E09 — Taking on Big Tech with Øyvind Reed
Description
Øyvind Reed, the founder and ex-CEO of Whereby, recounts his journey of building and leading a global video conferencing company from a small Norwegian town, navigating explosive growth during the pandemic amidst intense competition from global giants, before deciding to step down as the CEO.
00:00 Introduction
01:43 The Founding Story of Whereby
03:35 Growth During the Pandemic
09:53 The Decision to Step Down as CEO
14:55 Transitioning the Leadership
20:43 Involving the Board
30:00 Internal vs External Candidates
32:28 Executing the CEO Transition Plan
33:51 The Emotional Impact of Stepping Down
35:10 Transition Timeline
37:52 Becoming the Executive Chair
38:59 Balancing Family and Professional Life
43:28 Finding the Next Professional Step
45:54 Being a Founder CEO vs. Hired CEO
47:34 Impact on the Family
49:47 Post-Transition Reflections
56:36 Advice for Founders and Investors
01:00:51 Closing Thoughts
Learn more about Evgeny's work as a CEO coach: https://www.evgeny.coach
Startup CEO Succession: a Founder's Guide to Leadership Transition is available on Amazon: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0CW1HLZTR
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