IT Business Partner Playbook

𝑻𝒉𝒆 𝑰𝑻 𝑩𝒖𝒔𝒊𝒏𝒆𝒔𝒔 𝑷𝒂𝒓𝒕𝒏𝒆𝒓 𝑷𝒍𝒂𝒚𝒃𝒐𝒐𝒌Welcome to episode 13! Developing the BRM capability and driving strategic impact.🎙️ 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.1️⃣ Transitioning into the BRM Role With over 28 years in healthcare and IT project management, Muslim’s transition into BRM was natural. He had always been a relationship builder, and while he initially wasn’t familiar with the title, he immediately felt at home in the role.2️⃣ 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.3️⃣ 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 strategy4️⃣ 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.5️⃣ AI, Automation, and the Future of BRM AI is transforming Muslim’s work, allowing him to automate parts of routine tasks like business case preparation—freeing up time to focus on relationships and strategy. He highlighted how AI is not a threat, but a tool to enhance BRM efficiency.6️⃣ 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 colleagues𝗪𝗮𝘁𝗰𝗵 𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗲 - > 📹 "𝗦𝘁𝗿𝗼𝗻𝗴 𝗿𝗲𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀𝗵𝗶𝗽𝘀 𝗱𝗼𝗻'𝘁 𝗰𝗼𝘀𝘁 𝗮𝗻𝘆𝘁𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗴, 𝗯𝘂𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗲𝘆 𝗱𝗿𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘆𝘁𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗴."

𝑻𝒉𝒆 𝑰𝑻 𝑩𝒖𝒔𝒊𝒏𝒆𝒔𝒔 𝑷𝒂𝒓𝒕𝒏𝒆𝒓 𝑷𝒍𝒂𝒚𝒃𝒐𝒐𝒌Welcome 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.1️⃣ Defining the BRM Role from ScratchAarif 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.2️⃣ Balancing Business Demands and IT CapabilitiesManaging 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.3️⃣ Challenges and Professional GrowthRecognised 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 role4️⃣ 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 company’s approach to upskilling employees.5️⃣ The Power of Relationships and CommunicationAarif 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.6️⃣ Looking to the FutureThe 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.𝗪𝗮𝘁𝗰𝗵 𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗲 - > 📹 https://youtu.be/a4Ili2MvUIg?si=6oUdzSmZMBGDGytVNew episodes weekly

𝑻𝒉𝒆 𝑰𝑻 𝑩𝒖𝒔𝒊𝒏𝒆𝒔𝒔 𝑷𝒂𝒓𝒕𝒏𝒆𝒓 𝑷𝒍𝒂𝒚𝒃𝒐𝒐𝒌Welcome to episode 11! Navigating the transition into Business Relationship Management and the evolving role of BRMs.🎙️ 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.1️⃣ 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.2️⃣ BRM as a Strategic Force We explored the evolution of the BRM role, emphasising how it has become more strategic—particularly 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.3️⃣ 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.4️⃣ The Intersection of Business, IT, and Strategy We dug into the role of business analysts and project managers—how 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 so5️⃣ 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.6️⃣ 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 → 📹 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, Meghana’s insights will help you understand what is required to make it a success

Welcome to episode 10! Catalysing change, demystifying technology and shaping the future of IT Business Partnering.🎙️ In this episode of The IT Business Partner Playbook Podcast, I had a great conversation with Rolan Somerville, CBRM, from Tucson Electric Power.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💡 Key Highlights:1️⃣ From Application Development to BRM: The Power of Relationship BuildingRolan'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.2️⃣ Breaking Down Silos and Encouraging Cross-Functional CollaborationThe 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.3️⃣ Managing Digital Transformation and resistance to changeTechnology adoption isn’t always easy—Rolan 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.4️⃣ The Role of Empathy in IT Business PartneringEmpathy 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.5️⃣ The Future of IT Business Partnering: Adapting, Evolving and Institutionalising the capabilityWith 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.Favourite quote;"𝘚𝘶𝘤𝘤𝘦𝘴𝘴 𝘣𝘳𝘦𝘦𝘥𝘴 𝘰𝘱𝘱𝘰𝘳𝘵𝘶𝘯𝘪𝘵𝘺. 𝘞𝘩𝘦𝘯 𝘱𝘦𝘰𝘱𝘭𝘦 𝘴𝘦𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘩𝘢𝘷𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘢 𝘉𝘙𝘔 𝘪𝘯𝘷𝘰𝘭𝘷𝘦𝘥 𝘭𝘦𝘢𝘥𝘴 𝘵𝘰 𝘣𝘦𝘵𝘵𝘦𝘳 𝘱𝘳𝘰𝘫𝘦𝘤𝘵 𝘰𝘶𝘵𝘤𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘴, 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘺 𝘯𝘢𝘵𝘶𝘳𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘺 𝘸𝘢𝘯𝘵 𝘵𝘰 𝘦𝘯𝘨𝘢𝘨𝘦 𝘮𝘰𝘳𝘦"Watch the full episode here →📹 https://youtu.be/FjPMD1F5S3o🌟 Looking Ahead: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...?

