5 
15.5 

5.90
5.11
5.08
4.95 
4.96 
4.93 
4.92
4.85
4.42
4.22 
3.99
3.15

The Directors are unaware of any restrictions on transfer of securities in the Company or on voting rights. There are also no known 
agreements between holders of the Company’s securities which may result in such restrictions. 

90 | Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011

 
 
 
Directors
The current members of the Board, together with biographical details of each Director, are set out on pages 94 and 95.

On 28 March 2011, the Company announced the appointment of Angie Risley as a Non-Executive Director of the Company with effect from 
1 April 2011. Both Angie’s and Paul Brooks’ appointments were approved at the 2011 AGM. Additionally, on 30 June 2011, the Company 
announced the appointment of Ralph D. Crosby Jr as a Non-Executive Director of the Company with effect from that date. Ralph will stand 
for election at the Company’s AGM on 14 May 2012. 

As announced on 20 March 2012, at the conclusion of the Company’s 2012 AGM Leonard V. Broese van Groenou will retire as a 
Non-Executive Director of the Company and, accordingly, will not be standing for re-election. Angie Risley will take over as Remuneration 
Committee Chairman on Leonard’s retirement. All other Directors will stand for re-election at the AGM. 

With the sad and untimely passing of Paul Brooks in January 2012, an externally led recruitment process is underway to address Board 
composition and succession planning.

Directors’ interests
With the exception of the Executive Directors’ service contracts and the Non-Executive Directors’ letters of appointment, there are no 
contracts in which any Director has an interest.

Certain change in control conditions are included in the service contracts of Directors which provide compensation or reduction of notice 
periods in the event of a change in control of the Company.

Details of the Directors’ interests in the ordinary shares and options over the ordinary shares of the Company are set out in the 
Remuneration Report on pages 96 to 107.

Annual general meeting
The annual general meeting of the Company will be held at Linklaters LLP, One Silk Street, London EC2Y 8HQ on 14 May 2012 at 11.30am.

The Notice of Annual General Meeting together with explanatory notes is sent to shareholders with this Annual report.

Financial risk policies
A summary of the Group’s treasury policies and objectives relating to financial risk management, including exposure to associated risks,  
is on pages 142 to 148.

Employment policies
The Board is committed to maintaining a working environment where staff are individually valued and recognised. Group companies  
and divisions operate within a framework of human resources policies, practices and regulations appropriate to their own market sector 
and country of operation, whilst subject to Group-wide principles.

The Group is committed to ensuring equal opportunity, honouring the rights of the individual, and fostering partnership and trust in every 
working relationship. Policies and procedures for recruitment, training and career development promote equality of opportunity regardless 
of gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, disability, race, religion or other beliefs and ethnic or national origin. 

The Group gives full consideration to applications for employment, career development and promotion received from the disabled and 
offers employment when suitable opportunities arise. If employees become disabled during their service with the Group arrangements  
are made wherever practicable to continue their employment and training.

The Group remains proud of its record of managing employee relations and continues to believe that the structure of individual and 
collective consultation and negotiation are best developed at a local level. 

Over the years, the Group has demonstrated that working with trade unions and creating effective partnerships allows improvements  
to be delivered in business performance as well as terms and conditions of employment. Where employees choose not to belong to  
a trade union, employee communication forums such as works councils exist to ensure involvement of staff within the business.

Participation by staff in the success of the Group is encouraged by the availability of sharesave schemes, and a share option scheme  
and a long-term incentive plan for senior management which effectively aligns their interests with those of shareholders by requiring that 
performance criteria are achieved prior to exercise.

i

w
e
v
r
e
v
O

i

s
s
e
n
s
u
b
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
m
r
o
f
r
e
p
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
n
r
e
v
o
G

s
t
n
e
m
e
t
a
t
s

l

i

a
c
n
a
n
F

i

Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011 | 91

 
 
 
 
Section 4 | Governance

Directors’ Report

Corporate responsibility 
The Group maintains a focus on corporate responsibility through a structured model that is applied across the business. Our corporate 
responsibility model focuses on our people, safety, the environment and the communities we serve. This model forms an integral part  
of our Management System and is supported by defined policies in all of the areas it covers. These are applied within the context of  
our policies on Business Conduct and Ethics. Activities are reported quarterly as part of our internal assurance reporting process.

Further information on our approach to corporate responsibility and how we have delivered our commitments is contained in the Corporate 
Responsibility Report which is available online at www.serco.com. This site also provides an overview of our approach to corporate 
responsibility, our management system and our policies.

Creditor payment policies
The Group requires each of its business units to negotiate and agree terms and conditions for payment for the supply of capital and 
revenue items just as keenly as they negotiate prices and other commercial matters. 

Suppliers are made aware of the terms and the way in which disputes are to be settled. Payment is then made in accordance with 
those terms.

The Group’s average creditor payment terms in 2011 were 32 days (2010: 31 days). 

Donations 
The Group continues to encourage all staff to participate in their local communities and has a process to assess both the value and type  
of investment on a worldwide basis. This measure is based upon the Business in The Community reporting format.

The value of this investment in 2011 at £2,532,175 (2010: £2,271,575) represents 1.06% of the Group’s pre-tax profit. 

During the year neither the Company nor the Group made political donations and they intend to continue with this policy. Within the US 
business there exists a Political Action Committee (PAC), which is funded entirely by employees and their spouses. The Serco PAC and  
its contributions are administered in strict accordance with regulatory requirements. Employee contributions are entirely voluntary and no 
pressure is placed on employees to participate. Under US law, an employee-funded PAC must bear the name of the employing company.

Financial statements
At the date of this report, as far as each Director is aware, there is no relevant audit information of which the Group’s auditors are unaware. 
Each Director has taken all the steps that he or she ought to have taken as a Director in order to make himself or herself aware of any 
relevant audit information and to establish that the Group’s auditors are aware of that information.

Auditors
Deloitte LLP have expressed their willingness to continue in office as auditors and a resolution to reappoint them will be proposed at the 
forthcoming annual general meeting.

Approved by the Board of Directors and signed on its behalf by:

Joanne Roberts
Secretary 
27 February 2012 

*As at 5 March 2012, the Company had not been notified of any changes or additions to these interests.

92 | Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011

 
Directors’ Responsibilities

The Directors are responsible for preparing the Annual Review, Directors’ Report, Directors’ Remuneration Report and the financial 
statements in accordance with applicable law and regulations.

Company law requires the Directors to prepare financial statements for each financial year. Under that law the Directors are required by  
the IAS Regulation to prepare the Group financial statements under International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) as adopted by the 
European Union. The Group financial statements are also required by law to be properly prepared in accordance with the Companies Act 
2006 and Article 4 of the IAS Regulation. Under company law the Directors must not approve the accounts unless they are satisfied that 
they give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the Company and of the profit or loss of the Company for that period. 

International Accounting Standard 1 requires that IFRS financial statements present fairly for each financial year the Group’s financial 
position, financial performance and cash flows. This requires the faithful representation of the effects of transactions, other events and 
conditions in accordance with the definition and recognition criteria for assets, liabilities, income and expenses set out in the International 
Accounting Standards Board’s ‘Framework for the Preparation and Presentation of Financial Statements’. In virtually all circumstances,  
a fair presentation will be achieved by compliance with all applicable IFRSs. 

This requires Directors to:

●● properly select and apply accounting policies;

●● present information, including accounting policies, in a manner that provides relevant, reliable, comparable and 

understandable information; 

●● provide additional disclosures when compliance with the specific requirements in IFRSs are insufficient to enable users to understand 
the impact of particular transactions, other events and conditions on the Group’s financial position and financial performance; and

●● make an assessment of the Company’s ability to continue as a going concern.

The Directors have elected to prepare the parent Company financial statements in accordance with United Kingdom Generally Accepted 
Accounting Practice (UK Accounting Standards and applicable law). The parent Company financial statements are required by law to give 
a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the Company and of the profit or loss of the Company for that period. In preparing these 
financial statements, the Directors are required to:

●● select suitable accounting policies and then apply them consistently;

●● make judgements and estimates that are reasonable and prudent;

●● state whether applicable UK accounting standards have been followed; and

●● prepare the financial statements on the going concern basis unless it is inappropriate to presume that the Company will continue 

in business.

The Directors are responsible for keeping proper accounting records that are sufficient to show and explain the Company’s transactions 
and disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the Company and enable them to ensure that the parent 
Company financial statements comply with the Companies Act 2006. They are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the  
Company and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities.

The Directors are responsible for the maintenance and integrity of the corporate and financial information included on the Company’s 
website. Legislation in the United Kingdom governing the preparation and dissemination of financial statements may differ from legislation 
in other jurisdictions.

Responsibility Statement 
We confirm to the best of our knowledge:

●● the financial statements, prepared in accordance with the applicable set of accounting standards, give a true and fair view of the assets, 
liabilities, financial position and profit or loss of the Company and the undertakings included in the consolidation taken as a whole; and

●● the management report, which is incorporated into the Directors’ Report, includes a fair review of the development and performance 
of the business and the position of the Company and the undertakings included in the consolidation taken as a whole, together with 
a description of the principal risks and uncertainties they face. 

Approved by the Board of Directors and signed on its behalf by:

Joanne Roberts
Secretary 
27 February 2012 

Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011 | 93

i

w
e
v
r
e
v
O

i

s
s
e
n
s
u
b
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
m
r
o
f
r
e
p
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
n
r
e
v
o
G

s
t
n
e
m
e
t
a
t
s

l

i

a
c
n
a
n
F

i

 
 
 
 
Section 4 | Governance

Directors’ profiles

Alastair Lyons CBE (58)
Role: Chairman

Appointment: Alastair was appointed a Non-Executive Director of Serco Group plc in March 2010, 
becoming Chairman at the conclusion of the Company’s AGM in May 2010.

Responsibilities: Alastair is responsible for the effective operation of the Board and oversight  
of corporate governance. He is Chair of the Nomination Committee and a member of the  
Remuneration Committee.

Experience: In his executive career Alastair was Group Finance Director and subsequently Chief 
Executive of the National & Provincial Building Society. When the society was acquired in 1996  
by Abbey National he joined the Abbey National main Board as Managing Director of its Insurance 
Division. In 1997 he became Chief Executive of the pensions specialist NPI where he led its 
demutualisation and acquisition by AMP, subsequent to which he joined NatWest in 1999 as Director  
of Corporate Projects.

A chartered accountant with an MA in economics from Trinity College Cambridge, Alastair has been  
a non-executive director of, successively, the Department for Work & Pensions and the Department 
for Transport.

External appointments: Alastair has been Chairman of Admiral Group plc, the direct motor insurer, 
since 2000. In 2008 he was appointed Deputy Chairman of Bovis Homes Group PLC, one of the UK’s 
leading quoted housebuilders and in March 2010 Senior Independent Director and Audit Chair of 
Phoenix Group Holdings, the UK’s largest closed life and pension fund consolidator. In February 2011 
he was appointed Chairman of the Towergate Insurance Group.

Christopher Rajendran Hyman CBE (48) 
Role: Chief Executive

Appointment: Chris was appointed Chief Executive of Serco Group plc in 2002.

Responsibilities: Chris is responsible for the formation and implementation of the Group’s global 
strategy, as well as the day-to-day management of the business operations and our relationship with  
the City and key stakeholders. He provides leadership and representation of the Group with major 
customers, shareholders and industry organisations. Chris is a member of the Nomination Committee.

Experience: Chris graduated from Natal University in Durban, South Africa and qualified as a chartered 
accountant, serving with Arthur Andersen and Ernst & Young before joining Serco in 1994 as the 
European Finance Director. He was appointed Group Company Secretary in 1996, Corporate Finance 
Director in 1997 and Group Finance Director in April 1999.

External appointments: Chris is Chairman of HRH The Prince of Wales’s charity In Kind Direct, is a 
Trustee Director of the Board for Business in the Community (BITC) and is Chairman of The Prince’s 
Seeing is Believing BITC Programme. In the 2010 Queen’s Birthday Honours List Chris was awarded 
a CBE for his services to business and charity.

Andrew Mark Jenner (43)
Role: Finance Director

Appointment: Andrew was appointed Group Finance Director in May 2002.

Responsibilities: Andrew is responsible for the Group’s financial management, reporting and control, 
for operational efficiency and for our risk management and assurance framework. He shares 
responsibility with the Chief Executive for our relationship with shareholders and the City.

Experience: Andrew, a chartered accountant, joined Serco in 1996 as Group Financial Controller, 
having previously worked for Unilever and Deloitte & Touche LLP. He became Corporate Finance 
Director with additional responsibility for treasury activities in 1999 before joining the Board in 2002.

External appointments: Andrew is a non-executive Director of Galliford Try plc, one of the UK’s leading 
construction and housebuilding groups and is Chairman of its Audit Committee.

94 | Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011

 
Angie Risley (53)
Role: Non-Executive Director

Appointment: Angie joined Serco as a Non-Executive Director on 1 April 2011. 

Responsibilities: Angie is a member of the Remuneration and Nomination Committees.

Experience: As Group Human Resources Director of Lloyds Banking Group plc, Angie is a member  
of the Lloyds Banking Group Executive Committee and has responsibility for developing group-wide 
people practices for over 100,000 employees and is also sponsor for the company’s Diversity and 
Inclusion programme. Previously, she was an executive director of Whitbread PLC until May 2007, 
having joined the Whitbread Group in 1989. She has also been a member of the Low Pay Commission, 
and a non-executive director of Biffa plc and Arriva plc.

External appointments: Angie is Group Human Resources Director of Lloyds Banking Group plc.

David Richardson (60)
Role: Senior Independent Director 

Appointment: David joined Serco as a Non-Executive Director in June 2003. 

Responsibilities: David is Chair of the Audit Committee and a member of the Remuneration and 
Nomination Committees.

Experience: David, a chartered accountant, has previously held the position of Finance Director  
of Whitbread, where his roles in a 22-year career included eight years as Strategy Director.  
David was instrumental in transforming Whitbread from a brewing and pubs company into  
a market leader in hotels, restaurants and leisure clubs. Until June 2011 David also served as  
a Chairman of Forth Ports plc.

External appointments: David is a non-executive Director of Assura Group Limited and Chairman 
of BBGI (SICAV) SA and a Director of the Supervisory Board of World Hotels AG.

Leonard V. Broese van Groenou (65)
Role: Non-Executive Director

Appointment: Leonard joined Serco as a Non-Executive Director in April 2006.

Responsibilities: Leonard is Chair of the Remuneration Committee and a member of the  
Audit Committee.

Experience: Leonard was previously Vice-President Human Resources and member of the corporate 
executive committee of Pennsylvania-based Air Products, a New York-listed company serving 
customers in technology, energy, healthcare and industrial markets worldwide where he served for 
nearly 30 years. His career at Air Products spans numerous international roles including financial 
control, business planning, operational management and human resources.

External appointments: Leonard is the Chairman of the Netherlands Benevolent Society.

Ralph D. Crosby Jr (64)
Role: Non-Executive Director

Appointment: Ralph joined Serco as a Non-Executive Director on 30 June 2011.

Experience: Ralph was Chairman of EADS North America until his retirement from that position at the 
end of December 2011. He joined EADS in 2002 as Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of EADS 
North America and also served as a member of the EADS global Executive Committee until 2010. 
Previously, Ralph held numerous positions with Northrop Grumman Corporation, concluding over 20 
years of service as President of their Integrated Systems Sector. Prior to his industry career, Ralph 
served as an Officer in the US Army. Ralph has an MA in Public Administration from Harvard, an MA in 
International Relations from the Graduate Institute of International Studies, Switzerland, and a BSc from 
the United States Military Academy at West Point, NY.

External appointments: Ralph is a non-executive Director of American Electric Power Co Inc. and 
Ducommun Inc. in the United States.

Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011 | 95

i

w
e
v
r
e
v
O

i

s
s
e
n
s
u
b
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
m
r
o
f
r
e
p
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
n
r
e
v
o
G

s
t
n
e
m
e
t
a
t
s

l

i

a
c
n
a
n
F

i

 
 
 
 
Section 4 | Governance

Remuneration Report

Dear Shareholder
I am pleased to present the Directors’ Remuneration Report for 2011.

As reported in the Operating Review (pages 40 to 53), Serco has delivered a strong financial and operational performance in 2011 with 
good organic growth plus increased operating margin and strong cash generation. Looking forward it is expected that the UK and US 
markets will continue to be challenging, with new sectors and geographies being important areas of strategic development.

The Committee has devoted a great deal of time during the year to the triennial review of executive remuneration. As a result of the 
deliberations, the Committee has concluded that, for now, the overall structure and shape of remuneration should remain unchanged.

The current emphasis on performance-related pay will remain the same. For ‘target’ performance – variable pay accounts for well over half 
of total direct pay.

Remuneration for Chief Executive

Remuneration for Finance Director

41%

34%

39%

37%

25%

24%

  Base salary

Performance-related annual bonus

Performance-related long-term incentives (expected value)

Some changes have been made in the light of the development of Serco Group’s business strategy. The Committee has consulted with 
major shareholders and the voting guidance services on two important adaptations to the pay arrangements of Executive Directors.

First, we have increased the emphasis on Earnings Per Share (EPS) growth but, at the same time, retained relative Total Shareholder  
Return (TSR) as a key measure. Growth in EPS is a key performance indicator both for Serco and for our major shareholders. Over the 
coming years we shall face a challenging operating environment in the UK and US coupled with an intention to grow the Group in what  
we perceive to be the more attractive geographies and sectors. This suggests to us that, to maximise the alignment of interest between 
Executive Directors and shareholders, we need also to enhance the emphasis on EPS growth. The Committee also believes that this 
increases the ‘line of sight’ for the executive linking longer-term pay and performance.

The definition of EPS will remain the same and exclude material acquisitions, disposals, currency movements and be before amortisation  
of acquired intangibles and acquisition-related costs. The Committee will continue to retain the discretion to vary the shares that vest to 
ensure that outcomes are fair in the light of Serco’s underlying financial performance. This will allow the Remuneration Committee to take 
into account the quality of earnings and the general financial health of the Company.

Prior to 2012 the vesting of shares awarded to the Executive Directors under the Performance Share Plan (PSP) was determined by relative 
TSR performance for 70% of the shares and by reference to EPS growth for the remaining 30%. Under the Deferred Bonus Plan (DBP)  
the vesting levels for the award of matching shares was determined in equal measure by relative TSR performance and by EPS growth. 
From 2012, the vesting of shares awarded under the PSP will be weighted 50% based on EPS growth and 50% relative TSR. Any  
matching shares awarded under the DBP will vest on EPS growth targets. The performance ranges for 2012 awards will be discussed  
with shareholders before the awards are made.

These changes have also been made to the wider leadership team. Reinforcing the importance of increasing line of sight in the 
performance measures, the Company will also be introducing a minimum share ownership level for the members of the Executive 
Committee, who also participate in the DBP. At the end of the year the Chief Executive held 820,197 shares and the Finance Director 
310,991 shares representing, by reference to the share price at that time (474p), share ownership levels as a percentage of salary of  
534% and 345% respectively.

We have thought carefully about these changes and hope that our shareholders will support them.

96 | Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011

 
During the year the Committee conducted its regular annual review of base salaries of the Executive Directors, taking into account the 
current economic climate, the challenges facing the business, their performance and the competitiveness of their remuneration against the 
UK market. The Committee also had regard to the overall pay decisions for employees across the Group as a whole. Against this backdrop, 
salaries were adjusted in line with our remuneration principles to provide market competitive reward opportunities for performance where 
appropriate. In 2011 increases were awarded of 4% and 3.4% for the Chief Executive and Finance Director respectively. 

On the basis of Serco’s performance in 2011, annual bonus awards of 121% and 105% of salary have been determined for the Chief Executive 
and the Finance Director. The Executive Directors delivered a financial performance that met the target for revenue growth and exceeded 
the targets for PBT and Cash performance. Serco’s financial performance for the year is described in more detail in the ‘Our performance’ 
section starting on page 20. The personal objectives set for each of the Directors covered areas such as Corporate reputation management, 
the securing of key strategic contracts to deliver long-term performance as well as specific activities around the ongoing development of 
the Group Strategy. In addition, the entry into the Global BPO market was an important objective for 2011.

Under the 2009 PSP, vesting of 30% of the shares are subject to our EPS performance, and under the DBP, 50% of the matching shares are 
subject to this measure. Our performance against the three-year EPS performance measure was compound growth of 20.9% per annum 
which resulted in 100% vesting for the 2009 PSP and the DBP.

It is disappointing that our TSR performance for the period ended 31 December 2011 relative to the comparator group was below median, 
therefore no shares vested under this element of either the PSP (70%) or the DBP (50%).

After six years I shall be sorry to leave the board at the 2012 Annual General Meeting. I am, however, delighted that Angie Risley, who is 
already a Director and a member of the Committee, will be replacing me as the Chairman of the Remuneration Committee.

Leonard V. Broese van Groenou
Remuneration Committee Chairman 
27 February 2012

i

w
e
v
r
e
v
O

i

s
s
e
n
s
u
b
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
m
r
o
f
r
e
p
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
n
r
e
v
o
G

s
t
n
e
m
e
t
a
t
s

l

i

a
c
n
a
n
F

i

Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011 | 97

 
 
 
 
Section 4 | Governance

Remuneration Report

Introduction
The following report details the remuneration policy and the decisions on remuneration of the Directors of the Group for the year ended 
31 December 2011. In preparing this report, consideration has been given to the disclosure requirements of the UK Corporate Governance 
Code, the Companies Act 2006 and the Large and Medium-sized Companies and Groups (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008.

The Remuneration Committee
In 2011, the Remuneration Committee (the Committee) comprised three independent Non-Executive Directors. These were Leonard V. Broese 
van Groenou (Chairman of the Committee), David Richardson, and Angie Risley from 1 April 2011. Alastair Lyons also became a member 
of the Committee on 10 May 2011. He is Chairman of the Board and was deemed independent on appointment to the Board.

The Executive Directors may attend meetings of the Committee at its discretion and as appropriate. They are not in attendance when their 
own remuneration arrangements are discussed.

The Committee met six times during the year. The terms of reference of the Committee, a copy of which can be found on the Group’s website, 
are reviewed annually to ensure that they remain appropriate. Details of the Directors’ attendance at the Committee meetings can be found 
in the Corporate Governance Report on page 85.

The Committee determines the overall remuneration policy for senior management and the individual remuneration of the Executive Directors. 
This includes base salary, bonus, long-term incentives, pensions, benefits and terms of employment (including those terms on which service 
may be terminated). The Committee also determines the remuneration of the Chairman. 

During the year, in addition to the triennial review, the Committee meetings covered a number of topics including the annual base salary 
review, the determination of bonus payments, a review of service contracts and 2011 performance targets.

Advisors to the Remuneration Committee
The Committee has been advised by Towers Watson, who were originally appointed by the Committee in May 2008. They have provided 
advice throughout the triennial review process on the overall remuneration policy and philosophy. Consulting services have also been 
provided to the Group by Towers Watson in relation to retirement benefits and pay data. In this regard, the Committee is satisfied that any 
potential conflicts are appropriately managed. Towers Watson is a member of the Remuneration Consultants’ Group which oversees the 
voluntary code of conduct in relation to executive consulting in the UK. Fees paid to Towers Watson during the period totalled £434,000,  
the majority of which related to services provided for executive remuneration. 

The Group Human Resources Director, Geoff Lloyd, also provides advice and guidance to the Committee.

Remuneration policy
During 2011 the Committee carried out its triennial review of the executive remuneration and of the principles which form the basis of the 
Company’s remuneration policy. The Committee concluded that it was not appropriate to change Serco’s remuneration policy, which it 
considered supported the achievement of the Company’s long-term strategic objectives. Serco’s approach to executive remuneration should:

●● Support Serco’s long-term future growth, strategy and values;

●● Align the financial interests of executives and shareholders;

●● Provide market competitive reward opportunities for performance in line with expectations and deliver significant financial rewards for 

sustained outperformance;

●● Enable Serco to recruit and retain the best in all our chosen markets;

●● Be based on a clear rationale which participants, shareholders and other stakeholders are able to understand and support.

In setting the remuneration of the Executive Directors, in particular the non-financial objectives relating to the annual bonus scheme, the 
Remuneration Committee is able to consider corporate performance on safety, environmental, social and corporate governance matters. 
The Committee retains discretion to reduce bonuses or the vesting of awards under the share plans if performance in these areas is 
unsatisfactory.

The elements of remuneration
Composition
The remuneration package for Executive Directors consists of base salary, annual bonus, long-term share-based incentives, pension  
and other benefits. The Group’s policy is to ensure that a significant proportion of the package is related to performance.

Base salary
The Committee’s policy is to set the base salaries of the Executive Directors so as to ensure that total target remuneration is competitive. 
Base salaries are normally reviewed annually. The Committee takes note of relative pay and employment conditions, both within the 
Company and the comparator group, when determining salaries.

The Committee is satisfied that the size profile of the companies in Towers Watson’s database is representative of the companies in the 
FTSE 51 to 130. It also believes that it is important that the same sources of market data are used across the Company to ensure consistency.

98 | Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011

 
To ensure that pay and conditions across the Group are taken into account when making decisions on Executive Directors’ pay, the 
Committee was briefed about the overall decisions on base salaries and pay bill increases for Serco’s Executive Committee and employees 
across the Group. The Committee is satisfied that the principles and considerations that were applied to Executive Directors are, as far as 
possible, applied to all employees. Pay levels are designed to be competitive, fair and to reflect the skills and performance of individual 
employees. Individual pay increases in excess of those granted to the Executive Directors were awarded to various employees for reasons 
including promotion and increased scope of role. The salary review date for the Executive Directors was moved to April in 2011 which 
brings them into line with the vast majority of Serco’s employees.

The Committee considered carefully whether base salaries for Christopher Hyman and Andrew Jenner should be increased in 2011. With 
effect from 1 April 2011, their salaries were increased by 4% to £728,000 and by 3.4% to £427,000 respectively. In 2012 the salaries will be 
increased for both Directors by 3% to £750,000 and £440,000 respectively. These increases were very much in line with increases for higher 
performers across the Group. The impact of these increases on the market position of total remuneration (including pension) is to maintain 
the competitive position established at the time of the last triennial review.

A comprehensive explanation of the business performance during the year has been provided in the ‘Our performance’ section on pages 
20 to 81.

Annual bonus
Bonus is earned on the basis of achievement of a mix of financial and non-financial objectives which are weighted 80% and 20% 
respectively. Payment for target performance is at 75% of base salary for the Chief Executive and 65% of base salary for the Finance 
Director. The maximum annual bonus opportunity is 150% of base salary for the Chief Executive and 130% of base salary for the Finance 
Director. Annual bonuses are not pensionable.

Financial measures are based on Serco Group’s Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) and the non-financial measures are individually set  
and are based on key strategic goals. The three financial measures for 2011 were based on revenue, profit before tax and cash conversion. 
These measures reflect the growth and margin improvement strategies of the business. The standards of performance set are designed to 
be stretching. The non-financial goals set for 2011 assessed performance against a number of strategically important objectives for each 
individual linked to key strategic areas such as – corporate reputation management, the securing of key strategic contracts to deliver 
long-term performance as well as specific activities related to the development and execution of the Group’s Strategy. In addition, the  
entry into the global business process outsourcing (BPO) market was an important objective for 2011.

On the basis of Serco’s performance in 2011, annual awards of 121% and 105% of salary have been determined for the Chief Executive 
and Finance Director respectively. The Executive Directors delivered a financial performance that met the quantitative targets and, in the 
case of PBT and Cash performance, exceeded those targets.

The bonus objectives for 2012 have been set on a similar basis.

Share-based remuneration
Long-term share incentives are awarded usually on an annual basis to Executive Directors under the Serco Group plc Deferred Bonus Plan 
(DBP) and the Serco Group plc Performance Share Plan (PSP). All awards are made pursuant to the rules of the applicable plans and in 
accordance with the Model Code and policies in relation to the treatment of leavers have been adopted. The measurement of the 
performance targets is undertaken by Mercer for the DBP and the PSP, and in relation to the Earnings Per Share (EPS) growth element  
of the targets, is audited by Deloitte LLP. The conditions relating to the plans are detailed below.

Deferred Bonus Plan
Under the DBP, Executive Directors can elect to defer, for three financial years, up to 50% of their annual bonus by purchasing investment 
shares. If stretching performance targets, measured over three years, are met each investment share which could have been purchased 
with the gross equivalent of the amount used to purchase investment shares will be matched by a maximum of two ‘matching’ shares.

For awards made in 2011 the performance measures, each determining the vesting of half of the matching shares, were:

●● TSR compared to the companies in the FTSE 51 to 130 (excluding investment trusts); and

●● Annual compound EPS growth.

The structure for vesting was the same for both measures and no matching shares vest where performance is below median (TSR)  
or threshold (EPS).

On a combined basis, for median level TSR performance and a threshold level of EPS performance, each invested share will be matched 
(on a gross investment basis) by half of a share. For upper quartile level of TSR performance and a maximum level of EPS performance, 
each invested share will be matched (on a gross investment basis) by two shares. For performance between median or threshold and 
upper quartile or maximum, the number of matching shares will be determined on a straight line basis.

For the award made under the DBP and the PSP in 2009, the structure for vesting for the first year of the performance period is annual growth 
in EPS of 13% at threshold to 19% at maximum. This takes into account the impact on earnings of the acquisition of SI at the end of 2008.

Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011 | 99

i

w
e
v
r
e
v
O

i

s
s
e
n
s
u
b
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
m
r
o
f
r
e
p
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
n
r
e
v
o
G

s
t
n
e
m
e
t
a
t
s

l

i

a
c
n
a
n
F

i

 
 
 
 
Section 4 | Governance

Remuneration Report

The definition of EPS is basic EPS excluding material acquisitions, disposals, currency movements and before amortisation of acquired intangibles.

The Committee has discretion to vary the proportion of awards that vest under the DBP to ensure that the outcomes are fair and appropriately 
reflect the underlying financial performance of the Group.

In 2011 both the Chief Executive and the Finance Director elected to defer 50% of their earned bonus into the DBP.

For matching awards which completed their performance period on 31 December 2011, performance against the three-year EPS measure 
was compound growth of 20.9% per annum which resulted in 100% of the EPS element (50%) of the award vesting. For the TSR element  
of the matching award, the Group’s TSR performance relative to its comparator group was below median and therefore no shares under 
TSR element (50%) of the matching award vested.

Changes to the Deferred Bonus Plan
The Committee has consulted with a selection of the largest shareholders and the voting guidance services in a key change to the DBP.  
In a challenging environment, EPS growth through, for example, our increased penetration of high-growth sectors and geographies,  
is one of Serco’s KPIs and will be a critical value driver over the next few years. To enhance the line of sight for Executive Directors between 
performance against this key objective and reward, EPS growth will become the sole measure to determine the vesting of matching shares. 
The Committee believes EPS growth can be directly influenced by executive decision-making whereas relative TSR reflects not only the 
achievements of our management but also that of other companies and the factors influencing the market as a whole, particularly for  
Serco for which there are no direct comparators. There is, therefore, a much weaker link between executive performance and reward  
as determined by relative TSR performance. This combined with the significant shareholdings of the Executive Directors will also drive 
alignment of interest with shareholders. The DBP also extends to Serco’s Executive Committee on the same basis.

