Derrick Bransby · Builder & Strategist · HBS PhD

Systems × Teams × Ops

I improve how organizations execute by building systems, teams, and operations that transform strategy into action. My background spans engineering, consulting, and organizational research, with a focus on improving performance and innovating reliably.

Operations to Organizations

I started my career as an engineer, trained to solve problems using models and data. As a consultant, I led dozens of engagements focused on improving performance — rethinking operations, retooling systems, and partnering with executives to deliver change. Over eight years, I built new capabilities, led teams, and learned to move between the boardroom and the front line.

But I kept running into the same problem. The strategy was sound. The excitement was real. But too often, implementation fell flat and results didn't follow. I wanted to understand why well enough to do something about it. At Harvard, I studied how teams perform under pressure, exploring the human and organizational dynamics that shape how the execute, learn, and adapt.

Now, I'm looking to bring my experience and insight back into industry — to roles where I can build and scale new functions, work closely with leadership on high-priority initiatives, and be held accountable for outcomes. My focus is on building organizations that deliver results in practice — not just on paper.

What I Work On:

  • Improving how organizations allocate resources and manage capacity.
  • Leading and sustaining change across teams and functions.
  • Designing operations that balance learning and performance.
  • Building and scaling new functions and capabilities.
  • Applying data and insights to improve operational performance.
  • Driving innovation in high-reliability work environments.
Derrick Bransby Derrick Bransby fieldwork Derrick Bransby
Harvard GSAS profile of Derrick Bransby
Featured Harvard GSAS
The Show Must Go On. But How?

From Lancaster, Pennsylvania to Harvard to the world's biggest concert stages — a profile on Derrick's path and the question driving his research: what makes elite teams perform under pressure?

Read the Profile →

Selected Experience

2021 – Present
Harvard Business School
PhD Candidate & Researcher

I designed and led a multi-year field research program focused on how teams solve complex problems, manage innovation, and take, make and experience risk. My work appears in top academic journals and popular outlets like HBR.

Organizational Behavior Team Dynamics Field Research Creative Work
2015 – 2021
St. Onge Company
Senior Manager / Engineer, Operations Planning & Strategy

I led client engagements focused on health care facility design, performance improvement, and organizational change. I managed a team of engineers across a portfolio of concurrent projects and partnered closely with executives and frontline staff to transform operations.

Operations Process Improvement Facility Design Project Management
2013 – 2015
Booz Allen Hamilton
Senior Consultant

I produced analyses and briefings for U.S. Government clients, synthesizing complex data into decision-ready insights for senior officials. I also developed advanced analytical tools to identify emerging risks for financial-sector clients.

Advanced Analytics Executive Communications Research Government
Education
PhD, Management · Harvard Business School 2026
MBA · Johns Hopkins Carey Business School 2019
BS, Industrial Engineering · University of Pittsburgh 2013
Board Service
Pennsylvania Dutch Council, Scouting America · Board of Directors 2021 – Present
Friends of Camp Mack · Co-founder, Treasurer & Board Member 2021 – Present
Awards & Recognition
Eagle Scout, Distinguished Service Award (DSA) · Scouting America

Performing under pressure

Every organization has a vision. Fewer have a grasp of the organizational dynamics required to execute it. My research focuses on this gap — what it takes for individuals and teams to perform, adapt, and deliver under pressure. My goal is to generate practical insights that travel from the field into practice.

I am currently a Research Affiliate at the Johns Hopkins Center for Innovative Leadership.

Let's talk.

I'm currently open to conversations about strategy and operations roles, advisory work, and research collaboration. If something here resonates — or if you'd simply like to connect — I'd love to hear from you.