Title: Leading from the Middle

• Abstract: Describing how change has changed in speed and complexity
  

  • How technology professionals can assess if the required executive sponsorship and other success components are in place

  • Basic practices that can be used by anyone to address resistance to change, both individually and organizationally

   

• Bio: Stuart J. Smith Director, Organizational Development and Training, Strategic Quality Management John H. Harland Co. (JH)
  
  Stuart helps people deal with change and leaders to "plan for the expected unexpected". Combining his experience and education, Stuart enjoys sharing knowledge and insights on change management and speaks to groups who need new ideas to deal with the ever-changing and competitive economy. He blends information into a highly engaging, motivating, (and occasionally humorous) presentation. As the Director, Organizational Development and Training, Strategic Quality Management, Stuart has helped senior leaders navigate the turbulent waters of change brought on by ever-changing expectations from customers, employees and shareholders.
  
  For the past eight years, Stuart has work for The John Harland Company. He has held leadership roles in human resources, training, quality management and of course change management. In these roles he has helped in Harland's transition from a $200M check printer to a $1B diversified software, printing and testing company focused on financial institutions. Recently, he designed and executed change management plans for major business improvement initiatives including business improvement (Six Sigma), organizational design efforts (Shared Services) and customer-facing projects (customer-relationship management and customer strategy development). He is recognized for his leadership and ability to facilitate teams thought projects "on target, on time and on budget".
  
  Stuart's life is an example of his passion for change. He attended thirteen different schools between K-12 grades, following his father across the globe as a "military brat". He also spent seven years on active duty as an Army Infantry leader in times of both peace and war. Stuart completed the Strategies and Tools for Successful Change Execution course offered by the premier change management firm, Conner and Associates (http://www.connerpartners.com) and works closely with the firm. Stuart holds a B.S. in Occupational Education from Southern Illinois University at Carbondale and a M.Ed. in Adult Education - HR focus from Seattle University. When he is not helping others manage change he enjoys time with his family at Lake Sinclair, GA. He loves boating and is a jet ski "junkie". When you find him "dried off" he is an avid golfer.