We invited change management practitioner Cathy Jensen to share a little about herself with our change management community.
Tell us about yourself.
I’m a born and raised Vancouverite although I’ve enjoyed traveling the world – Kenya, Tanzania, Russia and Thailand are my most memorable trips. I finished my BSc in computer science before switching gears and becoming a Respiratory Therapist. I worked clinically for several years before moving into Clinical Informatics, and eventually into project management and change management.
How did you get into Change Management?
Even before I knew what change management was my previous roles were heavily focused on supporting change, and I’ve loved the work over the years. I was introduced to the Prosci methodology while I was working on the Surrey Memorial Hospital Redevelopment project; I loved the structure that it provided in my projects. I led some internal team building work with my last team and was so energized by it that I decided to take the leap and move to full time change management work. Since then, there’s been no looking back. I’m enjoying every minute of the journey.
What are you working on?
I’m currently working with the software development team that builds the PROMIS health information system that is used in all the renal and transplant clinics across BC. The system has been in use for many years, and is a tremendous source of health data that is used to guide renal and transplant care across the province. We are in the midst of a transition to Agile as well as beginning a rebuild of the platform – so there’s lots of change underway!
Ongoing learning is important to me and something I’m always working on. I’ve just completed my first coaching certificate and I’m looking forward to completing the CCMP certification in the next few months. I’m also in the process of completing my Integral Facilitator training and certification.
Do you have any recommended change management books / resources to share?
My favourite change book is Immunity to Change by Robert Kegan and Lisa Laskow Lahey. I really appreciate the differentiation between technical solutions and adaptive solutions, how to determine when each is best suited to solve a problem, and how to uncover the adaptive solution in order to be successful in change.
I’d also definitely recommend coming to the ACMP Greater Vancouver Chapter events! The other change practitioners in this community are a wealth of information and I’m continually grateful for all the amazing people I meet at our events.
How do you like to spend your time outside of work?
I love reading, playing ice-hockey and swimming. Recently I learned some basics in jewelry making and Sunday afternoons often find me making a new piece at my workbench.