Nick Burns, CEO of Reward Gateway | Edenred, joins Criticaleye’s Senior Editor Bridgette Hall to share his perspective on what it takes to deliver successful international expansion in today’s complex business environment.

Reflecting on the growth story of Reward Gateway and its £1 billion merger with Edenred, the podcast explores how leadership teams can scale across multiple geographies while navigating strategic, operational and cultural challenges. Nick also shares insights on the role of M&A, investor influence and how executives can align stakeholders around ambitious global growth plans.

Discussion points include:

• The evolution of Reward Gateway and the key milestones in its growth journey
• Lessons from leading a major cross-border merger and integrating businesses at scale
• Why organisations expand beyond domestic markets and the strategic rationale behind international growth
• How leadership teams determine which geographies to enter and when
• The role of M&A versus organic growth in international expansion strategies
• How to assess and manage cultural and operational integration risks
• The role of private equity investors in shaping and accelerating expansion plans
• How leadership teams align around high-stakes decisions and differing risk perspectives
• Balancing the demands of leading a business while driving international growth
• The importance of external advisors and support networks during complex expansion programmes
• Key advice for leadership teams embarking on their first major international expansion

In this episode, Yu-Wen Hsiao, Marketing and Communications Manager, APAC at Criticaleye, speaks with Ray Ferguson, Global Board Chair and seasoned international banker, shares his perspective on how CEOs and Boards are navigating resilience, growth and change in an increasingly complex global environment.

Drawing on more than 35 years of international leadership experience across Asia, the Middle East, Europe and the Americas, Ray reflects on the evolving role of the Chair, the importance of strong CEO–Board alignment and how leaders can stay focused on long-term value while responding to short-term pressures. He also discusses how Boards can simplify decision-making, maintain clarity of purpose and support organisations through periods of uncertainty and transformation.

Discussion points include:

• How can CEOs and Boards stay aligned in periods of uncertainty and change?
• What makes an effective Chair in today’s environment?
• How can Boards balance governance, risk oversight and execution during transformation?
• What common pitfalls emerge during major organisational change, and how can they be avoided?
• How should Chairs work with executive teams to build capability and resilience?
• What lessons from a global leadership journey are most valuable at Board level today?

Steven Cooper, CEO for financial planning and wealth management provider Fairstone joins Julia Brook, Marketing and Communications Director at Criticaleye to explore the first 100 days of taking on the CEO role.

Drawing on his experience in multiple CEO roles, Steven shares advice and observations on stepping into a leadership role and how to make that crucial initial time period count.

From his personal approach to what leaders should be doing to developing the forward plan for the business, discussion points include:

• The route to the CEO role - gaining the right experiences in order to step into the top job
• Why CEOs need to remember they have two ears and one mouth - meeting and listening too people across the business is vital to understanding as well as being visible
• Realising that a CEO role can be lonely. How do leaders get feedback that is both relevant and supportive. 
• Why it's important to make people decisions as early as possible 

A must-listen for executives looking to step into or better understand the unique challenges and pressures of the CEO role.

In this episode, Yu-Wen Hsiao, Marketing and Communications Manager, APAC at Criticaleye, speaks with Kalpesh R Parmar, General Manager, Mars Snacking Asia, about leading change and building high-performing teams across diverse Asian markets.

Drawing on more than two decades of international leadership experience, Kalpesh shares how regional leaders can balance global strategy with local nuance, place talent at the centre of transformation and drive sustainable growth. The conversation explores how to combine operational discipline with innovation, strengthen leadership capability and position Asia as a leading force in technology and consumer-led growth.

Discussion points include:

• How can regional leaders build high-performing teams across diverse Asian markets?

• How do you balance global strategic guardrails with local market realities?

• What is the right approach to technology and AI adoption in Asia?

• What leadership qualities drive long-term success across Asia?

• How can leaders continue to evolve in an increasingly complex environment?

In this episode, Yu-Wen Hsiao, Marketing and Communications Manager, APAC at Criticaleye, speaks with Kathleen Kee, VP, HR – EMEA & Asia at Santen, about what it takes to lead people and performance in an increasingly complex and fast-changing environment.

Drawing on more than 25 years of experience across consulting and in-house leadership roles spanning banking, logistics, aerospace and pharmaceuticals, Kathleen shares how HR leaders can move from being reactive to becoming true strategic partners to the business. The conversation explores how to balance regional diversity with global alignment, strengthen leadership capability and create cultures that enable sustainable high performance.

