“Exploring Strategic Change” stands as the premier resource on the crucial subject of change management. This book, written in an approachable manner while grounded in robust theoretical principles, offers the latest edition featuring contemporary case studies and fresh insights into current topics like employee engagement. I highly endorse this book for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the complexities involved in managing change,’ says Professor Katie Bailey (née Truss) from the University of Sussex. ‘The arrival of a new edition of this authoritative text on strategic change is truly welcome. Enhanced with updated examples and modern concepts, this classic remains the most comprehensive and approachable tool in its field,’ notes Richard Whittington, Professor of Strategic Management at the University of Oxford.

“Exploring Strategic Change” delves into the intricate and evolving process of crafting and executing strategic and organizational change, from contextual analysis to the development and implementation of effective strategies and solutions. Proficiency in change management has become a highly valued skill among senior and middle management. This book is designed to assist both students and managers in honing skills pertinent to change management, with a focus on empowering executives to advance their strategic objectives through practical engagement with strategic change.

Employing the innovative change kaleidoscope framework, readers will not only gain significant insights into the practice of managing strategic change but also understand the importance of adapting change approaches to specific contexts. Numerous examples invite both critical reflection and practical application of theory. The emphasis on both the delivery and design of change equips students with enhanced skills in analysis, judgment, translation, and implementation.

This fourth edition of “Exploring Strategic Change” offers a broad array of brief illustrations from both private and public sectors. It places greater emphasis on the change path as a pivotal design choice and expands coverage on leadership, change agency skills, and the conditions that facilitate change. The book stresses the importance of exercising judgment and adapting to context as core competencies in change management. Two new extensive case studies are included to explore the intricacies of managing change.

“Exploring Strategic Change” is intended for undergraduate and postgraduate students, managers, and change agents enrolled in Strategy, HR, and OB-related courses focusing on change management. The authors are Julia Balogun, Professor of Strategic Management at the University of Bath’s School of Management; Veronica Hope Hailey, Professor of Management Studies and Dean of the School of Management at the same institution; and Stefanie Gustafsson, a lecturer and Prize Fellow in HRM at the University of Bath’s School of Management.