The Time Trap in OD: A shared struggle for academics, consultants, and CEOs with Andreas Wenger

In this conversation, Andreas Wenger, Partner at Transformer Consulting, shares a story that will change how you think about organizational change. From his unique vantage point as academic, consultant, and former executive, Andreas reveals why the most successful transformations happen when conditions are far from perfect.

The Crisis That Proved Everything
Andreas takes us inside a remarkable transformation at a Swiss care institution supporting 250 people with disabilities. What started as a 50-year-old organizational structure buckling under complexity became a masterclass in courageous leadership when COVID-19 hit. The institution's April 2020 go-live date—right in the heart of the pandemic—seemed like the worst possible timing. Instead, it became their salvation.

Why Perfect Planning Kills Organizations
Discover the hidden danger of over-preparation and why leaders who wait for certainty often wait too long. Andreas shares hard-won insights about the difference between building conviction (getting people to believe) versus convincing (forcing compliance after decisions are made).

The Time Trap That Unites All Leaders
Whether you're an academic, consultant, or CEO, Andreas reveals the one scarce resource that consistently sabotages organizational success—and it's not what you think. Learn why time pressure might actually be the enemy of good organizational design.

Key Takeaways
Why organizational structure is far more than an org chart
How to build conviction before making major changes
The power of exposition over explanation in change management
Why functional organizations can become death traps as complexity grows
The courage to implement imperfect solutions in uncertain times

Perfect For
CEOs and senior leaders planning organizational transformations
HR professionals managing structural changes
Consultants working with complex organizations
Anyone interested in the psychology of organizational change

Guest Bio:
Andreas Wenger is a Partner at Transformer Consulting, based in Zurich, Switzerland. With experience spanning academia (PhD in organizational structures), management consulting (formerly Mercer Management Consulting/Oliver Wyman), and executive leadership, Andreas brings a unique perspective to organizational design challenges. He works with companies ranging from 100 to several thousand employees across Europe and internationally.

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The Org Design Podcast explores the art and science of building better organizations. Hosted by Tim Brewer and Amy Springer.

Connect with Andreas Wenger:
Company: Transforma Consulting https://transforma.ch/
Location: Zurich, Switzerland
Specializes in: Organizational transformations for growing companies and complex international organizations

Episode Length: ~18 minutes
Release Date: 19 June 2025

#OrganizationalDesign #Leadership #Transformation #ChangeManagement #businessstrategy

00:00 Intro and Guest Introduction
00:32 Andreas Wenger's Background
00:51 Journey into Organizational Design
02:35 Symptoms of Poor Organizational Design
02:50 Noteworthy Organizational Change Example
08:18 Overcoming Resistance to Change
10:13 The Importance of Involvement in Design
12:53 Advice for Leaders on Organizational Design
14:15 Consistency in Experiences Across Roles
15:35 Conclusion and Final Thoughts