Lifelong Learning: Implementing Best Practice In Business

APMG International
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APMG talks to industry experts to get their valuable perspective on success in businesses today. Organisations invest in best practice in areas such as project and programme management, business relationships, change, cyber security, governance, IT, PPP, strategy and more, but often don’t reap the benefits. Listen to APMG’s CEO, Richard Pharro, speak to a range of senior leaders and practitioners who will share lessons learned through implementation and offer practical advice that can be applied by anyone to improve their work processes.

  1. S6-Ep1 | The value of leadership in digital transformation with Agnieszka Bochacka

    JUN 27

    S6-Ep1 | The value of leadership in digital transformation with Agnieszka Bochacka

    In this episode, Richard Pharro, CEO of APMG, speaks with Agnieszka Bochacka, a global leader in digital transformation, academic director, consultant, and author of the world’s first certified digital transformation methodology.  With over a decade of international experience, Agnieszka shares her unique journey from project management to strategy and change leadership across sectors. A passionate advocate for women in tech, Agnieszka also mentors future leaders, supports start-ups in Central and Eastern Europe, and contributes to communities like PMI and Singularity University. Her proprietary organisational transformation audit model — the subject of PhD research — blends human and technological perspectives for holistic change. Agnieszka challenges common misconceptions around digital transformation, explaining why it's not just an IT project or one-off initiative, but a continuous, strategic process embedded in an organisation’s DNA. She offers actionable insights on integrating technology with culture, upskilling, and leadership, and highlights why empathy and lifelong learning are essential in today’s rapidly evolving landscape. Whether you're a business leader, transformation professional, or simply curious about what makes real transformation succeed, this episode delivers practical wisdom and deep strategic insight.  🔗 Connect with Agnieszka: https://www.linkedin.com/in/abochacka/ 🌐 Find out more about the Digital Transformation certification: apmg-international.com/product/digital-transformation-certification 🌐 Find out more about APMG certifications: apmg-international.com/certifications-solutions

    38 min
  2. S5-Ep12 | Making change stick, with Jessica Crow

    FEB 28

    S5-Ep12 | Making change stick, with Jessica Crow

    In this episode, Richard Pharro, CEO of APMG International, speaks with Jessica Crow, founder of Apogy, about the keys to making change stick. Too often, organisations invest in change initiatives that fail to take root. Jessica shares her insights on why traditional approaches fall short and what leaders can do to drive real, lasting adoption. Drawing from her extensive experience in change management, Jessica explains the psychology behind resistance, the role of leadership in fostering buy-in, and practical strategies to ensure that new ways of working become the norm. She emphasises the importance of engagement, communication, and aligning change with organisational culture to create meaningful impact. Whether you’re leading a transformation, implementing a new system, or simply looking to influence positive change in your organization, this conversation will give you the tools to turn ideas into sustained action. Listen in to discover how to move beyond implementation and make change that lasts. LINKS:  🔗 Connect with Jessica: linkedin.com/in/jessicacrow 🌐 Find out more about the Change Management Certification: apmg-international.com/product/change-management 🌐 Find out more about APMG certifications: apmg-international.com/services/certifications-solutions

    25 min
  3. S5-Ep11 | Mastering portfolio management: insights on benefits optimisation with Stephen Jenner

    11/01/2024

    S5-Ep11 | Mastering portfolio management: insights on benefits optimisation with Stephen Jenner

    In this episode, Richard Pharro, CEO of APMG International, speaks with Stephen Jenner, a globally recognised expert in benefits and portfolio management. Dubbed the “Rottweiler of Benefits Management,” Steve has built a career transforming how organisations approach project portfolios.  From his time in the UK government—where his benefits-led approach won the prestigious Civil Service Finance Award—to his work as a consultant, keynote speaker, and author, Steve has seen it all. Steve shares candid insights on the crucial role of portfolio management in today’s complex business environment. He explains the importance of "doing the right projects, at the right time, in the right way," and why organisations often fail to prioritise effectively.  We dive deep into challenges like managing resource constraints, competing priorities, and the phenomenon of "ghost" and "zombie" projects that refuse to end. Steve also introduces the concept of "strategic buckets" to compare seemingly incomparable projects, from IT systems to new buildings.  This conversation is packed with practical advice for anyone looking to optimise their project portfolios and align them with broader organisational strategies.  Tune in to this exciting episode for valuable insights from one of the field’s leading authorities. LINKS:  🔗 Connect with Steve: linkedin.com/in/stephen-jenner 🌐 Find out more about the Managing Portfolios Certification: apmg-international.com/product/managing-portfolios-certification 🌐 Find out more about APMG certifications: apmg-international.com/services/certifications-solutions

