Routledge The Game Changer: How Leading Organisations in Business and Sport Changed the Rules of the Game

The Game Changer powerfully demonstrates how some organisations in business and sport have done more than raise their performance; they have also changed the rules of the game or the game itself within their industry. It gives examples of the strategies and governance programmes that have emerged to accomplish this, and the challenges of executing them. This book brings to life strategic management in business, sport and not-for-profit organisations. It explores many of the theories taught on MBA and other professional programmes through case studies from the worlds of sport and business, written by authors who have played a part in the change. Alistair Gray has spent much of his career in senior roles in these sectors and brings a unique insight to the field, as well as providing the reader with tools and techniques for improvement in governance and performance. The Game Changer is essential reading for both professionals looking for methods to improve their own performance and to embed strong principles of governance, and business students looking for real-life lessons from practice. Review "Alistair Gray has a lifetime of experience in business and sport and this book provides an insight into the strategic management, innovation and drivers needed to change the game" Baroness Sue Campbell CBE, Director of Women’s Football at The FA. and Chair of UK Sport (2003 – 2013) and Youth Sport Trust (2005 – 2017) "The Game Changer is a source of useful learning for MBA students and young executives. Alistair delivers a unique perspective on many aspects of strategic management supported by real-life case studies from business and sport. I have taken benefit from Alistair and his approach to accelerate the University's strategy." Professor Sir Jim McDonald, Principal and Vice Chancellor, University of Strathclyde "It is one thing to write about strategy and how it should be done. It is a completely different thing to write about strategy and to have actually done it. Alistair Gray provides the latter in his book. It is a tremendous read packed with insight into how to deliver meaningful strategic change." Harry Sminea, Professor of Strategic Management, Strathclyde Business School, University of Strathclyde "Top business frequently turns to sport for strategies to improve performance. Alistair Gray benefits from his unique combination of a successful voluntary leader in sport and respected consultant to leading businesses and sports around the world. The articles and case studies in the book deliver real insight into how to succeed." Martin Gilbert, CEO Standard Life Aberdeen PLC "Altogether, a really useful book whose articles and case studies will be invaluable for anyone facing the prospect of competing in the challenging global markets of the 21st century." Sir Tom Farmer KBE, Founder of KwikFit "The Game Changer is a demonstration and evolution of the importance of out-of-the-box thinking in providing winning performance. It emphasises the benefits of embracing change in mindset and strategic perspective." Sir Bill Gammell FRSE, Founder and former Chair and CEO of Cairn Energy PLC; Chair of Winning Scotland Foundation "This is a very enlightening and well-researched read from a wise sage who knows – from first hand experience – more than a bit about what provides the zeitgeist in business". Andy Nash, Portfolio Chair and former Director of Taunton Cider PLC "For many years I have appreciated Alistair’s unique insight across business, elite sport and other sectors. The Game Changer captures that and will be stimulating for executives in business and sport at any stage in their career – from MBA classes to the Board Room.’ Charles Berry, Chairman of The Weir Group PLC "The creation of Scotland Food & Drink was the ultimate game changer for the food & drink industry in Scotland. Alistair led us through the journey that initially created an industry strategy group. He further guided us through a