Some shareholders have asked why deferral of bonus is not mandatory and why the matching shares are necessary. The DBP is part of  
a carefully considered approach to Serco’s executive remuneration policy. The Committee wants to encourage Executive Directors – who 
already have significant shareholdings – to invest further in the Company. As ever we shall keep emerging ‘best practice’ under review.

The EPS growth range will be determined in the next few weeks and discussed with major shareholders.

Performance Share Plan
The PSP awards granted to the Executive Directors are calculated at a face value on grant of 200% of base salary for the Chief Executive 
and 175% of base salary for the Finance Director.

The shares will normally only vest at the end of a three-year period, if the Executive Directors are still in employment with Serco and two 
performance conditions have been met. The measures are EPS growth and TSR compared to the companies in the FTSE 51 to 130 (excluding 
investment trusts). The two measures are independent and each determines a fixed proportion of the award.

EPS growth is measured on a compound basis over a three-year performance period. 25% of the award will vest for threshold performance 
rising on a straight line basis to 100% for maximum performance.

Threshold vesting for the relative TSR condition is at 50% of the TSR achieved by the comparator group. Maximum vesting is achieved if the Company’s 
relative TSR ranking is in the upper quartile. Relative TSR is measured with reference to the cumulative performance over the three-year 
period.

The graph below illustrates the mechanics of vesting, which is the same for both measures. Note that no awards vest for performance 
below Median/Threshold.

100

75

50

25

0

g
n
i
t
s
e
v
d
r
a
w
a

f
o
%

Median/Threshold

Upper quartile/Maximum

Performance

For awards made in 2011 Relative TSR performance determined the vesting of 70% of the shares and EPS growth the remainder.

100 | Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011

 
 
 
 
Summary of EPS performance to 31 December 2011
Compound EPS growth was 20.9% per annum. Accordingly, 100% of the June 2009 awards vest. The level at which maximum vesting 
would occur was 19% for year one and 14% per annum for the remaining two years of the performance period. 

Summary of TSR performance to 31 December 2011
The Group’s TSR performance relative to the comparator group was below median and therefore the TSR element of the award lapses  
in full.

Changes to the Performance Share Plan
From 2012 the vesting of shares awarded under the PSP will be weighted 50% based on EPS growth and 50% relative TSR. Going forward 
whilst relative TSR remains an appropriate measure the Committee has decided that greater emphasis should be placed on EPS growth for 
the reasons stated above in connection with the DBP.

Dividends are reinvested and distributed under both plans only in respect of shares that vest at the end of the performance period.

The Committee has discretion to vary the proportion of awards that vest under the Plans, to ensure that the outcomes are fair and 
appropriately reflect the underlying financial performance of the Group.

Prior to 2009 share-based incentive awards were made under the Serco Group plc 2006 Long Term Incentive Plan (LTIP) and the Serco Group 
plc 2005 Executive Option Plan (EOP); the conditions relating to these plans are detailed in the notes to the share-based incentive tables.

Sharesave Scheme
The Group operates a Sharesave Scheme. No performance conditions are attached to options granted under the Scheme as it is an 
all-employee scheme. Options granted to Scheme participants are normally set at a discount of 10% to the market value of shares at grant. 
None of the Directors participate in the Sharesave Scheme.

Share ownership policy
The share ownership requirement for the Chief Executive is two times base salary and one times base salary for the Finance Director. The 
Committee believes that share ownership is a meaningful way to align executives’ interest with those of shareholders. Executive Directors 
are required to retain in shares 50% of the net value of any performance shares or options exercised until they satisfy the shareholding 
requirement. Going forward members of the Executive Committee are also going to be required to build over a period of five years, their 
shareholding in the Company to the level of one times base salary.

At the end of the year, by reference to the share price at that date, Executive Directors’ share ownership levels were as follows:

Chief Executive 
Finance Director 

Ordinary shareholding at 
31 December 2011 (474p) 

Ordinary shareholding at 
31 December 2010 (555.5p)

No. of shares 

% of salary 

No. of shares 

% of salary

820,197 
310,991 

534% 
345% 

777,889 
289,574 

617%
390%

Pensions, life assurance and other benefits 
Serco operates both defined benefit and defined contribution pension schemes. The Executive Directors participate in the Serco Pension 
and Life Assurance Scheme (SPLAS). This is a funded, defined benefit scheme, which provides for a target pension of two-thirds of 
pensionable salary following a full career. Members contribute to the scheme at rates varying according to the section of the scheme.

From 1 January 2007 Serco also introduced SMART whereby all members were given the option to have their pension contributions paid  
by salary sacrifice. Under this arrangement the member makes no normal pension contributions, Serco makes additional contributions to 
SPLAS equal to those that the member would otherwise have made and the member’s contractual pay is reduced by the amount of these 
contributions. Both Christopher Hyman and Andrew Jenner opted to have their contributions paid by SMART. 

Christopher Hyman opted to cease accruing benefits in the pension scheme after 1 April 2010 and Andrew Jenner after 31 December 2010.

Since 1 April 2010 Christopher Hyman has been in receipt of a cash allowance equal to 33% of his base salary in lieu of further pension 
provision. From 1 January 2011 Andrew Jenner has also been in receipt of a cash allowance equal to 33% of his base salary in lieu of 
pension provision. The Executive Directors remain entitled to lump sum and widow’s pension benefits should they die before retirement  
and while still employed by Serco.

The Executive Directors receive a range of other benefits which comprise 25 days’ holiday per year, a car, private medical insurance, 
permanent health insurance, life cover, an annual allowance for independent financial advice, and voluntary health checks every two years.

i

w
e
v
r
e
v
O

i

s
s
e
n
s
u
b
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
m
r
o
f
r
e
p
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
n
r
e
v
o
G

s
t
n
e
m
e
t
a
t
s

l

i

a
c
n
a
n
F

i

Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011 | 101

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Section 4 | Governance

Remuneration Report

Service contracts and compensation
Each Executive Director has a rolling service contract and these contracts will be available for inspection prior to the start of and after the 
Company’s annual general meeting. 

The service contracts have a notice period of 12 months. The Company reserves the right to make a payment in lieu of notice. In addition, 
where a Director leaves the Company following a change of control, whether or not he is dismissed or he elects to leave on notice, he will 
be entitled to receive a payment equivalent to up to one year’s remuneration. The service contracts do not provide for termination payments 
to be made in any other circumstances.

There have been no payments made during the year in relation to compensation for loss of office.

A summary of details relating to each Director who served during the year is provided below:

Name of Director 

Christopher Hyman 

Date joined 
Company 

Date of 
appointment to 
the Board 

Date of 
contract 

30 August 1994 

1 April 1999 

10 June 2009 

Andrew Jenner 

4 November 1996 

3 May 2002 

10 June 2009 

Unexpired term at 
31 December 
2011

Rolling contract of  

12 months’ notice period

Rolling contract of  

12 months’ notice period

External appointments
The Board believes that the Group can benefit from its Executive Directors holding appropriate non-executive directorships of companies or 
independent bodies. Such appointments are subject to the approval of the Board. Fees are retained by the Executive Director concerned.

Andrew Jenner served as a Non-Executive Director of Galliford Try plc during the year. Fees payable in the year were £40,000.

No other fee-paying external positions were held by either of the Executive Directors.

The Chairman and Non-Executive Directors 
The Group’s policy is that the fees of the Chairman and the Non-Executive Directors, which are determined by the Board, are set at a level 
which will attract individuals with the necessary experience and ability to make a substantial contribution to the Group’s affairs.

During 2011 the Committee introduced an allowance for the Non-Executive Directors and Chairman of £5,000 per Board meeting where 
long-haul travel is required outside of the country of residence.

Non-Executive Directors of the Group are initially appointed for a three-year term, and that appointment may be terminated on three 
months’ written notice. The renewal of appointments is not automatic, and Non-Executive Directors are required to retire and stand for 
re-election in accordance with the Company’s Articles of Association. From 2011 Directors are also required to stand for re-election 
annually in accordance with the UK Corporate Governance Code.

As at 31 December 2011, the Non-Executive Directors of the Group had no personal financial interest in the matters determined by the 
Board, there are no conflicts of interest arising from cross-directorships and no involvement in the day-to-day running of the Group. The 
Non-Executive Directors do not participate in the Group’s incentive or pension schemes, or receive other benefits except as described. 

Current fee structure
Non-Executive Directors’ remuneration consists of cash fees paid monthly with increments for positions of additional responsibility.  
In addition, reasonable travel and related business expenses are paid. No bonuses are paid to Non-Executive Directors. Non-Executive 
Directors’ fees are not performance related.

Non-Executive Directors are encouraged to hold shares in the Group but are not subject to a shareholding requirement. 

102 | Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
The fees and terms of engagement of Non-Executive Directors are reviewed on an annual basis, taking into consideration market practice 
and are approved by the Board. The standard annual fees payable for the Chairman and Non-Executive Directors during the financial year 
under review are shown in the table below.

Chairman (1) (2) 
Board member (2) 
Fees for additional duties
Senior Independent Director 
Audit Committee Chairmanship 
Remuneration Committee Chairmanship 

1 January 2011 to 31 December 2011 
 £

250,000
50,000

10,000
12,500
10,000

(1)   Alastair Lyons’ remuneration consists of cash fees paid monthly. In addition, reasonable travel and related business expenses are paid.  

No bonuses are payable.

(2)  £5,000 is payable for overseas Board meetings.

A summary of details relating to each Non-Executive Director who served during the year is provided below:

Chairman:
Alastair Lyons 

Non-Executive Directors (1):
Leonard V. Broese van Groenou 
David Richardson 
Paul Brooks 
Angie Risley 
Ralph D. Crosby Jr 

Date of appointment 
to the Board 

Date of letter 
of appointment

16 March 2010 

15 March 2010

3 April 2006 
2 June 2003 
1 February 2011 
1 April 2011 
30 June 2011 

20 February 2006
29 May 2003
12 January 2011
23 March 2011
30 June 2011

(1)  Non-Executive Directors have a three-month notice period and no compensation or other benefits are payable on early termination.
(2)   Non-Executive Directors are required to retire and stand for re-election in accordance with the Company’s Articles of Association.  
From 2011 Directors are also required to stand for re-election annually in accordance with the UK Corporate Governance Code.

(3)  With effect from the conclusion of the AGM on 14 May 2012 Leonard V. Broese van Groenou will retire from the Board.

Directors’ remuneration
This section has been audited by Deloitte LLP.

The remuneration of the Directors for the year ended 31 December 2011 was as follows:

Alastair Lyons 
Christopher Hyman 
Andrew Jenner 
Leonard V. Broese van Groenou 
David Richardson 
Paul Brooks 
Angie Risley 
Ralph D. Crosby Jr 

 Remuneration 
£ 

Note 

Fees 
£ 

Bonus 
£ 

1,6 
2,3,4,5 
2,3,4,5 
1,6 
1,6 
1,6 
1,6 
1,6 

Nil 
721,000 
423,375 
Nil 
Nil 
Nil 
Nil 
Nil 

250,000 
Nil 
Nil 
60,000 
72,500 
45,833 
37,500 
25,189 

Nil 
880,900 
448,400 
Nil 
Nil 
Nil 
Nil 
Nil 

Total 
estimated 
  value of any 
non-cash 

benefits  Allowance 
£ 

£ 

Total 

Total  
remuneration remuneration 
excluding  
  excluding 
pensions  
  pensions 
2010 
2011 
£
£ 

Nil 
2,748 
2,748 
Nil 
Nil 
Nil 
Nil 
Nil 

5,000 

199,038
255,000 
312,195  1,916,843  1,858,900
948,295
214,485  1,089,008 
60,000
65,000 
61,250
77,500 
Nil
50,833 
Nil
42,500 
Nil
45,189 

5,000 
5,000 
5,000 
5,000 
20,000 

Total 

  1,144,375 

491,022  1,329,300 

5,496 

571,680  3,541,873  3,127,483

In addition, reasonable travel and related business expenses are paid but are not subject to UK income tax.
The value of the non-cash benefits relates to private healthcare.
The bonuses shown include performance bonuses earned in the period under review, but not paid until the following financial year.

Notes:
1
2
3
4 Remuneration is shown gross of salary sacrificed under the SMART scheme. See page 101.
5 

 The allowance comprises payments made in lieu of pension, calculated as a percentage of base salary, from which he makes his own pension 
arrangements see page 101 for further details, and the provision of a car allowance (fully inclusive of all scheme costs including insurance and 
maintenance, previously disclosed under non-cash benefits).
 The allowance comprises payment for travel to overseas Board meetings.

6 

Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011 | 103

i

w
e
v
r
e
v
O

i

s
s
e
n
s
u
b
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
m
r
o
f
r
e
p
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
n
r
e
v
o
G

s
t
n
e
m
e
t
a
t
s

l

i

a
c
n
a
n
F

i

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Section 4 | Governance

Remuneration Report

Directors’ shareholdings
The Directors’ interests in the shares of the Company are detailed in the following table. 

Alastair Lyons 
Leonard V. Broese van Groenou 
Christopher Hyman 
Andrew Jenner 
David Richardson 
Paul Brooks 
Angie Risley 
Ralph D. Crosby Jr 

Note 
1 

Ordinary shares of 2p each fully  
paid at 31 December 2011 

Ordinary shares of 2p each fully 
paid at 1 January 2011 or if later the 
date of appointment as Director

2,3 
2 

15,000 
5,375 
820,197 
310,991 
15,000 
10,000 
4,399 
– 

15,000
5,375
777,889
289,574
15,000
–
–
–

Notes:
1 
2 

 Ordinary shares are beneficial holdings which include the Directors’ personal holdings and those of their spouses and minor children.
 122,990 of Christopher Hyman’s and 65,386 of Andrew Jenner’s shares are held in trust on their behalf under the terms of their participation in the  
Deferred Bonus Plan. Provided such shares remain in trust for three years and subject to certain performance conditions, they are also granted an  
award over matching shares equivalent to two times the gross bonus initially used for the share purchase.
 Security has been granted to Christopher Hyman’s bank over 85,564 ordinary shares held in his name.
 As at 5 March 2012 there were no changes to the Directors’ interests.

3 
4 

Share-based incentives
This section has been audited by Deloitte LLP. 

The total share options granted to each person who has served as a Director of the Company at any time in the financial year were as follows:

(i)  Serco Group plc Deferred Bonus Plan (DBP)
Conditional rights to receive matching shares over Serco Group plc’s ordinary shares under the DBP held by Directors at 31 December 
2011 were as follows:

Christopher Hyman 

Andrew Jenner 

Awards 
held at 
1 January 
2011 

130,754 
144,666 
– 

76,232 
73,865 
– 

Date of 
award 

12 Jun 2009 
29 Mar 2010 
4 Apr 2011 

11 Jun 2009 
29 Mar 2010 
4 Apr 2011 

Market 
price at 
award 
(pence) 

Awards  
Granted  held at 31  
during the  December 
2011 

period 

Performance period 

Vesting date

404 
602 
551 

408 
602 
551 

– 
– 
173,898 

130,754 
144,666 
173,898 

1 Jan 2009 – 31 Dec 2011 
1 Jan 2010 – 31 Dec 2012 
1 Jan 2011 – 31 Dec 2013 

– 
– 
88,033 

76,232 
73,865 
88,033 

1 Jan 2009 – 31 Dec 2011 
1 Jan 2010 – 31 Dec 2012 
1 Jan 2011 – 31 Dec 2013 

12 Jun 2012
29 Mar 2013
4 Apr 2014

11 Jun 2012
29 Mar 2013
4 Apr 2014

Notes:
1  The awards shown in the table are the maximum number of shares that can vest under the performance conditions.
2  The performance conditions attached to the awards are described on pages 99 and 100.
3  No awards were exercised during the period.
4 

 For awards which completed their performance period on 31 December 2011, our performance against the three-year EPS performance measure was 
compound growth of 20.9% per annum which resulted in 100% of the EPS element (50%) of the award vesting. For the TSR element of the matching  
award, the Group’s TSR performance relative to its comparator group was below median and therefore no shares under the TSR element (50%) of the 
matching award vested.

(ii) Serco Group plc Performance Share Plan (PSP)
The conditional rights to Serco Group plc ordinary shares under the PSP held by Directors at 31 December 2011 were as follows:

Awards 
held at 
1 January 
2011 

  Market 
  price at 
award 
(pence) 

Date of 
award 

Awards  
Granted  held at 31  
during the  December 
2011 

period 

Performance period 

Earliest 
vesting date 

Latest 
exercise date

Christopher 
Hyman 

Andrew 
Jenner 

315,789  22 Jun 2009 
6 Apr 2010 
213,750 
–  31 Mar 2011 

162,790  22 Jun 2009 
6 Apr 2010 
110,190 
–  31 Mar 2011 

408 
604 
566 

408 
604 
566 

– 
– 
247,568 

– 
– 
127,652 

315,789 
213,750 
247,568 

162,790 
110,190 
127,652 

1 Jan 2009 – 31 Dec 2011 
1 Jan 2010 – 31 Dec 2012 
1 Jan 2011 – 31 Dec 2013 

1 Jan 2009 – 31 Dec 2011 
1 Jan 2010 – 31 Dec 2012 
1 Jan 2011 – 31 Dec 2013 

22 Jun 2012 
6 Apr 2013 
31 Mar 2014 

22 Jun 2012 
6 Apr 2013 
31 Mar 2014 

21 Jun 2019
5 Apr 2020
30 Mar 2021

21 Jun 2019
5 Apr 2020
30 Mar 2021

Notes:
1  Awards take the form of nominal cost options.
2  Awards made are calculated at a face value on grant of 200% and 175% of base salary for the Chief Executive and Finance Director respectively.
3  The performance conditions attached to the awards are described on pages 100 and 101.
4 

 On 31 December 2011 the performance conditions attached to the awards made on 22 June 2009 were satisfied. Our performance against the three-year 
EPS performance measure was compound growth of 20.9% per annum which resulted in 100% of the EPS element (30%) of the award vesting. For the TSR 
element of the matching award, the Group’s TSR performance relative to its comparator group was below median and therefore no shares under the TSR 
element (70%) of the matching award vested.

104 | Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011

 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(iii) Serco Group plc 2006 Long Term Incentive Plan (LTIP)
The LTIP has been replaced by the PSP. The last award under the LTIP was made in November 2007. The conditional rights to Serco Group 
plc ordinary shares under the LTIP held by Directors at 31 December 2011 were as follows:

Awards 
held at 
1 January 
2011 

  Market 
  price on 
grant 
(pence) 

Date of 
award 

  Market  Awards  
Vested  price on  held at 31  
vesting December 
2011 
(pence) 

during the 
period 

Performance period 

Earliest 
vesting date 

Latest 
exercise date

Christopher  
Hyman 
Andrew  
Jenner 

122,874  12 Nov 2007 

456 

84,500 

556  84,500  1 Jan 2008 – 31 Dec 2010 

31 Dec 2010 

11 Nov 2017

75,699  12 Nov 2007 

456 

52,058 

556  52,058  1 Jan 2008 – 31 Dec 2010 

31 Dec 2010 

11 Nov 2017

Notes:
1 Awards take the form of nominal cost options.
2 Awards made are calculated at 100% of salary at the time of grant.
3 

 The TSR performance condition is measured relative to the top 250 companies in the FTSE, as ranked by market capitalisation, excluding those in certain 
sectors which are not comparable with the Group.

4 No awards were granted, exercised or lapsed during the period.
5 

 The performance conditions attached to the awards which vested on 31 December 2010 achieved performance between median and upper quartile, 
resulting in 68.77% of the award vesting.

(iv) Serco Group plc 1998 and 2005 Executive Option Plan (EOP)
Options over Serco Group plc ordinary shares granted under the EOP and held by Directors at 31 December 2011 were as follows:

Christopher Hyman 

Andrew Jenner 

Awards 
held at 
1 January 
2011 

78,275* 
116,373* 
289,515* 
219,320* 
183,404 
147,492 
120,798 
123,076 

69,824* 
173,709* 
133,178* 
116,885 
88,495 
74,530 
75,824 

Exercised 
during period 

Awards 
held at 
31 December 
2011 

Market price 
on exercise 
date (pence) 

Exercise price 
(pence) 

Date from which 
exercisable 

Date of expiry  

of options

78,275 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 

– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 

– 
116,373 
289,515 
219,320 
183,404 
147,492 
120,798 
123,076 

69,824 
173,709 
133,178 
116,885 
88,495 
74,530 
75,824 

583 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 

– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 

435 
264 
153 
217 
235 
339 
439 
455 

264 
153 
217 
235 
339 
439 
455 

28 Mar 2004 
3 May 2005 
6 May 2006 
3 Mar 2007 
29 Apr 2008 
5 May 2009 
19 Mar 2010 
27 Feb 2011 

3 May 2005 
6 May 2006 
3 Mar 2007 
29 Apr 2008 
5 May 2009 
19 Mar 2010 
27 Feb 2011 

27 Mar 2011
2 May 2012
5 May 2013
2 Mar 2014
28 Apr 2015
4 May 2016
18 Mar 2017
26 Feb 2018

2 May 2012
5 May 2013
2 Mar 2014
28 Apr 2015
4 May 2016
18 Mar 2017
26 Feb 2018

Notes:
1
2
3 

4 

The final award to Executive Directors under this Plan was made in February 2008.
The awards shown in the table are the maximum number of shares that can vest under the performance conditions.
 The extent to which an award will vest is measured by reference to the Group’s Earnings Per Share (EPS) performance relative to the Retail Price Index 
(RPI) over the three-year performance period. Full details of the vesting schedule for these awards can be found in previous reports.
 For those options marked with an (*) approximately 14.67% (13.50% for prior year grants) of the options granted under the Plan represent supplementary 
options, granted for the sole purpose of compensating participants for agreeing to bear the Company’s liability to employers’ National Insurance Contributions 
upon the exercise of the underlying Plan awards. These options can only be exercised in conjunction with and to the extent of the underlying option.

5 No payment was made for the grant of the awards.
6 Grants of options under the EOP are calculated at 100% of salary at the time of grant. 
7 

 The market price of the Company’s ordinary shares at the close of business on 31 December 2011 was 474p and the range during the year to  
31 December 2011 was 458p to 618.5p.

8 No grants were made during the year.
9

 For the final option grant under this plan which became exercisable on 27 February 2011, the performance period ended on 31 December 2010, the Group’s 
EPS growth was 22.73% per annum over the three-year performance period which resulted in all options vesting. The level at which maximum vesting would 
occur was 12.69% per annum.

10   The aggregate of the total theoretical gains on options exercised by Directors during 2011 amounted to £0.1 million. This is calculated by reference  

to the difference between the closing mid-market price of the shares on the date of exercise and the exercise price of the options, disregarding whether 
such shares were sold or retained on exercise, and is stated before tax. The 78,275 options exercised, were all sold.

Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011 | 105

i

w
e
v
r
e
v
O

i

s
s
e
n
s
u
b
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
m
r
o
f
r
e
p
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
n
r
e
v
o
G

s
t
n
e
m
e
t
a
t
s

l

i

a
c
n
a
n
F

i

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Section 4 | Governance

Remuneration Report

Comparison of total shareholder returns 
Serco Group plc total shareholder return (TSR) vs FTSE 100 Total Return Index 
Value of investment of £100 on 31 December 2006

170

160

150

140

130

120

110

100

90

80

70

31 Dec 2006

31 Dec 2007

31 Dec 2008

31 Dec 2009

31 Dec 2010

31 Dec 2011

  Serco
  FTSE 100 Index

In drawing this graph, it has been assumed that all dividends paid have been reinvested. The TSR level shown at 31 December each year  
is the average of the closing daily TSR levels for the 30-day period up to and including that date. The Company’s TSR is compared to that 
of the FTSE 100 Index, which is a broad equity market index of which it is a constituent.

As detailed earlier, TSR is defined as the return shareholders would receive if they held a notional number of shares, and received dividends 
on those shares over a period of time. It measures the percentage growth in the Company’s share price together with the value of any 
dividends paid, assuming that the dividends are reinvested into the Company’s shares.

106 | Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011

 
 
Pensions and life assurance
This section has been audited by Deloitte LLP.

The Directors receive pension and life assurance benefits consistent with those provided by other leading companies.

The details of the defined benefit schemes operated by the Group are set out in the note on pages 149 to 154. In the event of death  
in service, the Serco Supplementary Death Benefit Scheme provides for a lump sum payment.

The accrued pension benefits of all Directors under the Serco Pension and Life Assurance Scheme, which is a defined benefit scheme, 
are as follows:

Transfer  
value at  

Transfer 
value at 
31 December   31 December 
2010 
(2) 
£ 

2011 
(1) 
£ 

Director’s 
contributions 
for the 
year 
(3) 
£ 

Change 
in transfer 
value during 
the year 
(4) = 
(1)-(2)-(3) 
£ 

Christopher Hyman 
Andrew Jenner 

2,180,757 
1,184,608 

1,744,001 
929,133 

– 
– 

436,756 
255,475 

Increase 
in accrued 
pension 
during 
the year 
(5) 
£ p.a. 

5,122 
2,989 

Increase 
in accrued 
pension 
during the 
year, net 
of inflation 
(6) 
£ p.a. 

Transfer 
value of 
increase 
in accrual 
over the 
year 
(7) 
£ 

Accrued 
pension at 
year end 
(8) 
£ p.a.

(407) 
(212) 

(7,022) 
(3,231) 

126,390
77,719

Notes:
a  

 Christopher Hyman ceased pension accrual on 1 April 2010 and Andrew Jenner on 31 December 2010, opting to receive a cash alternative equal to 33%  
of base pay (excluding bonuses) in lieu of any further pension provision. Executives remain entitled to lump sum and widow’s pension benefits should they 
die before retirement and whilst employed by Serco.

b  The accrued pension shown is that which would be paid annually on retirement, based on pensionable service to the date of ceasing accrual. 
c  The increase in the accrued pension over the year is shown both as a gross increase and net of statutory inflation (see further notes below).
d 

 Transfer values have been calculated in accordance with the Occupational Pension Schemes (Transfer Value) Regulations 1996. The assumptions used for 
calculating transfer values have been reviewed by the Trustees during the year and updated to reflect future pension increases and revaluations linked to 
the Consumer Prices Index (CPI) measure of inflation, rather than Retail Prices Index (RPI).
 CPI increased by 5.2% over the year September 2010 to September 2011, the period used for statutory increases. Statutory indexation restricts pre-
retirement increases to 5% p.a. for pension earned prior to 5 April 2009 and to 2.5% p.a. for pension earned after that date, and we have used this measure 
of inflation for calculating the increase in accrued pension net of inflation in (6).
 The increase in the accrued pension for both Directors allows for an increase in line with RPI to a maximum of 4% p.a. over the period from date of ceasing 
accrual to the year end, as agreed when they ceased accrual. Since the increase in pension over the year has been less than the statutory increase in 
inflation that would have applied on leaving service, the increase allowing for inflation in (6) is negative.
 The impact of allowing for CPI in the transfer value assumptions on its own would result in lower transfer values than would have applied with the previous 
assumptions. However, market movements over the year have acted to increase transfer values. The difference between the transfer values at the 
beginning and end of the year, shown in (4), includes the effect of both changes in the transfer value assumptions and the effect of fluctuations in the 
transfer value due to factors beyond the control of the Company and the Directors, such as stock market movements.
 The transfer values disclosed do not represent the sum paid or payable to the individual Director. Instead they represent a potential liability of the pension scheme.

e 

f 

g 

h 

Share dilution
Awards granted under the Serco Group plc share plans are met either by the issue of new shares or by shares held in trust when awards 
vest. The Committee monitors the number of shares issued under its various share plans and their impact on dilution limits. The relevant 
dilution limits established by the Association of British Insurers in respect of all share plans (10% in any rolling ten-year period) and 
discretionary share plans (5% in any rolling ten-year period) were, based on the Company’s issued share capital at 31 December 2011, 
6.48% and 4.35% respectively.

The Group has an employee share ownership trust which is administered by an independent trustee and which holds ordinary shares in  
the Company to meet various obligations under the share plans. In April 2011 a loan of £24 million was made to the Employee Share 
Ownership Trust in order to finance the purchase of shares to satisfy the ongoing liabilities under the Company’s employee share plans.

The Trust held 4,710,201 and 8,267,992 ordinary shares at 1 January 2011 and 31 December 2011 respectively.

Approved by the Board of Directors and signed on its behalf by:

Joanne Roberts
Secretary 
27 February 2012 

Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011 | 107

i

w
e
v
r
e
v
O

i

s
s
e
n
s
u
b
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
m
r
o
f
r
e
p
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
n
r
e
v
o
G

s
t
n
e
m
e
t
a
t
s

l

i

a
c
n
a
n
F

i

 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Section 5 | Financial statements

Independent Auditor’s Report

Independent Auditor’s Report to the members of Serco Group plc
We have audited the Group Financial Statements of Serco Group plc for the year ended 31 December 2011 which comprise the Consolidated 
Income Statement, the Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income, the Consolidated Statement of Changes in Equity, the 
Consolidated Balance Sheet, the Consolidated Cash Flow Statement and the related notes 1 to 37. The financial reporting framework  
that has been applied in their preparation is applicable law and International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRSs) as adopted by the 
European Union.

This report is made solely to the Company’s members, as a body, in accordance with Chapter 3 of Part 16 of the Companies Act 2006.  
Our audit work has been undertaken so that we might state to the Company’s members those matters we are required to state to them  
in an auditor’s report and for no other purpose. To the fullest extent permitted by law, we do not accept or assume responsibility to anyone 
other than the Company and the Company’s members as a body, for our audit work, for this report, or for the opinions we have formed.

Respective responsibilities of Directors and Auditor
As explained more fully in the Directors’ Responsibilities Statement, the Directors are responsible for the preparation of the Group Financial 
Statements and for being satisfied that they give a true and fair view. Our responsibility is to audit and express an opinion on the Group 
Financial Statements in accordance with applicable law and International Standards on Auditing (UK and Ireland). Those standards require 
us to comply with the Auditing Practices Board’s Ethical Standards for Auditors.

Scope of the audit of the financial statements
An audit involves obtaining evidence about the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements sufficient to give reasonable  
assurance that the financial statements are free from material misstatement, whether caused by fraud or error. This includes an  
assessment of: whether the accounting policies are appropriate to the Group’s circumstances and have been consistently applied  
and adequately disclosed; the reasonableness of significant accounting estimates made by the Directors; and the overall presentation  
of the financial statements. In addition, we read all the financial and non-financial information in the annual report to identify material 
inconsistencies with the audited financial statements. If we become aware of any apparent material misstatements or inconsistencies  
we consider the implications for our report.

Opinion on the Group Financial Statements
In our opinion the Group Financial Statements:
●● give a true and fair view of the state of the Group’s affairs as at 31 December 2011 and of its profit for the year then ended;
●● have been properly prepared in accordance with IFRSs as adopted by the European Union; and
●● have been prepared in accordance with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006 and Article 4 of the IAS Regulation.

Opinion on other matter prescribed by the Companies Act 2006
In our opinion the information given in the Directors’ Report for the financial year for which the financial statements are prepared  
is consistent with the Group Financial Statements.

