IT Business Partner Playbook

Marc Morley
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We currently have 2 series running on our channel - the IT Business Partner Playbook, and the Executive Leadership overview The first is a weekly series featuring Business Relationship Managers and IT Business Partners from across the globe. Unrehearsed, unprepared, unrestricted and maybe a little unpredictable... this podcast aims to share our guests' experiences, to provide insights and ideas to our listeners. Some will be looking for inspiration, others for tips and tools, while others will be looking for some support and comfort. While the role can be hugely rewarding, it can also be extremely tough, and it's important to know that whatever you're going through as a BRM/BP, there are others out there going through it too. You're not alone, and there is a beaming light at the end of the tunnel. You might just be in the wrong tunnel... Tune in for smiles, sincerity and hopefully not too much sauce! Our second series is AI generated. Gasp! Yes, we let the robots do the talking in this 4-part series which focuses on the concise courses we've created to guide executives through the maze of Governance, Security, Digital Transformation - and Business Relationship. Listen as Joe and Sarah discuss our Executive Leadership Series (ELS) - designed to help leadership understand and oversee effective practices, using business language and a four-stage life cycle: "Doing the right things," "Doing them the right way," "Getting them done well," and "Getting the benefits," Our hosts break down each stage of the life cycle, providing a cookbook-style approach that outlines how to implement the strategies, the necessary components, and what can go wrong. Throughout their discussion, they highlight our real-world examples from major organisations like GE, Pfizer, Goldman Sachs, and Bank of America. Our ELS courses were created by Gary Hardy, co-creator of the COBIT framework and include contributions from; Carolynn Chalmers - CEO, Good Governance Academy Frank Wander - CEO, People Productive Jimmy Heschel - Global Head of Digital Security, Red Bull John Thorp - Chair, ValIT development committee Kip Fanta - Founder, Kip Fanta Group Martin Smith - Chairman and Founder, The Security Awareness Special Interest Group Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  1. How to build BRM Framework that Delivers | Stuart Fairweather

    11/14/2025

    How to build BRM Framework that Delivers | Stuart Fairweather

    The IT Business Partner Podcast Episode 31 highlights perfectly the impact the structure, strategy, and cultural intelligence that results from a well designed and supported Business Partnering function. I was joined by Stuart Fairweather, IT Business Partner for a Japanese pharmaceutical manufacturer, to explore how he built and embedded a Business Partnering Framework across EMEA - and what it takes to make it stick. 1️⃣ Building the Framework Stuart and his Head of IT Business Partnering designed a phased rollout plan that positioned BRMs as the focal point for IT-related queries. The result? A clear, trusted bridge between IT, the PMO, and business leadership - ensuring every project aligns with strategy and purpose. 2️⃣ Beyond the Buzz When it comes to AI, Stuart’s approach is grounded in pragmatism. He cautioned against chasing trends without business context, instead focusing on practical, value-driven applications that enable real growth. 3️⃣ Tracking What Matters His team uses a SharePoint-based Business Partner Tracker - a simple yet powerful tool for managing relationships, capturing demand, and communicating IT value. It’s become a visible proof-point of how structured BRM engagement accelerates trust and delivery. 4️⃣ Global Perspective, Local Respect Having worked extensively in Japan, Stuart shared how cultural intelligence underpins effective partnership - listening first, respecting hierarchy, and adapting communication styles to suit the audience. It’s a reminder that the best BRMs are learners before they are leaders. Watch full episode here; 🎧 https://youtu.be/RaI-pkf6pso This episode shows how structure, discipline, and cultural awareness can turn business partnering from concept to capability - creating clarity, connection, and measurable impact across regions. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    45 min
  2. From Translator to Leader: The Evolution of the Business Partner

    09/26/2025

    From Translator to Leader: The Evolution of the Business Partner

    In episode 30 of The Business Partner Podcast, I sat down with Maryam Jawad, IT Business Partner at El Masood Automobiles, to explore how the ITBP role is evolving from a transactional support function into a strategic leadership position. • Bridging Two Worlds – Why ITBPs are translators and “marriage counsellors,” bringing business and IT together through people skills, not just technical know-how. • From Transactional to Strategic – Maryam’s shift into digital transformation, portfolio prioritization, and 2026 strategic planning. • Proving IT’s Value – Using a value matrix to show IT’s impact on revenue and customer experience, and the implications of IT reporting directly to the CFO. • Defining the Role – Why frameworks, stakeholder understanding, and adaptability are essential for ITBPs to succeed. Maryam’s story is a powerful reminder that the ITBP role is about more than delivery — it’s about vision, influence, and demonstrating IT’s value as a true business partner. Our Guest, Maryam Jawad: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maryam-jawad-259101a0/ #ITBusinessPartner #CIO #BRM #TheBusinessPartnerPodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    58 min
  3. The Financial Case for BRM: Millions Saved, Value Delivered | Christina Blincoe

