Head Transformation jobs

The head of transformation is typically the person within an organisation who has ultimate responsibility for delivering change management projects that meet goals and enable organisational growth. Sometimes also called the chief transformation officer or transformation director, they lead a transformation team that may also include a transformation manager, and will report to senior executives. They may themselves sit within the C-suite.

Typical tasks of a head of transformation

A head of transformation is responsible for leading their organisation’s change management programme, working closely with the executive team. They lead the transformation project on a day-to-day basis, often across multiple organisational functions, and sometimes across several locations. Hundreds, or even thousands of individual actions may be required to successfully complete a major transformation project, and it is up to the head of transformation to ensure that each of these actions is completed in line with the necessary standards and timing. Often they will effectively be the ‘face’ of a transformation project, leading by example, motivating their direct reports and leaders throughout the organisation to ensure change management goals are achieved. They must be prepared to challenge conventional wisdom and be open to new ways of pushing the organisation forward.

Qualifications required for a head of transformation

There is no single qualification or certification that marks out a candidate as a talented head of transformation. However, the majority of candidates will hold a degree, often an MBA, along with other appropriate professional qualifications. Perhaps most importantly, they must have substantial experience of working in programme or transformation management, or come from a background in strategic management. Head of transformation is a senior role, with the successful candidate often acting as an extension of the board or CEO, so their experience must be in line with the demands of the position.

Hard/soft skills needed for a head of transformation

Given the complexity of the role and the importance of change management in driving organisations forward, the head of transformation must possess a wide range of hard and soft skills. They must possess strong analytical and numerical skills, allied with excellent financial and commercial awareness. They must be able to develop business cases, plan change management programmes, manage budgets, and implement strategies. They may need to be experienced in working to specific change management methodologies, such as Lean or Six Sigma. Many employers prefer to hire heads of transformation who have a proven track record of delivering change management within a similar industry or type of organisation. Beyond these skills, the head of transformation must possess an array of softer characteristics and abilities. They must be creative thinkers and problem solvers who have the confidence to work closely with senior business leaders across all organisational functions.

They should be strategically minded, with the ability to navigate complex scenarios and deliver the intended results. And they must be strong leaders, able to motivate their team and win buy-in from other key stakeholders across the organisation.