Matters on which we are required to report by exception
We have nothing to report in respect of the following:

Under the Companies Act 2006 we are required to report to you if, in our opinion:
●● certain disclosures of Directors’ remuneration specified by law are not made; or
●● we have not received all the information and explanations we require for our audit.

Under the Listing Rules we are required to review:
●● the Directors’ statement contained within the Corporate Governance Report in relation to going concern; and
●● the part of the Corporate Governance Statement relating to the Company’s compliance with the nine provisions of the UK Corporate 

Governance Code specified for our review; and

●● certain elements of the report to shareholders by the Board on Directors’ remuneration.

Other matter
We have reported separately on the parent Company Financial Statements of Serco Group plc for the year ended 31 December 2011  
and on the information in the Directors’ Remuneration Report that is described as having been audited.

Richard Knights (Senior Statutory Auditor)
for and on behalf of Deloitte LLP 
Chartered Accountants and Statutory Auditor  
London, United Kingdom 
27 February 2012

108 | Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011

 
Consolidated Income Statement

For the year ended 31 December

Continuing operations
Revenue  
Cost of sales 

Gross profit 
Administrative expenses 

Adjusted operating profit – before amortisation of intangibles arising on acquisition  
and acquisition-related costs 
Other expenses – amortisation of intangibles arising on acquisition 
Acquisition-related costs 

Operating profit 
Investment revenue 
Finance costs 

Profit before tax 
Tax  

Profit for the year 

Attributable to:
Equity holders of the parent 

Non-controlling interest 

Earnings per share (EPS)
Basic EPS 

Diluted EPS 

Note 

4,5 

14 

5,6 
8 
9 

10 

12 

12 

2011 
£m 

2010 
£m

4,646.4 
(3,946.0) 

700.4 
(410.3) 

4,326.7
(3,682.4)

644.3
(385.6)

290.1 
(20.0) 
(3.9) 

266.2 
12.2 
(40.1) 

238.3 
(63.1) 

175.2 

175.1 

0.1 

35.70p 

35.08p 

Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income

For the year ended 31 December

Profit for the year 
Other comprehensive income for the year:
Net actuarial (loss)/gain on defined benefit pension schemes¹ 
Actuarial gain/(loss) on reimbursable rights¹ 
Net exchange (loss)/gain on translation of foreign operations² 
Fair value (loss)/gain on cash flow hedges during the year² 
Tax relating to components of other comprehensive income³ 
Recycling of cumulative net hedging reserve² 

Total comprehensive income for the year 

Attributable to:
Equity holders of the parent 

Non-controlling interest 

Note 

27 
27 

10 

2011 
£m 

175.2 

(51.0) 
116.5 
(2.2) 
(35.7) 
(5.9) 
0.3 

197.2 

197.1 

0.1 

1 Recorded in retirement benefit obligations reserve in the consolidated statement of changes in equity.
2 Recorded in hedging and translation reserve in the consolidated statement of changes in equity.
3 

 Of the tax charge, a debit of £14.7m (2010: debit of £4.3m) was recorded in the retirement benefit obligations reserve and a credit of £8.8m  
(2010: debit of £0.6m) was recorded in the hedging and translation reserve.

258.7
(17.4)
–

241.3
3.9
(31.3)

213.9
(57.1)

156.8

156.7

0.1

31.88p

31.35p

2010 
£m

156.8

49.9
(38.4)
19.0
1.7
(4.9)
0.3

184.4

184.3

0.1

i

w
e
v
r
e
v
O

i

s
s
e
n
s
u
b
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
m
r
o
f
r
e
p
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
n
r
e
v
o
G

s
t
n
e
m
e
t
a
t
s

l

i

a
c
n
a
n
F

i

Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011 | 109

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Section 5 | Financial statements

Consolidated Statement of Changes in Equity

For the year ended 31 December

Share 

Capital 

  Retirement 
benefit 
premium  redemption  Retained  obligations 
reserve 
account 
£m 
£m 

earnings 
£m 

reserve 
£m 

Share- 
based 
payment 
reserve 
£m 

Own 

Hedging  
and 
shares  translation 
reserve 
reserve 
£m 
£m 

Non- 
Total  controlling 
interest 
£m

equity 
£m 

Share 
capital 
£m 

At 1 January 2010 

9.8 

304.1 

0.1 

444.1 

(150.0) 

49.6 

(13.0) 

47.3 

692.0 

0.1

– 

– 

– 

156.7 

7.2 

– 

– 

20.4 

184.3 

0.1

0.1 

2.6 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

(32.3) 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

8.3 

–

(32.3) 

(0.2)

(2.9) 

8.5 

– 

8.8 

3.2 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

8.8 

3.2 

At 1 January 2011 

9.9 

306.7 

0.1 

568.5 

(142.8) 

58.7 

(27.5) 

67.7 

841.3 

– 

(23.0) 

– 

(23.0) 

– 

– 

175.1 

50.8 

– 

– 

(28.8) 

197.1 

0.1

16.0 

– 

– 

– 

–

– 

– 

– 

– 

–

– 

(37.3) 

– 

– 

–

– 

– 

– 

– 

–

(2.0) 

3.3 

– 

11.2 

(1.8) 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

17.3 

–

(37.3) 

(0.1)

11.2 

(1.8) 

–

(24.0) 

–

(24.0) 

Total comprehensive  
income for the year 

Shares transferred to  
option holders on  
exercise of share options 

Dividends paid  

Expense in relation to  
share-based payment 

Tax credit in relation to  
share-based payments 

Purchase of own shares  
for Employee Share  
Ownership Trust (ESOT) 

Total comprehensive  
income for the year 

Shares transferred to  
option holders on  
exercise of share options 

Dividends paid  

Expense in relation to  
share-based payment 

Tax charge in relation to  
share-based payments 

Purchase of own shares  
for Employee Share  
Ownership Trust (ESOT) 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

At 31 December 2011 

9.9 

322.7 

0.1 

706.3 

(92.0) 

66.1 

(48.2) 

38.9 

1,003.8 

110 | Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Consolidated Balance Sheet

At 31 December

Non-current assets
Goodwill 
Other intangible assets 
Property, plant and equipment 
Trade and other receivables 
Retirement benefit assets 
Deferred tax assets 
Derivative financial instruments  

Current assets
Inventories 
Trade and other receivables 
Current tax assets 
Cash and cash equivalents 
Derivative financial instruments 

Total assets 

Current liabilities
Trade and other payables 
Current tax liabilities 
Obligations under finance leases 
Provisions 
Loans 
Derivative financial instruments 

Non-current liabilities
Trade and other payables 
Obligations under finance leases 
Loans 
Derivative financial instruments 
Retirement benefit obligations 
Provisions 
Deferred tax liabilities 

Total liabilities 

Net assets 

Equity
Share capital 
Share premium account 
Capital redemption reserve 
Retained earnings 
Retirement benefit obligations reserve 
Share-based payment reserve 
Own shares reserve 
Hedging and translation reserve 

Equity attributable to equity holders of the parent 
Non-controlling interest 

Total equity 

Note 

13 
14 
16 
19 
27 
23 
26 

18 
19 

21 
26 

25 

24 
28 
22 
26 

25 
24 
22 
26 
27 
28 
23 

29 
30 

31 
31 
31 
31 

2011 
£m 

1,259.0 
184.9 
194.8 
261.9 
122.3 
28.2 
2.0 

2,053.1 

58.8 
798.6 
9.2 
254.8 
7.6 

1,129.0 

3,182.1 

(804.2) 
(17.8) 
(10.3) 
(10.4) 
(206.6) 
(12.3) 

(1,061.6) 

(61.4) 
(35.6) 
(636.2) 
(26.3) 
(278.7) 
(56.2) 
(22.3) 

(1,116.7) 

2010 
£m

899.5
145.0
135.4
156.7
–
38.1
3.5

1,378.2

65.4
786.2
4.0
279.3
3.9

1,138.8

2,517.0

(805.5)
(19.5)
(7.1)
–
(159.5)
(2.4)

(994.0)

(22.2)
(19.3)
(354.6)
(5.2)
(226.2)
(39.6)
(14.6)

(681.7)

(2,178.3) 

(1,675.7)

1,003.8 

841.3

9.9 
322.7 
0.1 
706.3 
(92.0) 
66.1 
(48.2) 
38.9 

1,003.8 
– 

1,003.8 

9.9
306.7
0.1
568.5
(142.8)
58.7
(27.5)
67.7

841.3
–

841.3

The financial statements were approved by the Board of Directors on 27 February 2012 and signed on its behalf by:

Christopher Hyman 
Chief Executive  

Andrew Jenner
Finance Director 

Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011 | 111

i

w
e
v
r
e
v
O

i

s
s
e
n
s
u
b
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
m
r
o
f
r
e
p
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
n
r
e
v
o
G

s
t
n
e
m
e
t
a
t
s

l

i

a
c
n
a
n
F

i

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Section 5 | Financial statements

Consolidated Cash Flow Statement

For the year ended 31 December

Net cash inflow from operating activities before special pension contribution 
Special contribution to defined benefit pension schemes 

Net cash inflow from operating activities 

Investing activities
Interest received 
Increase in security deposits 
Proceeds from disposal of property, plant and equipment 
Proceeds from disposal of intangible assets 
Acquisition of subsidiaries, net of cash acquired (excluding acquisition-related costs) 
Purchase of other intangible assets  
Purchase of property, plant and equipment 

Net cash outflow from investing activities 

Financing activities
Interest paid 
Dividends paid 
Non-controlling interest dividends paid 
Cash inflow from matured derivative financial instruments 
Repayment of loans 
Repayment of non recourse loans 
New loan advances 
Capital element of finance lease repayments 
Purchase of own shares for Employee Share Ownership Trust (ESOT) 
Proceeds from issue of share capital and exercise of share options 

Net cash inflow/(outflow) from financing activities 

Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents 
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year 
Net exchange (loss)/gain 

Cash and cash equivalents at end of year 

Note 

32 

15 

11 

21 

2011 
£m 

257.0 
(40.0) 

217.0 

3.4 
(8.2) 
9.2 
– 
(325.3) 
(35.2) 
(49.7) 

(405.8) 

(35.8) 
(37.3) 
(0.1) 
4.9 
(559.8) 
(7.9) 
818.4 
(10.7) 
(24.0) 
17.3 

165.0 

(23.8) 
279.3 
(0.7) 

254.8 

2010 
£m

261.0
(20.0)

241.0

3.3
–
6.1
7.3
(2.1)
(20.9)
(35.4)

(41.7)

(27.9)
(32.3)
(0.2)
1.6
(167.8)
(7.6)
10.1
(8.7)
(23.0)
8.3

(247.5)

(48.2)
319.4
8.1

279.3

112 | Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

1. General information

Serco Group plc (the Group) is a company incorporated in the United Kingdom under the Companies Act 2006. The address of the 
registered office is Serco House, 16 Bartley Wood Business Park, Bartley Way, Hook, Hampshire, RG27 9UY. 

These Consolidated Financial Statements (the financial statements) are presented in pounds Sterling because this is the currency of  
the primary economic environment in which the Group operates. Foreign operations are included in accordance with the policies set  
out in note 2.

2. Significant accounting policies

Basis of accounting
These financial statements on pages 109 to 164 have been prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRSs) 
adopted for use in the European Union (EU) and therefore the Group financial statements comply with Article 4 of the EU IAS Regulation.

The financial statements have been prepared on the historical cost basis. The following principal accounting policies adopted have been 
applied consistently in the current and preceding financial year except as stated below.

As discussed in more detail in the Finance Review, these financial statements have been prepared on the going concern basis.

Adoption of new and revised standards
The following new and revised standards and interpretations have been adopted in the current year. Their adoption has not had any 
significant impact on the amounts reported in these financial statements but may impact the accounting for future transactions 
and arrangements. 

Amendments to IFRS 1 Limited Exemption from Comparative IFRS 7 Disclosures for First-Time Adopters
The amendment relieves first-time adopters of IFRSs from providing the additional disclosures introduced in March 2009 by Improving 
Disclosures about Financial Instruments (Amendments to IFRS 7). 

IAS 24 (2009) Related Party Disclosures
The amendments to IAS 24 have updated the definition of a related party and of a related party transaction to clarify the intended meaning 
and remove inconsistencies. In addition, the revised standard provides an exemption from the disclosure requirements for transactions 
between entities controlled, jointly controlled or significantly influenced by the same state.

IAS 32 Financial Instruments: Presentation: Classification of Rights Issues
Rights issues offered for a fixed amount of foreign currency practice appeared to require such issues to be accounted for as derivative 
liabilities. The amendment states that if such rights are issued pro rata to an entity’s all existing shareholders in the same class for a fixed 
amount of currency, they should be classified as equity regardless of the currency in which the exercise price is denominated.

Amendment to IFRIC 14 Prepayments of a Minimum Funding Requirement
The amendments now enable recognition of an asset in the form of prepaid minimum funding contributions.

IFRIC 19 Extinguishing Financial Liabilities with Equity Instruments
IFRIC 19 provides guidance on how an entity should account for transactions where a creditor agrees to accept an entity’s shares or  
other equity instruments to settle a financial liability fully or partially in accordance with IAS 39 Financial Instruments: Recognition and 
Measurement and IAS 32 Financial Instruments: Presentation.

Improvements to IFRSs 2010
Aside from those items already identified above, the amendments made to standards under the 2010 improvements of IFRSs have had 
no impact on the Group.

i

w
e
v
r
e
v
O

i

s
s
e
n
s
u
b
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
m
r
o
f
r
e
p
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
n
r
e
v
o
G

s
t
n
e
m
e
t
a
t
s

l

i

a
c
n
a
n
F

i

Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011 | 113

 
 
 
 
Section 5 | Financial statements

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

2. Significant accounting policies (continued)

Basis of consolidation
The consolidated financial statements incorporate the financial statements of the Company, entities controlled by the Company  
(its subsidiaries) and entities jointly controlled by the Company (its joint ventures) made up to 31 December each year. Control is achieved 
where the Company has the power to govern the financial and operating policies of an investee entity so as to obtain benefits from 
its activities.

The results of subsidiaries and joint ventures acquired or disposed of during the year are included in the consolidated income statement 
from the effective date of acquisition or up to the effective date of disposal as appropriate.

Where necessary, adjustments are made to the financial statements of subsidiaries and joint ventures to bring accounting policies used  
into line with those used by the Group.

All intra-Group transactions, balances, income and expenses are eliminated on consolidation.

Non-controlling interests represent the portion of profit or loss and net assets in subsidiaries that is not held by the Group and is presented 
within equity in the consolidated balance sheet, separately from parent shareholders’ equity.

The information previously presented in the consolidated statement of comprehensive income (SOCI) and the consolidated statement  
of changes in equity (SOCIE) for the year ended 31 December 2010 has been re-presented. The tax credit on the expense in relation to 
share-based payments previously reported within the SOCI has now been separately disclosed within the SOCIE.

Business combinations
Acquisitions of subsidiaries and businesses are accounted for using the acquisition method. The consideration for each acquisition is 
measured at the aggregate of the fair values, at the date of exchange, of assets given, liabilities incurred or assumed, and equity instruments 
issued by the Group in exchange for control of the acquiree. Acquisition-related costs are recognised in profit or loss as incurred.

Where applicable, the consideration for the acquisition includes any asset or liability resulting from a contingent consideration arrangement, 
measured at its acquisition date fair value. Subsequent changes in fair values are adjusted against the cost of acquisition where they 
qualify as measurement period adjustments (which is subject to a maximum of one year). All other subsequent changes in the fair value  
of contingent consideration classified as an asset or liability are accounted for in accordance with the relevant accounting standards. 
Changes in the fair value of contingent consideration classified as equity are not recognised.

The acquiree’s identifiable assets, liabilities and contingent liabilities that meet the conditions for recognition under IFRS 3 (2008) Business 
Combinations are recognised at their fair value at the acquisition date, except where a different treatment is mandated by another standard.

Goodwill arising on acquisition is recognised as an asset at the date that control is acquired. Goodwill is measured as the excess of the 
sum of the consideration transferred, the amount of any non-controlling interest and the fair value of any previously held equity interest 
in the acquired entity, over the net of the acquisition date amounts of the identifiable assets and liabilities acquired.

If, after reassessment, the Group’s interest in the net fair value of the acquiree’s identifiable net assets exceeds the sum of the consideration 
transferred, the amount of any non-controlling interest and the fair value of any previously held equity interest in the acquired entity, the 
excess is recognised immediately in the income statement.

Any adjustments to contingent consideration in respect of acquisitions made prior to 1 January 2010 will continue to be reflected in goodwill 
in accordance with IFRS 3 (2004).

Goodwill
Goodwill arising on consolidation represents the excess of the cost of acquisition over the Group’s interest in the fair value of the identifiable 
assets and liabilities of a subsidiary, associate or jointly controlled entity, at the date of acquisition. Goodwill is initially recognised as an 
asset at cost and is subsequently measured at cost less any accumulated impairment losses. Goodwill, which is recognised as an asset, 
is reviewed for impairment at least annually. Any impairment is recognised immediately in profit or loss and is not subsequently reversed. 

For the purpose of impairment testing, goodwill is allocated to each of the Group’s cash-generating units (CGUs) expected to benefit from 
the synergies of the combination. CGUs to which goodwill has been allocated are tested for impairment annually, or more frequently when 
there is an indication that the unit may be impaired. If the recoverable amount of the CGU is less than the carrying amount of the unit, the 
impairment loss is allocated first to reduce the carrying amount of any goodwill allocated to the unit and then to the other assets of the  
unit pro rata on the basis of the carrying amount of each asset in the unit. An impairment loss recognised for goodwill is not reversed in  
a subsequent period.

On disposal of a subsidiary, associate or jointly controlled entity, the attributable amount of goodwill is included in the determination of the 
profit or loss on disposal.

Goodwill arising on acquisitions before the date of transition to IFRS has been retained at the previous United Kingdom Generally  
Accepted Accounting Practice (UK GAAP) amounts subject to being tested for impairment at that date. Goodwill written off to reserves 
under UK GAAP prior to 1998 has not been reinstated and is not included in determining any subsequent profit or loss on disposal.

114 | Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011

 
2. Significant accounting policies (continued)

Investments in joint ventures
The Group’s investments in joint ventures are reported in the financial statements using the proportionate consolidation method, whereby the 
Group’s share of each of the assets, liabilities, income and expenses of its joint ventures is combined line by line with similar items in  
the Group’s financial statements or reported as separate line items within the Group’s financial statements.

Property, plant and equipment
Assets held for use in the rendering of services, or for administrative purposes, are stated in the balance sheet at cost, net of accumulated 
depreciation and any provision for impairment.

Depreciation is provided on a straight-line basis at rates designed to reduce the assets to their residual value over their estimated 
useful lives.

The principal annual rates used are:

Freehold buildings 

2.5%

Short-leasehold building improvements 

The higher of 10% or the rate produced by the lease term

Machinery  

Motor vehicles 

Furniture   

Office equipment 

Leased equipment 

15% – 20%

10% – 50%

10%

20% – 33%

The higher of the rate produced by the lease term or useful life

The gain or loss arising on the disposal or retirement of an asset is determined as the difference between the sales proceeds and the 
carrying amount of the asset and is recognised in the income statement.

Assets are grouped into classes of similar nature and use and separately disclosed except where this is not material.

Other intangible assets
Customer relationships represent the value of contracts acquired on the acquisition of subsidiaries and are amortised over the average 
length of the related contracts.

Development expenditure is capitalised as an intangible asset only if all of the following conditions are met:
●● an asset is created that can be separately identified, and which the Group intends to use or sell;
●● the finalisation of the asset is technically feasible and the Group has adequate resources to complete its development for use or sale;
●● it is probable that the asset created will generate future economic benefits; and
●● the development cost of the asset can be measured reliably.

Purchased software and development expenditure is amortised over the period in which the Group is expected to benefit. This period 
is between three to eight years, or the length of the contract if longer. Provision is also made for any impairment. All other development 
expenditure is written off as incurred. Assets under the course of construction are not depreciated.

Licences comprise premiums paid for the acquisition of licences, which are amortised on a straight-line basis over the life of the licence.

Franchises represent costs incurred in obtaining franchise rights and franchise goodwill arising on the acquisition of franchises. These are 
amortised on a straight-line basis over the life of the franchise.

Pension-related intangibles represent assets arising in relation to the Group’s right to manage and operate contracts where there is a 
defined benefit pension scheme and it is not virtually certain that contributions will be recovered from the customer but where the Group’s 
obligation to contribute to the scheme ends when the contract ends. The intangible assets represent the Group’s share of scheme net 
liabilities on the date that contracts commence and are amortised on a straight-line basis over the life of the contract.

Assets are grouped into classes of similar nature and use and separately disclosed except where this is not material.

i

w
e
v
r
e
v
O

i

s
s
e
n
s
u
b
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
m
r
o
f
r
e
p
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
n
r
e
v
o
G

s
t
n
e
m
e
t
a
t
s

l

i

a
c
n
a
n
F

i

Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011 | 115

 
 
 
 
Section 5 | Financial statements

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

2. Significant accounting policies (continued)

Impairment of tangible and intangible assets
Annually, the Group reviews the carrying amounts of its tangible and intangible assets to determine whether there is any indication that 
those assets have suffered an impairment loss. If any such indication exists, the recoverable amount of the asset is estimated in order to 
determine the extent of the impairment loss (if any). Where the asset does not generate cash flows that are independent from other assets, 
the Group estimates the recoverable amount of the CGU to which the asset belongs. A CGU is the smallest group of assets that generates 
cash inflows from continuing use that are largely independent of the cash flows of other assets or groups of assets. For the purpose of 
impairment testing, the goodwill acquired in a business combination is allocated to the CGUs that are expected to benefit from the synergies 
of the combination. 

Recoverable amount is defined as the higher of fair value less costs to sell and value in use. In assessing value in use, the estimated future 
cash flows are discounted to their present value using a pre-tax discount rate that reflects current market assessments of the time value of 
money and the risks specific to the asset for which the estimates of future cash flows have not been adjusted.

If the recoverable amount of an asset (or CGU) is estimated to be less than its carrying amount, the carrying amount of the asset (or CGU) 
is reduced to its recoverable amount. An impairment loss is recognised as an expense immediately. Impairment losses recognised in 
respect of CGUs are allocated first to reduce the carrying amount of any goodwill allocated to the units and then to reduce the carrying 
amount of the other assets in the unit (group of units) on a pro rata basis.

An impairment loss in respect of goodwill is not reversed. In respect of other assets, impairment losses recognised in prior periods are 
assessed at each reporting date for indications that the loss has decreased or no longer exists. Where an impairment loss subsequently 
reverses, the carrying amount of the asset (or CGU) is increased to the revised estimate of its recoverable amount, but so that the 
increased carrying amount does not exceed the carrying amount that would have been determined, net of depreciation or amortisation,  
had no impairment loss been recognised for the asset (or CGU) in prior years. A reversal of an impairment loss is recognised as 
income immediately.

Impairment losses and reversals are included within administrative expenses within the consolidated income statement.

Revenue recognition
Revenue is measured at the fair value of the consideration received or receivable and represents amounts due for goods and services 
provided in the normal course of business, net of discounts, value added tax and other sales-related taxes.

Revenue is deferred when the Group has received consideration under the terms of a contract in advance of performing the related service 
or delivering the associated goods. Deferred revenue is recognised as revenue in the income statement when the Group has fulfilled the 
relevant contractual commitment.

Revenue recognition: repeat service-based contracts
Revenue on repeat service-based contracts is recognised as services are provided.

Revenue recognition: long-term project-based contracts
The Group has a number of long-term contracts for the provision of complex, project-based services. Where the outcome of such long-term 
project-based contracts can be measured reliably, revenue and costs are recognised by reference to the stage of completion of the 
contract activity at the balance sheet date in accordance with IAS 18 Revenue and IAS 11 Construction Contracts. This is measured by the 
proportion of contract costs incurred for work performed to date compared to the estimated total contract costs. 

Variations in contract work, claims and incentive payments are included to the extent that they have been agreed with the customer or are 
virtually certain of being received.

Where the outcome of a long-term project-based contract cannot be estimated reliably, contract revenue is recognised to the extent of contract 
costs that are probable to be recovered. Contract costs are recognised as expenses in the period in which they are incurred.

When it is probable that the total contract costs will exceed total contract revenue, the expected loss is recognised as an expense immediately.

Revenue recognition: other
Sales of goods are recognised when goods are delivered and title has passed.

Interest income is accrued on a time basis, by reference to the principal outstanding and at the effective interest rate applicable,  
which is the rate that exactly discounts estimated future cash receipts through the expected life of the financial asset to that asset’s  
net carrying amount.

Dividend income from investments is recognised when the shareholders’ rights to receive payment have been established.

116 | Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011

 
2. Significant accounting policies (continued)

Bid costs and phase-in costs
All bid costs are expensed through the income statement up to the point where contract award (or full recovery of costs) is virtually certain. 
Bid costs incurred after this point are then capitalised within trade and other receivables. On contract award these bid costs are amortised 
through the income statement over the contract period by reference to the stage of completion of the contract activity at the balance sheet 
date. Bid costs are only capitalised to the extent that it is expected that the related contract will generate sufficient future economic benefits 
to at least offset the amortisation charge.

Phase-in costs directly related to phase-in programmes of contracts are treated as an integral part of contract costs and are recognised on 
a straight-line basis over the life of the contract except where they are specifically reimbursed as part of the terms of the contract when they 
are recognised as revenue.

Segmental information
Segmental information is based on internal reports about components of the Group that are regularly reviewed by the Group’s Chief 
Operating Decision Maker in order to allocate resources to the segments and to assess their performance.

Segmental revenue is analysed on an external basis. Inter-segment revenue is not presented as it is not significant in the context of revenue 
as a whole. Net finance costs are not presented for each operating segment as they are reviewed on a consolidated basis by the Group’s 
Chief Operating Decision Maker.

Items excluded from segmental results comprise corporate expenses. Specific corporate expenses are allocated to the corresponding 
segments. Segment assets comprise goodwill, other intangible assets, property, plant and equipment, inventories, trade and other 
receivables (excluding corporation tax recoverable), and any retirement benefit asset. Segment liabilities comprise trade and other payables 
and retirement benefit obligations. 

Inventories
Inventories are stated at the lower of cost and net realisable value and comprise service spares, parts awaiting installation and long-term 
project-based contract balances. Cost comprises direct materials and, where applicable, direct labour costs that have been incurred in 
bringing the inventories to their present location and condition. 

Leases
Leases are classified as finance leases whenever the terms of the lease transfer substantially all the risks and rewards of ownership  
to the lessee. All other leases are classified as operating leases.

Assets held under finance leases are recognised as assets of the Group at fair value or, if lower, at the present value of minimum lease 
payments determined at the inception of the lease. The corresponding liability to the lessor is included in the balance sheet as a finance 
lease obligation. Lease payments are apportioned between finance charges and reduction of the lease obligation so as to achieve a 
constant rate of interest on the remaining balance of the liability. Finance charges are charged directly against income, unless they are 
directly attributable to a qualifying asset, in which case they are capitalised in accordance with the Group’s general policy on borrowing 
costs (see below).

Total rentals payable under operating leases are charged to income on a straight-line basis over the term of the relevant lease.

Foreign currencies
Transactions in currencies other than Sterling are recorded at the rates of exchange on the dates of the transactions. At each balance  
sheet date, monetary assets and liabilities that are denominated in foreign currencies are retranslated at the rates prevailing on the  
balance sheet date. Non-monetary assets and liabilities carried at fair value that are denominated in foreign currencies are translated  
at the rate prevailing on the date when the fair value was determined. Gains and losses arising on retranslation are included in the net  
profit or loss for the period, except for exchange differences arising on non-monetary assets and liabilities where the changes in fair value 
are recognised directly in equity in the consolidated statement of comprehensive income (SOCI).

On consolidation, the assets and liabilities of the Group’s overseas operations are translated at exchange rates prevailing on the balance 
sheet date. Income and expense items are translated at the average exchange rates for the period. Exchange differences arising, if any,  
are recognised directly within equity in the Group’s hedging and translation reserve. Such translation differences are recognised as income 
or expenses in the period in which the operation is disposed of.

Goodwill and fair value adjustments arising on the acquisition of a foreign entity are treated as assets and liabilities of the foreign entity  
and translated at the closing rate.

i

w
e
v
r
e
v
O

i

s
s
e
n
s
u
b
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
m
r
o
f
r
e
p
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
n
r
e
v
o
G

s
t
n
e
m
e
t
a
t
s

l

i

a
c
n
a
n
F

i

Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011 | 117

 
 
 
 
Section 5 | Financial statements

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

2. Significant accounting policies (continued)

Borrowing costs
Borrowing costs directly attributable to the acquisition, construction or production of qualifying assets, which are assets that necessarily 
take a substantial period of time to get ready for their intended use or sale, are added to the cost of those assets, until such time as the 
assets are substantially ready for their intended use or sale. 

All other borrowing costs are recognised as an expense in the period in which they are incurred.

Retirement benefit costs
Payments to defined contribution pension schemes are charged as an expense as they fall due.

For defined benefit pension schemes, the cost of providing benefits is determined using the projected unit credit actuarial cost method, 
with actuarial valuations being carried out at each balance sheet date. 

Actuarial gains and losses are recognised in full in the period in which they occur. They are recognised outside the income statement  
and are presented in the SOCI.

The current service cost represents the increase in the present value of the scheme liabilities expected to arise from employee service  
in the current period.

Past service cost is recognised immediately to the extent that the benefits are already vested, and is amortised on a straight-line basis  
over the average period until the benefit vests. Gains and losses on curtailments or settlements are recognised in the period in which the 
curtailment or settlement occurs.

The retirement benefit obligation recognised in the balance sheet represents the present value of the defined benefit obligation as adjusted 
for unrecognised past service costs, and as reduced by the fair value of scheme assets. Any asset resulting from this calculation is limited 
to past service cost, plus the present value of available refunds and reductions in future contributions to the scheme.

The economic benefit from refunds is only recognised to the extent that the Group has an unconditional right to receive a refund.

To the extent that an economic benefit is available as a reduction in contributions and there is a minimum funding requirement,  
the economic benefit available as a reduction in contributions is calculated at the present value of:
a)  the estimated future service cost in each year; less
b)  the estimated minimum funding contributions required in respect of the future accrual and benefits in that year.

Defined benefit obligations arising from contractual obligations
Where the Group takes on a contract and assumes the obligation to contribute variable amounts to the defined benefit pension  
scheme throughout the period of the contract and it is not virtually certain that the contributions will be recovered from the customer, the 
Group’s share of the defined benefit obligation less its share of the pension scheme assets that it will fund over the period of the contract  
is recognised as a liability at the start of the contract with a corresponding amount being recognised as an intangible asset. The intangible 
asset, which reflects the Group’s right to manage and operate the contract, is amortised over the contract period. The Group’s share  
of the scheme assets and liabilities is calculated by reducing the scheme assets and liabilities by a franchise adjustment. The franchise 
adjustment represents the amount of scheme deficits that will be funded outside the contract period. Subsequent actuarial gains and 
losses in relation to the Group’s share of pension obligations are recognised outside the income statement and are presented in the SOCI.