𝑻𝒉𝒆 𝑰𝑻 𝑩𝒖𝒔𝒊𝒏𝒆𝒔𝒔 𝑷𝒂𝒓𝒕𝒏𝒆𝒓 𝑷𝒍𝒂𝒚𝒃𝒐𝒐𝒌Welcome to episode 9! Genuine connections, the future of business partnering, and stakeholder diplomacy🎙️ 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.💡 Key Highlights:1️⃣ 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.2️⃣ Shadow IT, Digital Transformation, and the Need for Oversight We explored the risks of shadow IT—where teams set up systems without oversight—and 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.3️⃣ 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.4️⃣ 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 approach—whether guiding business leaders through project management or balancing technology with business needs.5️⃣ The Future of IT Business Partnering 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.🌟 Looking Ahead: This episode reinforces the point that IT Business Partners are not just facilitators—they are strategists, innovators and problem-solvers. Is that how Business Partners viewed in your organisation? We'd love to know!My favourite quote from Dennis, "𝑪𝒉𝒂𝒏𝒈𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒑𝒆𝒓𝒄𝒆𝒑𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏 𝒐𝒇 𝑰𝑻 𝒇𝒓𝒐𝒎 𝒂 𝒕𝒂𝒄𝒕𝒊𝒄𝒂𝒍 𝒇𝒖𝒏𝒄𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏 𝒕𝒐 𝒂 𝒔𝒕𝒓𝒂𝒕𝒆𝒈𝒊𝒄 𝒆𝒏𝒂𝒃𝒍𝒆𝒓 𝒕𝒂𝒌𝒆𝒔 𝒕𝒊𝒎𝒆, 𝒆𝒇𝒇𝒐𝒓𝒕, 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒂 𝒓𝒆𝒍𝒆𝒏𝒕𝒍𝒆𝒔𝒔 𝒇𝒐𝒄𝒖𝒔 𝒐𝒏 𝒃𝒖𝒊𝒍𝒅𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒓𝒆𝒍𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏𝒔𝒉𝒊𝒑𝒔 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒕𝒓𝒖𝒔𝒕"Prefer to watch? Catch the full episode here; 📹 Keen to join an episode? Get in touch!

𝑻𝒉𝒆 𝑰𝑻 𝑩𝒖𝒔𝒊𝒏𝒆𝒔𝒔 𝑷𝒂𝒓𝒕𝒏𝒆𝒓 𝑷𝒍𝒂𝒚𝒃𝒐𝒐𝒌Welcome to episode 8! Remembering your roots, playing to your strengths and catalysing change🎙️ 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.💡 Key Highlights:1️⃣ The BRM Role: A Journey of DiscoveryDalisu 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.2️⃣ Bridging Gaps Across FunctionsWe 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.3️⃣ Building Trust and Strong ConnectionsDalisu 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.4️⃣ Adapting and Innovating as a BRMFrom 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.5️⃣ Future Tools and StrategiesWe wrapped up by exploring ideas to support Business Partners, such as sharing common (not best) practices and simplifying approaches for greater impact.Watch:📹 https://youtu.be/crveSkwJwEc?si=IuzSCehnTYKXoovE🌟 Looking Ahead: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 utilisedMy favourite quote from Dalisu, demonstrates both the purpose and flexibility of the role;"𝑻𝒉𝒆 𝒅𝒆𝒇𝒊𝒏𝒊𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏 𝒐𝒇 𝒂 𝑩𝑹𝑴 𝒅𝒆𝒑𝒆𝒏𝒅𝒔 𝒐𝒏 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒗𝒂𝒍𝒖𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒚 𝒄𝒂𝒏 𝒃𝒓𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒊𝒓 𝒑𝒂𝒓𝒕𝒏𝒆𝒓"📢 Join the Conversation: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!

