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What does it take to build Organisation Development (OD) capability at the heart of Central Government? In this episode, we’re joined by Dr. Susanne Søndergaard Gidda, the Civil Service Operating Lead in the Cabinet Office, to explore this fascinating question.

With a wealth of experience spanning multiple UK government departments, Susanne brings a unique perspective to the complexities of OD in high-stakes environments.

We delve into what it means to embed OD practices within large, complex organisations, how to nurture OD capability, and the lessons Susanne has learned from her time leading OD initiatives in Central Government. Whether you’re an experienced OD practitioner or just starting your journey, this episode is packed with practical insights and inspiration to elevate OD capability in your own organisation.

💼 About our Guest
Dr. Susanne Søndergaard-Gidda

Connect with Susanne here:
/ susanne-gidda-1939b7

Dr. Susanne Søndergaard Gidda is a leader in Civil Service Organisation Development and Design capability in her role at the Cabinet Office. With a master’s degree in occupational psychology, a PhD in organisational psychology, and recognition as a Chartered Fellow of CIPD, Susanne brings a wealth of expertise to her work.

Her career spans several UK government departments, where she has honed her skills in organisational development. Susanne has also worked as a knowledge management specialist at Rolls-Royce, leading on communities of practice, and as a senior policy analyst with RAND Europe, further enriching her experience in fostering effective organisational strategies and practices.

Thanks for listening!

Distinction is an evidence-based Organisation Development & Design Consultancy designed to support modern, progressive organisations to bring out the best in their people and their teams through training, consulting, and coaching.

Our professional and highly skilled consultants focus on delivering engaging, results-focused and flexible solutions that help our clients achieve their business objectives.

Find out more at https://distinction.live/how-we-can-help/

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Looking for a consistent source of leadership & OD tips? Subscribe to our weekly newsletter by clicking the link below and receive valuable leadership tips directly in your inbox:
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Where is the real value created in your organisation? Is it a specific team, a critical process, or perhaps a unique capability that sets you apart? And just as importantly, how does the organisation make money, generate surplus, or deliver value to its clients—whoever they may be? Understanding these drivers is the key to focusing your efforts where they’ll have the greatest impact. This is the holy grail for HR and OD. To help us unpack this and explore how to identify and leverage these value points, we’re joined by Mark Doughty.

💼 About our Guest
Mark Doughty

Connect with Mark here:
/ marktdoughty

Mark Doughty is a seasoned Director of Learning & Organisation Development, celebrated for blending seminal research with critical business insights to drive impactful organisational transformation. With a career spanning diverse industries and top-tier, multicultural global companies, Mark is commercially sharp, operationally astute, and adept at curating "best in class" innovative, award-winning solutions.

Renowned for spearheading programs in High-Performing Teams, Strategic Account Management, and Executive Development, Mark has consistently delivered initiatives that future-proof key strategic capabilities while achieving significant business improvements, including multimillion-pound outcomes.

Academically distinguished with an M.Ed. and M.A., and a proud member of the Worshipful Company of Management Consultants, Mark brings a deep understanding of leadership, strategy, and organisational culture to the table.

Mark is on a mission to redefine leadership excellence in a rapidly evolving world. Despite leadership development being a $30 billion industry—predicted to more than double by 2032—the lack of tangible leadership impact is stark. Outdated models and misaligned approaches have left many businesses struggling to connect with their people, resulting in widespread disengagement, stress, and lost value.

Thanks for listening!

Distinction is an evidence-based Organisation Development & Design Consultancy designed to support modern, progressive organisations to bring out the best in their people and their teams through training, consulting, and coaching.

Our professional and highly skilled consultants focus on delivering engaging, results-focused and flexible solutions that help our clients achieve their business objectives.

Find out more at https://distinction.live/how-we-can-help/

💡 Stay Connected:
Looking for a consistent source of leadership & OD tips? Subscribe to our weekly newsletter by clicking the link below and receive valuable leadership tips directly in your inbox:
https://distinction.live/keep-in-touch

We'd love to connect with you on Linked In:
linkedin.com/in/danibacon478
https://www.linkedin.com/in/garinrouch/

We'd love to hear from you so send us a message!

What’s the secret ingredient that strengthens trust, fosters psychological safety, and drives better decision-making in organizations? How can it boost staff loyalty, adaptability, engagement, and ultimately lead to greater productivity and profitability? According to leading author Graham Allcott, the answer lies in a simple yet powerful quality: kindness.

In this episode of the OrgDev Podcast, we dive into the insights from Graham’s latest book, KIND: The Quiet Power of Kindness at Work. Together, we unpack how kindness—when approached thoughtfully and strategically—can break myths, reshape workplace culture, and transform teams, leaders, and organizations. Discover the 8 key principles that make kindness a game-changing force for better business outcomes. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation!

Graham’s LinkedIn:
/ grahamallcott

Graham Allcott is a bestselling author, best known for How to Be a Productivity Ninja, a global success. His latest book, KIND: The Quiet Power of Kindness at Work, explores how kinder, more human-focused workplace cultures lead to greater organisational success.

As the founder of Think Productive, a leading training and consultancy firm with offices in the UK, USA, Canada, Australia, and the Netherlands, Graham has helped individuals and organisations transform the way they work.

Renowned for his engaging and motivational talks, Graham blends practical insights with humor, offering actionable strategies that inspire audiences worldwide.

Thanks for listening!

Distinction is an evidence-based Organisation Development & Design Consultancy designed to support modern, progressive organisations to bring out the best in their people and their teams through training, consulting, and coaching.

Our professional and highly skilled consultants focus on delivering engaging, results-focused and flexible solutions that help our clients achieve their business objectives.

Find out more at https://distinction.live/how-we-can-help/

💡 Stay Connected:
Looking for a consistent source of leadership & OD tips? Subscribe to our weekly newsletter by clicking the link below and receive valuable leadership tips directly in your inbox:
https://distinction.live/keep-in-touch

We'd love to connect with you on Linked In:
linkedin.com/in/danibacon478
https://www.linkedin.com/in/garinrouch/