Where the Group takes on a contract and assumes the obligation to contribute variable amounts to the defined benefit pension  
scheme throughout the period of the contract and it is virtually certain that the contributions will be recovered from the customer, the 
Group’s share of the defined benefit obligation less its share of the pension scheme assets are recognised as a liability at the start of  
the contract with a corresponding amount being recognised as a financial asset at fair value, being the fair value of the reimbursable rights. 
In the consolidated income statement, the expense relating to the defined benefit scheme is presented net of the amount recognised for 
reimbursement. Subsequent actuarial gains and losses in relation to the Group’s share of pension obligations are recognised outside the 
income statement and are presented in the SOCI. The change in fair value of the reimbursable rights that is not presented in the income 
statement is reported in the SOCI.

Multi-employer pension schemes
Multi-employer pension schemes are classified as either a defined contribution pension scheme or a defined benefit pension scheme  
under the terms of the scheme.

When sufficient information is not available to use defined benefit accounting for a multi-employer defined benefit pension scheme, the Group 
accounts for the scheme as if it were a defined contribution scheme.

118 | Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011

 
2. Significant accounting policies (continued)

Tax
The tax expense represents the sum of current tax expense and deferred tax expense.

Current tax expense is based on taxable profit for the year. Taxable profit differs from net profit as reported in the income statement because 
it excludes items of income or expense that are taxable or deductible in other years and it further excludes items that are never taxable or 
deductible. The Group’s liability for current tax is calculated using tax rates that have been enacted or substantively enacted by the balance 
sheet date.

Deferred tax is provided, using the liability method, on temporary differences at the balance sheet date between the tax bases of assets 
and liabilities and their carrying amounts for accounting purposes.

Deferred tax liabilities are generally recognised for all taxable temporary differences. Deferred tax assets are generally recognised for all 
deductible temporary differences, carry forward of unused tax credits and unused tax losses, to the extent that it is probable that taxable 
profits will be available against which these items can be utilised.

Deferred tax assets and liabilities are not recognised if the temporary difference arises from goodwill or from the initial recognition of an 
asset and liability in a transaction other than a business combination and, at the time of the transaction, affects neither the tax profit nor  
the accounting profit.

Deferred tax liabilities are recognised for taxable temporary differences arising on investments in subsidiaries and joint ventures, except 
where the Group is able to control the reversal of the temporary difference and it is probable that the temporary difference will not reverse  
in the foreseeable future.

The carrying amount of deferred tax assets is reviewed at each balance sheet date and reduced to the extent that it is no longer probable 
that sufficient taxable profits will be available to allow all or part of the asset to be utilised.

Deferred tax is measured at the tax rates that are expected to apply in the period when the liability is settled or the asset is realised,  
based upon tax rates and legislation that have been enacted or substantively enacted by the balance sheet date. Deferred tax is  
charged or credited in the income statement, except where it relates to items charged or credited directly to equity, in which case the 
deferred tax is also recognised in equity.

Deferred tax assets and liabilities are offset when there is a legally enforceable right to set off current tax assets against current tax liabilities 
and when they relate to income taxes levied by the same tax authority where the Group intends to settle its current tax assets and liabilities 
on a net basis.

Research and development costs
Expenditure on research is recognised as an expense in the period in which it is incurred. Development costs are expensed in the period  
in which the costs are incurred unless the criteria for capitalisation is met (see other intangible assets policy).

Share-based payment
The Group makes equity-settled share-based payments to certain employees and operates an HMRC approved Save As You Earn (SAYE) 
share option scheme open to eligible employees which allows the purchase of shares at a discount. These are measured at fair value at the 
date of grant. The fair value is expensed on a straight-line basis over the vesting period, based on the Group’s estimate of shares that will 
eventually vest. SAYE options are treated as cancelled when employees cease to contribute to the scheme, resulting in an acceleration of 
the remainder of the related expense.

Where the fair value of share options requires the use of a valuation model, fair value is measured by use of the Binomial Lattice or Monte 
Carlo Simulation models depending on the type of scheme, as set out in note 34. The expected life used in the models has been adjusted, 
based on management’s best estimate, for the effects of non-transferability, exercise restrictions, and behavioural considerations. Where 
relevant, the value of the option has also been adjusted to take account of market conditions applicable to the option.

Trade receivables
Trade receivables are recognised initially at fair value and subsequently measured at amortised cost using the effective interest rate 
method, less provision for impairment. A provision for impairment of trade receivables is established when there is objective evidence that 
the Group will not be able to collect all amounts due according to the original terms of the contract. Significant financial difficulties of the  
debtor, probability that the debtor will enter bankruptcy or financial reorganisation, and default or delinquency in payments are considered 
indicators that a trade receivable is impaired. The amount of the provision is based on management’s best estimate of the recoverable 
amount. The carrying amount of the asset is reduced through the use of an allowance for doubtful debts and the amount of the loss is 
recognised in the income statement within administrative expenses. When a trade receivable is uncollectable, it is written off against the 
allowance for doubtful debts. Subsequent recoveries of amounts previously written off are credited against administrative expenses.

i

w
e
v
r
e
v
O

i

s
s
e
n
s
u
b
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
m
r
o
f
r
e
p
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
n
r
e
v
o
G

s
t
n
e
m
e
t
a
t
s

l

i

a
c
n
a
n
F

i

Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011 | 119

 
 
 
 
Section 5 | Financial statements

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

2. Significant accounting policies (continued)

Cash and cash equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents comprise cash in hand and balances with banks and similar institutions, which are readily convertible to  
known amounts of cash and which are subject to insignificant changes in value and have a maturity of three months or less from the  
date of acquisition. This definition is also used for the consolidated cash flow statement.

Dividends
Dividends are recorded in the Group’s consolidated financial statements in the period in which they are declared, appropriately authorised 
and no longer at the discretion of the Company.

Loans
Loans are initially stated at the amount of the net proceeds after deduction of issue costs. The carrying amount of loans hedged  
by derivatives is increased by the finance cost in respect of the accounting period and reduced by payments made in the period.  
Loans which are unhedged are stated at amortised cost using the effective interest rate method. Accrued interest is recorded separately 
from the associated borrowings within current liabilities.

Loans are described as non recourse loans and classified as such only if no Group company other than the relevant borrower has an 
obligation, under a guarantee or other arrangement, to repay the debt.

Derivative financial instruments and hedging activities
The Group enters into a variety of derivative financial instruments to manage the exposure to interest rate foreign exchange risk and price 
risk, including currency swaps, foreign exchange forward contracts, interest rate swaps and commodity future contracts. Further details  
of derivative financial instruments are given in note 26.

Derivatives are initially recognised at fair value at the date a derivative contract is entered into and are subsequently remeasured to their  
fair value at each balance sheet date. A derivative with a positive fair value is recognised as a financial asset whereas a derivative with  
a negative fair value is recognised as a financial liability. The resulting gain or loss is recognised in profit or loss immediately unless the 
derivative is designated and effective as a hedging instrument, in which event the timing of the recognition in profit or loss depends on  
the nature of the hedge relationship. The Group designates certain derivatives as either hedges of the fair value of recognised assets  
or liabilities or firm commitments (fair value hedges), hedges of highly probable forecast transactions or hedges of foreign currency risk of firm 
commitments (cash flow hedges), or hedges of net investments in foreign operations.

A derivative is presented as a non-current asset or a non-current liability if the remaining maturity of the instrument is more than 12 months 
and it is not expected to be realised or settled within 12 months. Other derivatives are presented as current assets or current liabilities.

Embedded derivatives
Derivatives embedded in other financial instruments or other host contracts are treated as separate derivatives when their risks and 
characteristics are not closely related to those of the host contracts and the host contracts are not measured at fair value through profit 
or loss. 

Hedge accounting
The Group designates certain hedging instruments, which include derivatives, embedded derivatives and non-derivatives in respect of 
foreign exchange risk, as either fair value hedges, cash flow hedges, or hedges of net investments in foreign operations. Hedges of foreign 
exchange risk on highly probable forecast transactions and firm commitments are accounted for as cash flow hedges.

At the inception of the hedge relationship, the entity documents the relationship between the hedging instrument and the hedged item, 
along with its risk management objectives and its strategy for undertaking various hedge transactions. Furthermore, at the inception of the 
hedge and on an ongoing basis, the Group documents whether the hedging instrument that is used in a hedging relationship is highly 
effective in offsetting changes in fair values or cash flows of the hedged item. 

Details of the fair values of the derivative instruments used for hedging purposes and movements in the hedging and translation reserve  
in equity are detailed in the SOCI and described in note 26. 

Fair value hedges
Changes in the fair value of derivatives that are designated and qualify as fair value hedges are recorded in profit or loss immediately, 
together with any changes in the fair value of the hedged item that is attributable to the hedged risk. The change in the fair value of the 
hedging instrument and the change in the hedged item attributable to the hedged risk are recognised in the line of the income statement 
relating to the hedged item. 

Hedge accounting is discontinued when the Group revokes the hedging relationship, the hedging instrument expires or is sold, terminated, 
exercised or no longer qualifies for hedge accounting. The adjustment to the carrying amount of the hedged item arising from the hedged 
risk is amortised to profit or loss from that date. 

120 | Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011

 
2. Significant accounting policies (continued)

Cash flow hedges
The effective portion of changes in the fair value of derivatives that are designated and qualify as cash flow hedges are deferred in equity. 
The gain or loss relating to the ineffective portion is recognised immediately in profit or loss. 

Amounts deferred in equity are recycled to profit or loss in the periods when the hedged item affects profit or loss, in the same line of the 
income statement as the recognised hedged item. However, when the forecast transaction that is hedged results in the recognition of  
a non-financial asset or a non-financial liability, the gains and losses previously deferred in equity are transferred from equity and included 
in the initial measurement of the cost of the non-financial asset or non-financial liability.

Hedge accounting is discontinued when the Group revokes the hedging relationship, the hedging instrument expires or is sold, terminated, 
exercised or no longer qualifies for hedge accounting. Any cumulative gain or loss deferred in equity at that time remains in equity and is 
recognised when the forecast transaction is ultimately recognised in profit or loss. When a forecast transaction is no longer expected to 
occur, the cumulative gain or loss that was deferred in equity is recognised immediately in profit or loss. 

Hedges of net investments in foreign operations
Hedges of net investments in foreign operations are accounted for similarly to cash flow hedges. Any gain or loss on the hedging 
instrument relating to the effective portion of the hedge is recognised in equity and accumulated in the hedging and translation reserve.  
The gain or loss relating to the ineffective portion is recognised immediately in profit or loss and is included in the ‘net exchange gain/loss 
on translation of foreign operations’ line item. 

Gains and losses on the hedging instrument relating to the effective portion of the hedge accumulated in the foreign currency translation 
reserve are reclassified to profit or loss in the same way as exchange differences relating to the foreign operations.

Net investments in foreign operations
Exchange differences arising on monetary items that form part of the Group’s net investment in foreign operations are initially recognised in 
equity and accumulated in the hedging and translation reserve and reclassified from equity to profit or loss on disposal of the net investment.

Provisions
Provisions are recognised when the Group has a present obligation as a result of a past event, and it is probable that the Group will be 
required to settle that obligation. Provisions are measured at the Directors’ best estimate of the expenditure required to settle the obligation 
at the balance sheet date.

New standards and interpretations not applied
At the date of authorisation of these financial statements, the following standards and interpretations which have not been applied in these 
financial statements were in issue but not yet effective (and in some cases had not yet been adopted by the EU):

●● IFRS 1 (amended) Severe Hyperinflation and Removal of Fixed Dates for First-time Adopters
●● IFRS 7 (amended) Disclosures – Transfers of Financial Assets
●● IFRS 9 Financial Instruments
●● IFRS 10 Consolidated Financial Statements
●● IFRS 11 Joint Arrangements
●● IFRS 12 Disclosure of Interests in Other Entities
●● IFRS 13 Fair Value Measurement
●● IAS 1 (amended) Presentation of Items in Other Comprehensive Income
●● IAS 12 (amended) Deferred Tax: Recovery of Underlying Assets
●● IAS 19 (revised) Employee Benefits
●● IAS 27 (revised) Separate Financial Statements
●● IAS 28 (revised) Investments in Associates and Joint Ventures
●● IFRIC 20 Stripping Costs in the Production Phase of a Surface Mine

The Directors do not anticipate that the adoption of these standards and interpretations will have a material impact on the Group’s financial 
statements in the period of initial application except as follows:

●● IFRS 9 will impact both the measurement and disclosures of financial instruments;
●● IFRS 11 will require the Group to change from proportionate consolidation of joint arrangements and adopt equity accounting;
●● IFRS 12 will impact the disclosure of interest Serco Group plc has in other entities;
●● IFRS 13 will impact the measurement of fair value for certain assets and liabilities as well as the associated disclosures; and
●● IAS 19 (revised) will impact the measurement of the various components representing movements in the defined benefit obligation  
and associated disclosures, but not the Group’s total obligation. It is likely that following the replacement of expected returns on 
scheme assets with a net finance cost in the income statement, the profit for the period will be reduced and accordingly other 
comprehensive income increased.

Beyond the information above, it is not practicable to provide a reasonable estimate of the effect of these standards and interpretations until 
a detailed review has been completed.

Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011 | 121

i

w
e
v
r
e
v
O

i

s
s
e
n
s
u
b
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
m
r
o
f
r
e
p
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
n
r
e
v
o
G

s
t
n
e
m
e
t
a
t
s

l

i

a
c
n
a
n
F

i

 
 
 
 
Section 5 | Financial statements

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

3. Critical accounting judgements and key sources of estimation uncertainty

Critical judgements in applying the Group’s accounting policies
In the process of applying the Group’s accounting policies, which are described in note 2 above, management has made the following 
judgements that have the most significant effect on the amounts recognised in the financial statements (apart from those involving 
estimations which are dealt with below).

Revenue and profit recognition of long-term project-based contracts
Revenue and profit is recognised for certain long-term project-based contracts based on the stage of completion of the contract activity. 
This is measured by the proportion of costs incurred to estimated whole-life contract costs.

Key sources of estimation uncertainty
The key assumptions concerning the future, and other key sources of estimation uncertainty at the balance sheet date, that have a significant 
risk of causing a material adjustment to the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities within the next financial year, are discussed below.

Impairment of goodwill
Determining whether goodwill is impaired requires an estimation of the value in use of the cash-generating units (CGUs) to which  
goodwill has been allocated. The value in use calculation involves an estimation of the future cash flows of CGUs and also the selection  
of appropriate discount rates, which involves judgement, to calculate present values (see note 13). The carrying value of goodwill  
is £1,259.0m (2010: £899.5m) at the balance sheet date.

Retirement benefit obligations
The calculation of retirement benefit obligations is dependent on material key assumptions including discount rates, future returns  
on assets and future contribution rates (see note 27). The value of net retirement benefit obligations at the balance sheet date  
is £156.4m (2010: £226.2m). Details of the impact of changes in assumptions relating to retirement benefit obligations are disclosed  
in the Finance Review (page 54).

Business combinations
The calculation of fair values associated with business combinations requires the use of judgement in determining the future economic 
inflows and outflows associated with the acquired assets and liabilities. This includes the estimation of contingent deferred consideration 
and intangibles arising on acquisition. As permitted by IFRS 3 (2008), provisional amounts are recognised for acquired net assets during 
the measurement period where complete information about the facts and circumstances that existed at the acquisition date is not available 
at the reporting date.

4. Revenue

An analysis of the Group’s revenue is as follows:

Rendering of services 
Revenue from long-term project-based contracts 

Revenue as disclosed in the consolidated income statement 
Investment revenue (note 8) 
Operating lease income 

Total revenue as defined in IAS 18 

5. Segmental information

2011 
£m 

4,481.3 
165.1 

4,646.4 
12.2 
0.7 

4,659.3 

2010 
£m

4,103.5
223.2

4,326.7
3.9
–

4,330.6

Information reported to the Chief Operating Decision Maker for the purposes of resource allocation and assessment of segment 
performance focuses on the categories of customer identified using their respective markets. Details of the different products and services 
provided by each operating segment are included in the Our business and Our performance sections of this report. The Group’s reportable 
operating segments under IFRS 8 Operating Segments are:

Reportable segments  

Operating segments

Civil Government  
Defence, Science and Nuclear  
Local Government and Commercial 
Americas 

AMEAA 

UK and Europe civil government and transport; 
UK and Europe defence and science-based businesses;
UK and Europe IT and BPO, integrated services, education and commercial businesses;
 US defence, intelligence and federal civil government agencies operations,  
and Canadian operations; and
Africa, Middle East, Asia (including Hong Kong and India)  and Australasia.

The accounting policies of the reportable segments are the same as the Group’s accounting policies described in note 2. 

122 | Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011

 
 
 
 
5. Segmental information (continued)

The following is an analysis of the Group’s revenue and results by reportable segment in the year ended 31 December 2011. 

Reportable segments

Year ended 31 December 

Civil 
Government 
2011 
£m 

Defence,  
Science 

Local  
Government 
and Nuclear  and Commercial 
2011 
£m 

2011 
£m 

Americas 
2011 
£m 

Revenue  

1,199.1 

939.1 

859.8 

868.2 

79.7 

(0.2) 
(0.2) 

79.3 

79.9 

– 
– 

79.9 

52.4 

(3.0) 
(0.6) 

48.8 

73.0 

(13.6) 
– 

59.4 

AMEAA 
2011 
£m 

780.2 

55.4 

(3.2) 
(3.1) 

49.1 

Result
Segment Adjusted operating profit 
Amortisation of intangibles arising  
  on acquisition 
Acquisition-related costs 

Segment result 
Corporate expenses 

Operating profit  
Investment revenue 
Finance costs 

Profit before tax 
Tax  

Profit for the year  

Goodwill and capital expenditure*
Goodwill 

Property, plant and equipment: segments 
Property, plant and equipment: corporate 

Total 

Intangible assets: segments  
Intangible assets: corporate  

Total 

Depreciation and amortisation
Depreciation: segments 
Depreciation: corporate 

Total 

Amortisation of intangibles arising  
  on acquisition: segments 
Amortisation – other: segments 
Amortisation – other: corporate 

Total 

Segment assets
Reportable segment assets 
Corporate assets 

Total segment assets 
Unallocated assets 

Consolidated total assets 

Segment liabilities
Reportable segment liabilities 
Corporate liabilities 

Total segment liabilities 
Unallocated liabilities 

Consolidated total liabilities 

13.0 

8.6 

– 

6.9 

39.4 

20.4 

– 

0.6 

305.4 

49.2 

1.3 

0.9 

9.4 

1.6 

49.5 

6.6 

4.0 

16.4 

3.4 

15.6 

0.2 
2.8 

– 
1.9 

3.0 
1.8 

13.6 
1.0 

3.2 
2.1 

268.6 

450.1 

611.5 

660.7 

707.3 

(225.8) 

(361.8) 

(177.8) 

(103.9) 

(190.2) 

Total 
2011 
£m

4,646.4

340.4

(20.0)
(3.9)

316.5
(50.3)

266.2
12.2
(40.1)

238.3
(63.1)

175.2

357.8

85.7
3.1

88.8

62.7
23.8

86.5

46.0
–

46.0

20.0
9.6
9.9

39.5

2,698.2
182.1

2,880.3
301.8

3,182.1

(1,059.5)
(84.8)

(1,144.3)
(1,034.0)

(2,178.3)

i

w
e
v
r
e
v
O

i

s
s
e
n
s
u
b
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
m
r
o
f
r
e
p
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
n
r
e
v
o
G

s
t
n
e
m
e
t
a
t
s

l

*  Capital expenditure is stated on a cash basis: including acquisitions but excluding finance leases.

Group Adjusted operating profit is £290.1m and comprises segment Adjusted operating profit of £340.4m less Corporate expenses of £50.3m.

Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011 | 123

i

a
c
n
a
n
F

i

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Section 5 | Financial statements

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

5. Segmental information (continued)

Reportable segments

Year ended 31 December 

Civil 
Government 
2010 
£m 

Defence,  
Science 
and Nuclear 
2010 
£m 

Local  
Government 
and Commercial 
2010 
£m 

Revenue  

1,126.9 

910.8 

853.9 

66.6 

(0.2) 

66.4 

77.3 

– 

77.3 

55.8 

(2.7) 

53.1 

Americas 
2010 
£m 

953.9 

77.9 

(13.9) 

64.0 

AMEAA 
2010 
£m 

481.2 

32.6 

(0.6) 

32.0 

Result
Segment Adjusted operating profit 
Amortisation of intangibles arising  
  on acquisition 

Segment result  
Corporate expenses 

Operating profit  
Investment revenue 
Finance costs 

Profit before tax 
Tax  

Profit for the year  

Goodwill and capital expenditure*
Goodwill 

Property, plant and equipment: segments 
Property, plant and equipment: corporate 

Total 

Intangible assets: segments  
Intangible assets: corporate  

Total 

Depreciation and amortisation
Depreciation: segments 
Depreciation: corporate 

Total 

Amortisation of intangibles arising  
on acquisition: segments 
Amortisation – other: segments 
Amortisation – other: corporate 

Total 

Segment assets
Reportable segment assets 
Corporate assets 

Total segment assets 
Unallocated assets 

Consolidated total assets 

Segment liabilities
Reportable segment liabilities 
Corporate liabilities 

Total segment liabilities 
Unallocated liabilities 

Consolidated total liabilities 

– 

3.7 

– 

8.4 

1.9 

11.3 

– 

1.4 

1.2 

10.4 

0.2 

1.3 

1.8 

4.9 

3.5 

7.2 

2.6 

15.1 

4.8 

9.1 

0.2 
3.6 

– 
1.7 

2.7 
5.3 

13.9 
1.3 

0.6 
1.2 

292.2 

408.0 

533.5 

694.5 

251.0 

(243.0) 

(313.3) 

(176.0) 

(133.5) 

(85.8) 

Total 
2010 
£m

4,326.7

310.2

(17.4)

292.8
(51.5)

241.3
3.9
(31.3)

213.9
(57.1)

156.8

3.1

35.2
0.2

35.4

11.7
9.2

20.9

38.8
0.6

39.4

17.4
13.1
13.1

43.6

2,179.2
9.0

2,188.2
328.8

2,517.0

(951.6)
(102.3)

(1,053.9)
(621.8)

(1,675.7)

*  Capital expenditure is stated on a cash basis: including acquisitions but excluding finance leases.

Group Adjusted operating profit is £258.7m and comprises segment Adjusted operating profit of £310.2m less Corporate expenses 
of £51.5m.

124 | Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
5. Segmental information (continued)

Segment assets comprise:
Goodwill 
Other intangible assets 
Property, plant and equipment 
Trade and other receivables – non-current 
Retirement benefit assets 
Inventories 
Trade and other receivables – current 

Total segment assets 
Unallocated assets 

Consolidated total assets 

Segment liabilities comprise:
Trade and other payables – current 
Trade and other payables – non-current 
Retirement benefit obligations 

Total segment liabilities 
Unallocated liabilities 

Consolidated total liabilities 

Geographic information

United Kingdom 
United States 
Other countries 

Total 

2011 
£m 

1,259.0 
184.9 
194.8 
261.9 
122.3 
58.8 
798.6 

2,880.3 
301.8 

3,182.1 

2011 
£m 

(804.2) 
(61.4) 
(278.7) 

(1,144.3) 
(1,034.0) 

(2,178.3) 

Revenue 
2010 
£m 

2,586.4 
880.3 
860.0 

4,326.7 

2010 
£m

899.5
145.0
135.4
156.7
–
65.4
786.2

2,188.2
328.8

2,517.0

2010 
£m

(805.5)
(22.2)
(226.2)

(1,053.9)
(621.8)

(1,675.7)

Non-current 
assets* 
2010 
£m

707.9
463.2
165.5

1,336.6 

Revenue 
2011 
£m 

2,587.3 
802.1 
1,257.0 

4,646.4 

Non-current 
assets* 
2011 
£m 

1,008.8 
460.8 
553.3 

2,022.9 

*  Non-current assets exclude financial instruments and deferred tax assets.

Revenues from external customers are attributed to individual countries on the basis of the location of the customer.

Information about major customers
The Group has two major governmental customers which each represent more than 10% of Group revenues. The customers’ revenues 
were respectively £2,470.2m (2010: £2,418.3m) across all reported segments other than Americas and AMEAA and £740.2m (2010: £850.5m) 
within the Americas segment.

i

w
e
v
r
e
v
O

i

s
s
e
n
s
u
b
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
m
r
o
f
r
e
p
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
n
r
e
v
o
G

s
t
n
e
m
e
t
a
t
s

l

i

a
c
n
a
n
F

i

Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011 | 125

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Section 5 | Financial statements

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

6. Operating profit

Operating profit is stated after charging/(crediting):

Net foreign exchange losses 
Research and development costs 
Loss on disposal of property, plant and equipment 
Depreciation and impairment of property, plant and equipment (note 16) 
Amortisation of intangible assets – arising on acquisition (note 14) 
Amortisation and impairment of intangible assets – other (note 14) 
Impairment of goodwill (note 13) 
Staff costs (note 7) 
Allowance for doubtful debts charged to income statement (note 19) 
Fair value adjustment on financial instruments
– recycling of amounts on discontinued cash flow hedges (note 26(d)) 
– forward foreign exchange contracts: non-designated hedges (note 26(a)) 
Operating lease payments 
Operating lease income (note 4) 

2011 
£m 

7.7 
57.6 
0.5 
46.0 
20.0 
19.5 
– 
2,010.9 
7.2 

0.3 
(6.9) 
130.0 
(0.7) 

2010 
£m

1.8
62.3
0.8
39.4
17.4
26.2
4.2
1,837.3
2.2

0.3
(1.4)
128.6
–

Amounts payable to Deloitte LLP and their associates by the Company and its subsidiary undertakings in respect of audit and non-audit 
services are shown below.

Fees payable to the Company’s Auditor for the audit of the Company’s annual accounts 

Fees payable to the Company’s Auditor and their associates for other services to the Group:
– audit of the Company’s subsidiaries  

Total audit fees 

– Audit-related assurance services 
– Taxation compliance services 
– Other taxation advisory services 
– Other assurance services 
– Other services 

Total non-audit fees 

2011 
£m 

0.8 

0.6 

1.4 

0.2 
0.2 
0.4 
– 
0.4 

1.2 

2010 
£m

0.9

0.7

1.6

–
0.1
0.2
0.1
0.2

0.6

Fees payable to Deloitte LLP and their associates for non-audit services to the Company are not required to be disclosed separately 
because the consolidated financial statements are required to disclose such fees on a consolidated basis.

Details of the Company’s policy on the use of auditors for non-audit services and how the auditor’s independence and objectivity  
was safeguarded are set out in the Corporate Governance Report on page 87. No services were provided pursuant to contingent 
fee arrangements.

126 | Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011

 
 
 
 
 
7. Staff costs

The average monthly number of employees (including Executive Directors) was:

Civil Government 
Defence, Science and Nuclear 
Local Government and Commercial 
Americas 
AMEAA 
Unallocated 

Total 

2011 
Number 

12,300 
8,386 
13,768 
9,260 
32,615 
341 

76,670 

Average monthly numbers of employees for joint ventures are included on a proportionately consolidated basis in the table above.

Aggregate remuneration comprised:

Wages and salaries 
Social security costs 
Other pension costs (note 27) 

Share-based payment expense (note 34) 

Total 

8. Investment revenue

Interest receivable on other loans and deposits 
Net interest receivable on retirement benefit obligations (note 27) 

Total 

9. Finance costs

Interest payable on non recourse loans 
Interest payable on obligations under finance leases 
Interest payable and amortisation of capitalised financing transaction costs on other loans 
Movement in discount on provisions and deferred consideration 
Net interest payable on retirement benefit obligations (note 27) 

Total 

2011 
£m 

1,731.1 
156.3 
112.3 

1,999.7 
11.2 

2,010.9 

2011 
£m 

4.0 
8.2 

12.2 

2011 
£m 

1.0 
2.1 
35.6 
1.4 
– 

40.1 

2010 
Number

11,313
8,516
11,477
10,192
17,014
287

58,799

2010 
£m

1,582.9
139.1
106.5

1,828.5
8.8

1,837.3

2010 
£m

3.9
–

3.9

2010 
£m

1.4
2.2
23.7
1.2
2.8

31.3

i

w
e
v
r
e
v
O

i

s
s
e
n
s
u
b
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
m
r
o
f
r
e
p
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
n
r
e
v
o
G

s
t
n
e
m
e
t
a
t
s

l

i

a
c
n
a
n
F

i

Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011 | 127

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Section 5 | Financial statements

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

10. Tax

10 (a) Income tax recognised in the income statement

Current income tax
Current income tax expense 
Adjustments in respect of prior years 
Deferred tax
Current year 
Adjustments in respect of prior years 

The tax expense for the year can be reconciled to the profit in the consolidated income statement as follows:

Profit before tax 

Tax calculated at a rate of 26.5% (2010: 28.0%) 
Expenses not deductible for tax purposes 
Unrelieved tax losses  
Effect of the use of unrecognised tax losses 
Impact of changes in statutory tax rates 
Overseas rate differences 
Tax incentives 
Adjustments in respect of prior years 

Tax charge 

10 (b) Income tax recognised in the SOCI

Current tax
Taken to retirement benefit obligations reserve 
Deferred tax
Relating to cash flow hedges 
Taken to retirement benefit obligations reserve 

2011 
£m 

67.0 
(5.5) 

3.7 
(2.1) 

63.1 

2011 
£m 

238.3 

63.1 
4.0 
3.1 
(2.6) 
1.9 
5.1 
(3.9) 
(7.6) 

63.1 

2011 
£m 

(18.0) 

(8.8) 
32.7 

5.9 

2010 
£m

63.3
(8.1)

2.5
(0.6)

57.1

2010 
£m

213.9

59.9
3.6
2.5
–
0.8
3.2
(4.2)
(8.7)

57.1

2010 
£m

(9.7)

0.6
14.0

4.9

The income tax expense for the year is based on the blended UK statutory rate of corporation tax for the period of 26.5% (2010: 28.0%). The 
impact of changes in statutory tax rates relates principally to the reduction of the UK corporation tax rate from 27% to 26% from 1 April 2011, 
which was enacted on 29 March 2011. In addition, the UK corporation tax rate was reduced from 26% to 25% from 1 April 2012, which was 
enacted on 5 July 2011. These changes have resulted in a deferred tax charge arising from the reduction in the balance sheet carrying 
value of deferred tax assets to reflect the anticipated rate of tax at which those assets are expected to reverse. The UK Government has 
also indicated that it intends to enact future reductions in the main tax rate of 1% each year down to 23% by 1 April 2014. We estimate that 
the future rate changes would further reduce the UK deferred tax assets and liabilities recognised but the actual impact will be dependent 
on the deferred tax position at that time.

