Founders of the SIMPLE. Transformation Framework™

The SIMPLE. Transformation Framework™ was developed through a five-year national research and development programme led by Growth Development, bringing together a group of founders with deep expertise across leadership, organisational culture, behavioural science, system change, and community-led development.

Together, this collective shaped the early concepts, testing environments, and applied learning that led to the creation of the SIMPLE.™ Leadership Knowledge Set and the SIMPLE.™ Transformation Method. Their combined experience across public, private, and community sectors played a critical role in grounding the Framework in real-world challenges and ensuring it could be applied across diverse contexts.

Melanie Bedggood, Principal of the Transformational Change Institute, served as the R&D lead across the programme and is the principal originator of the SIMPLE.™ Transformation Framework. Melanie continues to steward the evolution, integrity, and global application of the Framework through her leadership of the Institute.

Today, the founders’ contributions remain embedded in the Framework’s principles and design, forming the foundation for a methodology that supports leaders, teams, and organisations to navigate transformation with clarity, confidence, and capability.





|| Melanie Bedggood

The Architectural Visionary

Melanie Bedggood is the Principal of the Transformational Change Institute and the originator of the SIMPLE.™ Transformation Framework. A globally emerging thought leader in transformational leadership and systemic change, Melanie previously served as CEO of Growth Development, where she led a five-year national research and development programme that shaped the SIMPLE.™ Leadership Knowledge Set and the SIMPLE.™ Transformation Method. Her work bridges two worlds, Transformational Leadership (the human and cultural conditions for change) and Transformational Management (the practical laws required to manage transformation priorities). These collective insights now underpin the SIMPLE.™ Transformation Framework, which is being delivered across Aotearoa and increasingly applied internationally. Melanie’s background spans leadership, governance, service development, organisational culture, mental health and wellbeing, and systemic alignment. She is known for her ability to translate complexity into simple, actionable approaches that support leaders to create real, sustained transformation. Alongside her Institute role, Melanie also maintains an international presence through her thought leadership platform at melaniebedggood.com, where she shares her ongoing work in leadership, transformation,and human systems.

|| Jan Polley

The Guidance Commander

Jan Polley is a recognised subject matter expert in governance, leadership, health and wellbeing, as well as stakeholder alignment and engagement. With extensive experience, she has held pivotal roles in Expert Advisories for the Health Quality and Safety Commission, reflecting her commitment to high standards and informed decision-making. Jan’s strategic insights and governance expertise provide valuable guidance for organisations navigating complex leadership challenges. Her deep empathy and passion for fostering connection and belonging further underscore her dedication to promoting continuous growth and development.

|| Tiffany Holden

The Empowering Captain

Tiffany Holden is a subject matter expert in leadership, organisational culture, and people engagement, with a proven track record of unlocking human and team potential. Her experience includes serving as Personal Development Manager for New Zealand 7s Rugby and leading Government Ministerial contracts, particularly within Kaupapa Intensive and Early Intervention Services. Tiffany excels at driving high performance and fostering environments of safety, connection, and empowerment. From grassroots service delivery to strategic initiatives, her passion lies in building teams and cultures where individuals and organisations can thrive.

|| Kate Montgomerie

The Super Dreamer

With over 15 years of expertise in education and leadership, Kate brings a deep understanding of how people learn and grow. As Director of Learning Innovation, Kate ensures that SIMPLE. certifications are designed to be immersive learning experiences that drive meaningful and lasting transformational change. Her approach blends cutting-edge research with practical application, making it possible for leaders to not only gain knowledge but to embed it into their everyday work. Kate’s passion for creating impactful learning journeys is a cornerstone of what makes our SIMPLE certifications so effective, empowering participants to turn learning into action.

|| Steve Lasslett

The Transformer

Steve Lasslett is a highly specialised subject matter expert in human and group performance, with over 18 years of experience in Adult Education and 15 years of coaching individuals and teams. Known for his ability to simplify complex concepts, Steve has a unique talent for translating information into practical, actionable insights. Throughout his career, he has been dedicated to advancing human performance, behaviour change, workplace wellbeing, motivation, and growth mindset development. Steve’s blend of expertise in adult education and coaching, combined with his innovative approach, has made him a transformative force in helping individuals and teams unlock their potential and excel in any environment.

Our Mission

Changing the world through providing a SIMPLE. solution to unleashing the potential of people to be connected, inspired and committed to united growth.