From PMO to impact: leading transformation with Ayesha Hakim Rahman

Is your transformation team just a PMO function in disguise?In this episode, Joe sits down with Ayesha Hakim Rahman to discuss her 10-year journey from the voluntary sector to leading transformation across London boroughs like Tower Hamlets and Bexley.Ayesha challenges the status quo, arguing that transformation is far more than just PMO or governance - it is about curiosity, impact, and challenging the phrase "this is how it’s always been". We explore how to move from tick-box consultation to honest community engagement, why we need to stop using the term "hard to reach," and the vital role of Agile methodology in the public sector. Whether you work in the public sector, service design, or change management, this conversation offers practical insights on building resilience, using data effectively, and the power of "intelligent risk-taking".What we cover:From Community to Strategy: Ayesha’s transition from the third sector to local government and how living in the borough she worked in changed her perspective on decision-making.Redefining Engagement: The regeneration project success story and why honesty about what residents can and cannot influence is crucial for trust.Transformation vs. PMO: Why confusing Project Management Offices with Transformation is a mistake, and how to spot the difference.Agile in Government: Moving away from "As-Is" and "To-Be" waterfall planning toward testing, learning, and delivery sprints.Leadership Growth: Ayesha’s personal goal to become a "patient leader" and learning from the friction of past projects.Stay connected:Follow Joe on LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/joseph-badmanRead the latest chapters from our upcoming book: https://relationalservicedesign.comMaster the methodology: https://basistraining.co.uk/Partner with us: https://basis.co.uk