10 (c) Tax on items taken directly to equity

Current tax
Recorded in share-based payment reserve 
Deferred tax
Recorded in share-based payment reserve 

2011 
£m 

(0.8) 

2.6 

1.8 

2010 
£m

(2.7)

(0.5)

(3.2)

128 | Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
11. Dividends

Amounts recognised as distributions to equity holders in the year:
Final dividend for the year ended 31 December 2010 of 5.15p per share on 488.5 million ordinary shares  
(2010: Final dividend for the year ended 31 December 2009 of 4.40p per share on 490.5 million ordinary shares) 

2011 
£m 

25.2 

Interim dividend for the year ended 31 December 2011 of 2.50p per share on 486.6 million ordinary shares  
(2010: Interim dividend for the year ended 31 December 2010 of 2.20p per share on 488.2 million ordinary shares)  12.1 

Proposed final dividend for the year ended 31 December 2011 of 5.90p per share on 489.1 million  
ordinary shares (2010: 5.15p on 488.5 million ordinary shares) 

37.3 

28.9 

2010 
£m

21.6

10.7

32.3

25.2

The proposed final dividend for 2011 is subject to approval by shareholders at the Annual General Meeting and has not been included as  
a liability in these financial statements. A dividend waiver is effective for those shares held on behalf of the Company by its Employee Share 
Ownership Trust (note 31).

12. Earnings per share

Basic and diluted earnings per ordinary share (EPS) have been calculated in accordance with IAS 33 Earnings per Share. EPS is shown 
both before and after amortisation of intangible assets arising on acquisition (note 14) and acquisition-related costs to assist in the 
understanding of the underlying performance of the business.

The calculation of the basic and diluted EPS is based on the following data:

Number of shares

Weighted average number of ordinary shares for the purpose of basic EPS 
Effect of dilutive potential ordinary shares: share options 

Weighted average number of ordinary shares for the purpose of diluted EPS 

Earnings per share

2011 
Millions 

490.5 
8.6 

499.1 

Earnings 
2010 
£m 

2010 
Millions

491.5
8.4

499.9

Per share 
amount 
2010  

Pence

Earnings 
2011 
£m 

Per share 
amount 
2011  
Pence 

Earnings for the purpose of basic EPS being net profit  
attributable to the equity holders of the parent  
Add back: 
Amortisation of intangible assets arising on acquisition,  
net of tax of £4.3m (2010: £3.6m) 
Acquisition-related costs, net of tax of £0.5m (2010: £nil) 

Adjusted earnings before amortisation of intangible assets  
arising on acquisition 

Earnings for the purpose of basic EPS 
Effect of dilutive potential ordinary shares 

Diluted EPS 

175.1 

35.70 

156.7 

31.88

15.7 
3.4 

194.2 

175.1 
– 

175.1 

3.20 
0.69 

39.59 

35.70 
(0.62) 

35.08 

13.8 
– 

170.5 

156.7 
– 

156.7 

2.81
–

34.69

31.88
(0.53)

31.35

At 31 December 2011 options over nil (2010: nil) shares were excluded from the weighted average number of shares used for calculating 
diluted EPS because their exercise price was above the average share price for the year and they were, therefore, antidilutive.

i

w
e
v
r
e
v
O

i

s
s
e
n
s
u
b
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
m
r
o
f
r
e
p
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
n
r
e
v
o
G

s
t
n
e
m
e
t
a
t
s

l

i

a
c
n
a
n
F

i

Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011 | 129

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Section 5 | Financial statements

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

13. Goodwill

At 1 January 2010 
Additions 
Impairment 
Reduction in deferred consideration payable 
Exchange differences 

At 1 January 2011 
Additions 
Exchange differences 

At 31 December 2011 

£m

898.4
3.1
(4.2)
(13.7)
15.9

899.5
357.8 
1.7

1,259.0

Goodwill is attributable to the excess of consideration over the fair value of net assets acquired and includes expected synergies,  
future growth prospects, staff knowledge, expertise and customer contacts.

Additions during the year relate to goodwill recognised on six acquisitions. More details of these acquisitions are presented in the 
Acquisitions note (note 15).

The goodwill acquired in business combinations is allocated, at acquisition, to the cash-generating units (CGUs) that are expected  
to benefit from that business combination. Goodwill has been allocated to CGUs in the following operating segments:

Civil Government 
Defence, Science and Nuclear 
Local Government and Commercial 
Americas 
AMEAA 

At 31 December  

2011 
£m 

75.1 
104.6 
334.7 
411.3 
333.3 

1,259.0 

2010 
£m

62.1
105.5
295.5
408.2
28.2

899.5

The Group tests goodwill annually for impairment or more frequently if there are indications that goodwill might be impaired. The recoverable 
amount of each CGU is based on value in use calculations.

130 | Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011

 
 
 
 
13. Goodwill (continued)

Key assumptions
The value in use calculations use discounted cash flow projections based on financial plans approved by senior management covering 
a five-year period, and include a terminal value based on the projections for the final year of that plan, with a growth rate assumption applied. 

The key assumptions affecting the CGUs within each operating segment are discussed below. The Directors have not identified any 
reasonably possible material changes relating to these key assumptions that would cause the carrying value of goodwill to exceed its 
recoverable amount.

Short-term growth rates
Short-term revenue growth rates used in each CGU five-year plan are based on internal data regarding the current pipeline of opportunities 
and published industry forecasts for the relevant market. Further discussion of the Group’s order book and pipeline is provided in the 
Our business and Our performance sections.

Terminal growth rates
The cash flows subsequent to the five-year period are based upon management’s estimate of the growth rates of the sectors in which the 
CGUs operate. Where possible these have been derived with reference to external sources. The range of terminal growth rates applied to 
the CGUs within each operating segment are set out below:

Civil Government 
Defence, Science and Nuclear 
Local Government and Commercial 
Americas 
AMEAA 

2011 
% 

2.5 
2.5 
2.5 
3.0 
2.5 – 7.0  

2010 
%

2.5
2.5
2.5
3.0
2.5  – 7.0 

These rates do not exceed the average long-term growth rates forecast for the individual market sectors.

Discount rate
Pre-tax discount rates, derived from the Group’s post-tax weighted average cost of capital have been used in discounting the projected 
cash flows. These rates are adjusted for risks specific to the market in which the CGU operates, including but not limited to: geographic 
and economic risks, contract length and customer type.

The range of pre-tax discount rates applied to the CGUs within each operating segment are disclosed below:

Civil Government 
Defence, Science and Nuclear 
Local Government and Commercial 
Americas 
AMEAA 

2011 
% 

9.1 
8.8 – 9.1 
9.1 
9.9 
10.4 – 12.2 

2010 
%

9.2
9.1 – 9.2
9.1
9.9
9.6  – 12.9

Sensitivity analysis
Sensitivity analysis has been performed for each key assumption and the Directors have not identified any reasonably possible material 
changes in the key assumptions that would cause the carrying value of net assets, including goodwill, to exceed the recoverable amount.

i

w
e
v
r
e
v
O

i

s
s
e
n
s
u
b
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
m
r
o
f
r
e
p
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
n
r
e
v
o
G

s
t
n
e
m
e
t
a
t
s

l

i

a
c
n
a
n
F

i

Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011 | 131

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Section 5 | Financial statements

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

14. Other intangible assets

Cost
At 1 January 2011  
Arising on acquisition  
Additions 
Disposals 
Reclassification to property, plant and equipment 
Pension scheme franchise adjustment 
Exchange differences 

At 31 December 2011 

Amortisation and impairment
At 1 January 2011 
Charge for the year 
Disposals 
Exchange differences 

At 31 December 2011 

Net book value
At 31 December 2011 

 Acquisition-related 

Other

Customer 
relationships 
£m 

Licences and 
franchises 
£m 

Software, IT 
and other 
development 
expenditure 
£m 

Pension-  
related 
intangibles 
£m 

73.4 
52.0 
– 
(2.5) 
– 
– 
(6.4) 

116.5 

32.7 
12.7 
(2.5) 
(0.8) 

42.1 

78.3 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
(4.1) 

74.2 

55.5 
7.3 
– 
(1.0) 

61.8 

134.5 
3.9 
30.6 
(0.5) 
(0.2) 
– 
2.6 

170.9 

61.9 
17.3 
(0.5) 
0.4 

79.1 

26.6 
– 
– 
– 
– 
(0.4) 
– 

26.2 

17.7 
2.2 
– 
– 

19.9 

Total 
£m

312.8
55.9
30.6
(3.0)
(0.2)
(0.4)
(7.9)

387.8

167.8
39.5
(3.0)
(1.4)

202.9

74.4 

12.4 

91.8 

6.3  

184.9

 Acquisition-related 

Other

Customer 
relationships 
£m 

Licences and 
franchises 
£m 

Software, IT 
and other 
development 
expenditure 
£m 

Pension-  
related 
intangibles 
£m 

Cost
At 1 January 2010  
Additions 
Disposals 
Exchange differences 

At 31 December 2010 

Amortisation and impairment
At 1 January 2010 
Charge for the year 
Disposals 
Exchange differences 

At 31 December 2010 

Net book value
At 31 December 2010 

71.7 
– 
– 
1.7 

73.4 

22.5 
9.9 
– 
0.3 

32.7 

40.7 

69.5 
2.9 
– 
5.9 

78.3 

44.1 
7.5 
– 
3.9 

55.5 

22.8 

133.9 
22.8 
(23.2) 
1.0 

134.5 

55.5 
23.7 
(17.4) 
0.1 

61.9 

26.6 
– 
– 
– 

26.6 

15.2 
2.5 
– 
– 

17.7 

Total 
£m

301.7
25.7
(23.2)
8.6

312.8

137.3
43.6
(17.4)
4.3

167.8

72.6 

8.9 

145.0

Customer relationships are amortised over the average length of contracts acquired.

Amortisation of intangibles arising on acquisition consists of amortisation in relation to Customer relationships and Licences and franchises 
and totals £20.0m (2010: £17.4m).

The Group is carrying £91.8m (2010: £72.6m) in relation to Software, IT and other development expenditure, which includes assets relating 
to the Group’s SAP finance-related systems, of £57.2m (2010: £42.7m). The average amortisation period of these assets has four years  
(2010: six years) remaining. 

The Group is carrying £74.4m (2010: £40.7m) in relation to Customer relationships of which the principal component is £35.8m arising from 
acquisition of Intelenet. The remaining average life of the customer relationship intangible assets is approximately seven years (2010: five years).

The value of internally generated intangible assets as at 31 December 2011 was approximately £58.5m (2010: £44.8m).

132 | Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
15. Acquisitions

During the year, the Group completed the following acquisitions which have been accounted for in accordance with IFRS 3 Business 
Combinations (2008).

15 (a) The Listening Company Limited
On 14 March 2011, Serco acquired 100% of the issued share capital of The Listening Company Limited. The initial cash cost of the 
acquisition was £40.9m, comprising £25.0m in cash, plus the repayment of £15.9m of debt immediately after acquisition. Consideration 
under IFRS 3 for the acquisition is £37.5m, being the initial cash payment of £25.0m noted above, and £12.5m being the fair value of 
deferred consideration, payable conditional on the financial performance in the two-year period from 1 March 2011 to the end of February 
2013. The Listening Company Limited is a leading UK provider of outsourced contact centre services. 

Book  
value 
 £m 

Fair value 
adjustments 
£m 

Provisional 
fair value 
£m

Net assets acquired were:
Goodwill 
Intangible assets 
Property, plant and equipment 
Deferred tax asset 
Trade and other receivables 
Tax assets 
Trade and other payables 
Loans 
Tax liabilities 
Deferred tax liabilities 
Obligations under finance leases 
Provisions 

Net liabilities acquired 

Goodwill 

Total consideration 

Satisfied by:

Cash 
Contingent consideration arrangement 

Total consideration 

Net cash outflow arising on acquisition:

Purchase consideration 

0.2 
– 
7.8 
0.1 
19.8 
– 
(16.2) 
(16.7) 
(0.3) 
– 
(0.2) 
– 

(5.5) 

(0.2) 
6.6 
(1.1) 
3.0 
0.2 
0.1 
1.1 
– 
0.3 
(1.8) 
(0.6) 
(4.0) 

3.6 

–
6.6
6.7
3.1
20.0
0.1
(15.1)
(16.7)
–
(1.8)
(0.8)
(4.0)

(1.9)

39.4

37.5

25.0
12.5

37.5

25.0

The provisional fair value of the financial assets acquired includes trade receivables with a fair value of £14.0m and a gross contractual 
value of £14.5m.

The goodwill of £39.4m arising from the acquisition represents future opportunities in the UK outsourced contact centre services industry. 
None of the goodwill is expected to be deductible for corporate income tax purposes.

The potential undiscounted amount of all future payments that Serco Group plc could be required to make under the contingent 
consideration arrangement, which has been measured based upon current expectations of future performance, is between £nil and  
£13.5m and the fair value is £12.5m.

Acquisition-related costs, included in Operating profit, but excluded from Adjusted operating profit, amounted to £0.6m. 

The Listening Company Limited contributed £69.0m revenue and £5.2m to the Group’s Adjusted operating profit for the period between  
the date of acquisition and the balance sheet date. If the acquisition of The Listening Company Limited had been completed on the first  
day of the financial year, Group Revenue for the period would have been £4,663.3m and the Group’s Adjusted operating profit would have 
been £291.1m.

i

w
e
v
r
e
v
O

i

s
s
e
n
s
u
b
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
m
r
o
f
r
e
p
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
n
r
e
v
o
G

s
t
n
e
m
e
t
a
t
s

l

i

a
c
n
a
n
F

i

Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011 | 133

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Section 5 | Financial statements

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

15. Acquisitions (continued)

15 (b) Intelenet Global Services Private Limited (Intelenet)
On 7 July 2011, the Group acquired 87% of the share capital of SKR BPO Services Private Limited and its subsidiary companies, including 
Intelenet Global Services Private Limited (together Intelenet), for an initial cash consideration of £249.3m. On acquisition, the Group was 
unconditionally obligated to acquire the remaining 13% of share capital for which it paid a further £35.7m on 19 October 2011. As a result, 
the Group has accounted for Intelenet as a 100% subsidiary with no attributable non-controlling assets from the acquisition date. 

Net debt acquired was £51.1m comprising £55.5m of acquired loans and £4.4m of acquired cash balances.

There are contingent deferred consideration cash payments of up to £49.8m through to December 2013. The contingent cash payments 
are dependent principally on the delivery of revenue targets. The fair value of this contingent deferred consideration is £23.7m. 

Intelenet is a leading provider of business process outsourcing (BPO) services to the private sector around the world and in the domestic 
Indian market. It operates from 34 global delivery centres across seven countries, providing a broad range of middle and back office 
services and has a strong customer base of international organisations, predominantly across the financial services, travel, healthcare  
and telecom sectors.

Book  
value 
 £m 

Fair value 
adjustments 
£m 

Provisional 
fair value 
£m

Net assets acquired were:
Goodwill 
Intangible assets 
Property, plant and equipment 
Deferred tax asset 
Derivative financial instruments (assets) 
Trade and other receivables 
Tax assets 
Cash and cash equivalents 
Trade and other payables 
Loans 
Derivative financial instruments (liabilities) 
Tax liabilities 
Deferred tax liabilities 
Provisions 

Net assets acquired 

Goodwill 

Total consideration 

Satisfied by:

Cash 
Contingent consideration arrangement 

Total consideration 

Net cash outflow arising on acquisition:

Purchase consideration 
Less: cash and cash equivalent balances acquired 

Net cash outflow arising on acquisition 

62.4 
3.6 
47.9 
0.4 
1.8 
46.6 
14.4 
4.4 
(19.0) 
(55.5) 
(0.2) 
– 
– 
(1.8) 

105.0 

(62.4) 
44.2 
(18.1) 
22.1 
– 
– 
(10.6) 
– 
(12.0) 
– 
– 
(4.5) 
(14.4) 
(29.8) 

(85.5) 

–
47.8
29.8
22.5
1.8
46.6
3.8
4.4
(31.0)
(55.5)
(0.2)
(4.5)
(14.4)
(31.6)

19.5

289.2

308.7

285.0
23.7

308.7

285.0
(4.4)

280.6

The provisional fair value of the financial assets acquired includes trade receivables with a fair value of £30.2m and a gross contractual 
value of £31.1m, and other receivables with a fair value of £16.4m and a gross contractual value of £16.5m.

The acquisition gives rise to £289.2m of goodwill relating to future opportunities in BPO. None of the goodwill recognised is expected  
to be deductible for corporate income tax purposes.

The Group incurred £3.1m of acquisition-related expenses in the period to 31 December 2011 in relation to this acquisition.

Intelenet contributed £83.7m revenue and £10.7m to the Group’s Adjusted operating profit for the period between the date of acquisition 
and the balance sheet date. If the acquisition of Intelenet had been completed on the first day of the financial year, Group Revenue for  
the period would have been £4,724.3m and the Group’s Adjusted operating profit would have been £299.8m.

134 | Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
15. Acquisitions (continued)

15 (c) Other acquisitions
Braintree Clinical Services Limited
On 8 March 2011, the Group acquired 100% of the issued share capital of Braintree Clinical Services Limited. The net cash received was 
£1.1m, comprising cash balances acquired of £1.6m and initial cash consideration of £0.5m. In addition, deferred consideration of £1.1m 
is payable in 2012. The fair value of net liabilities acquired totalled £2.0m. 

Braintree Clinical Services Limited is based in the United Kingdom and provides clinical and hospital services to Strategic Health Authorities 
in the UK. 

The acquisition gives rise to £3.6m of goodwill relating to future opportunities in the provision of clinical and hospital services. None of the 
goodwill recognised is expected to be deductible for income tax purposes. 

Acquisition-related costs, included in Operating profit, but excluded from Adjusted operating profit, amounted to £0.1m.

Due to the immaterial nature of this acquisition, full disclosures under IFRS 3 are not presented.

Philips Collection Services Limited
On 24 October 2011, the Group acquired 100% of the issued share capital of Philips Collection Services Limited and its subsidiary company 
Philips Bailiffs Limited. The initial cash cost of the acquisition was £6.8m. In addition, deferred consideration of up to £3.4m is payable, 
contingent on financial performance in the period to 31 December 2013. The fair value of this deferred, contingent consideration is £3.3m. 
The provisional fair value of assets acquired totalled £0.7m.

Philips Collection Services Limited and Philips Bailiffs Limited are based in the United Kingdom and are engaged in the delivery of debt 
collection and fine management services to local and central government agencies.

The acquisition gives rise to £9.4m of goodwill relating to future opportunities in the delivery of debt collection and fine management 
services. None of the goodwill recognised is expected to be deductible for income tax purposes.

Acquisition-related costs included in Operating profit, but excluded from Adjusted operating profit, amounted to £0.1m.

Due to the immaterial nature of this acquisition, full disclosures under IFRS 3 are not presented.

Excelior Pty Limited
On 31 October 2011, the Group acquired 100% of the issued share capital of Excelior Pty Limited. The initial cash cost of the acquisition 
was £6.0m. In addition, deferred consideration of up to £3.4m is payable, contingent on financial performance in the period to 
31 December 2012. The fair value of this deferred, contingent consideration is £3.4m. The provisional fair value of assets acquired  
totalled £2.3m.

Excelior Pty Limited is based in Australia and is engaged in the provision of contact centre services and business processing.

The acquisition gives rise to £7.1m of goodwill relating to future opportunities in the provision of contact centre services and business 
processing. None of the goodwill recognised is expected to be deductible for income tax purposes.

Due to the immaterial nature of this acquisition, full disclosures under IFRS 3 are not presented.

JBI Properties Services Company LLC
On 29 December 2011, the Group acquired 100% of the issued share capital of JBI Properties Services Company LLC. The consideration 
for this acquisition was £10.4m. The provisional fair value of assets acquired totalled £1.3m. 

JBI Properties Services Company LLC is based in the United Arab Emirates and is engaged in the provision of facilities management services.

The acquisition gives rise to £9.1m of goodwill relating to future opportunities in the provision of facilities management services. None of the 
goodwill recognised is expected to be deductible for income tax purposes.

Due to the immaterial nature of this acquisition, full disclosures under IFRS 3 are not presented.

i

w
e
v
r
e
v
O

i

s
s
e
n
s
u
b
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
m
r
o
f
r
e
p
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
n
r
e
v
o
G

s
t
n
e
m
e
t
a
t
s

l

i

a
c
n
a
n
F

i

Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011 | 135

 
 
 
 
Section 5 | Financial statements

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

15. Acquisitions (continued)

15 (c) Other acquisitions (continued)

Other acquisitions (in aggregate):

Net assets acquired were:
Intangible assets 
Property, plant and equipment 
Deferred tax assets 
Inventories 
Trade and other receivables 
Cash and cash equivalents 
Trade and other payables 
Loans 
Tax liabilities 
Deferred tax liabilities 
Provisions 

Net assets acquired 

Goodwill 

Total consideration 

Satisfied by:

Cash 
Contingent consideration arrangement 

Total consideration 

Net cash outflow arising on acquisitions:

Purchase consideration 
Less: cash and cash equivalent balances acquired 

Net cash outflow arising on acquisitions 

16. Property, plant and equipment

Cost
At 1 January 2011 
Arising on acquisition 
Additions 
Disposals 
Reclassification from intangible assets 
Exchange differences 

At 31 December 2011 

Accumulated depreciation and impairment
At 1 January 2011 
Charge for the year 
Disposals 
Exchange differences 

At 31 December 2011 

Net book value
At 31 December 2011 

136 | Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011

Book  
value 
 £m 

Fair value 
adjustments 
£m 

Provisional 
fair value 
£m

0.3 
3.7 
0.8 
2.9 
13.2 
4.0 
(15.6) 
(1.1) 
(0.3) 
– 
(1.9) 

6.0 

1.2 
(0.1) 
0.8 
(0.3) 
– 
– 
(2.5) 
– 
– 
(0.2) 
(2.6) 

(3.7) 

Freehold land 
and buildings 
£m 

7.2 
– 
– 
– 
– 
(0.2) 

7.0 

3.5 
0.3 
– 
(0.1) 

3.7 

Short- 

Machinery,  
leasehold  motor vehicles,  
furniture and 
equipment 
£m 

building 
improvements 
£m 

50.8 
7.2 
7.1 
(5.4) 
– 
(0.7) 

59.0 

26.3 
6.2 
(5.3) 
(0.1) 

27.1 

297.7 
32.9 
72.2 
(59.6) 
0.2 
(3.8) 

339.6 

190.5 
39.5 
(50.0) 
– 

180.0 

1.5
3.6
1.6
2.6
13.2
4.0
(18.1)
(1.1)
(0.3)
(0.2)
(4.5)

2.3

29.2

31.5

23.7
7.8

31.5

23.7
(4.0)

19.7

Total 
£m

355.7
40.1
79.3
(65.0)
0.2
(4.7)

405.6

220.3
46.0
(55.3)
(0.2)

210.8

3.3 

31.9 

159.6 

194.8

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
16. Property, plant and equipment (continued)

Cost
At 1 January 2010 
Additions 
Disposals 
Exchange differences 

At 31 December 2010 

Accumulated depreciation and impairment
At 1 January 2010 
Charge for the year 
Disposals 
Exchange differences 

At 31 December 2010 

Net book value
At 31 December 2010 

Freehold land 
and buildings 
£m 

Short- 
leasehold 
building 
improvements 
£m 

Machinery,  
motor vehicles,  
furniture and 
equipment 
£m 

7.4 
– 
– 
(0.2) 

7.2 

3.3 
0.2 
– 
– 

3.5 

3.7 

47.1 
2.4 
(0.1) 
1.4 

50.8 

20.2 
5.6 
– 
0.5 

26.3 

24.5 

265.2 
44.5 
(22.2) 
10.2 

297.7 

167.0 
33.6 
(15.4) 
5.3 

190.5 

Total 
£m

319.7
46.9
(22.3)
11.4

355.7

190.5
39.4
(15.4)
5.8

220.3

107.2 

135.4

The carrying amount of the Group’s Machinery, motor vehicles, furniture and equipment includes an amount of £45.6m (2010: £23.9m) 
in respect of assets held under finance leases.

The carrying amount of the Group’s Short-leasehold building improvements includes an amount of £1.4m (2010: £2.3m) in respect of assets 
held under finance leases.

17. Joint ventures

The Group’s interests in joint ventures are reported in the consolidated financial statements using the proportionate consolidation method.

The effect of the Group’s joint ventures on the consolidated income statement and consolidated balance sheet is as follows:

Income statement

Revenue 
Expenses 

Operating profit 
Investment revenue 
Finance costs 

Profit before tax 
Tax  

Share of post-tax results of joint ventures 

Operating profit is after allocating £1.0m (2010: £0.7m) of costs incurred by Group.

Balance sheet

Non-current assets 
Current assets 
Current liabilities 
Non-current liabilities 

Net assets 

2011 
£m 

819.3 
(737.7) 

81.6 
2.7 
(0.7) 

83.6 
(20.0) 

63.6 

2011 
£m 

218.4 
171.6 
(138.9) 
(212.5) 

38.6 

2010 
£m

794.1
(729.5)

64.6
2.2
(0.5)

66.3
(17.2)

49.1

2010 
£m

156.7
173.4
(146.0)
(141.1)

43.0

Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011 | 137

i

w
e
v
r
e
v
O

i

s
s
e
n
s
u
b
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
m
r
o
f
r
e
p
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
n
r
e
v
o
G

s
t
n
e
m
e
t
a
t
s

l

i

a
c
n
a
n
F

i

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Section 5 | Financial statements

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

18. Inventories

Service spares 
Parts awaiting installation 
Long-term project-based contract balances 

19. Trade and other receivables

Trade and other receivables: non-current
Amounts owed by joint venturers 
Amounts recoverable on retirement benefit obligations (note 27) 
Security deposits 
Other receivables 

Trade and other receivables: current
Trade receivables 
Other amounts recoverable on contracts 
Prepayments and accrued income 
Other receivables 

2011 
£m 

32.1 
10.4 
16.3 

58.8 

2011 
£m 

5.9 
188.7 
9.3 
58.0 

261.9 

2011 
£m 

609.0 
62.0 
87.4 
40.2 

798.6 

2010 
£m

29.8
7.4
28.2

65.4

2010 
£m

4.7
123.4
1.1
27.5

156.7

2010 
£m

579.4
64.9
96.7
45.2

786.2

As at 31 December 2011, trade receivables of £2.9m (2010: £4.2m) were considered to be impaired. Impairments to trade receivables are 
based on specific estimated irrecoverable amounts and provisions on outstanding balances greater than a year old unless there is firm 
evidence that the balance is recoverable. The amount of the provision was £7.2m as of 31 December 2011 (2010: £4.2m), primarily 
because our customers either have a sovereign credit rating being government organisations or are blue-chip private sector companies. 

The ageing of trade receivables is as follows:

Neither impaired nor past due 
Not impaired but overdue by less than 30 days 
Not impaired but overdue by between 30 and 60 days 
Not impaired but overdue by more than 60 days 
Impaired 
Allowance for doubtful debts 

Movements on the Group allowance for doubtful debts are as follows:

At 1 January  
Charged to income statement  
Utilised 

At 31 December 

2011 
£m 

496.8 
83.7 
15.5 
17.3 
2.9 
(7.2) 

609.0 

2011 
£m 

4.2 
7.2 
(4.2) 

7.2 

2010 
£m

488.0
56.9
14.0
20.5
4.2
(4.2)

579.4

2010 
£m

3.4
2.2
(1.4)

4.2

The maximum exposure to credit risk in relation to trade receivables at the reporting date is the fair value of trade receivables. The Group 
does not hold any collateral as security.

138 | Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
20. Long-term contracts

Contracts in progress at the balance sheet date:
Amounts due from long-term project-based contract customers included in trade and other receivables 
Amounts due to long-term project-based contract customers included in trade and other payables 

Long-term project-based contract costs incurred plus recognised profits less recognised losses to date 
Less: progress payments 

2011 
£m 

39.4 
(0.5) 

38.9 

872.2 
(833.3) 

38.9 

2010 
£m

51.0
(3.4)

47.6

857.3
(809.7)

 47.6

As at 31 December 2011, £nil (2010: £nil) of advances received from customers were included within long-term project-based contract 
balances. As at 31 December 2010, the Group had £0.4m (2010: £nil) of contract retentions held by customers.

21. Cash and cash equivalents

Cash of project companies  
securing credit obligations* 
Customer advance payments* 
Other cash and short-term deposits 

Total cash and cash equivalents 

Sterling 
2011 
£m 

– 
– 
89.6 

89.6 

Other 
currencies 
2011 
£m 

– 
5.5 
159.7 

165.2 

Total 
2011 
£m 

– 
5.5 
249.3 

254.8 

Sterling 
 2010 
£m 

– 
– 
108.5 

108.5 

Other 
currencies 
2010 
£m 

7.3 
3.6 
159.9 

170.8 

Total 
2010 
£m

7.3
3.6
268.4

279.3

*  Cash of project companies and customer advance payments totalling £5.5m (2010: £10.9m) are encumbered cash balances.

Cash and cash equivalents (which are presented as a single class of assets on the face of the balance sheet) comprise cash at bank and 
other short-term highly liquid investments with a maturity of three months or less.

22. Loans

Non 
recourse 
loans 
2011 
£m 

7.8 
7.7 
– 
– 

15.5 

Other 
loans 
2011 
£m 

198.8 
147.2 
104.5 
376.8 

827.3 

Total 
2011 
£m 

206.6 
154.9 
104.5 
376.8 

842.8 

Non 
recourse 
loans 
2010 
£m 

8.0 
7.9 
7.8 
– 

23.7 

Other 
loans 
2010 
£m 

151.5 
114.3 
224.2 
0.4 

490.4 

Total 
2010 
£m

159.5
122.2
232.0
0.4

514.1

(7.8) 

(198.8) 

(206.6) 

(8.0) 

(151.5) 

(159.5)

7.7 

628.5 

636.2 

15.7 

338.9 

354.6

Loans are repayable as follows:
On demand or within one year 
Between one and two years 
Between two and five years 
After five years 

Less: amount due for settlement within  
one year (shown within current liabilities) 

Amounts due for settlement  
after one year 

The carrying amounts and fair values of the loans are as follows:

Non recourse loans 
Other loans 

Carrying  
amount  
2011 
£m 

15.5 
827.3 

842.8 

Fair value 
2011 
 £m 

16.1 
848.9 

865.0 

Carrying 
amount 
2010 
£m 

23.7 
490.4 

514.1 

Fair value 
2010 
 £m

25.3
506.8

532.1

The fair values are based on cash flows discounted using a rate based on the borrowing rate associated with the loan. All loans are held  
at amortised cost.

Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011 | 139

i

w
e
v
r
e
v
O

i

s
s
e
n
s
u
b
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
m
r
o
f
r
e
p
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
n
r
e
v
o
G

s
t
n
e
m
e
t
a
t
s

l

i

a
c
n
a
n
F

i

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Section 5 | Financial statements

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

23. Deferred tax

Deferred income taxes are calculated in full on temporary differences under the liability method using local substantively enacted tax rates. 

