I truly believe that sticking to the basics is the way to be consistently impactful.
On the “hard skills”, this includes: systems thinking, focusing on understanding problems, being intentional about what is being optimized for, assessing trade-offs and clearly communicating at the right level with the right stakeholders.
On the “soft skills” side, I believe being respectful, honest, trustworthy and empathetic go a long way to building strong relationships and teams.
Here is just some of the feedback I have received in the recent past, showing the impact my approach has had on organizations and people.
Senior Program Leader
When we speak, you don’t just help me solve problems. You expand the way I see them.
You make me slow down, think deeper and reflect on the consequences.
You have this rare ability to make things clearer, not by simplifying them, but by sharpening the focus.
And that has made all the difference.
Senior IT Leader
I like the way you challenge the status-quo, always trying to improve the processes we follow. I know I can always count on you, not only regarding your area of responsibility, but for any advice or different perspective required, or even help me with any urgent task.
Your contribution has been key to the success of the program. We both are part of the core team and I couldn't manage this big and complex program without you. You understand all the concepts, the model and processes we have in Informatics, which part is working well and which part not, and how to apply these learnings to the Evolution design.
You have the full picture clear in mind and you are able to articulate how we should build the Portlio and Financial construction as well as any other processes and tools we need to but success in this new model.
You also dedicate time, not only to designing the program, but to ensure people understand how to operate it properly. You can easily move from Strategic discussions with Domain leads to tactical operations topics with PMs.
It is very easy to work with you. You are alway ready to help and you are very proactive when you see any improvement in any area.
I'm super happy to work with you. I don't see many people with your knowledge and experience, but at the same time humble, easygoing, open, without any politics or games.
Senior Program Leader and Transformation lead
Brandon has been a beacon of practicality while also being a thought leader in the ways we are engaging to be more value stream oriented. Brandon single-handedly designed the Lean Governance model that will be utilized. He is a joy to work with and learn from.
Head of Architecture
Brandon consistently demonstrated a deep understanding of both the technical landscape and strategic business needs, leveraging a systems thinking approach that allowed us to view challenges holistically and make well-rounded decisions. His insights, combined with his collaborative style, made him an invaluable partner throughout this initiative.
Architecture Leader
You are a respected expert. You earned year after year the trust of colleagues and stakeholders. Your name was mentioned as an expert to have in the team in every impactful initiative we started. I wish we could have more Brandons :)
Your collaborative approach and your ability to see the big picture, complements very well your technical and business expertise, setting you for success as an Enterprise Architect.
I am very grateful for your willingness to coach and help every colleague that approaches you for support.