Organisational Change Manager
Job Description:Organisational Change Managers play a critical role in helping organisations plan, implement, and navigate transitions, transformations, and changes in their operations, processes, or structures
Job Category:What you will do:
Here are the key responsibilities and activities typically associated with the role of Organisational Change Managers:
- collaborate with leadership and stakeholders to develop a comprehensive change management plan
- identify and analyse the various stakeholders affected by the change, including employees, customers, suppliers, and other relevant parties
- tailor communication and engagement strategies for different groups
- assess how the proposed changes will impact different aspects of the organisation
- identify potential risks and challenges and develop mitigation strategies
- create communication plans that outline what information needs to be shared, when, and through which channels
- continuously monitor the progress of the change initiative, gather feedback from employees and stakeholders, and make adjustments to the change management plan as needed
- maintain clear and comprehensive records of the change management process
Skills:
You’ll need:
- understanding of change management frameworks
- develop a solid understanding of the organisation’s industry, business operations, and strategies
- knowledge of organisational behaviour, psychology, and sociology
- project management skills
- skills in data collection and analysis
- familiarity with technology and software tools
As well as:
- effective leadership skills
- strong communication skills, including active listening
- understanding and empathy with the concerns, fears, and challenges that employees and stakeholders may experience during change
- experience with resolving conflicts and managing tensions that may arise among team members or stakeholders as a result of change
- to be flexible and adaptable to changing circumstances (adaptability skills)
- problem-solving abilities
Entry Requirements:
To become an Organisational Change Manager, you’ll typically need a strong educational background and relevant skills, but there are no specific qualifications required for this role. Here are some subjects that can be beneficial for aspiring Organisational Change Managers:
- English: Excellent written and verbal communication skills are crucial for conveying change strategies, creating clear communication plans, and engaging with employees at all levels.
- Mathematics: Basic math skills can be helpful for budgeting and financial analysis, which may be part of change management projects.
- Business Studies: Business studies can provide a foundational understanding of organisational structures, management principles, and business operations.
- Psychology or Sociology: Courses in psychology or sociology can be useful for understanding human behaviour, motivation, and group dynamics within an organisation.
- IT Skills: Familiarity with computer software and data analysis tools can be advantageous for managing and analysing data related to organisational change efforts.
Post School
University
Start by earning a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field, such as:
- business management
- organisational psychology
- or a related discipline
While not always required, some Organisational Change Managers choose to pursue a master’s degree, such as:
- Master of Business Administration (MBA)
- Master of Science in Organisational Development or Change Management.
Work Experience
Gain experience in roles related to organisational change, project management, or management consulting. Entry-level positions in these areas can provide valuable insights into change management processes.
Organisational Change Managers play a critical role in helping organisations adapt to new strategies, technologies, and processes. Developing a strong educational foundation, gaining practical experience, and honing essential skills will prepare you for a successful career in this field.
Working Hours and Environment:
Typically you could work 44 to 46 hours a week, occasionally including weekends.
An Organisational Change Manager typically works in an office setting within a corporate or organisational environment.
They may also travel to various locations within the organisation, attend meetings, and collaborate with different departments.
Career Path & Progression:
Consider specialising in specific industries, such as healthcare, finance, or technology, to become an industry expert in change management within a particular sector.
Experienced Organisational Change Managers may choose to work as independent consultants or join change management consulting firms, where they can work with multiple clients on various change projects.