The gross movement on the deferred income tax account is as follows:

At 1 January – asset 
Income statement charge (note 10) 
Acquisitions 
Items recognised in equity and in other comprehensive income (note 10) 
Exchange differences 

At 31 December – asset 

The movement in deferred tax assets and liabilities during the year was as follows:

2011 
£m 

(23.5) 
1.6 
(10.8) 
26.5 
0.3 

(5.9) 

Temporary 
differences 
on assets/ 
intangibles 
£m 

Share-based 
payment and 
employee 
benefits 
£m 

Retirement 
benefit 
schemes 
£m 

Derivative 
financial 
instruments 
£m 

Other 
temporary 
differences 
£m 

At 1 January 2011 
(Credited)/charged to income statement 
Acquisitions 
Items recognised in equity and  
in other comprehensive income 
Exchange differences 

At 31 December 2011 

17.3 
(6.8) 
16.7 

– 
(1.6) 

25.6 

(27.1) 
2.2 
(1.4) 

2.6 
(0.1) 

(23.8) 

(13.5) 
(0.7) 
– 

32.7 
– 

18.5 

(0.3) 
– 
– 

(8.8) 
– 

(9.1) 

0.1 
6.9 
(26.1) 

– 
2.0 

(17.1) 

The movement in deferred tax assets and liabilities during the previous year was as follows:

Temporary 
differences 
on assets/ 
intangibles 
£m 

Share-based 
payment and 
employee 
benefits 
£m 

Retirement 
benefit 
schemes 
£m 

Derivative 
financial 
instruments 
£m 

Other 
temporary 
differences 
£m 

At 1 January 2010 
(Credited)/charged to income statement 
Items recognised in equity and  
in other comprehensive income 
Exchange differences 

At 31 December 2010 

22.6 
(5.6) 

– 
0.3 

17.3 

(17.8) 
(8.7) 

(0.5) 
(0.1) 

(27.1) 

(25.4) 
(2.1) 

14.0 
– 

(13.5) 

(1.0) 
0.1 

0.6 
– 

(0.3) 

(17.4) 
18.2 

– 
(0.7) 

0.1 

2010 
£m

(39.0)
1.9
–
14.1
(0.5)

(23.5)

Total 
£m

(23.5)
1.6
(10.8)

26.5
0.3

(5.9)

Total 
£m

(39.0)
1.9

14.1
(0.5)

(23.5)

Deferred income tax assets and liabilities are offset when there is a legally enforceable right to set off current tax assets against current tax 
liabilities and when the deferred income taxes relate to the same fiscal authority. The following is the analysis of the deferred tax balances 
(after offset) for financial reporting purposes:

Deferred tax liabilities 
Deferred tax assets 

2011 
£m 

22.3 
(28.2) 

(5.9) 

2010 
£m

14.6
(38.1)

(23.5)

At the balance sheet date, the Group did not recognise deferred tax assets of £10.2m (2010: £9.7m) which principally relate to unused tax 
losses of £34.9m (2010: £31.8m). Losses of £4.5m (2010: £1.3m) expire within five years, losses of £17.2m (2010: £11.0m) expire within 
6-10 years, losses of £nil (2010: £12.6m) expire within 15-20 years and losses of £13.2m (2010: £6.9m) may be carried forward indefinitely.

At the balance sheet date, the aggregate amount of temporary differences associated with undistributed earnings of subsidiaries for  
which deferred tax liabilities have not been recognised was £0.1m (2010: £0.1m). No liability has been recognised in respect of these 
differences because the Group is in a position to control the timing of the reversal of the temporary differences and it is probable that  
such differences will not reverse in the foreseeable future. 

140 | Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
24. Obligations under finance leases

Amounts payable under finance leases:
Within one year 
Between one and five years 
After five years 

Less: future finance charges 

Present value of lease obligations 
Less: amount due for settlement within one year  
(shown under current liabilities) 

Amounts due for settlement after one year 

Minimum 
lease payments 
2011 
£m 

Present value 
of minimum 
lease payments 
2011 
£m 

Minimum 
lease payments 
2010 
£m 

Present value  
of minimum  
lease payments 
2010 
£m

10.9 
32.9 
5.2 

49.0 
(3.1) 

45.9 

(10.9) 

35.0 

10.3 
30.5 
5.1 

45.9 
– 

45.9 

(10.3) 

35.6 

Finance lease obligations are secured by the lessors’ title to the leased assets.

The Directors estimate that the fair value of the Group’s lease obligations approximates to their carrying amount.

25. Trade and other payables

Trade and other payables: current
Trade payables 
Other payables 
Accruals and deferred income 
Amounts owed to joint venturers 

The average credit period taken for trade purchases is 31 days (2010: 31 days).

Trade and other payables: non-current
Other payables 

8.8 
20.5 
1.3 

30.6 
(4.2) 

26.4 

(8.8) 

17.6 

2011 
£m 

217.7 
140.3 
446.2 
– 

804.2 

2011 
£m 

61.4 

7.1
18.2
1.1

26.4
–

26.4

(7.1)

19.3

2010 
£m

203.8
152.4
449.2
0.1

805.5

2010 
£m

22.2

i

w
e
v
r
e
v
O

i

s
s
e
n
s
u
b
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
m
r
o
f
r
e
p
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
n
r
e
v
o
G

s
t
n
e
m
e
t
a
t
s

l

i

a
c
n
a
n
F

i

Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011 | 141

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Section 5 | Financial statements

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

26. Financial risk management

26 (a) Fair value of financial instruments
(i)  Hierarchy of fair value
The classification of the fair value measurement falls into three levels, based on the degree to which the fair value is observable. The levels 
are as follows:

Level 1: derived from unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities;
Level 2: derived from other observable market data for the assets or liabilities; and
Level 3: derived from valuation techniques using data that is not based on observable market data.

Based on the above, the derivative financial instruments held by the Group at 31 December 2011, are considered to fall into Level 2. 

The Group held the following financial instruments which fall within the scope of IAS 39 Financial Instruments: Recognition and 
Measurement at 31 December:

Carrying amount  
(measurement basis) 

Comparison 
fair value 

Carrying amount 
 (measurement basis) 

Comparison 
fair value

Loans and receivables:
Trade receivables (note 19) 

Amortised 
cost 
2011 
£m 

609.0 

Derivative financial assets:
Derivative financial instruments: non-current 
Derivative financial instruments: current 

Financial liabilities at amortised cost:
Trade payables (note 25) 
Loans (note 22) 

(217.7) 
(842.8) 

Derivative financial liabilities:
Derivative financial instruments: current 
Derivative financial instruments: non-current 

Fair value 
hierarchy 
– Level 2 
2011 
£m 

2.0 
7.6 

(12.3) 
(26.3) 

Amortised 
cost 
2010 
£m 

2011 
£m 

609.0 

579.4 

(217.7) 
(865.0) 

(203.8) 
(514.1) 

Fair value 
hierarchy 
– Level 2 
2010 
£m 

3.5
3.9

(2.4)
(5.2)

2010 
£m

579.4

(203.8)
(532.1)

The Directors estimate that the carrying amounts of trade receivables and trade payables approximate to their fair value.

The fair values of loans are based on cash flows discounted using a rate based on the borrowing rate associated with the loan. All loans 
are held at amortised cost.

The fair values of derivative financial instruments are calculated based on a discounted cash flow analysis using appropriate quoted interest 
rates for the duration of the instruments as noted below:
●● Currency swaps and interest rate swaps are measured at the present value of estimated future cash flows. The present value of foreign 

currency balances are converted at the year end exchange rate;

●● Forward foreign exchange contracts are measured using quoted forward exchange rates matching the maturities of the contracts; and
●● Commodity contracts are measured at the present value of estimated cash flows with reference to quoted forward prices for Gas Oil.

142 | Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
26. Financial risk management (continued)

26 (a) Fair value of financial instruments (continued)
(ii) Fair value of derivative financial instruments
The fair valuation of derivative financial instruments resulted in a net liability of £29.0m (2010: £0.2m), comprising non-current assets of 
£2.0m (2010: £3.5m), current assets of £7.6m (2010: £3.9m), current liabilities of £12.3m (2010: £2.4m) and non-current liabilities  
of £26.3m (2010: £5.2m).

Currency swaps 
Forward foreign exchange contracts 
Interest rate swaps 
Commodity futures contracts 

Currency swaps 
Forward foreign exchange contracts 
Interest rate swaps 
Commodity futures contracts 

1 January 
2011 
£m 

1.0 
(0.2) 
(3.6) 
2.6 

(0.2) 

1 January 
2010 
£m 

(0.5) 
(2.3) 
(2.1) 
1.6 

(3.3) 

Movement in 
fair value of 

Movement in 
fair value of 
cash flow  non-designated 
hedges 
£m 

hedges 
£m 

(0.2) 
(38.3) 
3.0 
(0.2) 

(35.7) 

– 
6.9 
– 
– 

6.9 

31 December  
2011 
£m

0.8
(31.6)
(0.6)
2.4

(29.0)

Movement in 
fair value of 
cash flow 
hedges 
£m 

Movement in 
fair value of 
non-designated 
hedges 
£m 

31 December  
2010 
£m

1.5 
0.7 
(1.5) 
1.0 

1.7 

– 
1.4 
– 
– 

1.4 

1.0
(0.2)
(3.6)
2.6

(0.2)

26 (b) Financial risk
The Board is ultimately responsible for ensuring that financial and non-financial risks are monitored and managed within acceptable and 
known parameters. The Board delegates authority to the executive team to manage financial risks. The Group’s treasury function acts as 
a service centre and operates within clearly defined guidelines and policies that are approved by the Board. The guidelines and policies 
define the financial risks to be managed, specify the objectives in managing these risks, delegate responsibilities to those managing the 
risks, and establish a control framework to regulate treasury activities to minimise operational risk.

Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011 | 143

i

w
e
v
r
e
v
O

i

s
s
e
n
s
u
b
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
m
r
o
f
r
e
p
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
n
r
e
v
o
G

s
t
n
e
m
e
t
a
t
s

l

i

a
c
n
a
n
F

i

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Section 5 | Financial statements

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

26. Financial risk management (continued)

26 (c) Liquidity risk
(i) Credit facilities
The Group maintains committed credit facilities to ensure that it has sufficient liquidity to maintain its ongoing operations.  
As at 31 December, the Group’s committed bank credit facilities and corresponding borrowings were as follows:

Syndicated revolving credit facility 
Syndicated term loan facility (amortising) 
Syndicated term loan facility (amortising) 
Bilateral revolving credit facility 
Bilateral revolving credit facility 

Syndicated revolving credit facility 
Syndicated term loan facility (amortising) 
Bilateral revolving credit facility 
Bilateral revolving credit facility 

Currency 

GBP 
USD 
GBP 
GBP 
EUR 

Currency 

GBP 
USD 
GBP 
EUR 

Amount 
2011 
Millions 

400.0 
258.4 
75.0 
75.0 
12.5 

Amount 
2010 
Millions 

400.0 
396.4 
35.0 
12.5 

Drawn 
2011 
£m 

– 
166.3 
75.0 
– 
– 

241.3 

Drawn 
2010 
£m 

76.6 
253.2 
– 
– 

329.8 

Undrawn 
2011 
£m 

Total facility 
2011 
£m

400.0 
– 
– 
75.0 
10.4 

485.4 

400.0
166.3
75.0
75.0
10.4

726.7

Undrawn 
2010 
£m 

Total facility 
2010 
£m

323.4 
– 
35.0 
10.7 

369.1 

400.0
253.2
35.0
10.7

698.9

The syndicated revolving credit facility matures in September 2013. The US Dollar syndicated term loan facility is repayable between 
September 2012 and September 2013. The Sterling syndicated term loan facility is repayable between June 2012 and June 2014.  
The bilateral revolving credit facilities mature between April 2012 and September 2013.

The banking facilities are unsecured and have financial and non-financial covenants and obligations typical of these arrangements.

In addition to the banking facilities, the Group has outstanding US private placements of £502.8m of which £94.2m amortise between  
2012 and 2015 and £408.6m are bullet repayments between 2016 and 2023.

(ii) Maturity of financial liabilities
The Group’s financial liabilities will be settled on a net basis based on the remaining period at the balance sheet to the contractual maturity 
date. The amounts disclosed below are the contractual undiscounted cash flows based on the earliest date on which the Group can be 
required to pay.

Trade payables (note 25) 
Obligations under finance leases (note 24) 
Loans (note 22) 
Future loan interest 
Derivative financial liabilities 

At 31 December 2011 

Trade payables (note 25) 
Obligations under finance leases (note 24) 
Loans (note 22) 
Future loan interest 
Derivative financial liabilities 

At 31 December 2010 

On demand or 
within one year 
£m 

Between one 
and two years 
£m 

Between two 
and five years 
£m 

After 
five years 
£m 

217.7 
10.9 
206.6 
29.4 
12.3 

476.9 

– 
10.6 
154.9 
25.1 
10.7 

201.3 

– 
22.3 
104.5 
54.4 
22.4 

203.6 

– 
5.2 
376.8 
71.0 
– 

453.0 

On demand or 
within one year 
£m 

Between one 
and two years 
£m 

Between two 
and five years 
£m 

After 
five years 
£m 

203.8 
8.8 
159.5 
16.0 
5.4 

393.5 

– 
6.1 
122.2 
11.4 
0.9 

140.6 

– 
14.4 
232.0 
11.2 
0.1 

257.7 

– 
1.3 
0.4 
0.3 
– 

2.0 

Total 
£m

217.7
49.0
842.8
179.9
45.4

1,334.8

Total 
£m

203.8
30.6
514.1
38.9
6.4

793.8

144 | Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
26. Financial risk management (continued)

26 (c) Liquidity risk (continued)
The Group’s derivative financial liabilities are settled on both a net and gross basis depending upon the terms of each derivative financial 
instrument. The maturity of the Group’s undiscounted derivative financial liabilities is as follows:

On demand or within one year 
Between one and two years 
Between two and five years 

At 31 December 2011 

On demand or within one year 
Between one and two years 
Between two and five years 

At 31 December 2010 

Forward  
foreign  
exchange 
contracts 
£m 

(11.7) 
(10.7) 
(22.4) 

(44.8) 

Forward  
foreign  
exchange 
contracts 
£m 

(2.4) 
(0.4) 
(0.1) 

(2.9) 

Interest 
rate swaps 
£m 

(0.6) 
– 
– 

(0.6) 

Interest 
rate swaps 
£m 

(3.0) 
(0.5) 
– 

(3.5) 

Total 
£m

(12.3)
(10.7)
(22.4)

(45.4)

Total 
£m

(5.4)
(0.9)
(0.1)

(6.4)

26 (d) Foreign exchange risk
(i) Transactional
Other than within the AMEAA segment, the Group’s business does not involve a significant amount of cross-border trade, and therefore the 
Group is not exposed to substantial foreign currency transaction risk as sales and costs are closely matched within each overseas operation. 
Any material transactional exposures that do arise are hedged by the Group treasury function using forward foreign exchange contracts.

Within the Group’s AMEAA business there is a significant amount of cross-border trade on its sales contracts. Cash flow hedges are 
entered into by the local companies to hedge the majority of the highly probable revenue.

(ii) Translational
Central funding of individual businesses gives rise to monetary assets and liabilities. The currency of funding is selected to ensure that any 
foreign exchange risk resides with Group. This risk is then managed by the Group’s treasury function, using forward foreign exchange 
contracts and any natural hedge positions that may exist.

(iii) Forward foreign exchange contracts and currency swaps
The Group utilises currency derivatives to hedge significant future transactions and cash flows. The Group is party to a variety of foreign 
currency forward contracts and swap contracts in the management of its exchange rate exposures. These contracts are primarily 
denominated in the currencies of the Group’s principal markets.

At 31 December 2011, the net total notional amount of outstanding forward foreign exchange and currency swap contracts to which the 
Group is committed to sell is £364.0m (2010: sell £59.6m). These arrangements are mainly designed to address the majority of foreign 
currency exposures over the next five years (2010: five years).

i

w
e
v
r
e
v
O

i

s
s
e
n
s
u
b
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
m
r
o
f
r
e
p
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
n
r
e
v
o
G

s
t
n
e
m
e
t
a
t
s

l

i

a
c
n
a
n
F

i

Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011 | 145

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Section 5 | Financial statements

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

26. Financial risk management (continued)

26 (d) Foreign exchange risk (continued)
(iv) Cash flow hedges
At 31 December 2011, the Group held two currency swaps designated as cash flow hedges against the 2003 US Dollar private placement. 
Fixed interest cash flows denominated in US Dollars are exchanged for fixed interest cash flows denominated in Sterling. The profile of 
these currency swaps held by the Group is as follows:

Maturity 

August 2015 

August 2015 

Notional  Receivable USD 
interest rate 
amount 
2011 
2011 
% 
USD m 

Payable GBP 
interest rate 
2011 
% 

Notional 
amount 
2010 
USD m 

Receivable USD 
interest rate 
2010 
% 

Payable GBP 
interest rate 
2010 
%

32.0 

18.3 

5.7 

5.7 

5.7 

5.7 

35.0 

20.0 

5.7 

5.7 

5.7

5.7

The Group also held a number of forward foreign exchange contracts designated as cash flow hedges with a notional amount to sell  
of £213.2m (2010: buy £29.5m).

All currency derivatives designated as cash flow hedges are highly effective and the fair value loss of £35.7m (2010: £1.7m gain) has been 
deferred in equity. Amounts in the hedging reserve are recycled to the consolidated income statement as the hedged transactions affect 
the consolidated income statement. A loss of £0.3m (2010: £0.3m loss) has been included in the consolidated income statement and the 
remaining loss of £35.4m (2010: £2.0m gain) is expected to be recognised in the consolidated income statement in future periods.

(v) Net investments in foreign operations
Where possible the Group will raise external funding to match the currency profile of its foreign operations and mitigate translation 
exposure. Currency derivatives are used to protect against movements in foreign exchange where match funding is not possible and  
there exists a liquid and economic market. At 31 December 2011 there is a net exchange loss on translation of foreign operations  
of £2.2m (2010: gain £19.0m). 

(vi) Currency sensitivity
The Group’s currency exposures that result in net currency gains and losses in the income statement and equity arise principally from 
US Dollar financial instruments. At 31 December 2011, if the US Dollar had weakened by 10% against Sterling, with all other variables held 
constant, post-tax profit for the year would have been £0.2m lower (2010: £0.1m lower), mainly as a result of movements on working capital.

26 (e) Interest rate risk
The Group’s policy is to minimise the impact of interest rate volatility on earnings to provide an appropriate level of certainty to cost 
of funds. Exposure to interest rate risk arises principally on changes to US Dollar and Sterling interest rates.

(i) Interest rate management
An analysis of financial assets and liabilities exposed to interest rate risk is set out below:

Financial assets

Floating rate 
2011 
£m 

Fixed rate 
2011 
£m 

Cash and cash equivalents 

254.8 

– 

Financial liabilities

Non recourse Canadian Dollar loans 
Sterling loans 
US Dollar loans 
Other loans 

Floating rate 
2011 
£m 

Fixed rate 
2011 
£m 

– 
105.4 
191.6 
27.5 

324.5 

15.5 
94.2 
408.6 
– 

518.3 

Weighted 
average fixed 
interest rate 
2011 
% 

Weighted 
average fixed 
interest rate 
2011 
% 

5.27 
5.93 
3.66 

Weighted 
average fixed 
interest rate 
2010 
%

Weighted 
average fixed 
interest rate 
2010 
%

5.27
5.83
2.53

Floating rate 
2010 
£m 

279.3 

Fixed rate 
2010 
£m 

– 

Floating rate 
2010 
£m 

Fixed rate 
2010 
£m 

– 
19.2 
106.3 
22.8 

148.3 

23.7 
118.6 
223.5 
– 

365.8 

Exposure to interest rate fluctuations is mitigated through the use of interest rate derivatives. Excluded from the above analysis is £45.9m 
(2010: £26.4m) of amounts payable under finance leases, which are subject to fixed rates of interest.

146 | Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
26. Financial risk management (continued)

26 (e) Interest rate risk (continued)
(ii) Interest rate swaps
During 2009 the Group entered into interest rate swaps to manage its exposure to interest rate risk on US Dollar 450m debt by swapping 
floating for fixed interest rates. The profile of the interest rate swaps is as follows:

Maturity 

March 2012 

Maturity 

March 2011 

March 2012 

Payable USD 
Notional   weighted average 
interest rate 
2011 
% 

value 
2011 
USD m 

  Receivable USD 
interest rate 
2011 
%

300 

1.83 

3 month USD LIBOR

Notional  
value 
2010 
USD m 

150 

300 

Payable USD 
weighted average 
interest rate 
2010 
% 

Receivable USD 
interest rate 
2010 
%

1.60 

1.83 

3 month USD LIBOR

3 month USD LIBOR

The swaps were designated as cash flow hedges and are highly effective. The fair value gain of £2.9m has therefore been deferred within 
equity (2010: £1.5m loss). 

(iii) Interest rate sensitivity
The sensitivity analysis below shows the exposure to interest rates for both derivative and non-derivative net financial liabilities at the 
balance sheet date. A 100 basis point increase in interest rates with all other variables held constant would have resulted in a gain on profit 
after tax for the year to 31 December 2011 of £0.5m (2010: £0.7m gain).

26 (f) Price risk 
The Group is exposed to commodity price risk through its joint venture rail operations due to the volatility in the price of fuel. 

The maturity profile of the commodity derivative used by the joint venture to reduce this risk is as follows:

Maturity 

January 2012 – September 2013 

Maturity 

January 2011 – September 2011 

January 2011 – September 2011 

January 2011 – September 2013 

Notional  
value 
2011 
Million litres 

Payable 
fixed rate 
2011 
p per litre

64.6 

44.81

Notional  
value 
2010 
Million litres 

18.5 

10.8 

74.2 

Payable 
fixed rate 
2010 
p per litre

28.95

39.70

42.96

The commodity derivative is designated as a cash flow hedge and is highly effective. During the year a loss of £0.3m (2010: £1.0m gain) 
has been deferred within equity.

(iv) Price risk sensitivity
An increase of US Dollar 0.2 per litre in the price of fuel at the balance sheet date would result in a gain of £4.2m in equity  
(2010: £7.1m gain). The sensitivity to changes in fuel prices resulting from changes in exchange rates is included within the currency 
sensitivity analysis (see note 26(d)). 

i

w
e
v
r
e
v
O

i

s
s
e
n
s
u
b
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
m
r
o
f
r
e
p
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
n
r
e
v
o
G

s
t
n
e
m
e
t
a
t
s

l

i

a
c
n
a
n
F

i

Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011 | 147

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Section 5 | Financial statements

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

26. Financial risk management (continued)

26 (g) Credit risk
The Group’s principal financial assets are cash and cash equivalents and trade and other receivables.

Credit risk is the risk that a counterparty could default on its contractual obligations. In this regard, the Group’s principal exposure is to  
cash and cash equivalents, derivative transactions and trade receivables. 

The Group’s trade receivables credit risk is relatively low given that a high proportion of our customer base are government bodies with 
strong sovereign, or sovereign-like, credit ratings. However, where the assessed creditworthiness of a customer, government or non 
government, falls below that considered acceptable, appropriate measures are taken to mitigate against the risk of contractual default 
using instruments such as credit guarantees. 

The Group’s Treasury function only transacts with counterparties that comply with Board policy. The credit risk is measured by way of  
a counterparty credit rating and as a minimum any counterparty must have a long-term public rating of ‘Single A’ from any two recognised 
rating agencies. Pre-approved limits are set based on a rating matrix and exposures monitored accordingly. The Group also employs the 
use of set-off rights in some agreements.

26 (h) Capital risk 
The Group defines capital as equity, debt capital market issuance, loans and borrowings (note 22) and cash and cash equivalents (note 21). 
The Group does not have any externally imposed requirements for managing capital, other than those imposed by Company Law.

The Board’s objective is to maintain a capital structure that supports the Group’s strategic objectives, including but not limited to reshaping 
the portfolio through mergers, acquisitions and disposals. In doing so the Board seeks to manage funding and liquidity risk, optimise 
shareholder return and maintain an implied investment grade credit position. This strategy is unchanged from the prior year.

The Board reviews and approves at least annually a treasury policy document which covers, inter alia, funding and liquidity risk, capital 
structure and risk management. This policy details targets for committed funding headroom, diversification of committed funding and debt 
maturity profile.

The Articles of Association of Serco Group plc require that the net borrowings of Serco Group plc and its subsidiary undertakings shall not 
at any time without the previous sanction of an ordinary resolution exceed three and a half times adjusted capital and reserves.

The Group ensures that sufficient funds and distributable reserves are held to allow payments of projected dividends to shareholders and 
it intends to pursue a policy of dividend growth that broadly reflects the increase in underlying earnings of the business. 

27. Retirement benefit schemes

The Group has accounted for pensions in accordance with IAS 19 Employee Benefits. The Group operates a number of defined benefit 
schemes and defined contribution schemes. The pension charge for the year ended 31 December 2011, including the proportionate share 
of joint ventures, was £112.3m (2010: £106.5m).

27 (a) Defined benefit schemes
The Group operates defined benefit schemes for qualifying employees of its subsidiaries in the UK and Europe. In addition, the Group has 
interests in joint ventures, which operate defined benefit schemes for qualifying employees.

The assets of the funded schemes are held independently of the Group’s assets in separate trustee administered funds. The Group’s major 
schemes are valued by independent actuaries annually using the projected unit credit actuarial cost method. This reflects service rendered 
by employees to the dates of valuation and incorporates actuarial assumptions primarily regarding discount rates used in determining the 
present value of benefits, projected rates of salary growth, and long-term expected rates of return for scheme assets. Discount rates are 
based on the market yields of high-quality corporate bonds in the country concerned. Long-term expected rates of return for scheme assets 
are based on published brokers’ forecasts for each category of scheme assets. Pension assets and liabilities in different defined benefit 
schemes are not offset unless the Group has a legally enforceable right to use the surplus in one scheme to settle obligations in the other 
scheme and intends to exercise this right.

148 | Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011

 
27. Retirement benefit schemes (continued)

27 (a) Defined benefit schemes (continued)
(i) Balance sheet values
The amounts recognised in the balance sheet are grouped together as follows:

Contract specific – Virtually certain costs reimbursed
The Group has an obligation to contribute to the pension scheme over the term of the contract. At rebid, any deficit or surplus would transfer 
to the next contractor. Throughout the contract, it is virtually certain that the Group will be reimbursed the expenditure required to settle the 
defined benefit obligation. The Group’s share of the defined benefit obligation less its share of the fair value of scheme assets that it will fund 
over the period of the contract has been recognised as a liability. The Group has recognised the right to reimbursement as a separate asset.

In the income statement, the expense relating to this defined benefit scheme has been presented net of the amount recognised for the 
reimbursement, resulting in a nil charge to the income statement.

Contract specific – Not certain costs reimbursed
These are pre-funded defined benefit schemes. The Group has obligations to contribute variable amounts to the pension schemes over the 
terms of the related contracts. At rebid, any deficit or surplus would transfer to the next contractor. The Group has recognised as a liability 
the defined benefit obligation less the fair value of scheme assets that it will fund over the period of the contracts with a corresponding 
amount recognised as intangible assets at the start of the contracts. Subsequent actuarial gains and losses in relation to the Group’s share 
of the pension obligations have been recognised in the SOCI. The intangible assets are amortised over the term of the contracts.

Non contract specific
These consist of a pre-funded defined benefit scheme which does not relate to any specific contract (the funding policy is to contribute 
such variable amounts, on the advice of the actuary, as will achieve 100% funding on a projected salary basis) and an unfunded defined 
benefit scheme, both of which do not relate to any specific contract. Any liabilities arising are recognised in full.

(ii) Triennial funding valuation
Among our non contract specific schemes, the largest is the Serco Pension and Life Assurance Scheme (SPLAS). The most recent full 
actuarial valuation of this scheme was undertaken as at 6 April 2009 and resulted in an actuarially assessed deficit of £141m. Following this 
review, the Group agreed with the Trustees to make cash contributions of 30% of members’ pensionable salaries until 2019, plus lump sum 
payments of £20m, which was paid in December 2010 and £40m, which was paid in January 2011. The Group continues to review the level 
of benefits and contributions under the scheme in light of our business needs and changes to pension legislation.

The assets and liabilities of the schemes at 31 December are:

Virtually 
certain costs 
reimbursed 
2011 
£m 

Not certain 
costs 
reimbursed 
2011 
£m 

Non contract 
specific 
2011 
£m 

Scheme assets at fair value
Equities 
Bonds except LDI 
Liability driven investments (LDI) 
Gilts 
Property 
Cash and other 
Annuity policies 

Fair value of scheme assets 
Present value of scheme liabilities 

Net amount recognised 
Members’ share of deficit 
Franchise adjustment 
Effect of IFRIC 14  

Net pension (liability)/asset 

Analysed as:
Retirement benefit obligations 
Retirement benefit assets 

Related assets
Intangible assets (note 14) 
Trade and other receivables (note 19) 

84.2 
17.9 
24.0 
30.0 
24.2 
72.3 
– 

252.6 
(441.3) 

(188.7) 
– 
– 
– 

(188.7) 

(188.7) 
– 

– 
188.7 

188.7 

234.9 
71.4 
16.0 
23.0 
28.4 
55.6 
– 

429.3 
(594.9) 

(165.6) 
43.7 
95.4 
– 

(26.5) 

(26.5) 
– 

6.3 
– 

6.3 

Total 
2011 
£m

358.2
95.2
958.6
64.9
55.6
188.7
26.0

39.1 
5.9 
918.6 
11.9 
3.0 
60.8 
26.0 

1,065.3 
(1,001.3) 

1,747.2
(2,037.5)

64.0 
2.2 
– 
(7.4) 

58.8 

(63.5) 
122.3 

– 
– 

– 

(290.3)
45.9
95.4
(7.4)

(156.4)

(278.7)
122.3

6.3
188.7

195.0

i

w
e
v
r
e
v
O

i

s
s
e
n
s
u
b
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
m
r
o
f
r
e
p
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
n
r
e
v
o
G

s
t
n
e
m
e
t
a
t
s

l

i

a
c
n
a
n
F

i

Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011 | 149

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Section 5 | Financial statements

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

27. Retirement benefit schemes (continued)

27 (a) Defined benefit schemes (continued)

Scheme assets at fair value
Equities 
Bonds except LDI 
Liability driven investments (LDI) 
Gilts 
Property 
Cash and other 
Annuity policies 

Fair value of scheme assets 
Present value of scheme liabilities 

Net amount recognised 
Members’ share of deficit 
Franchise adjustment 
Effect of IFRIC 14  

Net pension liability 

Related assets
Intangible assets (note 14) 
Trade and other receivables (note 19) 

Virtually 
certain costs 
reimbursed 
2010 
£m 

Not certain 
costs 
reimbursed 
2010 
£m 

Non contract 
specific 
2010 
£m 

132.2 
56.1 
– 
– 
17.8 
48.7 
– 

254.8 
(378.2) 

(123.4) 
– 
– 
– 

(123.4) 

– 
123.4 

123.4 

255.2 
45.1 
9.3 
33.8 
26.5 
32.4 
1.0 

403.3 
(510.4) 

(107.1) 
26.7 
53.7 
– 

(26.7) 

8.9 
– 

8.9 

36.6 
16.6 
651.3 
1.1 
9.5 
134.9 
25.1 

875.1 
(951.5) 

(76.4) 
1.5 
– 
(1.2) 

(76.1) 

– 
– 

– 

Total 
2010 
£m

424.0
117.8
660.6
34.9
53.8
216.0
26.1

1,533.2
(1,840.1)

(306.9)
28.2
53.7
(1.2)

(226.2)

8.9
123.4

132.3

Liabilities in relation to unfunded schemes included above amount to £48.4m (2010: £48.7m).