Discussion points include:

• How are global and regional challenges shaping leadership priorities and decision-making?
• What capabilities and mindsets are critical to building future-ready workforces and leaders?
• How can HR align talent, culture and organisational design with strategic business priorities?
• What approaches foster agile, innovative and collaborative cultures across diverse markets?
• How do leaders continue to learn and evolve in a rapidly changing environment?

Jacky Simmonds, Chief People Officer at Experian, joins Bridgette Hall, Senior Editor at Criticaleye, to explore how CPOs can lead digital and AI-enabled transformation and unlock value through people.

As digital and AI transformation becomes a constant rather than a one-off initiative, the role of the CPO has never been more critical. In this episode, Jacky shares her perspective on how people leaders can shape enterprise-wide strategy, build future-ready skills and cultures, and act as true architects of transformation at Board level.

Drawing on her experience at a global, data-led organisation, Jacky explores how CPOs can drive change at pace while sustaining trust, engagement and resilience across the workforce.

Discussion points include:

• The key digital and AI trends CPOs should be watching as they enter 2026
• How the CPO role is evolving as transformation becomes continuous
• What it takes for CPOs to be seen as strategic partners at Board level
• The role of culture in making digital transformation stick — and what leaders often underestimate
• Practical approaches to closing skills gaps during fast-moving AI change
• How to measure and communicate the impact of digital transformation at an enterprise level
• Three essential pieces of advice for CPOs navigating complex digital and tech transformations

A must-listen for senior people leaders looking to unlock value, sustain momentum and lead transformation with confidence.

In this episode, Sally Bridgeland, Chair, Development Bank of Wales, Nest Invest and BelleVie Care and Keith Cochrane, Chair, Schenck Process Group talk about what risks will be on the Board agenda this year.

With Boards and executive teams operating in an ever more complex and challenging climate, we had an opportunity to ask these two experienced Board members and Criticaleye Board Mentors what they see as the main risk trends in 2026.

Discussion points include:

• How Chairs and Non-executives should be keeping up-to-date and ready to respond to new risks and challenges
• Protecting the business from 'pilot purgatory' in the context of AI and new technologies
• How to start risk discussions in such a complex environment and the Board's role in reinforcing a culture of preparedness
• How Boards should be supporting and advising executive teams
• Keeping risk overview aligned to the strategic vision of the business
• The Board's role in relation to the risk committee and best practice alignment to mitigate against significant risks

A must-listen for Board members looking to unlock value, sustain momentum and navigate risk across their organisations. 

Alastair Mills, Managing Director & Head of European Business Services at H.I.G. Capital, joins Criticaleye’s Senior Editor Jacob Ambrose Willson to share his perspective on what lies ahead for the UK private equity market in 2026.

Reflecting on UK market conditions in 2025, the podcast explores how macro uncertainty, fiscal policy and the growing influence of AI are shaping fund strategies, dealmaking and value creation. Alastair also looks ahead to whether easing interest rates could unlock activity in the UK market and what private equity firms and portfolio leaders should be doing now to prepare for a potentially more active and competitive year.

Discussion points include:

• How UK private equity funds are adapting strategies in response to current market conditions, including longer hold periods and the use of continuation funds

• The impact of tariffs and potential tax changes following the UK Autumn Budget on confidence and deal activity

• How AI is influencing deal sourcing, due diligence and performance across portfolio companies

• Whether falling interest rates could drive a pick-up in UK deal activity and exits in 2026

• How private equity firms can best prepare for a more active and competitive UK deal environment

• Why access to external reference points is critical for leaders, particularly those new to private equity, when preparing for an exit

Matthew Blagg, CEO for Criticaleye, joins Marketing and Communications Director Julia Brook for the first Inspiring Leaders podcast for 2026.

They take a look at some of the lessons for leaders last year, and examine the trends and topics that will be front of mind for senior executives over the next 12 months.

Discussion points include:

• The landscape in 2026 and difficulties for leaders to make the right decisions at pace when so much is changing
• Executive skill set and what key traits will be needed to be a successful CEO, CFO or CPO this year
• What challenges the Board is facing, how they will examine risk this year and whether external challenges will create more conflict in the boardroom
• Which stakeholder groups will be most pronounced for executive teams
• Unique and common challenges in the APAC region
• Why great CEOs in 2026 will be those who are brilliant communicators, able to articulate difficult things in a clear way and those who understand risk

In this episode, Michael Crompton, General Manager Asia at Criticaleye, speaks with Tian Beng Ng, President and Group CEO at Certis, about what it takes to lead large, complex organisations through transformation in an era of rapid technological change.