    35 min
  4. S5-Ep10 | Cybersecurity beyond compliance, with Mike Battistella

    09/27/2024

    S5-Ep10 | Cybersecurity beyond compliance, with Mike Battistella

    In this episode, Richard Pharro, CEO of APMG International, speaks with Mike Battistella, President and CTO of Solutions3, an award-winning consulting and training organisation. They discuss the critical misconceptions organisations have about cybersecurity, particularly the belief that passing a compliance audit equates to long-term security. Mike emphasises that compliance is merely the baseline, not the end goal. He highlights the importance of continuous improvement in cybersecurity practices, noting that organisations often neglect ongoing security measures once they pass an audit, leaving them vulnerable to breaches. Richard asks Mike about the challenges of integrating cybersecurity in a fast-paced business environment driven by innovation and agility. Mike acknowledges the tension between speed and security, stressing the need for leadership to view cybersecurity as essential for business survival rather than just another cost. He also discusses the CPD (Create, Protect, and Deliver) model developed by the DVMS Institute, which aims to embed security into the entire lifecycle of digital business value. The conversation touches on the need for executive sponsorship to ensure the success of cybersecurity initiatives. Mike advocates for a cultural shift within organisations, where cybersecurity is seen as integral to their operations, not just a technical requirement. This shift, he argues, is essential for protecting digital assets and maintaining customer trust in an increasingly risky digital landscape. Listen in to discover why cybersecurity is more than just compliance. LINKS:  🔗 Connect with Mike: linkedin.com/in/mikebattistella 🌐 Sollutions3 LLC: solutions3llc.com 🌐 Find out more about APMG certifications: apmg-international.com/our-services/certifications-solutions

    29 min
  5. S5-Ep9 | Harnessing AI for success, with Terry Neal

    08/30/2024

    S5-Ep9 | Harnessing AI for success, with Terry Neal

    In this episode, Richard Pharro, CEO of APMG International, engages in a comprehensive discussion with Terry Neal, distinguished expert in AI and cybersecurity training. Richard opens the conversation by asking Terry for a simple definition of AI; Terry responds by explaining AI is a machine’s ability to perform tasks that normally require human intelligence. Richard and Terry delve into the AI Practitioner Program, with Richard inquiring about its structure and objectives. Terry elaborates on how the program combines courses for AI prompt engineers and AI marketeers, culminating in a professional qualification. This program, rapidly adopted worldwide, aims to fill a critical gap in AI training and certification. Richard also probes the societal implications of AI, questioning whether AI will replace human jobs. Terry asserts that AI will reshape rather than replace the workforce, enhancing productivity and creating new job opportunities. He underscores the importance of acquiring new skills in an AI-augmented world, including prompt engineering, data analysis, and human-AI collaboration. The conversation further explores the potential risks of generative AI, with Richard asking about concerns like cybercrime and deep fakes. Terry acknowledges these risks, and stresses the need for governance and standards to manage AI’s impact responsibly. This episode provides valuable insights into the evolving landscape of AI and its profound implications for the future of work and society. Tune in to learn about the transformative power of AI and how individuals and organisations can navigate this evolving industry. LINKS: 🔗 Connect with Terry: linkedin.com/in/terryneal 📝 Find out more about how the AI Practitioner training and certification can help you advance your career: apmg-international.com/product/artificial-intelligence-practitioner-certification-aip 🌐 Cyber skills: cyberskills.com 🌐 Find out more about APMG certifications: apmg-international.com/our-services/certifications

    19 min
  6. S5-Ep8 | Behavioural insights: transforming leadership and Service Management with Robert den Broeder

    07/26/2024

    S5-Ep8 | Behavioural insights: transforming leadership and Service Management with Robert den Broeder

