The Strategy Skills Podcast: Strategy | Leadership | Critical Thinking | Problem-Solving

518: Former EY and KPMG Managing Director, Michael J. Lopez, on Strategies for Navigating Change

Jan 15, 2025

Michael J. Lopez, a former managing director at EY and KPMG and author of "Change: Six science-backed strategies to transform your brain, body, and behavior," shares his insights on navigating change management. He discusses how personal experience shapes consulting approaches and the unique challenges of leading in a hybrid work environment. Michael emphasizes that change is a gradual process requiring time and effort, and he explores the role of AI in consulting while affirming the irreplaceable value of human intuition.

47:01

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Episode guests

Michael J. Lopez

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Quick takeaways

Michael J. Lopez emphasizes the importance of personalizing change strategies as one-size-fits-all approaches fail to address individual needs effectively.

Navigating the hybrid work environment requires consultants to adapt leadership styles, ensure proactive communication, and focus on mentoring younger team members.

Deep dives

The Importance of Leadership Experience

Experience in leading firms such as EY and KPMG significantly shapes one's approach to business and leadership. This background equips individuals with essential consulting skills, enabling them to advise strategically across organizations. The speaker emphasizes the value of hands-on involvement with clients to foster a deeper understanding of their needs and challenges. Such formative experiences often lead consultants to define their distinct leadership style, which includes integrating with leadership teams.

Intro

2min

Navigating the Path to Partnership

6min

The Evolving Role of AI in Consulting

3min

Navigating the Transition to Partner in Consulting

21min

Understanding Change Management

10min

Transformative Realizations: Embracing Identity and Purpose

3min

Navigating Resources for Change and Strategy Learning

2min

Welcome to Strategy Skills episode 518, an interview with the author of Change: Six science-backed strategies to transform your brain, body, and behavior, Michael J. Lopez.

In this episode, Michael shares his consulting journey and leadership challenges that shaped his leadership style and led him to start his own firm. He shares his advice for consultants aiming to become partners in today's hybrid work environment.

Michael also discussed change and how deeply personal it is that it can't be approached with one-size-fits-all solutions. Lopez explains why change takes longer than expected, especially in adults, and warns against organizations' tendency to focus too much on immediate outcomes rather than the necessary process of transformation.

Michael J. Lopez is a leading voice in change, combining scientific principles and human behavior to unlock potential in individuals and organizations. With diverse experience across industries, he designs innovative strategies that drive transformation and accelerate performance, earning recognition as a LinkedIn Top Voice.

Get Michael’s new book here: https://shorturl.at/NSBAn

Change: Six science-backed strategies to transform your brain, body, and behavior

Here are some free gifts for you:

Overall Approach Used in Well-Managed Strategy Studies free download: www.firmsconsulting.com/OverallApproach

McKinsey & BCG winning resume free download: www.firmsconsulting.com/resumepdf

Enjoying this episode? Get access to sample advanced training episodes here: www.firmsconsulting.com/promo

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