Drawing on his experience leading mission-critical operations across Asia, Tian Beng shares how technology has become a core driver of business strategy, not just an enabler. The conversation explores how leaders can harness AI, data, automation and robotics while maintaining operational stability, aligning teams and strengthening culture.

Discussion points include:

• Why technology must sit at the heart of modern business transformation

• Balancing innovation with stability in mission-critical environments

• Leading people through change with clarity, trust and purpose

• The role of culture, communication and leadership alignment during transformation

• How CEOs can build momentum and resilience in times of uncertainty

Dave Wilson, Chair of LBG Media (LADbible) and Knights plc, joins Criticaleye’s Senior Editor Jacob Ambrose Willson to explore how Boards and executive teams can successfully navigate today’s capital markets while staying focused on long-term value creation.

In a landscape of tightening liquidity, shifting investor expectations and ongoing macro uncertainty, leaders of publicly listed businesses face growing pressure to balance short-term market demands with long-term growth. Drawing on his extensive executive and non-executive experience, Dave shares insights from supporting high-growth companies, preparing for IPO and guiding teams through public-market volatility.

Discussion points include:

• How leaders can balance immediate market pressures with long-term value creation
• Lessons from preparing for IPO and operating successfully on the public markets
• The impact of reduced liquidity on decision-making and Board-level conversations
• Key challenges facing plc leadership teams and how a Chair can best support them
• The evolving relationship between Chairs, CEOs and CFOs amid market and macro pressures
• Avoiding short-termism through effective communication with investors and analysts
• Approaches to assessing growth, profitability and M&A in a complex capital environment
• Why peer networks are increasingly important for resilience and perspective
• Practical advice for plc leaders aiming to deliver sustainable growth in a difficult market

In this episode, Lorcan O'Connor, CEO for Transport Infrastructure Ireland joins Criticaleye’s Marketing and Communications Director Julia Brook to discuss his journey to the CEO role and reflections of being a Group CEO at Córas Iompair Éireann (CIÉ), Ireland's largest public transport provider.

Managing multiple stakeholders is a key skill for any CEO. In this podcast, we look at what core skills and capabilities are needed to be successful in the role.

Discussion points include:

• Lorcan's own career journey and route to becoming a CEO
• Gaining the skills and attributes needed throughout your career that will lead to a senior leadership role
• The questions executives should ask before taking on the top job and assessing if it is right of them
• Key challenges to navigating important stakeholder groups including the Board and Government
• The CEO-CFO partnership and what makes a winning team which can drive the business strategy

Bérangère Michel, Former CFO of the John Lewis Partnership and Ben Freeman, Country CFO RWE Renewables UK / Global Director Accounting RWE Offshore, join Criticaleye’s Senior Editor Bridgette Hall to explore what it takes to lead effectively through transformation and continuous change.

In an era defined by volatility, shifting stakeholder expectations and the accelerating pace of organisational evolution, leaders are under unprecedented pressure to balance business priorities with empathy, purpose and resilience. Bérangère and Ben share their experiences of guiding teams through uncertainty, driving cultural alignment and sustaining performance during times of transformation.

Discussion points include:

• The most common challenges leaders face when navigating change and how to overcome them
• What effective leadership looks like during periods of disruption and evolution
• How to engage and motivate people when organisations are undergoing transformation
• Building trust, alignment and resilience across teams
• The critical role of culture in enabling and sustaining change
• Balancing strategic business priorities with the human side of transformation
• Practical behaviours and approaches that help people embrace change
• How leadership itself is evolving in response to increasing complexity
• Why maintaining strong external networks and reference points is essential for decision making and perspective
• Lessons learned from leading people through uncertainty and transformation

In this episode, Bridgette Hall, Senior Editor at Criticaleye, speaks with Joe Dische, CFO at PropertyGuru, and an experienced finance leader with over two decades of experience across the technology, media and telecom sectors. He has led organisations through complex transformations, scaling businesses from start-up to growth and driving strategic and financial excellence across diverse markets.

The conversation explores what it takes to lead the finance function through scale, scrutiny and change and how today’s CFOs can balance growth, profitability and purpose in a rapidly evolving business environment.

