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
Welcome to episode 23! A journey into grey space, stakeholder influence, and the evolving impact of business partnering at scale.
In this episode of the IT Business Partner Playbook Podcast, I had the privilege of speaking with Gavin Galloway, an IT Business Partner at Rolls-Royce (US). Gavin joined the role mid-pandemic in 2020 - without much prior exposure to business partnering. He has since carved a thoughtful, strategic path through mentorship, reflection, and persistence.
1๏ธโฃ Navigating the Grey Space:
Gavin describes the BRM role as living in the โgreyโ - where formal authority doesnโt exist, but influence is everything. He shared how he had to quickly develop a working knowledge of frameworks, stakeholder dynamics, and organizational complexity - all while remote.
To stay on top of exec needs and business priorities, Gavin uses tailored stakeholder templates - acting like a CRM for relationship tracking. He stressed the importance of documenting lessons and insights, so new team members donโt have to start from scratch.
3๏ธโฃ Value Through Financial Fluency:
We explored how financial understanding can elevate a BRMโs value. Gavinโs self-taught approach to aligning tech and finance has helped him earn trust and influence key investment decisions.
4๏ธโฃ Collaboration & the Power of Face-to-Face:
Gavin and I discussed the real-world impact of in-person interaction for building trust, especially in global teams. From cultural understanding to spontaneous innovation, these touchpoints often accelerate delivery and deepen relationships. Gavin is now working on a white paper to help quantify this value.
5๏ธโฃ Enabling Future BRMs:
We explored training and mentoring approaches within Rolls-Royce, emphasizing the need for vertical knowledge, hands-on learning, and passing down experience purposefully. Gavin also acknowledged that not every BRM journey looks the same - and thatโs okay.
6๏ธโฃ Breaking Silos & Creating Space:
We challenged the idea of BRMs as gatekeepers and instead framed them as connectors. Gavin shared how heโs learned to let go of โowningโ the relationship and instead enable others to flourish through collaboration.
Listen to the full episode to hear how Gavin is influencing change, redefining value, and helping to shape the future of BRM at one of the worldโs most iconic engineering organizations.
This episode reflects the evolving, high-stakes nature of BRM work - especially in complex, regulated sectors like defence. Itโs about agility, emotional maturity, and using every insight as fuel for influence.
#BRM
#BusinessPartnerNetwork
#Leadership
https://bpn.goagora.org/
Find our Highlights and podcast article on the BPN. Gavin will also be sharing his whitepaper here, once approved.
Welcome to episode 22! Government, governance, and the real-world evolution of BRM.ย
๐๏ธ In this episode of the IT Business Partner Playbook Podcast, I had a fantastic conversation with Steve, a Business Relationship Manager working in the UK governmentโs Department for Transport. We explored the unique dynamics of public sector BRM work - where formal structure meets human connection - and how Steve is navigating both with practical wisdom and an eye toward innovation.ย
๐ก Key Highlights:ย
1๏ธโฃ From Project Delivery to Strategic BRM:ย
Steve shared his career journey from local and central government roles into business partnering, describing how he's redefined his role from traditional delivery into strategic influence. With support from leadership, heโs been able to set boundaries, clarify value, and build credibility.ย
2๏ธโฃ Data-Driven BRM in Action:ย
We discussed the challenge of leveraging existing data (like software usage and delivery metrics) to offer more strategic insights to the business. Steve shared how trust and understanding play a vital role in getting traction across diverse teams - from infrastructure to digital.ย
3๏ธโฃ The Advisory Evolution:ย
Steve is shifting from service provider to trusted advisor - balancing steering group involvement with a continuous effort to stay connected to broader business priorities and policies.ย
4๏ธโฃ AI & Practical Tools:ย
Steve is using AI (like ChatGPT) to support bid reviews and stakeholder insights, while recognizing the need for critical oversight. We also explored the development of an insight library - a simple but powerful way to share knowledge, sharpen strategic thinking, and plan more effectively.ย
5๏ธโฃ Mentorship, Networking & Growth:ย
From mentoring future BRMs to engaging with major players like Google and Microsoft, Steve brings a people-first mindset to every interaction. His advice? Stay curious, communicate openly, and use BRM competencies as your guide for continuous development.ย
Welcome to episode 13! Developing the BRM capability and driving strategic impact.