Certain of the Group’s non contract specific schemes have a Liability Driven Investment (LDI) strategy which aims to reduce volatility  
risk by better matching assets to liabilities. The main asset classes that make up the LDI investments are gilts and corporate bonds  
with inflation and interest swap overlays. The assumed expected rate of return is taken to be gilts +0.8% (2010: gilts +0.7%).

In some schemes, employee contributions vary over time to meet a specified proportion of the overall costs, including a proportion of  
any deficit. The liabilities recognised in the balance sheet for these schemes are net of the proportion attributed to employees. In addition, 
the amounts charged to the income statement for these schemes are net of the proportion attributed to employees. The amounts attributed 
to employees are shown separately in the reconciliation of changes in the fair value of scheme assets and liabilities.

150 | Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
27. Retirement benefit schemes (continued)

27 (a) Defined benefit schemes (continued)
The amounts recognised in the financial statements for the year are analysed as follows:

Non contract 

Recognised in the income statement
Current service cost – employer 
Past service cost 
Curtailment gain 
Settlement gain 
Reimbursed to employer 

Recognised in arriving at operating profit 

Expected return on scheme assets – employer 
Interest on franchise adjustment 
Interest cost on scheme liabilities – employer 
Reimbursed to employer 

Finance income 

Included within the SOCI
Actual (loss)/return on scheme assets 
Less: expected return on scheme assets 

Other actuarial losses 

Actuarial losses recognised in the SOCI 

Change in IFRIC 14 
Change in franchise adjustment 
Change in members’ share 
Reimbursed to employer 

Actuarial gains/(losses) on reimbursable rights 

Total pension (cost)/income recognised in the SOCI 

Virtually 

Not certain  

certain costs 

reimbursed 
2011 
£m 

reimbursed 
2011 
£m 

specific 
2011 
£m 

8.4 
– 
– 
– 
(8.4) 

– 

(17.0) 
– 
20.5 
(3.5) 

– 

(10.2) 
(17.0) 

(27.2) 
(39.7) 

(66.9) 

– 
– 
– 
66.9 

66.9 

– 

16.5 
– 
– 
– 
– 

16.5 

(20.3) 
(2.9) 
20.5 
– 

(2.7) 

5.3 
(27.8) 

(22.5) 
(43.8) 

(66.3) 

– 
38.4 
16.5 
– 

54.9 

(11.4) 

15.5 
0.4 
(0.3) 
(0.2) 
– 

15.4 

(53.6) 
– 
48.1 
– 

(5.5) 

162.8 
(55.0) 

107.8 
(25.6) 

82.2 

(6.2) 
– 
0.9 
– 

(5.3) 

76.9 

costs 

Total 
2011 
£m

40.4
0.4
(0.3)
(0.2)
(8.4)

31.9

(90.9)
(2.9)
89.1
(3.5)

(8.2)

157.9
(99.8)

58.1
(109.1)

(51.0)

(6.2)
38.4
17.4
66.9

116.5

65.5

i

w
e
v
r
e
v
O

i

s
s
e
n
s
u
b
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
m
r
o
f
r
e
p
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
n
r
e
v
o
G

s
t
n
e
m
e
t
a
t
s

l

i

a
c
n
a
n
F

i

Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011 | 151

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Section 5 | Financial statements

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

27. Retirement benefit schemes (continued)

27 (a) Defined benefit schemes (continued)

Recognised in the income statement
Current service cost – employer 
Past service cost 
Reimbursed to employer 

Recognised in arriving at operating profit 

Expected return on scheme assets – employer 
Interest on franchise adjustment 
Interest cost on scheme liabilities – employer 
Reimbursed to employer 

Finance (income)/cost 

Included within the SOCI
Actual return on scheme assets 
Less: expected return on scheme assets 

Other actuarial gains/(losses) 

Actuarial gains recognised in the SOCI 

Change in IFRIC 14 
Change in franchise adjustment 
Change in members’ share 
Reimbursed to employer 

Actuarial losses on reimbursable rights 

Total pension (cost)/income recognised in the SOCI 

Virtually 
certain costs 
reimbursed 
2010 
£m 

Not certain 
costs 
reimbursed 
2010 
£m 

Non contract 
specific 
2010 
£m 

9.7 
– 
(9.7) 

– 

(16.6) 
– 
21.5 
(4.9) 

– 

24.1 
(16.6) 

7.5 
13.8 

21.3 

– 
– 
– 
(21.3) 

(21.3) 

– 

15.5 
– 
– 

15.5 

(18.4) 
(3.4) 
20.4 
– 

(1.4) 

35.7 
(25.3) 

10.4 
3.7 

14.1 

– 
(7.7) 
(8.0) 
– 

(15.7) 

(1.6) 

14.7 
0.3 
– 

15.0 

(46.0) 
– 
50.2 
– 

4.2 

81.7 
(47.4) 

34.3 
(19.8) 

14.5 

0.3 
– 
(1.7) 
– 

(1.4) 

13.1 

Total 
2010 
£m

39.9
0.3
(9.7)

30.5

(81.0)
(3.4)
92.1
(4.9)

2.8

141.5
(89.3)

52.2
(2.3)

49.9

0.3
(7.7)
(9.7)
(21.3)

(38.4)

11.5

152 | Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
27. Retirement benefit schemes (continued)

27 (a) Defined benefit schemes (continued)
Changes in the fair value of scheme liabilities are analysed as follows:

At 1 January 2010 
Current service cost – employer 
Current service cost – employee 
Past service costs 
Scheme participants’ contributions 
Interest cost – employer 
Interest cost – employee 
Benefits paid 
Actuarial gains and losses 
Exchange differences 

At 1 January 2011 
Current service cost – employer 
Current service cost – employee 
Past service costs 
Scheme participants’ contributions 
Interest cost – employer 
Interest cost – employee 
Benefits paid 
Actuarial gains and losses 
Plan curtailments 
Plan settlements 
Exchange differences 

At 31 December 2011 

Changes in the fair value of scheme assets are analysed as follows:

At 1 January 2010 
Expected return on scheme assets – employer 
Expected return on scheme assets – employee 
Employer contributions 
Contributions by employees 
Benefits paid 
Actuarial gains and losses 

At 1 January 2011 
Expected return on scheme assets – employer 
Expected return on scheme assets – employee 
Employer contributions 
Contributions by employees 
Benefits paid 
Actuarial gains and losses 
Plan settlements 

At 31 December 2011 

Virtually 
certain costs 
reimbursed 
£m 

Not certain 
costs 
reimbursed 
£m 

Non contract 
specific 
£m 

368.8 
9.7 
– 
– 
3.1 
21.5 
– 
(11.1) 
(13.8) 
– 

378.2 
8.4 
– 
– 
4.1 
20.5 
– 
(9.6) 
39.7 
– 
– 
– 

441.3 

476.3 
15.5 
6.2 
– 
0.6 
20.4 
7.6 
(12.5) 
(3.7) 
– 

510.4 
16.5 
6.6 
– 
0.6 
20.5 
7.3 
(10.8) 
43.8 
– 
– 
– 

594.9 

899.3 
14.7 
0.5 
0.3 
0.9 
50.2 
1.3 
(33.7) 
19.8 
(1.8) 

951.5 
15.5 
0.3 
0.4 
0.6 
48.1 
1.1 
(35.9) 
25.6 
(0.3) 
(4.3) 
(1.3) 

1,001.3 

Virtually 
certain costs 
reimbursed 
£m 

Not certain 
costs 
reimbursed 
£m 

Non contract 
specific 
£m 

224.5 
16.6 
– 
14.1 
3.2 
(11.1) 
7.5 

254.8 
17.0 
– 
13.5 
4.1 
(9.6) 
(27.2) 
– 

252.6 

354.9 
18.4 
6.9 
18.9 
6.3 
(12.5) 
10.4 

403.3 
20.3 
7.5 
25.0 
6.5 
(10.8) 
(22.5) 
– 

429.3 

777.5 
46.0 
1.4 
48.3 
1.3 
(33.7) 
34.3 

875.1 
53.6 
1.4 
66.5 
0.9 
(35.9) 
107.8 
(4.1) 

1,065.3 

Total 
£m

1,744.4
39.9
6.7
0.3
4.6
92.1
8.9
(57.3)
2.3
(1.8)

1,840.1
40.4
6.9
0.4
5.3
89.1
8.4
(56.3)
109.1
(0.3)
(4.3)
(1.3)

2,037.5

Total 
£m

1,356.9
81.0
8.3
81.3
10.8
(57.3)
52.2

1,533.2
90.9
8.9
105.0
11.5
(56.3)
58.1
(4.1)

1,747.2

Employer contributions for non contract specific schemes in 2011 include a £40m (2010: £20m) special contribution paid in January 2011.

i

w
e
v
r
e
v
O

i

s
s
e
n
s
u
b
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
m
r
o
f
r
e
p
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
n
r
e
v
o
G

s
t
n
e
m
e
t
a
t
s

l

i

a
c
n
a
n
F

i

Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011 | 153

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Section 5 | Financial statements

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

27. Retirement benefit schemes (continued)

27 (a) Defined benefit schemes (continued)
History of experience gains and losses

2011 

2010 

2009 

2008 

2007

Experience adjustments arising on scheme assets:
Amount (£m) 
Percentage of the fair value of scheme assets 

Experience adjustments arising on scheme liabilities:
Amount (£m) 
Percentage of the present value of scheme liabilities 

Fair value of scheme assets (£m) 
Present value of scheme liabilities (£m) 

Deficit (£m) 

58.1 

3.3% 

5.6 
0.3% 

52.2 

3.4% 

4.2 
0.2% 

1,747.2 
(2,037.5) 

1,533.2 
(1,840.1) 

(290.3) 

(306.9) 

73.2 

5.4% 

(263.7) 

(22.1)% 

(58.2) 

(3.3)% 

1,356.9 
(1,744.4) 

(387.5) 

0.1 
0.0% 

1,194.1 
(1,343.4) 

(149.3) 

1.4
0.1%

(5.1)
0.3%

1,342.8
(1,500.9)

(158.1)

The normal contributions expected to be paid during the financial year ending 31 December 2012 are £64.9m (financial year ended 
31 December 2011: £59.6m).

Assumptions in respect of the expected return on scheme assets are based on market expectations of returns over the life of the related 
obligation. Due consideration has been given to current market conditions as at 31 December 2011 in respect to inflation, interest, bond 
yields and equity performance when selecting the expected return on assets assumptions.

The expected yield on bond investments with fixed interest rates is derived from their market value. The yield on equity investments contains 
an additional premium (an ‘equity risk premium’) to compensate investors for the additional anticipated risks of holding this type of 
investment, when compared to bond yields. Management have concluded that an appropriate equity risk premium is 4.6% (2010: 4.1%). 

The overall expected return on assets is calculated as the weighted average of the expected returns for the principal asset categories  
held by scheme.

Cumulative actuarial gains recognised since 1 January 2004 are £23.5m (2010: losses of £42.0m).

Main assumptions:
Rate of salary increases 
Rate of increase in pensions in payment 
Rate of increase in deferred pensions 
Inflation assumption 
Discount rate 
Expected rates of return on scheme assets: 

Equities 

  Bonds except LDI 

LDI 
  Gilts 

Property 

  Cash and other 
Annuity policies 

Post-retirement mortality:
  Current pensioners at 65 – male 
  Current pensioners at 65 – female 
Future pensioners at 65 – male 
Future pensioners at 65 – female 

2011 
% 

2010 
%

3.30 
2.10 (CPI) and 2.90 (RPI) 
2.10 (CPI) and 2.90 (RPI) 
2.10 (CPI) and 2.90 (RPI) 
4.70 

3.50
2.60 (CPI) and 3.10 (RPI)
2.60 (CPI) and 3.10 (RPI)
2.60 (CPI) and 3.10 (RPI)
5.40

7.70 
4.70 
3.90 
3.10 
4.35 
0.50 
4.70 

2011 
Years 

20.9 
23.4 
22.5 
24.6 

8.30
5.40
4.90
4.20
5.45
0.50
5.40

2010 
Years

20.8
23.3
22.4
24.5

154 | Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
27. Retirement benefit schemes (continued)

27 (b) Defined contribution schemes
The Group paid employer contributions of £66.9m (2010: £61.9m) into UK and other defined contribution schemes, foreign state pension 
schemes and multi-employer schemes, including those of joint ventures.

Pre-funded defined benefit schemes treated as defined contribution
Serco accounts for certain pre-funded defined benefit schemes relating to contracts as defined contribution schemes because the 
contributions are fixed until the end of the current concession and at rebid any surplus or deficit would transfer to the next contractor. 
Cash contributions are recognised as pension costs and no asset or liability is shown on the balance sheet. 

28. Provisions

At 1 January 2010 
Charged to income statement 
Released to income statement 
Utilised during the year 
Unwinding of discount 
Exchange differences 

At 1 January 2011 
Arising from acquisitions 
Charged to income statement 
Released to income statement 
Utilised during the year 
Unwinding of discount 
Exchange differences 

At 31 December 2011 

Analysed as:
Current 
Non-current 

Employee 
related 
£m 

Property 
£m 

Contract 
£m 

7.7 
3.5 
– 
(0.6) 
– 
0.4 

11.0 
0.4 
4.5 
– 
(1.0) 
– 
0.1 

15.0 

8.0 
0.1 
(0.9) 
(1.2) 
0.3 
0.3 

6.6 
3.6 
0.4 
(0.2) 
(1.5) 
0.3 
(0.3) 

8.9 

10.4 
0.2 
(0.9) 
(2.2) 
0.3 
0.2 

8.0 
29.2 
– 
(1.2) 
(7.5) 
0.2 
(2.6) 

26.1 

Other 
£m 

16.2 
2.3 
(2.7) 
(2.7) 
– 
0.9 

14.0 
6.9 
– 
(3.2) 
(0.1) 
– 
(1.0) 

16.6 

Total 
£m

42.3
6.1
(4.5)
(6.7)
0.6
1.8

39.6
40.1
4.9
(4.6)
(10.1)
0.5
(3.8)

66.6

10.4
56.2

66.6

Employee related provisions relate to long-term service awards and terminal gratuities liabilities which have been accrued and are  
based on contractual entitlement together with an estimate of the probabilities that employees will stay until retirement and receive  
all relevant amounts.

Property provisions relate to leased properties which are either under utilised or vacant and where the unavoidable costs associated with  
the lease exceed the economic benefits expected to be required. Management has calculated the provision based on the discounted cash 
outflows required to settle the lease obligations as they fall due over the next ten years. 

Contract provisions primarily relate to Intelenet where, as required under IAS 37, a provision has been taken for a loss-making onerous 
contract. Management has used the present value of the estimated future cash outflows required to settle the contract obligations as they 
fall due over the next seven years in determining the provision.

Other provisions are held for legal and other costs that the Group expects to incur over an extended period. These costs are based on past 
experience of similar items and other known factors and represent management’s best estimate of the likely outcome.

i

w
e
v
r
e
v
O

i

s
s
e
n
s
u
b
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
m
r
o
f
r
e
p
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
n
r
e
v
o
G

s
t
n
e
m
e
t
a
t
s

l

i

a
c
n
a
n
F

i

Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011 | 155

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Section 5 | Financial statements

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

29. Share capital

Issued and fully paid:
493,220,805 (2010: 490,912,075) ordinary shares of 2p each at 1 January 
Issued on the exercise of share options 

2011 
£m 

9.9 
– 

497,327,070 (2010: 493,220,805) ordinary shares of 2p each at 31 December 

9.9 

The Company has one class of ordinary shares which carry no right to fixed income.

Number 
2011 
Millions 

493.2 
4.1 

497.3 

2010 
£m 

9.8 
0.1 

9.9 

Number  
2010 
Millions

490.9
2.3

493.2

During the year 4,106,265 (2010: 2,308,730) ordinary shares of 2p each were allotted to the holders of share-based awards or their 
personal representatives using newly listed shares.

30. Share premium account

At 1 January  
Premium on shares issued 

At 31 December  

31. Reserves

2011 
£m 

306.7 
16.0 

322.7 

2010 
£m

304.1
2.6

306.7

31 (a) Retirement benefit obligations reserve
The retirement benefit obligations reserve represents the actuarial gains and losses recognised in respect of annual actuarial valuations for 
defined benefit retirement schemes, the fair value adjustments on reimbursable rights and the related movements in deferred tax balances.

31 (b) Share-based payment reserve
The share-based payment reserve represents credits relating to equity-settled share-based payment transactions and any gain or loss on 
the exercise of share options satisfied by own shares.

31 (c) Own shares reserve
The own shares reserve represents the cost of shares in Serco Group plc purchased in the market and held by the Serco Group plc Employee 
Share Ownership Trust (ESOT) to satisfy options under the Group’s share options schemes. At 31 December 2011, the ESOT held 8,267,992 
(2010: 4,710,201) shares equal to 1.7% of the current allotted share capital (2010: 1.0%). The market value of shares held by the ESOT as 
at 31 December 2011 was £39.2m (2010: £26.2m).

31 (d) Hedging and translation reserve
The hedging and translation reserve represents foreign exchange differences arising on translation of the Group’s overseas operations  
and movements relating to cash flow hedges.

156 | Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
32. Notes to the Consolidated Cash Flow Statement

Reconciliation of operating profit to net cash inflow from operating activities

Operating profit for the year 
Adjustments for:
Share–based payment expense 
Depreciation and impairment of property, plant and equipment 
Amortisation and impairment of intangible assets 
Loss on disposal of property, plant and equipment 
Profit on disposal of intangible assets 
Impairment of goodwill 
Movement in provisions 
Other non cash movements 

Operating cash inflow before movements in working capital 
Decrease in inventories 
Decrease/(increase) in receivables 
(Decrease)/increase in payables 
Special contribution to defined benefit pension scheme (note 27) 

Cash generated by operations  
Tax paid 

Net cash inflow from operating activities 

2011 
£m 

266.2 

11.2 
46.0 
39.5 
0.5 
– 
– 
(9.8) 
3.4 

357.0 
9.2 
26.8 
(84.5) 
(40.0) 

268.5 
(51.5) 

217.0 

2010 
£m

241.3

8.8
39.4
43.6
0.8
(1.5)
4.2
(5.1)
–

331.5
3.5
(43.4)
10.0
(20.0)

281.6
(40.6)

241.0

Additions to fixtures and equipment during the year amounting to £29.6m (2010: £10.0m) were financed by new finance leases.

Analysis of net debt

Cash and cash equivalents 
Non recourse loans 
Other loans 
Obligations under finance leases 

Cash and cash equivalents 
Non recourse loans 
Other loans 
Obligations under finance leases 

At 1 January 
2011 
£m 

279.3 
(23.7) 
(490.4) 
(26.4) 

(261.2) 

At 1 January 
2010 
£m 

319.4 
(29.0) 
(624.9) 
(24.0) 

(358.5) 

Cash flow 
£m 

(32.2) 
7.9 
(258.6) 
10.7 

(272.2) 

Acquisitions* 

£m 

8.4 
– 
(73.3) 
(0.8) 

(65.7) 

Exchange 
differences 
£m 

Non cash  At 31 December  
2011 
£m

movements 
£m 

(0.7) 
0.3 
(5.0) 
0.2 

(5.2) 

– 
– 
– 
(29.6) 

(29.6) 

254.8
(15.5)
(827.3)
(45.9)

(633.9)

Cash flow 
£m 

Acquisitions* 
£m 

Exchange 
differences 
£m 

Non cash 
movements 
£m 

At 31 December  
2010 
£m

(48.3) 
7.6 
157.7 
8.7 

125.7 

0.1 
– 
– 
– 

0.1 

8.1 
(2.3) 
(21.8) 
(1.1) 

(17.1) 

– 
– 
(1.4) 
(10.0) 

(11.4) 

279.3
(23.7)
(490.4)
(26.4)

(261.2)

*  Acquisitions represent the net cash/(debt) acquired on acquisition.

i

w
e
v
r
e
v
O

i

s
s
e
n
s
u
b
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
m
r
o
f
r
e
p
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
n
r
e
v
o
G

s
t
n
e
m
e
t
a
t
s

l

i

a
c
n
a
n
F

i

Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011 | 157

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Section 5 | Financial statements

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

33. Capital and other commitments

Capital expenditure contracted but not provided:
– Property, plant and equipment 

2011 
£m 

1.4 

2010 
£m

1.7

Included within the balances above is joint venture capital expenditure contracted but not provided in relation to property, plant and 
equipment of £0.1m (2010: £nil).

At the balance sheet date, the Group had outstanding commitments for future minimum lease payments under non-cancellable operating 
leases, which fall due as follows:

Within one year 
Between one and five years 
After five years 

2011 
£m 

137.0 
198.3 
131.2 

466.5 

2010 
£m

112.0
240.6
129.3

481.9

Principal lease commitments are within the Civil Government segment, with future minimum lease payments totalling £215.9m (2010: £231.1m). 
These leases relate primarily to administrative and operational buildings, track and rolling stock within the train operating companies.  
The length of the leases is concurrent with the period of the franchises and the terms of the leases are fixed during this period.

34. Share-based payment expense

The Group recognised the following expenses related to equity-settled share-based payment transactions:

Executive Option Plan 
Long Term Incentive Scheme and Plan 
Transformational Share Scheme 
Performance Share Plan 
Deferred Bonus Plan 
Sharesave 2008 

2011 
£m 

0.1 
0.9 
0.1 
8.5 
0.9 
0.7 

11.2 

2010 
£m

0.2
2.5
0.2
4.4
0.5
1.0

8.8

Executive Option Plan (EOP)
Options granted under the EOP may be exercised after the third anniversary of grant, dependent upon the achievement of a financial 
performance target over three years. The options are granted at market value and awards made to eligible employees are based on 
between 50% and 100% of salary as at 31 December prior to grant. If the options remain unexercised after a period of ten years from the 
date of grant, the options expire. Furthermore, options may be forfeited if the eligible employee leaves the Group before the options vest. 
Details of the movement in all EOP options are as follows:

Outstanding at 1 January  
Granted during the year 
Exercised during the year 
Lapsed during the year 

Outstanding at 31 December  

Number of 
options 
2011 
Thousands 

Weighted 
average 
exercise price 
2011 
£ 

3,957 
– 
(294) 
(274) 

3,389 

2.63 
– 
3.37 
3.62 

2.49 

Number of 
options 
2010 
Thousands 

6,857 
– 
(2,620) 
(280) 

3,957 

Weighted 
average 
exercise price 
2010 
£

2.72
–
2.79
3.47

2.63

158 | Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
34. Share-based payment expense (continued)

Executive Option Plan (EOP) (continued)
Of these options 3,300,690 (2010: 3,534,982) were exercisable at the end of the year, with a weighted average exercise price of £2.34 
(2010: £2.42).

The options outstanding at 31 December 2011 had a weighted average contractual life of 2.5 years (2010: 3.2 years). 

The exercise prices for options outstanding at 31 December 2011 ranged from £1.39 to £4.55 (2010: £1.39 to £4.55).

The weighted average share price at the date of exercise approximates to the weighted average share price during the year, which  
was £5.34 (2010: £5.81).

The fair value of options granted under the EOP is measured by use of the Binomial Lattice model. The Binomial Lattice model is 
considered to be most appropriate for valuing options granted under this scheme as it allows exercise over a longer period of time  
between the vesting date and the expiry date. 

There were no new options granted under the EOP during the year.

Long Term Incentive Scheme (LTIS) and Long Term Incentive Plan (LTIP)
Awards made to eligible employees under the above schemes are structured as options with a zero exercise price and may be exercised 
after the third anniversary of grant. The extent to which an award vests (and therefore becomes exercisable) is measured by reference to 
the growth in the Group’s earnings per share (EPS) or total shareholder return (TSR) over the performance period of three financial years. 

If the options remain unexercised after a period of ten years from the date of grant, the options expire. Furthermore, options may be forfeited if the 
eligible employee leaves the Group before the options vest. Details of the movement in all LTIS and LTIP options are as follows:

Outstanding at 1 January 
Granted during the year 
Exercised during the year 
Lapsed during the year 

Outstanding at 31 December 

Number of 
options 
2011 
Thousands 

Weighted 
average 
exercise price 
2011 
£ 

3,691 
23 
(411) 
(665) 

2,638 

Nil 
Nil 
Nil 
Nil 

Nil 

Number of 
options 
2010 
Thousands 

5,623 
– 
(1,786) 
(146) 

3,691 

Weighted 
average 
exercise price 
2010 
£

Nil
Nil
Nil
Nil

Nil

Of these options, 2,169,500 (2010: 1,544,054) were exercisable at the end of the year.

The options outstanding at 31 December 2011 had a weighted average contractual life of 5.75 years (2010: 6.8 years).

There was one grant of LTIP options during the year. There are no performance conditions attached.

The fair value is considered to be their face value less the present value of any dividend payments not paid over the vesting period. 

The weighted average fair value of options granted under this scheme in the year was £5.36.

i

w
e
v
r
e
v
O

i

s
s
e
n
s
u
b
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
m
r
o
f
r
e
p
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
n
r
e
v
o
G

s
t
n
e
m
e
t
a
t
s

l

i

a
c
n
a
n
F

i

Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011 | 159

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Section 5 | Financial statements

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

34. Share-based payment expense (continued)

Transformational Share Scheme
Awards made to eligible employees under the Transformational Share Scheme are structured as options with a £nil exercise price and are 
exercisable after the third anniversary of the grant. 

The employee must exercise the options no later than 30 days after the vesting date. Furthermore, if the eligible employee leaves the Group 
before the options vest, the options may be forfeited.

Outstanding at 1 January 
Granted during the year 
Exercised during the year 
Lapsed during the year 

Outstanding at 31 December 

Number of 
options 
2011 
Thousands 

Weighted 
average 
exercise price 
2011 
£ 

Number of 
options 
2010 
Thousands 

Weighted 
average 
exercise price 
2010 
£

119 
– 
(33) 
– 

86 

Nil 
Nil 
Nil 
Nil 

Nil 

86 
33 
– 
– 

119 

Nil
Nil
Nil
Nil

Nil

None of these options were exercisable at the end of the year (2010: none).

The options outstanding at 31 December 2011 had a weighted average contractual life of 0.6 years (2010: 0.8 years).

Performance Share Plan (PSP)
Under the PSP, eligible employees have been granted options with an exercise price of two pence. Awards vest after the performance 
period of three years and are subject to the achievement of two performance measures. The primary performance measure is TSR and  
the second performance measure is based on EPS growth.

Outstanding at 1 January 
Granted during the year 
Exercised during the year 
Lapsed during the year 

Outstanding at 31 December 

Number of 
options 
2011 
Thousands 

Weighted 
average 
exercise price 
2011 
£ 

Number of 
options 
2010 
Thousands 

Weighted 
average 
exercise price 
2010 
£

3,944 
3,987 
(9) 
(496) 

7,426 

0.02 
0.02 
0.02 
0.02 

0.02 

479 
3,523 
– 
(58) 

3,944 

Nil
0.02
Nil
Nil

0.02

None of these options were exercisable at the end of the year (2010: none).

The options outstanding at 31 December 2011 had a weighted average contractual life of 8.7 years (2010: 9.2 years).

In the year, four grants were made with 70% of the options granted subject to TSR performance conditions and 30% subject to EPS growth 
performance conditions.

The options subject to TSR performance conditions were valued using the Monte Carlo Simulation model. The options subject to EPS 
growth performance conditions were deemed to have fair values equal to their face value less the present value of any dividend payments 
not received over the vesting period.

The Monte Carlo Simulation model is considered to be the most appropriate for valuing options granted under schemes where there are 
changes in performance conditions by which the options are measured, such as for the TSR-based awards.

The inputs into the Monte Carlo Simulation model for options granted during the year with TSR performance conditions are:

Weighted average share price 
Weighted average exercise price 
Expected volatility 
Expected life 
Risk-free rate 

2011 

558p 
2p 
28.1% 
3 years 
1.8% 

2010

615p
2p
28.9%
3 years
1.9%

Expected volatility was determined by calculating the historical volatility of the Group’s share price over the previous three years.  
The expected life used in the model has been adjusted, based on management’s best estimate, for the effects of non-transferability, 
exercise restrictions, and behavioural considerations. 

160 | Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
34. Share-based payment expense (continued)

Performance Share Plan (PSP) (continued)
The assumptions for options granted during the year with EPS growth performance conditions are:

Weighted average share price 
Weighted average exercise price 
Expected volatility 
Expected life 
Risk-free rate 

2011 

558p 
2p 
N/A 
3 years 
N/A 

2010

615p
2p
N/A
3 years
N/A

The weighted average fair value of options granted under this scheme in the year was £3.92.

Deferred Bonus Plan (DBP)
Under the DBP, eligible employees are entitled to use up to 50% of their earned annual bonus to purchase shares in the Group at market 
price. Provided they remain in employment for the three-year performance period, the shares are retained for that period and the two 
performance measures (which are the same as the PSP scheme, being TSR and EPS growth) have been met, the Group will make a 
matching share award. For shares purchased by employees in 2011, the match was on a basis of two times the gross bonus deferred.

Outstanding at 1 January 
Granted during the year 
Exercised during the year 
Lapsed during the year 

Outstanding at 31 December 

Number of 
options 
2011 
Thousands 

Weighted 
average 
exercise price 
2011 
£ 

Number of 
options 
2010 
Thousands 

Weighted 
average 
exercise price 
2010 
£

426 
324 
– 
– 

750 

Nil 
Nil 
Nil 
Nil 

Nil 

207 
219 
– 
– 

426 

Nil
Nil
Nil
Nil

Nil

None of these options were exercisable at the end of the year (2010: none).

The options outstanding at 31 December 2011 had a weighted average contractual life of 1.5 years (2010: 1.9 years).

In the year, one grant was made with 50% of the deferred bonus subject to TSR performance conditions and 50% subject to EPS growth 
performance conditions. 

The portion subject to TSR performance conditions was valued using the Monte Carlo Simulation model. The portion subject to EPS growth 
performance conditions was deemed to have a fair value equal to their face value less the present value of any dividend payments not 
received over the vesting period.

The Monte Carlo Simulation model is considered to be the most appropriate for valuing options granted under schemes where there are 
changes in performance conditions by which the options are measured, such as for the TSR-based awards.

The inputs into the Monte Carlo Simulation model for options granted during the year with TSR performance conditions are:

Weighted average share price 
Weighted average exercise price 
Expected volatility 
Expected life 
Risk-free rate 

2011 

548p 
Nil 
28.1% 
3 years 
1.9% 

2010

602p
Nil
28.9%
3 years
1.8%

Expected volatility was determined by calculating the historical volatility of the Group’s share price over the previous three years.  
The expected life used in the model has been adjusted, based on management’s best estimate, for the effects of non-transferability, 
exercise restrictions and behavioural considerations. 

i

w
e
v
r
e
v
O

i

s
s
e
n
s
u
b
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
m
r
o
f
r
e
p
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
n
r
e
v
o
G

s
t
n
e
m
e
t
a
t
s

l

i

a
c
n
a
n
F

i

Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011 | 161

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Section 5 | Financial statements

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

34. Share-based payment expense (continued)

Deferred Bonus Plan (DBP) (continued)
The assumptions for options granted during the year with EPS growth performance conditions are:

Weighted average share price 
Weighted average exercise price 
Expected volatility 
Expected life 
Risk-free rate 

2011 

548p 
Nil 
N/A 
3 years 
N/A 

2010

602p
Nil
N/A
3 years
N/A

The weighted average fair value of options granted under this scheme in the year was £4.38.