Discussion points include:

• What defines a high-performing CFO and finance function today?
• Lessons from leading through both public and private ownership
• How diverse experiences shape modern financial leadership?
• How can CFOs balance growth and profitability amid shifting market conditions?
• How can finance leaders build strong partnerships with CEOs and Boards through transformation?

Rob Hornby, Co-CEO of AlixPartners and Rita Clifton CBE, Portfolio Chair and Non-Executive Director (including Deputy Chair of the John Lewis Partnership, Chair of Simplyhealth, Chair of the international sustainability organisation Forum for the Future, Visiting Fellow at Saïd Business School University of Oxford, Fellow and former Trustee of WWF-UK, Board Trustee of Green Alliance and Criticaleye Board Mentor) join Criticaleye’s Senior Editor Bridgette Hall to discuss what it takes to lead successfully in a digital world.

As technology continues to transform every aspect of business, leaders are under growing pressure to balance innovation with ethics, human connection and cultural change. Rob and Rita explore how leaders can build empowered teams, retain top talent and drive organisational transformation while navigating the complexities of AI, automation and data-driven decision making.

Discussion points include:

• How technology is reshaping organisations and the ways executives and Boards lead
• The ethical dilemmas surrounding AI, data and automation – and how leaders can ensure inclusivity and people-centred progress
• The growing importance of human and empathetic leadership in a tech-driven era
• How traditional sectors can adapt, foster resilience and integrate new technologies without destabilising core operations
• The key traits leaders need to thrive amid digital disruption
• The role of Boards in supporting executives through digital evolution and complex decision making
• Why benchmarking and learning from peers is critical in a fast-changing environment
• Final reflections on how leaders can inspire cultural change and build teams equipped for the future

In this episode, Yu-Wen Hsiao, Marketing and Communications Manager, APAC at Criticaleye, speaks with Bruce Cox, a Criticaleye Board Mentor and seasoned global leader with over 40 years of executive experience across the industrial and resources sectors. Bruce has held senior roles at BHP and Rio Tinto, and today serves as a Non-executive Director for several major organisations across Asia, Australia and the Middle East. He brings deep expertise in governance, strategy and business transformation, helping leaders drive growth and navigate complex change.

The conversation explores what it takes to be a world-class CEO from the Board’s perspective, focusing on how great CEOs build trust, engage effectively with their Boards and continuously evolve to meet today’s complex leadership challenges.

Discussion points include:

• What qualities and behaviours define an exceptional CEO from the Board’s perspective?
• How do Boards evaluate a CEO’s ability to lead through uncertainty and transformation?
• Which behaviours enable CEOs to maintain trust and confidence with their Boards?
• What mindsets and approaches help great CEOs influence and align their Boards?
• How can leaders continue to learn and evolve at the highest level?

Lucinda Charles-Jones, Non-executive Director & Chair or RemCo for Virgin Money and Rank Group (plus a Criticaleye Board Mentor) and Jim Devine, Group HRD, Spirax Group speak to us about some of the findings of our most recent research with Chief People Officers. 

Discussion points include:

• Key challenges and opportunities for CPOs, HR Directors and CHROs in the year ahead
• How priorities have shifted for CPOs and HRDs and evolving expectations on their role around driving business strategy and shaping the culture
• The skills and personality traits needed to be successful in the CPO role
• Relationships with key stakeholders including the Board, the senior leadership team and workforce
• What approach CPOs are taking when it comes to implementing new technology and AI across their organisations

Christopher Boerger, CFO of E.ON UK, joins Criticaleye’s Director of Content Marc Barber to discuss the evolving role of the CFO as a driver of innovation and growth. From balancing risk and return to embracing new technologies and leading through volatility, Christopher reflects on how finance leaders can unlock creativity and long-term value in large organisations.

Discussion points include:

• What innovation means for a business like E.ON UK and how new ideas are brought to market
• The CFO’s role in supporting experimentation, investment and the freedom to fail
• Approaches to risk appetite and measuring ROI on new projects
• The reality of AI-driven change and what’s hype versus substance
• Why both large and small companies face challenges with innovation
• Balancing short- vs long-term thinking in today’s volatile environment
• Lessons learned from over two years as Country CFO lead at E.ON UK

In this episode, Yu-Wen Hsiao, Marketing and Communications Manager, APAC at Criticaleye, speaks with Lance Little, Head of Region for Roche Diagnostics Asia Pacific. Lance leads a team of over 6,000 employees across 16 markets and brings more than 30 years of experience in building leadership teams, shaping organisational culture and driving growth across diverse countries, including New Zealand, India, Thailand and Singapore.

