Old state

A strong performing sector within a technology led infrastructure organisation had a need to invest in developing its Programme Director capability.  It had engaged its main customers to understand future requirements and seek feedback on areas where it could improve its current way of performing.

Key areas of feedback to project and programme managers were:

• the competing demands of the customer
• future developments in technology
• consumer expectations that could challenge the existing delivery model

What the organisation did to change its state

The organisation had to balance the demands of project and programme delivery with the development of a key layer of its manager population.

To do this it took the following steps:

• using Korn Ferry Leadership Architect™ the sector leadership team identified those capabilities that were vital at Project Director and Project/Programme Manager level.
• decided that development should be individually driven, supported by a coach, sector mentor and learning sets. This would help balance the demands of the role with the energy required to develop.

The coach helped individuals assess themselves against Programme Director capabilities and worked with the individual to develop a realistic development plan.

The sector mentor (identified from a pool of existing Project Directors) provided experienced insight, connected individuals with customers and broadened leadership thinking.

Learning sets allowed participating individuals to come together and share experience, ideas and insight.

New state

Development took place over approx. 12 months, varying for each individual.  The evaluation report contained evidence that Programme Director, Project and Programme Manager capability had increased across the group.  The report had also closed the loop with the customer, providing positive anecdotal feedback that individuals were much more engaged with future customer requirements. 

This demonstration of confidence, without losing existing reputation, was one of the reasons given for the sector successfully winning future work in the 12 months post programme.