๐๏ธ In the latest episode of The IT Business Partner Playbook Podcast, I was joined by Mohammed Muslim, a Business Relationship Manager (#BRM) at Hamad Medical Corporation in Qatar. Muslim shared his journey into BRM, the challenges of establishing the function in a large healthcare organisation, and the importance of community-driven learning.
1๏ธโฃ Transitioning into the BRM Role
With over 28 years in healthcare and IT project management, Muslimโs transition into BRM was natural. He had always been a relationship builder, and while he initially wasnโt familiar with the title, he immediately felt at home in the role.
2๏ธโฃ Building Awareness & Overcoming Challenges
Muslim and his team faced early struggles in defining the BRM function within a 40,000-employee organisation. The pandemic slowed adoption, and many stakeholders initially misunderstood the role. Through internal campaigns and executive sponsorship, they worked to increase awareness and reposition BRMs as strategic advisors, not coordinators.
3๏ธโฃ The Role of BRMs in Strategy & IT Alignment
Muslim discussed the delicate balance of managing business expectations, IT capabilities, and governance. He shared how BRMs educate business leaders on IT constraints, and IT leaders on business needs, to ensure all initiatives deliver value and are aligned to strategy
4๏ธโฃ The Power of Community & Collaboration
Muslim played a key role in the BRM World Tour in Qatar, helping BRMs across the region connect and share best practices. He emphasised the importance of networking with BRMs globally to drive maturity in the profession.
Welcome to episode 12! Personal development, aligning with business, and embracing the rise of AI.
In the latest episode of The IT Business Partner Playbook Podcast, I was joined by Mohammed Aarif Shaikh, an IT Business Relationship Manager in the financial services industry in Saudi Arabia. Aarif shared his journey in shaping the BRM function from the ground up, the challenges of aligning IT with business priorities, and the future of business technology.
1๏ธโฃ Defining the BRM Role from Scratch
Aarif was the first BRM hired in his company and took on the challenge of building the function from zero to fully operational. He shared how he followed BRM Institute strategies, working over six months to implement a structured approach that now delivers tangible value.
2๏ธโฃ Balancing Business Demands and IT Capabilities
Managing multiple business units, Aarif ensures that IT requests are assessed, prioritised, and aligned with strategic goals. He discussed the demand process, working with vendors, and the importance of executive sponsorship in driving success.
3๏ธโฃ Challenges and Professional Growth
Recognised as a top performer, Aarif highlighted how certifications in BRM, project and change management have helped him grow as a leader, and given him tools that can be utilised in his current role
4๏ธโฃ The Future of AI and Robotics in Business
With his company investing in AI and automation, Aarif discussed how these technologies are reshaping operations, streamlining costs, and driving efficiency. He shared insights into proof-of-concept projects and the companyโs approach to upskilling employees.
5๏ธโฃ The Power of Relationships and Communication
Welcome to episode 11! Navigating the transition into Business Relationship Management and the evolving role of BRMs.
๐๏ธ In this episode of The IT Business Partner Playbook Podcast, I had the pleasure of speaking with Meghana Garg, a former technical specialist who transitioned into Business Relationship Management (BRM). With experience across multiple industries, Meghana shared how BRMs are shaping business strategy, converging IT and business functions, and tackling critical challenges that other roles don't have the bandwidth for.
1๏ธโฃ From Tech to BRM: A Journey of Adaptability
Meghana shared how she moved from a technical role into BRM, discovering her passion for building relationships and driving strategy. She reflected on the need to navigate different personalities, balance operational and strategic priorities, and communicate effectively across business and IT teams.
2๏ธโฃ BRM as a Strategic Force
We explored the evolution of the BRM role, emphasising how it has become more strategicโparticularly in organisations where IT service operations are well-structured. Meghana highlighted how BRMs play a crucial role in shaping business planning cycles, influencing leadership, and driving innovation.