Drawing on his extensive experience, Lance shares his insights on what it takes to lead at scale in Asia. He explores how leaders can build connected and resilient teams, navigate cultural and operational complexities and continue to grow and adapt in a fast-moving environment. 

Discussion points include: 

• What leadership capabilities are essential for success across the region today?

• How can regional leaders build resilient and connected teams across culturally diverse markets?

• How can regional leaders maintain self-awareness and continue to grow while managing large, dispersed teams?

• How should leaders adapt their approach to meet the varying expectations and needs of teams across different countries?

• What strategies help leaders create a shared purpose and values that unite teams and support long-term success?

In this episode, Yu-Wen Hsiao, Marketing and Communications Manager, APAC at Criticaleye, speaks with Catherine O’Connell, a seasoned Board professional and Criticaleye Board Mentor. Catherine currently serves on the Audit & Supervisory Board at FUJITSU and recently completed a historic term on the board of TOYOTA as its first foreign female outside board member. She is also the CEO of her own boutique law firm in Tokyo, where she provides fractional general counsel services to global businesses.

Drawing on her extensive Board experience, Catherine shares valuable insights into how CFOs can meet rising expectations in the Boardroom. She explores what Boards truly value in their CFOs today, how the role is evolving, and what aspiring leaders need to focus on to have real strategic impact at Board level.

Discussion points include: 

• What qualities and capabilities are Boards in Asia prioritising in their CFOs today?

• How can CFOs build trust, credibility and influence with the Board?

• What role do CFOs play in shaping non-financial strategy?

• How can aspiring CFOs prepare for Board interactions and avoid common pitfalls?

• How can CFOs stay ahead of evolving Board expectations and add value as strategic leaders?

Martin Balaam, CEO of Pimberly and Jacqui Summons, NED/Fractional CHRO join Criticaleye's Senior Editor, Jacob Ambrose Willson to explore the demands of private equity ownership from driving value creation and managing Board dynamics to resolving conflict, keeping exit front of mind and leading under pressure in today’s challenging market.

Discussion points include:

• The growing popularity of private equity as a route to business growth and the impact of current market conditions
• How the definition of success in PE has evolved and what value creation looks like today
• Boardroom dynamics in PE-backed businesses and the characteristics of high-performing Boards
• The role of the Chair and executive team in managing investor relationships and resolving conflict
• Keeping the exit in focus throughout the ownership cycle while driving sustainable growth
• Leading through the pressures of the exit process and the current macroeconomic environment

Tea Colaianni, Senior Independent Director at Watches of Switzerland and portfolio Non-Executive Director, shares her journey from Chief People Officer to the Boardroom and the unique strengths HR leaders bring as NEDs.

Hosted by Bridgette Hall, Senior Editor at Criticaleye, we explore the transition from executive to NED roles, the importance of effective governance, the evolving role of HR at board level, and what boards should focus on when it comes to culture, inclusion and the future of work.

Discussion points include:

• Tea Colaianni’s career journey from law to Chief People Officer to Non-Executive Director
• Key challenges and lessons from transitioning into the boardroom after an executive career
• The unique value CPOs bring to boards and what’s holding more HR leaders back from NED roles
• What makes a Board high-performing and the responsibilities of a Senior Independent Director
• How boards can take meaningful action on culture, inclusion and diversity
• What boards are missing about the future of work and how HR leaders can prepare to step up

Sangeeta Desai, Non-Executive Director at Boat Rocker Media and Board Mentor at Criticaleye, joins Matthew Blagg, CEO of Criticaleye, to discuss how senior leaders can bring clarity of direction and purpose to inspire high performance in today’s volatile and fast-moving business environment.

Hosted by Jacob Ambrose Willson, Senior Editor at Criticaleye, we focus on how Chairs and Non-Executive Directors (NEDs) can best support CEOs in navigating uncertainty, fostering alignment and accelerating strategic decision-making to ensure long-term success.

