About the Book This book illustrates how one person or a small group can shape an organization’s culture through a concept known as “The Oross Effect.” The author aims to inspire readers and provide a practical guide on enhancing company culture in their own workplace.
Part One defines terms like purpose, vision, values, culture and ecosystem, emphasizing the distinction between a Chief Executive Officer and a Chief Ecosystem Officer. Part Two presents practical examples and case studies, showcasing the Oross Effect in action and incorporating market insights. Part Three focuses on passing on the Oross Effect to others, stressing the importance of crafting a sermon, symbols, and rituals. It also explores the significance of Oross during crises, using the Covid-19 pandemic as an example of how challenges can be reframed to foster growth and cultural cohesion.
About the Author
Jason English, a mechanical engineer with a Master's in Business, served in the South African Police Force and worked for a global Oil & Gas corporation before becoming an entrepreneur. He scaled a small office into a multinational group employing over 5,000 people across South Africa, the Middle East, and Europe.
Recognizing the challenges of scaling culture in growing organizations, he coined the title Chief Ecosystem Officer in 2018. A member of Abundance 360 and YPO, Jason has facilitated strategic planning workshops for over 100 global CEOs. He frequently speaks at international conferences and has been featured in numerous magazines.
In 2021, he won the Technology Leader of the Year award for revitalizing a Middle Eastern construction business through digital technology adoption.
The Oross Effect” by Jason English has a unique perspective on corporate culture. The book is a manifesto on how just one person or a few people can steer the culture of an entire organization, for better or for worse1.
Jason English, the author, draws from his personal experiences and observations to propose a framework for leaders to instill a strong company culture, which he refers to as their “Oros” – essentially their vision, values, and purpose. The term “Oross” is inspired by a South African cordial, symbolizing how a small amount of concentrate can infuse and change the entire water in a glass, much like how a company’s culture can be influenced by a few individuals.
English’s approach to leadership and culture, emphasizing the importance of people within an organization. He challenges traditional business metrics and advocates for an employee-centric environment that promotes a challenging and failure-tolerant atmosphere.