3๏ธโฃ Executive Sponsorship and Business Partnering
A recurring theme was the importance of executive buy-in. Meghana and I discussed how BRMs should focus on innovation and transformation rather than just operational support, but this can't happen with leadership support. She also shared the challenges of working alongside traditional roles (project managers, architects etc) who may not fully grasp the BRM function.
4๏ธโฃ The Intersection of Business, IT, and Strategy
We dug into the role of business analysts and project managersโhow they complement BRMs, and where tensions can arise. Meghana provided insights into overcoming resistance from teams reluctant to take ownership of IT enabled projects, and how BRMs can help provide the necessary confidence for them to do so
The IT Business Partner Playbook - Rolan Somerville
Season 1 ยท Episode 10
Saturday, February 8, 2025 โข Duration 55:02
Welcome to episode 10! Catalysing change, demystifying technologyย and shaping the future of IT Business Partnering.
Rolan is a former application developer turned Business Relationship Manager (BRM). With experience in business analysis, product management, and now BRM, Rolan shares his insights and the lessons he's learned during his journey
๐ก Key Highlights:
1๏ธโฃ From Application Development to BRM: The Power of Relationship Building
Rolan's career path naturally led him to the BRM role, where he discovered the importance of proactive engagement. He shares how organisations that embrace BRM see better innovation and greater project success.
2๏ธโฃ Breaking Down Silos and Encouraging Cross-Functional Collaboration
The BRM function is evolving, integrating with more internal functions, as well as external partners. Rolan highlights how BRMs bridge gaps between IT and business, ensuring strategic alignment and more effective execution.
3๏ธโฃ Managing Digital Transformation and resistance to change
Technology adoption isnโt always easyโRolan discusses the challenges of introducing digital solutions to hesitant teams. He emphasises the role of IT Business Partners in demystifying technology and positioning it as an enabler for success.
4๏ธโฃ The Role of Empathy in IT Business Partnering
Empathy continues to be hailed as a core skill for BRMs. Rolan explains how understanding different perspectives and adapting communication styles help build trust and influence decision-making across the organisation.
The IT Business Partner Playbook - Dennis Defteros
Welcome to episode 9! Genuine connections, the future of business partnering, and stakeholder diplomacy
๐๏ธ In this episode of The IT Business Partner Playbook Podcast, I had the pleasure of speaking with Dennis Defteros, an IT Business Partner at Bausch + Lomb in the UK. With a background in finance and later IT, Dennis brings a wealth of experience in helping organisations navigate digital transformation, ensure project success, and drive strategic value.
๐ก Key Highlights:
1๏ธโฃ From Finance to IT: An uncommon journey for an IT Business Partner
Dennis shared his career transition from accounting to IT business partnering, reflecting on how strategic thinking and a focus on ROI help him deliver the most value from technology. His insights into cross-functional alignment are invaluable for anyone moving into a business partner role.
2๏ธโฃ Shadow IT, Digital Transformation, and the Need for Oversight
We explored the risks of shadow ITโwhere teams set up systems without oversightโand the long-term impact of unmanaged resources. Dennis shared how his team is tackling these challenges, emphasising the role of governance, communication, and proactive engagement.
3๏ธโฃ Building Relationships and Managing Stakeholders
A key takeaway from our conversation was the importance of in-person meetings. Dennis highlighted how regular check-ins and genuine connection with IT and business partners (internal, and external) are critical in nurturing relationships and ensuring project success.
4๏ธโฃ Empathy, Strategy, and Business Ownership
Understanding business pain points is essential to driving meaningful change. Dennis discussed how empathy plays a crucial role in his approachโwhether guiding business leaders through project management or balancing technology with business needs.
The IT Business Partner Playbook - Dalisu Buthelezi
Welcome to episode 8! Remembering your roots, playing to your strengths and catalysing change
๐๏ธ In the latest episode of the podcast, I was joined by Dalisu Buthelezi, a seasoned Business Relationship Manager at the South African Reserve Bank. This episode delves into the unique challenges and opportunities Business Partners face in bridging the gap between business and IT.