    In this episode, Richard Pharro, CEO of APMG International, is joined by Robert den Broeder, managing director of OBM Dynamics B.V. and a seasoned coach and trainer.  Robert shares his journey from teaching service management to exploring the critical role of human behaviour in achieving management excellence. Through his extensive research and practical experience, Robert unveils how Organizational Behavior Management (OBM) can address common business challenges such as improving safety, compliance, quality, and productivity. In our conversation, Robert discusses the significance of understanding and influencing behaviour to foster a positive organisational culture. He emphasises the importance of leaders recognising behavioural motivations and implementing simple yet effective interventions to drive desired outcomes. We explore the concepts of Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), Service Level Agreements (SLAs), and the emerging Experience Level Agreements (XLAs), and their impact on performance and customer satisfaction. Robert demonstrates how OBM principles can transform leadership practices, enhance employee engagement, and ultimately lead to better customer experiences; he shares practical insights on developing leadership skills, setting precise behavioural expectations, and reinforcing positive actions to create a more motivated and productive workforce. Tune in to learn how understanding and managing human behaviour can unlock the full potential of your organisation, making a significant difference in both employee and customer satisfaction. LINKS: 🔗 Connect with Robert: linkedin.com/in/robertdenbroeder 📝 Find out more about how the Organizational Behaviour Management (OBM) training and certification can help you advance your career: apmg-international.com/obm 📝 Find out more about how the Experience Collab Certification and Training can help you advance your career: www.apmg-international.com/product/experience-collab-certification-and-training 🌐 OBM Dynamics: obmdynamics.nl/ 🌐 Find out more about APMG certifications: apmg-international.com/our-services/certifications

    32 min
  7. S5-Ep7 | Elevating Change Management: Strategic Insights with Karla Micallef

    06/28/2024

    S5-Ep7 | Elevating Change Management: Strategic Insights with Karla Micallef

    In this episode, Richard Pharro, CEO of APMG International, speaks with Karla Micallef, a veteran in leading enterprise-wide transformations. Karla brings over 20 years of experience across various industries, focusing on mergers and acquisitions, organisational model redesigns, and digital transformations. Recently elected as the global president chair of the board for the Change Management Institute, Karla is passionate about elevating the strategic importance of change management and believes that true organisational agility stems from building change capability and maturity at all levels. Karla underscores the critical role of leadership in successful change initiatives. She points out that leaders often underestimate their influence on change outcomes, which can make or break the effectiveness of these initiatives. Training for leaders, she notes, is essential to help them understand and fulfil their pivotal roles in driving and supporting change. The conversation further explores the evolving prospect of change management training. Karla highlights current trends such as microlearning, remote training, and the integration of agile methodologies. She emphasises that for organisations to move up the maturity scale in change management, training must be comprehensive and practical, involving real-life scenarios to ensure immediate applicability. Tune in to gain pragmatic insights on how organisations can better navigate the complexities of change management in today's dynamic environment. LINKS: 🔗 Connect with Karla: linkedin.com/in/karla-micallef 📝 Find out more about how the Change Management training and certification can help you advance your career: apmg-international.com/product/change-management 🌐 Change Management Institute: change-management-institute.com 🌐 Find out more about APMG certifications: apmg-international.com/our-services/certifications

    18 min
  8. S5-Ep6 | From SLAs to XLAs: Redefining customer experience, with Anthony Orr

    05/31/2024

    S5-Ep6 | From SLAs to XLAs: Redefining customer experience, with Anthony Orr

    In this episode, renowned ITSM expert Anthony Orr joins Richard Pharro, CEO of APMG International, for an insightful discussion on the intricacies of service level agreements (SLAs) and the evolution towards experience level agreements (XLAs).  They delve into the impact of SLAs on organisational behaviour, exploring both their benefits and shortcomings. Through thought-provoking questions, Richard prompts Anthony towards the broader implications of service excellence and the importance of understanding service value from a customer-centric perspective. Anthony explores the industry shift from service level agreements (SLAs) to experience level agreements (XLAs), and the profound impact of customer-focus on organisational success. As the conversation unfolds, they unpack strategic outsourcing in the post-COVID era, contemplating the shift towards prioritising quality over cost in supplier relationships. Throughout the episode, they dive deeper into the intricacies of IT service management, leaving listeners with a comprehensive understanding of the evolving landscape and the imperative of placing the customer at the forefront of service delivery.  Tune in to gain invaluable insights into the complexities of ITSM and customer engagement. LINKS: 🔗 Connect with Anthony: linkedin.com/in/anthonyorr 📝 Find out more about how the Experience Collab training and certification can help you advance your career: apmg-international.com/product/experience-collab-certification-and-training 🌐 Find out more about APMG certifications: apmg-international.com/our-services/certifications

    31 min
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APMG talks to industry experts to get their valuable perspective on success in businesses today. Organisations invest in best practice in areas such as project and programme management, business relationships, change, cyber security, governance, IT, PPP, strategy and more, but often don’t reap the benefits. Listen to APMG’s CEO, Richard Pharro, speak to a range of senior leaders and practitioners who will share lessons learned through implementation and offer practical advice that can be applied by anyone to improve their work processes.

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