Discussion points include:

• How Chairs and NEDs can support CEOs during periods of volatility and pressure
• The balance between long-term strategy and short-term pressures at Board level
• Where misalignment occurs across leadership teams and Boards and how to address it
• The role of the Chair in fostering alignment and high performance
• What pace means for effective leadership and decision-making
• How resilience and clarity of direction help leadership teams thrive under pressure

In this episode, Yu-Wen Hsiao, Marketing and Communications Manager, APAC at Criticaleye, speaks with Benny Goh, Founder and Managing Partner of Parami Solutions. Benny also serves as Strategic Advisor and Non-Executive Director at Taqtik Health, Inc., Board Advisor to Pereira International and is a Criticaleye Board Mentor. With over 30 years of leadership experience across Asia, he brings deep expertise in corporate governance, sustainability and energy efficiency.

During their conversation, Benny shares his perspective on how Boards can navigate the increasingly complex business landscape in Asia, shaped by rapid technological change sustainability imperatives and geopolitical uncertainty. He also discusses how Board leadership is evolving to manage risk, seize new opportunities and foster long-term organisational resilience and adaptability.

Discussion points include:

• How can Boards balance effective risk management with the need to seize new opportunities?

• What role do Boards play in building long-term organisational resilience?

• How should sustainability be integrated into Board-level decision-making?

• How are investor expectations around ESG influencing governance?

• How can Boards foster innovation while maintaining stability in fast-evolving markets?

• In what ways is Board leadership adapting to drive adaptability and long-term value in Asia?

In this episode, we hear from Deborah Frost, UK Chair of Mercer Master Trust and former CEO of Personal Group, as she shares her experiences in leading and transforming high-growth businesses.

Hosted by Marc Barber, Director of Content at Criticaleye, Deborah draws on both her executive and non-executive experience. She highlights how innovation has been key to her success and explores how to build a culture that supports creativity while effectively managing risk.

Key discussion points: 

• The critical role of innovation in driving business growth.
• Empowering management teams while maintaining strategic oversight.
• What investors typically seek in high-growth companies.
• How leaders can prepare effectively for investor scrutiny and due diligence.
• Common red flags that may deter potential investors.
• Key advice for CEOs preparing their business for the next phase of growth.

In this episode, Yu-Wen Hsiao, Marketing and Communications Manager, APAC at Criticaleye, speaks with Echo Jin, Chief Financial Officer, Asia at Microsoft. Echo plays a crucial role in shaping Microsoft’s long-term strategy and business planning across the Asia region, working closely with the CEO to drive strategic development. 

During their conversation, Echo shares her expertise on the evolving role of CFOs in shaping business strategy, managing cross-border teams and adapting to the rapid changes in the dynamic region. She discusses the unique challenges faced by finance leaders in Asia, as well as how the CFO role is expanding beyond traditional financial oversight to become a key driver of innovation and long-term organisational success.

Discussion points include:

• How does the role of a Regional CFO extend beyond financial oversight in shaping the business strategy?
• How do you influence key stakeholders to align and drive organisational decisions?
• What challenges do you face in leading cross-border finance teams?
• How do you see the CFO role evolving in the future, especially in terms of driving innovation?
• How do you envision the CFO role adapting to challenges in Asia?

In this episode, we hear from Sean Latus, Group CEO at Calisen, as he reflects on his transition from CFO to CEO and the realities of leading a complex organisation in today’s business climate. 

Hosted by Bridgette Hall, Senior Editor at Criticaleye, Sean shares his journey into the CEO role, the key mindset shifts and challenges he faced. He reflects on staying strategically focused, evolving stakeholder relationships and offers advice for others transitioning from CFO to CEO. 

Discussion points include: 

• Navigating the career journey from CFO to Group CEO.
• The motivations, doubts and decisions behind stepping into the top role.
• Shifting responsibilities and early challenges faced as a new CEO.
• Leading from the front without getting pulled back into the detail.
• Redefining relationships with the Board and other key stakeholders.
• Advice for CFOs transitioning to CEO – what to expect and what support is needed.

Alison Gowen, Group HRD at AG Barr plc and Neil Hayward, Chair at Skills Union, discuss how CPOs and senior HR leaders can effectively align strategic HR objectives with broader business goals.

Hosted by Bridgette Hall, Senior Editor at Criticaleye, we discuss the key priorities for HR leaders in 2025, the challenges of aligning HR with business objectives and how HR leaders can strengthen their influence at the executive and Board level.