Sharesave 2008
The Sharesave 2008 scheme provides for a purchase price equal to the daily average market price on the date of grant less 10%. The options 
can be exercised for a period of six months following their vesting. Details of the movement in Sharesave 2008 options are as follows:

Outstanding at 1 January 
Granted during the year 
Exercised during the year 
Lapsed during the year 

Outstanding at 31 December 

Number of 
options 
2011 
Thousands 

Weighted 
average 
exercise price 
2011 
£ 

Number of 
options 
2010 
Thousands 

Weighted 
average 
exercise price 
2010 
£

5,479 
– 
(3,981) 
(390) 

1,108 

4.0 
4.0 
4.0 
4.0 

4.0 

6,106 
– 
(248) 
(379) 

5,479 

4.0
4.0
4.0
4.0

4.0

Of these options, 1,101,183 (2010: 16,278) were exercisable at the end of the year. 

The options outstanding at 31 December 2011 had a weighted average contractual life of 0.2 years (2010: 1.2 years).

Given that options granted under the Sharesave plan can be exercised at any time after vesting, management consider the Binomial Lattice 
model to be appropriate to value the options granted under this scheme. The Binomial Lattice model allows exercise over a window in time, 
from vesting date to expiry date, and assumes option holders make economically rational exercise decisions.

162 | Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
35. Related party transactions

Transactions between the Company and its wholly owned subsidiaries, which are related parties, have been eliminated on consolidation 
and are not disclosed in this note. Transactions between the Group and its joint venture undertakings are disclosed below, with the relevant 
proportion being eliminated on consolidation. 

Trading transactions
During the year, Group companies entered into the following material transactions with joint ventures:

Royalties and management fees receivable 
Dividends receivable 

The following receivable balances relating to joint ventures were included in the consolidated balance sheet:

Current:
Loans 

Non-current:
Loans 

2011 
£m 

1.5 
64.3 

65.8 

2011 
£m 

0.5 

2011 
£m 

3.2 

2010 
£m

2.0
51.5

53.5

2010 
£m

0.1

2010 
£m

3.5

Joint venture receivable and loan amounts outstanding have arisen from transactions undertaken during the general course of trading,  
are unsecured and will be settled in cash. Interest arising on loans is based on LIBOR, or its equivalent, with an appropriate margin.  
No guarantee has been given or received. No provisions are required for doubtful debts in respect of the amounts owed by the joint ventures.

Remuneration of key management personnel
The Directors of Serco Group plc had no material transactions with the Group during the year other than service contracts and Directors’ 
liability insurance. 

The remuneration of the key management personnel of the Group is set out below in aggregate for each of the categories specified in 
IAS 24 Related Party Disclosures:

Short-term employee benefits 
Post-employment benefits 
Share-based payment expense 

2011 
£m 

8.9 
0.6 
2.8 

12.3 

2010 
£m

7.5
0.8
2.8

11.1

The key management personnel comprise the Executive Directors, Non-Executive Directors and members of the Executive Committee 
(2011: 18 individuals, 2010: 19 individuals).

i

w
e
v
r
e
v
O

i

s
s
e
n
s
u
b
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
m
r
o
f
r
e
p
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
n
r
e
v
o
G

s
t
n
e
m
e
t
a
t
s

l

i

a
c
n
a
n
F

i

Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011 | 163

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Section 5 | Financial statements

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

36. List of principal undertakings

The Company has taken advantage of the exemption under Section 410(2) of the Companies Act 2006 by providing information only 
in relation to undertakings whose results or financial position, in the opinion of the Directors, principally affected the financial statements. 

A complete list of subsidiary and associated undertakings will be attached to the next Serco Group plc annual return to Companies House. 

The percentage of equity capital held directly or indirectly by Serco Group plc is shown. The voting rights are the same as the percentage 
holding. The companies are incorporated and principally operate in the countries stated below. 

Principal subsidiaries 

United Kingdom 

AMEAA 
Australia 
India 

North America
USA 

Joint venture undertakings 

United Kingdom 

Serco Limited 
NPL Management Limited 

Serco Australia Pty Limited 
Intelenet Global Services Private Limited 

2011 

100% 
100% 

100% 
100% 

2010

100%
100%

100%
–

Serco Inc.  

100% 

100%

AWE Management Limited 
Northern Rail Holdings Limited 

2011 

33% 
50% 

2010

33%
50%

All joint ventures are accounted for using the proportionate consolidation method. All the subsidiaries of the Group have been consolidated. 

All the principal subsidiaries of Serco Group plc and its joint venture undertakings are engaged in the provision of support services.

37. Contingent liabilities

The Company has guaranteed overdrafts, finance leases, and bonding facilities of its joint ventures up to a maximum value of £8.2m  
(2010: £8.2m). The actual commitment outstanding at 31 December 2011 was £4.8m (2010: £5.6m).

In addition to this, the Company and its subsidiaries have provided performance guarantees and indemnities relating to performance 
bonds and letters of credit issued by its banks on its behalf, in the ordinary course of business. These are not expected to result in any 
material financial loss.

The Group is aware of claims and potential claims which involve or may involve legal proceedings against the Group. The Directors are  
of the opinion, having regard to legal advice received and the Group’s insurance arrangements, that it is unlikely that these matters will,  
in aggregate, have a material effect on the Group’s financial position.

164 | Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011

 
 
 
 
 
UK GAAP Audit Report – Parent Company

Independent Auditor’s Report to the members of Serco Group plc
We have audited the parent Company Financial Statements of Serco Group plc for the year ended 31 December 2011 which comprise  
the Company Balance Sheet and the related notes 1 to 15. The financial reporting framework that has been applied in their preparation  
is applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice).

This report is made solely to the Company’s members, as a body, in accordance with Chapter 3 of Part 16 of the Companies Act 2006.  
Our audit work has been undertaken so that we might state to the Company’s members those matters we are required to state to them  
in an auditor’s report and for no other purpose. To the fullest extent permitted by law, we do not accept or assume responsibility to anyone 
other than the Company and the Company’s members as a body, for our audit work, for this report, or for the opinions we have formed.

Respective responsibilities of Directors and Auditor
As explained more fully in the Directors’ Responsibilities Statement, the Directors are responsible for the preparation of the parent Company 
Financial Statements and for being satisfied that they give a true and fair view. Our responsibility is to audit and express an opinion on  
the parent Company Financial Statements in accordance with applicable law and International Standards on Auditing (UK and Ireland). 
Those standards require us to comply with the Auditing Practices Board’s Ethical Standards for Auditors.

Scope of the audit of the financial statements
An audit involves obtaining evidence about the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements sufficient to give reasonable assurance 
that the financial statements are free from material misstatement, whether caused by fraud or error. This includes an assessment of: 
whether the accounting policies are appropriate to the parent Company’s circumstances and have been consistently applied and 
adequately disclosed; the reasonableness of significant accounting estimates made by the Directors; and the overall presentation  
of the financial statements. In addition, we read all the financial and non-financial information in the annual report to identify material 
inconsistencies with the audited financial statements. If we become aware of any apparent material misstatements or inconsistencies  
we consider the implications for our report.

Opinion on the parent Company Financial Statements
In our opinion the parent Company Financial Statements:
●● give a true and fair view of the state of the parent Company’s affairs as at 31 December 2011;
●● have been properly prepared in accordance with United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice; and
●● have been prepared in accordance with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006.

Opinion on other matters prescribed by the Companies Act 2006
In our opinion:
●● the part of the Directors’ Remuneration Report to be audited has been properly prepared in accordance with the Companies Act 2006; 

and 

●● the information given in the Directors’ Report for the financial year for which the financial statements are prepared is consistent with the 

parent Company Financial Statements.

Matters on which we are required to report by exception
We have nothing to report in respect of the following matters where the Companies Act 2006 requires us to report to you if, in our opinion:
●● adequate accounting records have not been kept by the parent Company, or returns adequate for our audit have not been received  

from branches not visited by us; or

●● the parent Company Financial Statements and the part of the Directors’ Remuneration Report to be audited are not in agreement  

with the accounting records and returns; or

●● certain disclosures of Directors’ remuneration specified by law are not made; or
●● we have not received all the information and explanations we require for our audit.

Other matter
We have reported separately on the Group Financial Statements of Serco Group plc for the year ended 31 December 2011. 

Richard Knights (Senior Statutory Auditor)
for and on behalf of Deloitte LLP 
Chartered Accountants and Statutory Auditor 
London, United Kingdom 
27 February 2012

i

w
e
v
r
e
v
O

i

s
s
e
n
s
u
b
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
m
r
o
f
r
e
p
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
n
r
e
v
o
G

s
s
t
t
n
n
e
e
m
m
e
e
t
t
a
a
t
t
s
s

l
l

i
i

a
a
c
c
n
n
a
a
n
n
F
F

i
i

Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011 | 165

 
 
 
 
 
Section 5 | Financial statements

Company Balance Sheet

At 31 December

Fixed assets
Investments in subsidiary undertakings 

Current assets
Amounts owed by subsidiary companies due after more than one year 
Debtors: amounts due within one year 
Debtors: amounts due after more than one year 
Derivative financial instruments: amounts due within one year 
Derivative financial instruments: amounts due after more than one year 
Cash at bank and in hand 

Creditors: amounts falling due within one year
Bank loans and overdrafts 
Loans 
Amounts owed to subsidiary companies 
Trade creditors 
Other creditors including taxation and social security 
Derivative financial instruments 
Accruals and deferred income 

Net current assets 

Total assets less current liabilities 
Creditors: amounts falling due after more than one year 
Amounts owed to subsidiary companies 
Provisions 
Derivative financial instruments 

Net assets 

Capital and reserves
Called up share capital 
Share premium account 
Capital redemption reserve 
Own shares reserve 
Share-based payment reserve 
Hedging and translation reserve 
Profit and loss account 

Shareholders’ funds 

Note 

2 

3 
3 
6 
6 

5 
5 

4 
6 

5 

6 

8 
9 

10 
11 
12 
13 

2011 
£m 

816.6 

816.6 

968.9 
4.7 
15.5 
6.4 
0.9 
– 

996.4 

(146.6) 
(23.6) 
(171.4) 
(0.1) 
(1.2) 
(4.2) 
(12.7) 

(359.8) 

636.6 

1,453.2 
(606.7) 
(222.1) 
(1.0) 
(0.2) 

623.2 

9.9 
322.7 
0.1 
(48.2) 
48.0 
1.9 
288.8 

623.2 

2010  
£m

812.1

812.1

585.3
5.6
15.6
2.2
1.8
–

610.5

(200.6)
(23.6)
(45.7)
(0.7)
(1.6)
(2.1)
(10.1)

(284.4)

326.1

1,138.2
(335.8)
(243.0)
(1.0)
(4.8)

553.6

9.9
306.7
0.1
(27.5)
38.7
(0.4)
226.1

553.6

The financial statements (registered number 2048608) were approved by the Board of Directors on 27 February 2012 and signed on its 
behalf by:

Christopher Hyman 
Chief Executive  

Andrew Jenner
Finance Director

166 | Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Company Financial Statements

1. Accounting policies

The principal accounting policies adopted are set out below and have been applied consistently throughout the current and preceding year. 

Basis of accounting
These financial statements have been prepared in accordance with United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice (UK GAAP) 
and applicable UK law.

Accounting convention
These accounts have been prepared under the historical cost convention and, as discussed in more detail in the Finance Review, on the 
going concern basis.

Fixed asset investments
Investments held as fixed assets are stated at cost less provision for any impairment in value.

Share-based payment
The Company has applied the requirements of FRS 20 Share-based Payment. In accordance with the transitional provisions, FRS 20  
has been applied to all grants of equity instruments after 7 November 2002 that were not fully vested as of 1 January 2005.

The Company issues equity-settled share-based payments to certain employees and operates an HMRC approved Save As You Earn 
(SAYE) share option scheme open to eligible employees which allows the purchase of shares at a discount. These are measured at fair 
value at the date of grant. The fair value is expensed on a straight-line basis over the vesting period, based on the Company’s estimate  
of shares that will eventually vest. SAYE options are treated as cancelled when employees cease to contribute to the scheme, resulting in 
an acceleration of the remainder of the related expense.

Where the fair value of share options requires the use of a valuation model, fair value is measured by use of the Binomial Lattice or Monte 
Carlo Simulation models depending on the type of scheme. The expected life used in the models has been adjusted, based on 
management’s best estimate, for the effects of non-transferability, exercise restrictions, and behavioural considerations. Where relevant,  
the value of the option has also been adjusted to take account of market conditions applicable to the option.

Dividends
Dividends are approved by the Board of Directors, and recorded in the Company’s financial statements in the period in which they are 
declared, appropriately authorised and no longer at the discretion of the Company.

Derivative financial instruments and hedging activities
Derivatives are initially recognised at fair value at the date a derivative contract is entered into and subsequently remeasured at fair value  
at each balance sheet date. The gain or loss is taken to the profit and loss account immediately unless the derivative is designated as a 
hedging instrument. The accounting treatment of derivatives classified as hedges depends on their designation, which occurs on the date 
that the derivative contract is committed to. The Company designates derivatives as:
●● a hedge of the fair value of an asset or liability (fair value hedge);
●● a hedge of the income/cost of a highly probable forecast transaction or commitment (cash flow hedge); and
●● a hedge of a net investment in a foreign entity.

Gains and losses on fair value are recorded in the profit and loss account with the gain or loss on the hedged item attributable to the 
hedged risk.

Gains or losses on cash flow hedges that are regarded as highly effective are recognised in equity. Where the forecast transaction results  
in a financial asset or liability, only gains or losses previously recognised in equity are reclassified to profit or loss in the same period as the 
asset or liability affects profit or loss. Where the forecast transaction or commitment results in a non-financial asset or liability, any gains or 
losses previously deferred in equity are included in the cost of the related asset or liability if the forecast transaction or commitment results 
in future income or expenditure. Gains and losses deferred in equity are transferred to the profit and loss account in the same period as  
the underlying income or expenditure. The ineffective portion of the gain or loss on the hedging instrument is recognised in the profit and 
loss account.

For the ineffective portion of hedges or transactions that are not designated for hedge accounting under FRS 26, any change in assets or 
liabilities is recognised immediately in the profit and loss account. Where a hedge no longer meets the effectiveness criteria, any gains or 
losses deferred in equity are only transferred to the profit and loss account when the committed or forecast transaction is recognised in the 
profit and loss account. However, where cash flow hedge accounting has been applied for a forecast or committed transaction that is no 
longer expected to occur, then the cumulative gain or loss that has been recorded in equity at that time remains in equity and is recognised 
when the forecast transaction is ultimately recognised in the profit and loss account.

Where the Company hedges net investments in foreign entities through currency borrowings, the gains or losses on the translation of the 
borrowings are recognised in equity. Gains and losses accumulated in equity are included in the profit and loss account when the foreign 
operation is disposed of.

Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011 | 167

i

w
e
v
r
e
v
O

i

s
s
e
n
s
u
b
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
m
r
o
f
r
e
p
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
n
r
e
v
o
G

s
t
n
e
m
e
t
a
t
s

l

i

a
c
n
a
n
F

i

 
 
 
 
Section 5 | Financial statements

Notes to the Company Financial Statements

1. Accounting policies (continued)

Current tax
Current tax, including UK corporation tax, is provided at amounts expected to be paid (or recovered) using the tax rates and laws that have 
been enacted or substantially enacted at the balance sheet date.

Deferred tax
The charge for taxation takes account of taxation deferred because of differences between the timing of recognition of certain items for taxation 
purposes and for accounting purposes. Deferred tax is recognised in respect of all timing differences that have originated but not reversed 
at the balance sheet date where the transactions or events that give rise to an obligation to pay more or less tax in the future have occurred by the 
balance sheet date. A deferred tax asset is recognised only when it is considered more likely than not that it will be recovered.

Deferred tax is recognised on a non-discounted basis using tax rates in force at the date the timing differences are expected to reverse.

2. Investments held as fixed assets

Shares in subsidiary companies at cost:
At 1 January 2011 
Options over parent’s shares awarded to employees of subsidiaries 
Disposals 

At 31 December 2011 

Shares in subsidiary companies at cost:
At 1 January 2010 
Options over parent’s shares awarded to employees of subsidiaries 

At 31 December 2010 

£m

812.1
7.1
(2.6)

816.6

£m

805.5
6.6

812.1

Full details of the principal subsidiaries of Serco Group plc can be found in note 36 to the Group’s consolidated financial statements. 
The Company directly owns 100% of the ordinary share capital of the following subsidiary.

Name 

Serco Holdings Limited 

% ownership

100%

168 | Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011

 
 
 
 
3. Debtors

Amounts due within one year
Amounts owed by subsidiary companies 
Corporation tax recoverable 
Other debtors 

Amounts due after more than one year
Amounts owed by joint ventures 
Other debtors 
Deferred tax asset (note 7) 

4. Other creditors including taxation and social security

Other creditors 

5. Creditors: amounts falling due after more than one year

Loans: 
Less: amounts included in creditors falling due within one year – loans 
Less: amounts included in creditors falling due within one year – bank loans and overdrafts 

Amounts falling due after more than one year 

Loans:
Within one year or on demand 
Between one and two years 
Between two and five years 
After five years 

2011 
£m 

0.1 
2.5 
2.1 

4.7 

3.3 
8.5 
3.7 

15.5 

20.2 

2011 
£m 

1.2 

2011 
£m 

776.9 
(23.6) 
(146.6) 

606.7 

170.2 
126.0 
104.3 
376.4 

776.9 

2010 
£m

–
3.0
2.6

5.6

3.4
9.4
2.8

15.6

21.2

2010 
£m

1.6

2010 
£m

560.0
(23.6)
(200.6)

335.8

224.2
111.8
224.0
–

560.0

i

w
e
v
r
e
v
O

i

s
s
e
n
s
u
b
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
m
r
o
f
r
e
p
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
n
r
e
v
o
G

s
t
n
e
m
e
t
a
t
s

l

i

a
c
n
a
n
F

i

Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011 | 169

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Section 5 | Financial statements

Notes to the Company Financial Statements

6. Derivative financial instruments

Currency swaps 
Interest rate swaps 
Forward foreign exchange contracts 

Analysed as: 
Non-current 
Current 

Assets 
2011 
£m 

Liabilities 
2011 
£m 

Assets 
2010 
£m 

Liabilities 
2010 
£m

0.9 
– 
6.4 

7.3 

0.9 
6.4 

7.3 

– 
(0.6) 
(3.8) 

(4.4) 

(0.2) 
(4.2) 

(4.4) 

0.9 
– 
3.1 

4.0 

1.8 
2.2 

4.0 

The Company holds derivative financial instruments in accordance with the Group’s policy in relation to its financial risk management. 
Details of the disclosures are set out in note 26 of the Group’s consolidated financial statements.

7. Deferred tax asset

Capital allowances in excess of depreciation 
Short-term timing differences 

The movement in the deferred tax asset during the year was as follows:

At 1 January 
Charged to profit and loss account 
Items taken directly to equity 

At 31 December 

8. Called up share capital

Issued and fully paid:
493,220,805 (2010: 490,912,075) ordinary shares of 2p each at 1 January 
Issued on the exercise of share options 

2011 
£m 

9.9 
– 

497,327,070 (2010: 493,220,805) ordinary shares of 2p each at 31 December  9.9 

The Company has one class of ordinary shares which carry no right to fixed income.

Number 
2011 
Millions 

493.2 
4.1 

497.3 

2011 
£m 

0.1 
3.6 

3.7 

2011 
£m 

2.8 
1.8 
(0.9) 

3.7 

2010 
£m 

9.8 
0.1 

9.9 

During the year 4,106,265 (2010: 2,308,730) ordinary shares of 2p each were allotted to the holders of share-based awards or their 
personal representatives using newly listed shares.

170 | Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011

–
(3.5)
(3.4)

(6.9)

(4.8)
(2.1)

(6.9)

2010 
£m

0.2
2.6

2.8

2010 
£m

3.1
(0.1)
(0.2)

2.8

Number 
2010 
Millions

490.9
2.3

493.2

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
9. Share premium account

At 1 January  
Premium on shares issued 

At 31 December  

10. Own shares

2011 
£m 

306.7 
16.0 

322.7 

2010 
£m

304.1
2.6

306.7

The own shares reserve represents the cost of shares in Serco Group plc purchased in the market and held by the Serco Group plc Employee 
Share Ownership Trust (ESOT) to satisfy options under the Group’s share options schemes. At 31 December 2011, the ESOT held 
8,267,992 (2010: 4,710,201) shares equal to 1.7% of the current allotted share capital (2010: 1.0%). The market value of shares held  
by the ESOT as at 31 December 2011 was £39.2m (2010: £26.2m).

11. Share-based payment reserve

At 1 January 
Options over parent’s shares awarded to employees of subsidiaries  
Share-based payment expense 
Share options to holders on exercise 

At 31 December 

2011 
£m 

38.7 
7.1 
4.2 
(2.0) 

48.0 

Details of the share-based payment disclosures are set out in note 34 of the Group’s consolidated financial statements.

12. Hedging and translation reserve

At 1 January  
Fair value gain on cash flow hedges during the period  
Tax charge on items taken directly to equity 
Net exchange (loss)/gain on translation of foreign operations 

At 31 December  

2011 
£m 

(0.4) 
3.3 
(0.9) 
(0.1) 

1.9 

2010 
£m

32.8
6.6
2.2
(2.9)

38.7

2010 
£m

(1.5)
0.5
(0.2)
0.8

(0.4)

i

w
e
v
r
e
v
O

i

s
s
e
n
s
u
b
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
m
r
o
f
r
e
p
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
n
r
e
v
o
G

s
t
n
e
m
e
t
a
t
s

l

i

a
c
n
a
n
F

i

Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011 | 171

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Section 5 | Financial statements

Notes to the Company Financial Statements

13. Profit and loss account

At 1 January 
Profit for the year 
Equity dividends 

At 31 December 

2011 
£m 

226.1 
100.0 
(37.3) 

288.8 

2010 
£m

173.2
85.2
(32.3)

226.1

As permitted by Section 408 of the Companies Act 2006, the profit and loss account of the Company is not presented as part of 
these accounts. 

14. Contingent liabilities

The Company has provided certain financial guarantees and indemnities in respect of the loans, overdraft and bonding facilities, and other 
financial commitments of its subsidiaries. The total commitment outstanding as at 31 December 2011 was £79.7m (2010: £126.0m).

The Company has also guaranteed overdrafts, finance leases, and bonding facilities of its joint ventures up to a maximum value of £8.2m 
(2010: £8.2m). The actual commitment outstanding at 31 December 2011 was £4.8m (2010: £5.6m).

In addition to this, the Company has provided performance guarantees and indemnities relating to performance bonds and letters of credit 
issued by its banks on its behalf, in the ordinary course of business. These are not expected to result in any material financial loss.

15. Related parties

The Directors of Serco Group plc had no material transactions with the Company or its subsidiaries during the year other than service 
contracts and Directors’ liability insurance. Details of the Directors’ remuneration are disclosed in the Remuneration Report for the Group.

The Company is exempt under the terms of FRS 8 Related Party Disclosure, from disclosing related party transactions with entities that are 
part of the Group. Full details of the transactions between Serco Group plc and its related parties can be found in note 35 to the Group’s 
consolidated financial statements.

172 | Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011

 
 
 
Supplementary information

Five-year record

Revenue 
Adjusted operating profit 
Adjusted operating margin 
Profit before tax 

Group free cash flow  
Group recourse net debt 
Total net debt 

£m 
£m 
% 
£m 

£m 
£m 
£m 

Adjusted earnings per share  
Dividend per share 

pence 
pence 

2011 

4,646 
290.1 
6.24% 
238.3 

168.3 
(669.8) 
(633.9) 

39.59p 
8.40p 

2010 

4,327 
258.7 
5.98% 
213.9 

185.8 
(303.6) 
(261.2) 

34.69p 
7.35p 

2009 

3,970 
229.7 
5.79% 
177.1 

137.3 
(387.7) 
(358.5) 

29.53p 
6.25p 

2008 

3,124 
165.2 
5.29% 
136.1 

94.2 
(524.5) 
(514.1) 

22.20p 
5.00p 

2007

2,811
142.0
5.05%
114.6

97.6
(137.9)
(162.3)

18.57p
4.25p

i

w
e
v
r
e
v
O

i

s
s
e
n
s
u
b
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
m
r
o
f
r
e
p
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
n
r
e
v
o
G

s
t
n
e
m
e
t
a
t
s

l

i

a
c
n
a
n
F

i

Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011 | 173

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Section 5 | Financial statements

Directors, Secretary and Advisors

Chairman
Alastair Lyons CBE

Directors
Leonard V. Broese van Groenou*
Ralph D. Crosby Jr*
Christopher Hyman CBE
Andrew Jenner
David Richardson*^
Angie Risley*

*  Non-Executive Director
 ^  Senior Independent Director

Secretary
Joanne Roberts

Registered Office
Serco House
16 Bartley Wood Business Park
Bartley Way
Hook
Hampshire
RG27 9UY

Serco Group plc is registered in
England and Wales, No. 2048608

Auditor
Deloitte LLP
2 New Street Square
London 
EC4A 3BZ

Investment Bankers
UBS Limited
1 Finsbury Avenue
London 
EC2M 2PP

Stockbrokers
J.P. Morgan Cazenove
125 London Wall
London
EC2Y 5AJ

Merrill Lynch International
2 King Edward Street
London
EC1A 1HQ

Principal Bankers
HSBC Bank PLC
8 Canada Square
London
E14 5HQ

Solicitors
Linklaters LLP
One Silk Street
London
EC2Y 8HQ

Registrars
Equiniti
Aspect House
Spencer Road
Lancing
West Sussex
BN99 6DA

174 | Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011

 
Shareholder information

Group website
Go to www.serco.com to catch up on the current share price, latest news in the investors section and read the Annual report and accounts.

Registrars
Administrative enquiries about the holding of Serco Group plc shares and enquiries in relation to the Serco Dividend Reinvestment Plan 
(DRIP) should be directed to:

Equiniti
Aspect House
Spencer Road
Lancing
West Sussex
BN99 6DA

Tel: 0871 384 2932

There is a text phone available on 0871 384 2255 for shareholders with hearing difficulties.

(Calls to both of these numbers are charged at 8p per minute from a BT landline. Other telephony provider costs may vary.)

Callers from outside the UK should use +44 (0)121 415 7047. 

Telephone lines are open 8.30am to 5.30pm Monday to Friday.

Dividend reinvestment plan
You can elect to receive future dividends as shares rather than cash by participating in the DRIP. To register, request further information  
or to obtain a copy of the terms and conditions booklet and mandate form please contact Equiniti on 0871 384 2932. Alternatively,  
these can be downloaded from the website www.shareview.co.uk by choosing the Dividend Reinvestment Plan heading within the  
Product Centre section.

Dividends paid direct to your bank account
●● Avoid the risk of cheques being lost in the post
●● No need to present cheques for payment
●● Dividend credited to your account on payment date

To set up a dividend mandate or change your existing mandated details please register with the Shareholder Centre via the Shareview 
website or contact Equiniti on the number provided above.

Global payment services
For overseas shareholders in certain countries, Equiniti offers an Overseas Payment Service by arrangement with Citibank Europe plc.  
This service offers shareholders the ability to have their dividend converted into their local currency and sent electronically to their local 
bank account. To sign up for this service, please contact Equiniti on 0871 384 2932 (+44 (0)121 415 7047 if calling from outside the UK). 
Alternatively, you can download an application form and terms and conditions from the website www.shareview.co.uk.

Electronic communication
You can register for electronic communications by visiting www.shareview.co.uk; you will need your shareholder reference number to  
sign up. After you have registered you will receive emails alerting you to communications as they become available. 

i

w
e
v
r
e
v
O

i

s
s
e
n
s
u
b
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
m
r
o
f
r
e
p
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
n
r
e
v
o
G

s
t
n
e
m
e
t
a
t
s

l

i

a
c
n
a
n
F

i

Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011 | 175

 
 
 
 
Section 5 | Financial statements

Shareholder information

Share dealing
Serco does not endorse any one service for the buying and selling of its shares. However, arrangements have been made with the following 
independent share-dealing provider to offer all shareholders competitive charges. 

Alternatively, if shareholders hold a share certificate they can also use any bank, building society or stockbroker offering share dealing 
facilities. Shareholders in any doubt about buying or selling their shares should seek professional financial advice.

Stocktrade
We have arranged a telephone share dealing service with Stocktrade for purchases/sales of Serco Group plc shares. You should  
call 0845 601 0995 between 8.00am and 4.30pm, Monday to Friday and quote Low Co 330 (callers from outside the UK should call 
+44 (0)131 240 0508). Commission is charged at 0.5% on amounts to £10,000 and 0.2% on the excess thereafter, subject to a minimum 
charge of £17.50. Further details and other dealing options can be found at www.stocktrade.co.uk/serco. This service is not available  
to US residents.

Please note that UK share purchases will be subject to 0.5% stamp duty. 

Shareholder profile
The range and size of ordinary shareholding as at 31 December 2011 is set out below:

Range of shareholdings 

1–1,000 
1,001–5,000 
5,001–10,000 
10,001–100,000 
100,001–500,000 
500,001–1,000,000 
1,000,001–10,000,000 
10,000,001 and above 

Total 

Number of shareholders 

% 

Number of shares 

4,938 
3,281 
453 
491 
173 
50 
63 
11 

9,460 

52.19 
34.68 
4.79 
5.19 
1.83 
0.53 
0.67 
0.12 

100 

2,112,850 
6,923,124 
3,174,826 
15,358,853 
42,987,398 
36,126,543 
161,830,928 
228,812,548 

497,327,070 

%

0.43
1.39
0.64
3.09
8.64
7.26
32.54
46.01

100

176 | Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011

 
 
Financial calendar

Preliminary results announcement 
Ex-dividend date 
Record date 
Last date for receipt/revocation of  
DRIP dividend mandates  
Interim Management Statement  
Annual General Meeting 
Final dividend pay date 
Half-year results announcement  
Financial year-end 

*  Subject to shareholder approval
**  Provisional

2012

28 February 
7 March
9 March

27 April
14 May
14 May 
22 May*
29 August**

31 December

Printed on Cocoon Silk 50 which is certified  
as an FSC® product manufactured with 50%  
recycled fibres and 50% virgin fibres.

Designed and produced by FTI Consulting  www.fticonsulting.com 
Printed in England by Pureprint Group  www.pureprint.com

Serco Group plc | Annual report and accounts 2011 | 177

i

w
e
v
r
e
v
O

i

s
s
e
n
s
u
b
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
m
r
o
f
r
e
p
r
u
O

e
c
n
a
n
r
e
v
o
G

s
t
n
e
m
e
t
a
t
s

l

i

a
c
n
a
n
F

i

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Serco Group plc
Registered Office:
Serco House, 16 Bartley Wood Business Park
Bartley Way, Hook, Hampshire RG27 9UY

T: +44 (0)1256 745 900
E: generalenquiries@serco.com
www.serco.com