The Role and Function of a Change Manager

What is the role of a change manager?

The role of a change manager can be divided into a series of stages, covering one or multiple projects:

• • To apply a structured methodology and lead change management activities: This involves applying a change management process and a series of tools to create a strategy that supports the acceptance and adoption of required changes.
  • To support communication efforts: This means supporting the design, delivery, and management of communications carried out by other managers, leaders, and senior executives.
  • To assess the change’s impact: This will involve conducting analyses, assessing change readiness, and identifying key stakeholders.
  • To support training efforts: This will require the individual to provide input, to document requirements, and to support the design and delivery of training programmes for employees.

Further responsibilities which may fall under the role of a change manager, but which may vary depending on the organisation, include:

• • Coaching managers and supervisors
  • Completing change management assessments.
  • Consulting and coaching project teams.
  • Coordinating efforts with other specialists
  • Creating actionable deliverables for the five change management levers (the set of tools aimed at supporting individuals through change). These levers are a communication plan, a sponsorship roadmap, a coaching plan, a training plan, and a resistance management plan.
  • Defining and measuring success metrics and monitoring the progress of change.
  • Evaluating and ensuring user readiness.
  • Identifying, analysing, and preparing risk mitigation tactics.
  • Identifying and managing resistance.
  • Integrating change management activities into a project plan.
  • Managing the change portfolio.
  • Managing stakeholders.
  • Supporting and engaging senior leaders.
  • Supporting change management at the organisational level.
  • Supporting organisational design and definition of individual roles and responsibilities.
  • Tracking and reporting issues.

How to become a change manager

In order to become a change manager, a candidate will ideally first have obtained a degree or a Higher National Diploma (HND) in a related subject. Subjects generally considered to be related to change management include:

• • Business Studies
  • Human Resources Management
  • Management
  • Law
  • Psychology

Individuals seeking new opportunities as change managers can also enter the profession through change management certifications. There is a multitude of these available online or through specialist providers, but the one chosen should be accredited by the industry’s examination body, APMG International. Otherwise, it is also possible to complete specialised change management practitioner courses. These are particularly beneficial for those who already have a qualification in change management and wish to develop their skills.

Skills and attributes associated with change managers

Alongside particular qualifications and certifications, candidates for the role of change manager may also be expected to display certain skills and attributes that demonstrate their capability. These skills and attributes may include:

• • A solid understanding of how people go through change and the change process.
  • Acute business acumen, with detailed knowledge of the business environment and an understanding of organisational challenges.
  • An ability to clearly articulate messages to a wide variety of audiences.
  • An ability to establish and maintain strong relationships.
  • An ability to influence others in order to move towards a common vision or goal.
  • An ability to problem solve and to identify the root causes of problems.
  • Being a team player, and able to work collaboratively with and through others.
  • Being able to work effectively at all levels within an organisation.
  • Being flexible and adaptable, and able to work in ambiguous situations.
  • Being forward-looking and thinking, with a holistic approach.
  • Being organised, with a natural inclination towards planning strategy and tactics.
  • Being resilient, tenacious, and having great perseverance.
  • Exceptional communication skills, especially those related to marketing and communication, which should be demonstrated in both written and verbal capacities.
  • Experience and knowledge of change management principles, methodologies, and digital and nondigital tools that can be utilised to ensure its success.
  • Experience with large-scale organisational change efforts.
  • Familiarity with project management approaches, tools, and the phases of the project lifecycle.
  • Having excellent active listening skills.

Submit an Application and facilitate Change

To find skilled professionals who will perfectly fill the vacant change management role in your organisation, or to apply for a change management job if you are interested in finding new opportunities, send us your CV or contact us today. Our Change Team will be fully prepared to offer specialist advice and an unparalleled recruitment process that ensures all organisations have the best in-house capability and all talent is placed into the project manager role which suits them completely.