Key discussion points include:

• Key trends shaping the HR landscape and where leaders should focus to drive impact.
• Challenges and best practices for integrating HR initiatives with company objectives.
• How HR leaders can strengthen relationships with key stakeholders like the CEO, CFO and Chair.
• Strategies for overcoming resistance and increasing HR’s influence within the organisation. 
• Key metrics and the role of AI in tracking HR’s contribution to business performance

In this episode, Yu-Wen Hsiao, Marketing and Communications Manager, APAC at Criticaleye, speaks with Will Lv, General Manager, China, and Shanliang Wu, Senior Vice President of Finance, China, at Flywheel Digital, a company headquartered in the United States with a strong presence in China. Both leaders bring extensive experience in navigating cross-border leadership, stakeholder management and business transformation within China’s fast-evolving digital landscape. 

They discuss the challenges of aligning global strategy with local market realities, building trust across diverse stakeholder groups and leading with cultural awareness. The conversation also explores how they adapt their leadership styles, balance regional and global priorities and respond to the demands of an increasingly complex business environment.

Discussion points include:

• How can leaders align global strategy with local market dynamics?

• What does effective stakeholder management look like across borders?

• How can trust be built and maintained between global and local teams?

• What leadership styles support collaboration across cultures?

• How do senior leaders stay agile and informed in rapidly evolving markets?

Brian Hayes, Chair of Bank of Montreal Europe plc and Booking Holdings Financial Services International Ltd, and Elisabeth Stheeman, Chair, Edinburgh Investment Trust plc offer their experience and advice to those looking to become a Chair for the first time.

Hosted by Julia Brook, Marketing and Communications Director at Criticaleye, they discuss the obstacles to becoming a Chair, and talk about their own journeys to taking on the role.

Discussion points include: 

• The initial hurdles to becoming a Chair - how to overcome them and be successful in the role
• Defining your style as a Chair, as well was setting the right tone in the Boardroom
• Starting out and how to assess the capabilities you have around the boardroom table
• Ensuring as a first-time Chair you stay connected and have the right reference points and contacts to excel in the role
• Handling a crisis situation as a Chair - what can you do to prepare for the unexpected?

Paul Kelly, UK Country Co-Leader, Partner & Managing Director, AlixPartners, Tamsin Todd, Non-executive Director, Auction Technology Group and Jon Lowne, Global Head of IT & Digital, Lightsource bp explore the key triggers that drive the need for change, how businesses can leverage technology to enhance productivity and performance and the common pitfalls to avoid.

Hosted by Jacob Ambrose Willson, Senior Editor at Criticaleye, they discuss emerging trends, leadership strategies and practical advice for navigating digital transformation.

Discussion points include: 

• Key triggers for digital transformation and its alignment with business growth strategies
• Common pitfalls businesses face during digital change
• Technologies shaping the next phase of digital transformation
• How leadership adapts and evolves during transformation
• Maintaining strategic oversight as a Non-Executive Director (NED)
• The value of mentoring for leaders navigating digital change

Vicky Wallis, Chief People Officer (CPO) at Direct Line Group and Jane Pateman, Non-Executive Director (NED) & RemCo Chair at Knights plc, explore the transition from a divisional or regional CPO to a Group CPO role.

Hosted by Alexander Hanna, Account Manager & CPO lead, Criticaleye, they discuss the key competencies required, how aspiring Group CPOs can develop the necessary skills and the best ways to gain the right experience before stepping into the top job.

Discussion points include: 

• What does it take to successfully transition into the Group CPO role?
• Key mindset shifts when moving from a divisional/regional CPO to Group CPO
• How new Group CPOs can establish trust and credibility with the executive team & Board
• Common mistakes first-time Group CPOs should avoid
• How leadership style evolves when stepping into the top job

In this episode, our first for 2025, we kick off the year by speaking to Criticaleye CEO Matthew Blagg about the trends, challenges, opportunities and risks for leaders over the next 12 months. He talks to Jordan Christofis, Senior Marketing Executive & Digital Lead at Criticaleye about the landscape for this year.

Discussion points include: 

• What factors will influence performance and decision making this year?
• Why 2025 will be a growth environment with opportunities and capital available to well-run and productive organisations.
• Increased pressure on Boards  and why the gap between Boards and operational team may widen this year.
• The leadership traits needed to be successful in 2025.
• What support leaders will need - the importance to find ways of benchmarking and testing ideas in a challenging environment.