๐ก Key Highlights:
1๏ธโฃ The BRM Role: A Journey of Discovery
Dalisu shared his path into business relationship management, transitioning from business analysis and project management. His journey underscores the importance of self-driven learning and adapting to the dynamic needs of diverse teams.
2๏ธโฃ Bridging Gaps Across Functions
We discussed how the BRM role is often misunderstood and how Dalisu tackles differing expectations between business and IT teams. His insights highlight the importance of clear communication in demonstrating the value BRMs bring to organisations.
3๏ธโฃ Building Trust and Strong Connections
Dalisu emphasized the role of collaboration in cultivating trust across teams. We explored strategies for forging meaningful relationships and breaking down silos, with a focus on the human side of business.
4๏ธโฃ Adapting and Innovating as a BRM
From managing virtual events during the pandemic to tailoring engagement models to meet customer needs, Dalisu showcased the flexibility and innovation BRMs bring to their organisations.
5๏ธโฃ Future Tools and Strategies
We wrapped up by exploring ideas to support Business Partners, such as sharing common (not best) practices and simplifying approaches for greater impact.
Welcome to episode 7! Balancing life, building trust, and embracing the evolving role of technology.
๐๏ธ In the latest episode of the IT Business Partner Playbook Podcast, I was joined by Dawn Milward, a dedicated business partner and mother navigating the fast-evolving world of technology and higher education at Birmingham City University
๐ก Key Highlights:
1๏ธโฃ Juggling Roles: Personal and Professional
Dawn shared her journey of balancing a demanding career with raising two daughters, shedding light on the challenges working mothers face in the tech industry. She emphasized the importance of encouraging women to explore careers in IT and support them as they start their journeys
2๏ธโฃ Building Connections and Driving Strategy
As a Business Partner, Dawn delved into the significance of understanding organizational needs and connecting with stakeholders to deliver strategic value. We explored tools that Dawn's team had developed to streamline project prioritisation and ensure continual alignment with university goals
3๏ธโฃ Embracing Technology with Purpose
Dawn highlighted how technology can be both a challenge and an enabler, stressing the need for oversight and effective communication in business strategies. We discussed the evolving role of tech in customer-facing initiatives and the cultural shifts needed to succeed.
4๏ธโฃ The Power of Trust and Positivity
Sharing personal experiences, we reflected on the importance of resilience, trust, and maintaining a positive outlook. Dawnโs insights remind us of the human side of business and the need to compartmentalize and find joy in daily moments.
Welcome to episode 6! Elevating the BRM role, proving value and remaining authentic.
๐๏ธ In the latest episode of the IT Business Partner Playbook Podcast, I sat down with Bhupinder Siran, Associate Director at the University of Southampton, to delve into the evolving responsibilities of Business Relationship Managers (BRMs) and the unique challenges they face in a university setting.
๐ก Key Highlights:
1๏ธโฃ From BRM to Strategic Business Partner:
Bhupinder shared how the role of BRMs has shifted from operational support to strategic partnership, emphasizing the power of clear terminology in shaping responsibilities and expectations.
His team of four BRMs works closely with IT and the business to align initiatives with the university's goals.
2๏ธโฃ Managing IT in Higher Education:
We discussed the complexities of prioritizing IT initiatives in a resource-constrained environment, with a focus on addressing student needs and strategic alignment.
Bhupinder highlighted the value of creating a stakeholder dossier to enhance understanding and foster collaboration.
3๏ธโฃ Promoting and Establishing the BRM Role:
Bhupinder emphasized the importance of patience, trust-building, and showcasing the BRM role through workshops, roadshows, and clear communication.
Starting with a solid foundation and proving value is key to gaining buy-in and expanding influence within an organization.
