In today's fast-paced and dynamic business environment, organizations must adapt to ever-evolving market conditions and customer expectations. Change is no longer an occasional event but a constant companion that demands careful navigation. Recognizing the significance of change management in shaping successful organizations, Pforzheim University offers a transformative course led by esteemed change management expert, Mr. Geoffrey Matthews.
Mr. Geoffrey Matthews, MA, possesses a wealth of experience in leading major transformation programs across global companies. With a passion for organizational development and change, he serves as both a writer and consultant in this field. As a Fellow of the UK's esteemed Management and HR professional institutes, his expertise brings an unparalleled depth to the subject matter. Mr. Matthews is also the co-author of "Engaged: Unleashing Your Organization's Potential Through Employee Engagement," a work that has garnered recognition, being shortlisted for the prestigious CMI Management Book of the Year Award.
The Change Management course at Pforzheim University delves into the fundamental principles and practices necessary to navigate organizational change successfully. Mr. Matthews introduces students to key aspects of organizational change, such as understanding theoretical models and frameworks, exploring the psychology of change, and addressing corporate culture and culture change. Through his engaging teaching style, he empowers students to comprehend and manage the change process effectively.
The course combines theoretical knowledge with practical applications, immersing students in a vibrant learning experience. Mr. Matthews skillfully employs various real-life case studies, including renowned companies such as Air France, Daimler Chrysler, and General Electric, to illustrate the complexities of change management. Through these case studies, students gain valuable insights into the challenges faced by today's businesses and how change management can address them.
A central theme of the course is increasing change capacity. Mr. Matthews helps students develop the skills necessary to foster agility within organizations, enabling them to adapt swiftly to market disruptions. By examining alternative approaches to directed change, such as participative change and emergent change, students gain a comprehensive understanding of the dynamics at play during transformative journeys.
As a culmination of their learning, students engage in a team project based on a real-world case study discussed in class. This hands-on experience allows them to apply their knowledge, fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Additionally, students submit a reflection paper, providing a platform for personal growth and self-assessment as they explore the complexities of change management and its relevance in today's business landscape.
Pforzheim University's Change Management course, under the guidance of Mr. Geoffrey Matthews, equips students with the essential tools and knowledge to navigate the ever-changing business landscape. Through an interactive and engaging teaching approach, students gain a deep understanding of key principles, theoretical models, and practical applications related to organizational change. With a focus on enhancing change capacity and leading digital transformations, the course prepares students to embrace change as a catalyst for unlocking their organization's true potential.

Text: Sourabh Jagtap, Class of 2023
Photo: MBA