The Covid-19 pandemic has drastically altered the entire business process. The pandemic hit the distribution chain of PT. Dirgantara Indonesia (Persero). The pandemic, which has forced the majority of employees to work from home, has also decreased the company’s performance, reducing the company’s working capacity by 40%.

In this case, SBM ITB invited Dr. Ir. Elfien Guntoro, the President Director of PT Dirgantara Indonesia (Persero), as a guest lecturer, and resource persons from virtual classes related to strategic change management.

Elfien, as a leader, believes that changes are necessary. With this massive transformation, PT. Dirgantara Indonesia (Persero) is intrinsically linked to internal company issues.

“A company’s ability to change is only measured by technical terms but also a human element to it. Whether from individuals, divisions, or even entire organizations with a broader scope,” Elfien stated.

Change Management

PT Dirgantara Indonesia (Persero) has also attempted to analyze various dimensions related to non-physical aspects via demographic surveys and mapping and Emotional Spiritual Quotient (ESQ), and Socio-Emotional. Meanwhile, employees of PT. Dirgantara Indonesia (Persero) saw the diverse feelings arisen from the announcement of the change.

“Some people are hopeful, excited, and energized by the change. Some openly accept and implement the changes. While some others respond positively to change, there is also a tendency to resist change out of fear, skepticism, disbelief, and even anger,” said the former President Director of PT Pelayaran Nasional Indonesia.

Based on these analyses, the company continues to try to bridge the interests of various parties by empowering ‘agents of change,’ defined as people who initiate or act as a catalyst for the change process in PT. Dirgantara Indonesia (Persero).

Elfien shared the big picture of what a leader must do at the end of the session. As leaders, we must have a variety of skills, including an honest character with integrity and personal capabilities in terms of expertise in problem-solving and focusing on the desired results. Leaders must also have interpersonal skills, particularly in communication, and the ability to inspire others. A leader must be willing to make changes and connect the company to the rest of the world with these skills.

Written by Student Reporter (Erwin Josua, EMBA 2021)