4๏ธโฃ Maintaining the BRM Mindset:
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This episode is packed with honest insights from the front lines of government BRM. If you're a BRM navigating complexity, or a leader looking to understand the strategic potential of the role - this oneโs for you.ย
๐ข Your Turn:ย
Are you building a BRM capability in a highly governed or regulated environment? How are you using AI or data to support your stakeholders? Iโd love to hear your stories - letโs keep learning from each other.ย
AI is transforming Muslimโs work, allowing him to automate parts of routine tasks like business case preparationโfreeing up time to focus on relationships and strategy. He highlighted how AI is not a threat, but a tool to enhance BRM efficiency.
6๏ธโฃ Looking to the Future
Muslim envisions the BRM function becoming as recognised as project management within a few years. He emphasised the need for certifications and structured training to gain credibility, and ensure organisations fully understand the value BRMs bring not only to the business, but their IT colleagues
Aarif emphasised that effective BRMs need strong interpersonal skills, preferring face-to-face discussions over email to prevent miscommunication. He also discussed networking with BRMs from other industries to exchange knowledge and best practices.
6๏ธโฃ Looking to the Future
The BRM role continues to grow, with Aarif predicting an expanding team and increased focus on change management and business alignment. He shared strategies for stakeholder engagement and the importance of demonstrating the ROI of the BRM function.
5๏ธโฃ BRMs as Relationship Builders and Change Agents
Meghana emphasised that BRMs must be proactive, people-centric, and adaptable, constantly anticipating business needs. We also explored the growing trend of BRMs attending industry events to stay ahead of emerging challenges and best practices.
6๏ธโฃ Thriving in a BRM Role: Lessons Learned
We discussed overcoming challenges in BRM, from handling difficult conversations to staying confident in complex environments. Meghana shared her insights on developing resilience, managing expectations, and learning to be comfortable in uncertainty.
Watch here โ
๐น https://youtu.be/lQZib28trSA
This episode further reinforced the importance of business relationship management as a strategic enabler. If you're looking to transition into this field, or are already there, Meghanaโs insights will help you understand what is required to make it a success
5๏ธโฃ The Future of IT Business Partnering: Adapting, Evolving and Institutionalising the capability
With BRM practices spreading across industries, Rolan and I discuss the challenge of demonstrating the value of BRM, the increasing focus on business outcomes, and how all functions must continue to shift toward a more strategic purpose.
This episode highlights the growing importance of Business Partners in driving business success. Does your organisation have a BRM capability? If so, is it fully utilised...?
We touched on the evolving nature of IT Business Partner roles, including the shift towards product management and the increasing pressure for ownership and accountability. Dennis also emphasised the importance of continuous learning to stay ahead in a rapidly changing landscape.
๐ Looking Ahead:
This episode reinforces the point that IT Business Partners are not just facilitatorsโthey are strategists, innovators and problem-solvers. Is that how Business Partners viewed in your organisation? We'd love to know!
This episode is a reminder of the pivotal role BRMs play in driving alignment and innovation. But it's also a reminder that without Leadership support, sponsorship and understanding, this critical capability will never fully utilised
My favourite quote from Dalisu, demonstrates both the purpose and flexibility of the role;
How does your organisation define the role of a Business Relationship Manager? What strategies help you build trust and drive collaboration? Share your thoughts and insights!
We ended with personal anecdotes about the wisdom of older generations and the invaluable lessons they can teach us, especially the younger generation โa heartfelt reminder to cherish diverse perspectives!
This episode is a testament to the personal strength required in business relationship management. Itโs an invitation to reflect on our own roles and how we can better connect, innovate, and inspire within our organisations.
How do you balance the personal and professional demands of your role? What strategies have you found effective in fostering trust and driving innovation? Share your thoughts and stories with us!
Whether engaging directly with C-suite executives or working at a grassroots level, Bhupinder stressed the importance of finding synergies, staying curious, and remaining authentic in the role.
For BRMs to thrive, alignment with an organizationโs values and goals is essential.
๐ Looking Ahead:
We also explored opportunities for growth, including hosting workshops, enhancing stakeholder communication tools, and increasing strategic engagement within the university. Bhupinder's insights offer inspiration for BRMs navigating complex organizations and striving to make a lasting impact.
๐ข Your Turn:
What strategies have you found effective in elevating the BRM role in your organization? Share your experiences and join the conversation!
