In this episode of the Business Simplicity Podcast, Chris Parker speaks with Doug Dean, Head of Consulting at OSR Consulting and a member of the Enablers Network, about the elusive and overused concept of transformation. They unpack what transformation really is, when it matters, and why so many efforts fail. This conversation reveals grounded insights into how leaders can move from talk to traction.

Doug brings decades of hands-on experience leading transformation initiatives across industries in Asia. Based in Malaysia, he has worked with teams navigating complexity, ambiguity, and the human challenges of change. His style is deeply reflective and honest, rooted in a commitment to making transformation not only strategic but real.

Listeners will walk away with a clearer understanding of what transformation requires beyond frameworks and jargon. Doug shares hard-won lessons from both success and failure, offering pragmatic routes forward for executives who feel stuck or overwhelmed. The episode will be especially useful for leaders who sense that doing more of the same will no longer deliver meaningful results.

For those shaping cross-functional strategies or enabling major shifts in ways of working, this conversation reinforces the importance of aligned leadership, coherent narratives, and steady execution. It also speaks to the courage required to sit with discomfort and lead through uncertainty with presence and honesty.

About the Guest

Doug Dean is the Head of Consulting at OSR Consulting, based in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. He brings a wealth of experience from leading enterprise transformation initiatives throughout Asia. As a senior consultant and trusted advisor, Doug is known for his ability to demystify complexity and support executives in making grounded, actionable decisions. His membership in the Enablers Network reflects a shared commitment to conscious, strategic change. Doug was invited to the podcast for his deep experience in transformation and his rare ability to speak plainly about its real challenges and rewards.

Contact Details

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/douglas-dean-88b81b/
• Website (OSR Consulting): https://www.osr.solutions/
• Enablers Network: https://enablersnetwork.com/

Key Discussion Points

• What does transformation really mean?: Doug explains how the term can become vague or meaningless, and why clarity of intent and method is essential.
• Why do most transformations fail?: Many leaders overfocus on plans and underinvest in real traction, resulting in failure rates now climbing above 70 to 90 percent.
• What makes a transformation successful?: Doug shares four practical success patterns drawn from his experience across organizations and industries.
• When is transformation not needed?: Not every discomfort calls for a major shift; Doug outlines how to assess whether change is necessary or if refinement is enough.
• How can leaders navigate failure constructively?: Doug reflects on his own setbacks and how embracing vulnerability helps leaders recalibrate and grow.
• What role does alignment play in transformation?: Without genuine alignment at the leadership level, even the most brilliant strategy will stall.
• How should executives respond to complexity fatigue?: Doug offers perspective on leading through ambiguity and building momentum in uncertain contexts.