𝑻𝒉𝒆 𝑰𝑻 𝑩𝒖𝒔𝒊𝒏𝒆𝒔𝒔 𝑷𝒂𝒓𝒕𝒏𝒆𝒓 𝑷𝒍𝒂𝒚𝒃𝒐𝒐𝒌Welcome to episode 7! Balancing life, building trust, and embracing the evolving role of technology.🎙️ 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 💡 Key Highlights:1️⃣ Juggling Roles: Personal and ProfessionalDawn 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 journeys2️⃣ Building Connections and Driving StrategyAs 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 goals3️⃣ Embracing Technology with PurposeDawn 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.4️⃣ The Power of Trust and PositivitySharing personal experiences, we reflected on the importance of resilience, trust, and maintaining a positive outlook. Dawn’s insights remind us of the human side of business and the need to compartmentalize and find joy in daily moments.5️⃣ Stories that InspireWe ended with personal anecdotes about the wisdom of older generations and the invaluable lessons they can teach us, especially the younger generation —a heartfelt reminder to cherish diverse perspectives! 📹 https://lnkd.in/d8JmNeZ8🌟 Looking Ahead: This episode is a testament to the personal strength required in business relationship management. It’s an invitation to reflect on our own roles and how we can better connect, innovate, and inspire within our organisations."𝗪𝗵𝗲𝗻 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝘄𝗼𝗿𝗸 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗮 𝗯𝘂𝘀𝗶𝗻𝗲𝘀𝘀 𝗽𝗮𝗿𝘁𝗻𝗲𝗿, 𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘆 𝗶𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗮𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗶𝘀 𝘂𝘀 𝗺𝗼𝘃𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗳𝗼𝗿𝘄𝗮𝗿𝗱 𝘁𝗼𝗴𝗲𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿".📢 Join the Conversation: 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!#Podcast #BRM #WomenInSTEM

𝑻𝒉𝒆 𝑰𝑻 𝑩𝒖𝒔𝒊𝒏𝒆𝒔𝒔 𝑷𝒂𝒓𝒕𝒏𝒆𝒓 𝑷𝒍𝒂𝒚𝒃𝒐𝒐𝒌Welcome to episode 6! Elevating the BRM role, proving value and remaining authentic.🎙️ 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.💡 Key Highlights:1️⃣ 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.2️⃣ 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.3️⃣ 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.4️⃣ Maintaining the BRM Mindset: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 organization’s values and goals is essential.🌐 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.📢 Your Turn:What strategies have you found effective in elevating the BRM role in your organization? Share your experiences and join the conversation!

𝑻𝒉𝒆 𝑰𝑻 𝑩𝒖𝒔𝒊𝒏𝒆𝒔𝒔 𝑷𝒂𝒓𝒕𝒏𝒆𝒓 𝑷𝒍𝒂𝒚𝒃𝒐𝒐𝒌Welcome to episode 5! Exploring common challenges, innovation, and the power of curiosity.🎙️ In episode 5 of the IT Business Partner Playbook Podcast, I had the pleasure of speaking with Bruna Rezende Rossin Collado, a Business Relationship Manager at Unilever in Brazil. Bruna brought invaluable insights into the evolving role of BRMs, stakeholder management, and the challenges of driving innovation within a global organization. Fortunately, she did this all in my home tongue, not hers... 💡 Key Highlights:1️⃣ Evolving Role of BRMs at Unilever:Bruna shared how BRMs are expanding their focus to support Unilever’s entire tech foundation team, ensuring alignment with the company’s overarching strategy. The role requires agility, a deep understanding of stakeholder needs, and a keen ability to influence without formal authority.2️⃣ Stakeholder Management & Communication:Bruna emphasized the importance of honest communication and building trust while navigating the challenges of balancing responsibilities and setting boundaries. Regular face-to-face interactions and workshops play a key role in uncovering critical insights and strengthening relationships.3️⃣ Tech Tools & AI for Productivity:From using Azure DevOps to track initiatives to leveraging AI tools for meeting-minute automation, Bruna highlighted how technology can streamline tasks and boost efficiency. We both agreed that embracing AI is effective for reducing repetitive tasks and making time for strategic thinking.4️⃣ Upskilling & Community Engagement:Bruna expressed her excitement about engaging more with the BRM community, exchanging insights, and exploring tailored training opportunities. Having had her entire team go through BRMP and CBRM, she's looking into how bespoke workshops can help embed the practices that are most relevant to their environment.5️⃣ Challenges of Transitioning into BRM Roles:Bruna shared her journey from project management to BRM, highlighting the steep learning curve and the importance of curiosity in understanding new perspectives. She emphasized the value of learning/training and staying connected to the BRM community for ongoing growth.Watch or listen now!📹 https://lnkd.in/dE9mcAat🎧 https://lnkd.in/d5xzYfxk🌐 Looking Ahead:This episode captures the energy and potential of BRMs to drive meaningful business impact. As we continue to share stories from BRMs worldwide, we’re excited to foster deeper connections and inspire innovation across industries.📢 Your Turn:Have you faced similar challenges or breakthroughs in your BRM journey? Or are you curious about how BRMs contribute to business strategy? Let’s connect and keep the conversation going!Next up, Bhupinder Siran...