The journey of a founder or CEO changes significantly as a company scales. Initially, the focus remains predominantly on sales and customer acquisition. This phase demands an intense dedication to understanding market demands and ensuring cash flow. Founders often thrive in environments where they can directly influence outcomes through personal relationships and individual sales efforts. […]
Understanding board dynamics Boards start as supporters of the company’s mission. Initially, members bring passion and share a vision for the organization. They back strategic initiatives, often leaning on the founders’ enthusiasm. This phase fosters a strong alignment with the mission, helping to establish the company’s direction. The transition point As companies grow and the […]
Boards today face complex challenges in mergers and acquisitions (M&As) and governance. The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into these processes offers a practical solution, enabling boards to make informed decisions leveraging their operational experiences. This post outlines how AI can enhance due diligence, strengthen risk management, and facilitate successful post-merger integrations. Enhancing due diligence […]
Financial statements are fundamental tools that convey a company’s health and potential. For board members, the ability to read and interpret these documents is essential. This skill not only facilitates effective oversight but also supports strategic decision-making. Understanding basic financial statements Board members should be familiar with three primary types of financial statements: the balance […]
The changing role of work Artificial Intelligence is not just a tool for efficiency; it is a catalyst for transformation in the workplace. In the past, employees often found themselves buried in analysis or manual tasks, restricting their ability to create and innovate. AI shifts this paradigm. It automates repetitive functions, allowing individuals to redirect […]
The transition from an operational role to a board member position brings both opportunities and challenges. Many assume that board members must adopt a strategic mindset void of everyday operational instincts. This view undervalues the practical knowledge and reflexes that former executives bring to the table. Instead of abandoning their operational instincts, these board members […]
The Amazon Playbook is Your Scaling Blueprint If you spend a few years at Amazon I guarantee you will learn how to build systems that actually scale. Working with clients at a crossroads in their scaling journey, I am seeing that a lot of their needs are stuff that Amazon does best: building frameworks to […]
Board diversity might not just be a buzzword—it is your scaling secret weapon A few months into my board journey, I keep hearing the same thing from seasoned directors: “We need more diverse experiences in the boardroom.” At first, I thought that was just people being nice to me and others coming into the […]
Working at Amazon is the Best Preparation for a Board Position Surprisingly, working at Amazon as a Director might have been one of the best preparations I have had for taking on board seats. Let us unpack some of the operational principles and behaviors that I used and developed during my 12+ years at […]
Every executive must understand that leadership is a commitment to integrity. When leaders walk the talk, they establish a foundation of trust and respect. This authenticity doesn’t just enhance the leader’s credibility; it cultivates a culture of accountability that resonates at all levels of the organization. In a world where business landscapes shift rapidly, how […]
