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Great Chief Transformation Officers Matter More Than Ever

Change isn’t easy. In fact, most transformation programs don’t deliver the hoped-for results. BCG’s Office of the Chief Transformation Officer (CTO) helps companies beat the odds by putting the right individuals at the helm of their most ambitious change efforts. With a CTO in place, the rate of transformation success improves by 80%.

Failed transformations come with a high price tag—including shrinking profit margins, lost market share, and diminished competitive advantage. In an attempt to avoid these woes, organizations often designate a company executive in charge of transformation. But as with transformations themselves, many such transformation officers struggle to succeed.

BCG’s Office of the Chief Transformation Officer provides the resources companies need to tip the balance in their favor—by making sure their change leaders have the right skills and knowledge to succeed. We do this by bringing together a network of Chief Transformation Officers for regular training and support around five key stages along the CTO life cycle:

  • Setting Up the CTO Role. Identify the purpose, need, and time frame for the CTO role; identify the transformation model; design the role charter of the CTO; outline success factors; and align with top leadership.
  • Selecting the Individual. Understand staffing requirements; source and evaluate CTO candidates; and start the interview process.
  • Setting Up the CTO for Success. Onboard the CTO; establish the Office of the CTO; design modus operandi for first day on the job; and schedule one-to-one coaching for CTOs.
  • Sustaining and Progressing. Adjust transformation plans as needed to the organization; push leaders to act as role models for change; and execute on governance.
  • Exiting and Moving On (or Continuing). Off-board the CTO and/or team; coordinate potential handoff to a new CTO, or else support current CTO in continued role.

Meet BCG’s Chief Transformation Officer Consulting Team

Our consultants know that merely having a Chief Transformation Officer on staff doesn’t guarantee victory. Informed by insights from interviews and analysis of successful and unsuccessful transformation programs, our recommendations and support are grounded in hard evidence of what makes CTOs effective—and what doesn’t.

Our Latest Thinking on the Role of Chief Transformation Officer

BCG’s body of thought leadership on change and the Chief Transformation Officer role—including a wealth of articles and expert videos—sets the stage for CTO success.

How to Create a Transformation That Lasts | Hero

How to Create a Transformation That Lasts

Transformations are critical to building competitive advantage and delivering shareholder value. They are most successful when managed through a transformation office.

Are You Ready to Transform?

Change is hard, but readiness is all. Companies prepared to manage the leader, people, and program journeys can double their chances of success.

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    Prioritization for CTOs: The Power of Saying No

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Change Your Trajectory: Monthly insights on business transformation.