By Michael Semark

Boyden understand that modern resource management, in the context of projects, is both challenging and a significant opportunity for leadership teams to change the capabilities within the business.

With change now the ‘business as usual’, most of our clients are either in growth or change mode and need immediate help with their workforce on major strategic programs.

Changing social demographics, disruptive technologies and globalisation all require fresh leadership and fresh perspectives on a long-term basis. But where should you turn to obtain the input and expertise for vital projects?

We have looked at the three main resourcing options that are available (along with the potential pros and cons) when compiling a project team to drive transformation:

Interim Managers

Interim Management is the ‘temporary’ supply of an individual with management expertise into an organisation. These individuals are referred to as Interim or Transformation Managers and will typically be experienced business leaders who operate through their own individual limited companies.

Interim Managers have consciously made a career choice to operate in this way and are typically experienced Managers / Directors who have spent time sat “in the client’s seat”. Giving them a deep understanding of the requirements and best approaches for the project. Typically, they will have operated in this capacity for several years.

So, what are the benefits of hiring an Interim Manager?

Pros

Cons

Management Consultants

The Australian management consulting market has grown significantly over the past few years and  is now estimated as being worth more than $5 billion. According to research, the consulting sector in Australia grew much faster than the economy over the past three years.

Is this surprising? Especially as the majority of ASX 100 organisations partner with Management Consultants.

Management Consultants primarily focus on improving organisational performance by analysing the existing challenges and developing plans for improvement. There are major players like the global strategy houses, big four professional services organisations, as well as a growing number of boutique organisations in this space, who can provide specialist expertise.

So, what are the benefits of hiring Management Consultants?

Cons

Internal Resources

When starting a new project within the organisation, businesses will often look internally to identify strong performers to run business critical change projects. It is rare that momentous change projects will be fulfilled entirely by an internal team. Nonetheless, it is equally vital that internal team members are involved in these types of initiatives. This will prevent the programme losing momentum after the specialist change experts leave.

At first glance, an internal consultant is just like an external consultant. They are put onto the project to solve organisational challenges and improve the performance of an organisation.

So, what are the benefits of using Internal Resources?

Cons

So, would you hire an Interim Manager, Management Consultant or Internal Resource for your next Change and Transformation project? 

Each of the three options we have explored have both pros and cons. As a business leader, you will need to think carefully about the type of change project you are embarking on, along with the budget and resources available. You may choose a blend of all three options or have a preference but whatever it is you need to consider this decision carefully.

We would be keen to hear your thoughts on what you look for in a Change and Transformation leader.

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