Exploring Transformation Leadership

Business of Tech | Hosted by Dave Sobel | February 2024

About this episode

Jen joins Dave Sobel on the Business of Tech podcast to challenge how leaders think about digital transformation — and make the case that the technology itself is almost beside the point. They dig into what operating model transformation actually means, why legacy companies in "boring" industries are often the most exciting places to work, and how strategic partnerships with managed services providers can accelerate meaningful change.

What they covered

  • Why Jen calls what she does "operating model transformation" — not digital transformation — and what the difference actually means

  • How leaders' existing skills can become a liability when the pace of change accelerates

  • Why strategy requires retiring old offerings, not just adding new ones

  • The power of "small bets placed often" as an alternative to all-in transformations

  • Why legacy companies in overlooked industries are some of the most energizing places to drive change

  • How managed services providers can play a player-coach role — delivering immediate results while building internal capability

A few things Jen said

  • "I actually don't care what the technology is — technology is totally irrelevant. What I care about is how organizations are evolving around technology."

  • "Better us than somebody else — don't you want to cannibalize your own revenue than have somebody come in and disrupt you?"

  • "It's those little wins that really pile up and make huge differences for companies."

About Business of Tech

Business of Tech is a daily podcast hosted by Dave Sobel delivering sharp, concise insights for IT services professionals and managed services providers.

Previous
Previous

3 Key Takeaways from the 2025 PLA Summit and The New Must-Have Product Operations Skill

Next
Next

5 Tips for Designing Nimble and Responsive Rapid-Growth Organizations