    09/19/2025

    The Financial Case for BRM: Millions Saved, Value Delivered | Christina Blincoe

    In episode 29 of The IT Business Playbook, I was joined by Christina Blincoe, Business Relationship Director at Black & Veatch. Christina is a passionate advocate for Business Relationship Management and is dedicated to mentoring others to maximize the impact of this role. • Building Credibility – Christina’s journey from a technical background to BRM leadership, supported by certifications, community, and perseverance. • Protecting the Function – How to safeguard BRM during leadership changes by proving ROI, aligning to strategy, and influencing major initiatives. • Demonstrating ROI – Using rigorous financial models to validate proposals, save millions, and strengthen BRM credibility. • Evolving the Role – From operational delivery to enterprise advisory, plus driving cultural change through mentorship, “culture crews,” and preparing BAs for leadership roles. Christina also shares her excitement about opening BRM Connect (22-Sep) and her vision for empowering the next generation of BRMs. If you’re looking for practical strategies to prove BRM value, protect the role, and drive cultural change, this episode is packed with insights. Ready to join the conversation? Join our Community for further insights from peers and experts within the field: www.bpn.goagora.org #ITBusinessPartner #CIO #BRMConnect #BusinessRelationshipManagement Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    50 min
  4. BRM – From the Desk of a CIO | Bob Thiele & Megan Diehm

    09/12/2025

    BRM – From the Desk of a CIO | Bob Thiele & Megan Diehm

    BRM – From the Desk of a CIO | The IT Business Partner Podcast (Ep. 28) What happens when a CIO truly sees the value of Business Relationship Management? In this episode, I’m joined by Bob Thiele, CIO of the City of Fort Wayne, and Megan Diehm, IT Business Relationship Manager, to unpack the BRM role from a CIO’s perspective. Together, they share how trust, sponsorship, and proof of value turned BRMs into one of IT’s most strategic assets. We cover: • Proving the Model – from project management roots to 200% process improvements • Earning Sponsorship – building trust through ROI, cost reduction, and alignment • Reaping the Benefits – how BRMs enabled faster decisions and stronger collaboration • Raising the Profile – elevating BRMs from “order-takers” to trusted advisors This is a real-world example of how CIO leadership + BRM excellence can transform IT’s role in driving strategy, innovation, and outcomes that matter. 🎧 Listen on Apple / Spotify 📹 Join the #BusinessPartnerNetwork conversation: https://bpn.goagora.org/ #BRM #CIO #Leadership #ITBusinessPartner #TheITBusinessPartnerPlaybook Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    1h 4m
  5. Balancing top-down with bottom-up | Ricardo Pinto

    09/10/2025

    Balancing top-down with bottom-up | Ricardo Pinto

    In Episode 27 of The IT Business Partner Playbook, I’m joined by Ricardo Pinto, Strategy & Portfolio Business Partner at Galp Energia in Lisbon. Ricardo shares how his team drives value across five business units and ten geographies — balancing strategy, transparency, and trust in an industry navigating disruption. We cover: Strategy & Portfolio Management – charging models, KPIs, and value measurement From Gatekeeper to Connector – evolving perceptions of BRM OKRs & Transparency – breaking silos and boosting motivation Career Journey – lessons from development, product ownership, and analysis Industry Challenges – oil & gas underdogs, renewables, and investor expectations This episode highlights how BRMs can act as connectors, building trust while enabling transformation in even the most complex and regulated sectors. You can also find a write-up of this podcast on the Business Partner Network https://bpn.goagora.org/ #BRM #ITBusinessPartner #Leadership #Strategy #TheITBusinessPartnerPlaybook Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    1h 10m
  6. IT Business Partner Playbook | Special Episode on BRM Tools, with Megan Diehm

    08/29/2025

    IT Business Partner Playbook | Special Episode on BRM Tools, with Megan Diehm

    In Episode 26 of The IT Business Partner Playbook, I’m joined again by Megan Diehm, BRM at Resultant, to explore how tools and trust shape modern business partnering. Megan shares how her team implemented Notion to track relationships, analyze trends, and demonstrate value — shifting conversations from cost to impact. We also dig into: • Building high-trust teams with problem-solving models and book clubs • Balancing tools vs. skills in BRM success • Public sector challenges and why CIO sponsorship matters • How curiosity and accountability remain the core of the BRM role 📹 Watch now and join the #BusinessPartnerNetwork conversation: https://bpn.goagora.org/ #BRM #ITBusinessPartner #Leadership #TheITBusinessPartnerPlaybook Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    50 min
  7. IT Business Partner Podcast | Dan Vorona

    08/22/2025

    IT Business Partner Podcast | Dan Vorona

    Welcome to episode 25! From technical roots to strategic partnerships - exploring how BRMs build trust, influence, and deliver real business impact. In this episode of the IT Business Partner Podcast, I had the pleasure of speaking with Dan Verona, Business Integration & Relationship Manager at the College of American Pathologists. Dan shared his journey from analytics and development into the business partnering space, where his focus has shifted from tactical operations to driving strategic collaboration. Find Dan here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danvorona/ As always, we’re really keen to hear how you capture and showcase your BRM wins! Please share. We don’t bite. Unless we’re super hungry. Do you see similarities between BRM and sales in your own practice? Let’s share experiences and insights in the comments. Or better still, on the #BusinessPartnerNetwork – where all these podcasts, write-ups and general BP conversations are being held https://bpn.goagora.org/ #BRM #Leadership #TheITBusinessPartnerPlaybook Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    59 min
  8. IT Business Partner Playbook | Megan Deihm

