In today’s dynamic business landscape, managing change is an essential aspect of project success. Let’s meet Patsy De Sy, a Senior Project Manager and a Change Manager. With a career trajectory that began as an employee in an IT supportive role, Patsy evolved as a freelancer in Project Management. She is now specialised in orchestrating large-scale projects with a focus on sustainable change.
What is your role and what is it that you actually do?
I manage large projects with a focus on sustainable change. We can say that I am a combination of a Senior Project Manager and a Change Manager. This dual role encompasses orchestrating project logistics while ensuring that the organisation embraces and effectively implements necessary changes.
How did you arrive at your current position?
I started as an employee in an IT supportive role. This was the starting point to get experience and knowledge. I grew in Project Management from coordination through management. Along the way, I acquired skills and certifications to develop my professional competence. After this journey, I recognized a crucial gap in many projects: the lack of emphasis on people and change. This realisation led me to specialise in change management, enhancing my ability to drive successful project outcomes.
How do you use what you learnt within your work? Why is Change Management important in an organisation?
I use Change Management frameworks in my projects. When I start a project I run through the presentation provided during training to refresh things not to forget and possibilities. It is not a methodology to follow but it’s more as tips, tricks and things not to forget.
Change Management is important in projects. It is not just a methodology but a set of guiding principles. Change Management increases the effectiveness of any implementation if you integrate concepts such as resistance, stakeholder mapping and a communication plan from the beginning.
What advice can you give to professionals who want to implement Change Management?
For professionals seeking to implement Change Management, you should use common sense built on existing frameworks. Don’t re-use the same Change Management approach in every context because each project is unique. Thus, you should analyse and look for what is needed in a specific situation, organisation or project
How do you reassure employees during major changes in a company? Do you have some advice to help them adapt to a new situation?
During periods of change, communication and involvement are essential. You should consider employees as important stakeholders. They want to feel valued and heard. Involve them as soon as possible in the process. And most importantly, listen to them, don’t speak.
Is there a certain certification track you would advise to organisations that want to improve and change results? Which one and why?
For organisations aspiring to enhance their Change Management capabilities, I suggest pursuing Change Management certifications and the PROSCI certification. Both provide comprehensive frameworks and methodologies for driving successful change initiatives.
On a more personal note, how do you see your professional growth in the coming years? What can we expect from you?
As a Project Manager, I am a senior. However, as a Change Manager I am just starting. So I would like to reinforce my Change Management skills and expertise.
In an ever-changing business landscape, professionals like Patsy De Sy act as catalysts for transformation, integrating the skills of Project Management with the insight of Change Management to ensure sustainable success.
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