Change is inherent in modern business. In a world, where technology, trends and customer expectations are changing at a dizzying pace, leaders must not only react, but above all anticipate and initiate change. Beata Drzazga, founder of BetaMed S.A, one of the largest medical companies in Poland, stresses, that in every change there is an opportunity – all it takes is the courage to see it and seize it.
Ms. Beato, as a recognized leader and mentor, you are known for your ability to manage change in a dynamically changing business environment. What do you think effective change management means?
Beata Drzazga: Change management is an art, which combines vision, courage and flexibility. For me, the key is to understand, that change is not just a reaction to a crisis or threat, but above all an opportunity. It is an opportunity to redefine strategy, implement innovation and build competitive advantage. Today’s business world requires openness to new technologies, innovative models of operation and the ability to anticipate trends.
How does innovation fit into change management?
Beata Drzazga: Innovation is the driving force behind any change. Without them it is difficult to talk about adaptation or development. Companies that want to survive and grow must invest in innovation – both technological and process innovation. They are the ones that allow not only to respond to external challenges, but also to anticipate them. For example, the pandemic or energy crisis made many entrepreneurs realize, that only flexible and intelligent organizations can successfully adapt to new conditions.
You mentioned smart organizations. What does this mean in practice?
Beata Drzazga: The intelligence of an organization is the ability to learn, adapt and collaborate. It is a culture that fosters openness to new ideas and relationship building, both internal and external. Smart organizations are able to manage knowledge, use data and technology, while developing people. Leaders of such companies understand that the greatest value is teams capable of creative thinking and collaboration.
How can leaders build such a culture of innovation in their companies?
Beata Drzazga: A culture of innovation starts with the leader. We are the ones who have to lead by example, be open to new ideas and inspire others to act. The key is to create an environment, which is conducive to experimentation, where failure is treated as part of the learning process, rather than a cause for concern. It is also worth investing in innovation support programs, such as business incubators, innovation labs or employee incentive systems.
Can you give an example of the changes that you have initiated in your company?
Beata Drzazga: Of course! One of the biggest challenges was the introduction of digital technologies into operational processes. Initially, I met with resistance – some employees were afraid of change. That’s why I started by educating and building awareness of why these changes were necessary. I showed specific benefits, such as saving time or improving patient service. The result? Not only have we implemented new technologies, but we’ve also built stronger teams that work better together and adapt more quickly to subsequent changes.
What skills are key for change management leaders?
Beata Drzazga: First and foremost, the ability to listen and communicate. A leader must be empathetic to understand the concerns of his team, and at the same time determined to lead the company through change. Another important quality is the ability to make decisions quickly and anticipate the consequences of actions. And finally – the courage to take risks, because change always involves uncertainty.
What would you like to pass on to young leaders, who are just beginning their journey?
Beata Drzazga: Don’t be afraid of change. See them as an opportunity, not a threat. Invest in yourself and your teams – developing people is the best investment, you can make. And remember, a true leader does not impose his vision, but inspires others to realize it together. Change is a process, which requires determination, but always brings new opportunities. It is worth taking advantage of them.
Beata Drzazga is the founder of BetaMed S.A., one of the largest medical companies in Poland. As a member of Corporate Connections Group CC1 Warsaw and co-organizer of the New Technology Conference in Palo Alto, understandsvery well, how innovation shapes the future of business. Dean of the Faculty of Medicine at the Upper Silesian Academy in Katowice, Poland, Supports economic missions and received the title of Nevada State Business Ambassador from the Governor of Nevada .
Source: Business Magazine