I manage my own consulting firm that helps companies reach their goals through successfully managing people, change and transformation. I have over 15 years of consulting experience, as both an internal and external consultant, and have worked in a variety of industries, including: insurance, utilities, pulp and paper, technology, manufacturing, software development and education. I’ve supported large-scale transformation, operational change and organizational development.
How did you get into Change Management?
My introduction to change management was through learning how to successfully implement new people and performance programs when I worked as an Organizational Development consultant. Shortly after, I was introduced to a Change Management methodology (AIM) and used it to help build organizational change capability and prepare for and support a $400 million, multi-year transformation program. I’ve added to my change management knowledge with Prosci training and a CCMP certification.
What are you working on?
In the last year, I’ve helped a client transition back to a decentralized business model, which included process, technology and people changes. I’m also helping another client align and enhance their people and development practices to support their new business strategy. This includes implementing a new performance program and system, integrating a new e-learning solution with their competencies and refreshing some of their learning curriculum.
What were some of the highlights of the ACMP Regional Conference you attended in Toronto?
The first Canadian Conference was a great opportunity to meet and exchange ideas with other Change professionals in a smaller and shorter event than the Global Conference. There were approximately 200 participants from 140 organizations. While 70% of the participants were from Canada, the other 25% was from the US, ME, Europe and the Caribbean. There was a good cross section of speakers that appealed to the audience’s diverse experience and interests. I particularly enjoyed hearing how Change Management practitioners are successfully working in more agile environments, leveraging social media for stakeholder communication and engagement, and helping organizations with the significant amount of change associated with migrating to cloud-based/SaaS solutions.
Do you have any recommended change management books / resources to share?
Some of my favorite resources for change management include:
• Reviewing articles, white papers and webinars from AIM, Prosci and ACMP
• Participating in the ACMP Vancouver Chapter meetings and coffee chats (It’s always great to exchange ideas with local practitioners)
• Podcasts or lynda.com courses. Change at Work – Elcaira Radio on itunes has a number of podcasts on Change Management. Lynda.com has a good playlist of Change Management courses (subscription required or try it free for a month)
How do I like to spend my time outside of work?
When I’m not working, I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, learning, hiking the North Shore trails and anything to do with travel. I also enjoy supporting community organizations and mentoring emerging professionals.