    08/15/2025

    IT Business Partner Playbook | Megan Deihm

    𝑻𝒉𝒆 𝑰𝑻 𝑩𝒖𝒔𝒊𝒏𝒆𝒔𝒔 𝑷𝒍𝒂𝒚𝒃𝒐𝒐𝒌 Welcome to episode 24! Exploring trust, technology alignment, and how one public sector BRM team is using Notion to amplify value. In this episode of the IT Business Partner Podcast, I spoke with Megan Diehm, a Business Relationship Manager at Resultant, who leads a team serving the public sector in Fort Wayne, US. With five years in the BRM role and a background in project management, Megan shared how her team is maturing their practice, building strategic influence, and embracing new tools to work smarter. 1️⃣ Notion for BRMs – From Concept to Impact Megan gave a behind-the-scenes look at implementing Notion as their workflow management hub - replacing SharePoint and Loop. Centralized information, AI features, and integration with Microsoft tools have created transparency, improved trend identification, and helped the team deliver more value to stakeholders. 2️⃣ Building Trust from the Ground Up Starting with entry-level conversations, Megan works to understand each department’s mission, vision, and culture. She hires for curiosity and soft skills over technical expertise - creating a team that builds trust through empathy, consistency, and a people-first approach. 3️⃣ The Public Sector’s Tech Shift From evolving infrastructure and application needs to the growing role of AI, Megan stressed that agility and human expertise must go hand in hand. She predicts that the next two years will be about better defining success metrics while adapting tech for diverse public sector requirements. 4️⃣ Clear Communication Wins Whether simplifying policy documents or breaking down technical jargon, Megan and I agreed: clarity builds trust. In cybersecurity especially, shifting from “restrictive” to “protective” policies has transformed how users perceive governance. 5️⃣ Strategic Recognition from Leadership Under new leadership, Megan’s team earned strong CIO support by multiplying his impact - acting as trusted partners who enable his vision. Focused BRM training with Jeff Warren has strengthened the team’s confidence, alignment, and strategic positioning. 6️⃣ Advice for BRMs in the Field Megan shared her guidance for those facing challenges: have the tough conversations, check your blind spots, focus on the 80/20 priorities, and build credibility with small wins. Resilience and consistent presence matter more than quick victories. You can Find Megan here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/megandiehm/ Our conversation showcases how BRMs can blend human connection with modern tools to create real, measurable impact - especially in complex, mission-driven environments like the public sector. Ready to chime in? Are you using tools in your BRM practice? We’d love to hear! In this case, it made a huge difference to an already impressive BRM capability. And its helping showcase the value of Business Partnering, which is still, sadly, a huge struggle in so many organizations. #ITBusinessPartner #BRM #DigitalTransformation #TheITBusinessPartnerPodast #BusinessPartnerNetwork Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    57 min
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About

We currently have 2 series running on our channel - the IT Business Partner Playbook, and the Executive Leadership overview The first is a weekly series featuring Business Relationship Managers and IT Business Partners from across the globe. Unrehearsed, unprepared, unrestricted and maybe a little unpredictable... this podcast aims to share our guests' experiences, to provide insights and ideas to our listeners. Some will be looking for inspiration, others for tips and tools, while others will be looking for some support and comfort. While the role can be hugely rewarding, it can also be extremely tough, and it's important to know that whatever you're going through as a BRM/BP, there are others out there going through it too. You're not alone, and there is a beaming light at the end of the tunnel. You might just be in the wrong tunnel... Tune in for smiles, sincerity and hopefully not too much sauce! Our second series is AI generated. Gasp! Yes, we let the robots do the talking in this 4-part series which focuses on the concise courses we've created to guide executives through the maze of Governance, Security, Digital Transformation - and Business Relationship. Listen as Joe and Sarah discuss our Executive Leadership Series (ELS) - designed to help leadership understand and oversee effective practices, using business language and a four-stage life cycle: "Doing the right things," "Doing them the right way," "Getting them done well," and "Getting the benefits," Our hosts break down each stage of the life cycle, providing a cookbook-style approach that outlines how to implement the strategies, the necessary components, and what can go wrong. Throughout their discussion, they highlight our real-world examples from major organisations like GE, Pfizer, Goldman Sachs, and Bank of America. Our ELS courses were created by Gary Hardy, co-creator of the COBIT framework and include contributions from; Carolynn Chalmers - CEO, Good Governance Academy Frank Wander - CEO, People Productive Jimmy Heschel - Global Head of Digital Security, Red Bull John Thorp - Chair, ValIT development committee Kip Fanta - Founder, Kip Fanta Group Martin Smith - Chairman and Founder, The Security Awareness Special Interest Group Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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