Move Fast. Break Shit. Burn Out. Elizabeth Manning, Change Management Leader: From Dancer to Change Leader
In this episode, we sit down with Elizabeth Manning, Change Management Leader, to explore her unconventional path from professional dancer to corporate change leader. With a natural talent for dot-connecting and systems thinking, Elizabeth found herself in the rigid, highly regulated world of big pharma—where generalist capabilities were often overlooked. Yet, as she helped leaders navigate complex challenges, her strategic value became undeniable.
Elizabeth’s journey highlights the power of creating your own Catalyst role. Early on, she recognized that having an HR Business Partner who understood her skills and potential was essential to breaking through. She continuously solved problems beyond her formal remit, refining her language to align with the C-suite’s priorities. Eventually, she found an executive sponsor in the Chief Medical Officer, who saw her unique ability to drive strategic transformation and created the perfect Catalyst role for her: Strategic Initiatives Lead—a position designed to tackle the company's biggest, most complex challenges.
Elizabeth’s story is a masterclass in how Catalysts can carve out meaningful roles within organizations by:
Defining their role in alignment with executive priorities – Clarity in how your work creates business value is key.
Finding a mentor or sponsor – Someone who understands your strengths and advocates for you when you're not in the room.
Developing self-awareness of your superpowers – Knowing what sets you apart helps you lean into your strengths.
Translating your value in a way the organization understands – Speaking the language of leadership makes all the difference.
Join us as Elizabeth shares how she navigated resistance, built strategic alliances, and ultimately shaped a role that allowed her to create a lasting impact. If you’re a Catalyst looking to find your place in a complex organization, this conversation is for you!
Original music by Lynz Floren.