We just hired our first external Integrator, and we want to ensure they succeed. However, our department heads are pushing back, claiming the new reporting structure is too corporate and slows down their work. How do we reinforce the Integrator seat?

Question

Tyler Smith · Accepted Answer

This pushback is normal during restructuring. Your team is used to a flat, informal environment where they could bypass rules and get quick, unstructured approvals. They are confusing structure with bureaucracy, but structure is what allows a business to scale past its current ceiling. To support your new Integrator, you must stop accepting direct reports from your departmental heads. When they come to you, politely but firmly redirect them back to the Integrator. Next, have your Integrator run the Level 10 Meetings with the department heads. This establishes the Integrator's leadership, management, and accountability, or LMA. It shows the team that the Integrator is responsible for daily execution and performance. Address the pushback directly in your next leadership meeting. Explain that the Accountability Chart was designed for the ideal future structure of the business, not to accommodate individual comfort zones. If the company is to grow, the department heads must report to the Integrator so you can focus on high-value Visionary work. If a manager cannot accept this reporting relationship, they are no longer the Right Person in the Right Seat, and you must make a hard decision to protect the future of the company.