This paper examines the undermining of formal processes and their necessary supporting structures in the light of the psychoanalytic theories of Chasseguet-Smirgel, in particular her use of the concepts of the ego ideal and perversion. It is argued that, in a perverse process, formal structures and procedures may be undermined, bypassed or dismantled. The author suggests that this is common in the contemporary culture of organisational life and is underpinned by neoliberal ideology. This argument is considered with reference to the work of the sociologist Paul du Gay, which focuses upon bureaucracy and a reading of the ideas of Max Weber. The impact of perverse processes on public bureaux in the UK is explored.