Adam Warby, Chair of Ocado Group plc and Andrea Gisle Joosen, Chair of Bilprovningen & Criticaleye Board Mentor examines how Chairs can play a pivotal role in ensuring their Boards are equipped with the right skills and capabilities to navigate the challenges of today.

Hosted by Marc Barber, Director of Content at Criticaleye, we highlight the importance of strategic succession planning, exploring how Chairs can build teams that are aligned with the organisation’s long-term vision and capable of driving sustained success.

Discussion points include: 

• The evolving role of the Chair and why succession planning is critical
• How can Chairs ensure a plan is in place to map out future leadership needs beyond CEO succession?
• Succession planning that aligns with the organisation’s strategic priorities and long-term goals
• Gaps and opportunities on the executive team
• The role of NomCo in identifying strength and depth on the Board

In this episode, Yu-Wen Hsiao, Marketing and Communications Manager, APAC at Criticaleye, speaks with Su-Yen Wong, Chairperson of James Cook University Singapore. Su-Yen has been an independent director for 15 years and has served on the Boards of multiple public, private, membership and not-for-profit organisations across Australia, India, Indonesia, Myanmar, Singapore and the United States. As a Board member, she was named to the Financial Times’ Agenda Directory of Top 100 Board Candidates With Pay-Setting Skills—to date, she is the only individual based in Asia to be included on the list.

In this podcast, Su-Yen Wong shares her expertise on mastering corporate governance in Asia, offering insights on how Boards can sharpen their strategic focus, navigate governance challenges and adapt to emerging trends. She explores the key factors that drive Board effectiveness and provides actionable strategies to help Boards remain agile and future-ready in an increasingly complex business environment.

Discussion points include:

• How do different types of organisations influence the Board’s strategic focus and long-term vision?
• What expertise should Boards prioritise when building effective leadership teams?
• What key governance challenges do Boards face, and how can they navigate them effectively?
• How can Boards balance governance with management without overstepping operational boundaries?
• What emerging trends are shaping the future of corporate governance?
• How can Boards ensure continuous learning and development to stay relevant in today’s dynamic environment?

Francesca Ecsery, Non-Executive Director at Air France, and Heather Hayes, Global HRD at Lightsource BP, explore how Chief People Officers (CPOs) can cultivate a high-performing senior leadership team by developing the critical skills and capabilities necessary for success.

Hosted by Alexander Hanna, Account Manager & CPO Lead, we focus on how leaders can prepare their teams to navigate challenges, seize opportunities and drive long-term organisational success, highlighting the skills required for 2025 and the importance of aligning with the Board’s vision and overarching strategic goals.

Discussion points:

• What the key skills and capabilities CPOs need in 2025?
• What strategies can CPOs use to identify and address skill gaps within their leadership teams?
• How can CPOs shape the culture and dynamics of the senior leadership team to ensure effective collaboration and communication?
• The skills and capabilities that align with the Board’s strategic priorities
• Advice for aspiring executives looking to make a meaningful impact in their organisations
• The impact external reference points have on leadership capability and performance

In this episode, we sat down with Serena Lang, Chair of Trifast, Independent Non-Executive at Henry Boot, and a Criticaleye Board Mentor, plus Sebastian Munden, Chair of WRAP. Together, they covered on how Chairs and Non-executives can collaborate effectively with CEOs and CFOs to embed sustainability into the core of their business strategy. We explore the balance of driving long-term sustainability goals while remaining agile in the face of short-term challenges and pressures.

Key discussion points include: 

• The economic landscape and the priorities for Boards at present
• How the CEO should handle stakeholder complexities
• Which strategic goals are coming to the forefront and how boards are navigating competing demands in a challenging environment.
• Driving sustainability efforts amid volatile environment and regulatory limits. 
• Chair and NED skill capabilities and working with the Board

In this episode, Yu-Wen Hsiao, Marketing and Communications Manager, APAC at Criticaleye, speaks with Terence Quek, CEO of the Singapore Institute of Directors. Drawing on over 20 years of experience in strategy, business development, communication and organisational development, Terence has collaborated with leaders across the public, private and people sectors. As CEO, he is dedicated to enhancing the directorship profession and promoting good governance in organisations.

In this podcast, Terence shares his insights on what it takes to succeed as a regional CEO in Asia, focusing on the critical aspects of building strong CEO-Board relationships. He discusses the unique challenges that leaders face in the fast-evolving business environment across Asia, including the need for trust, alignment and agility. Terence also offers actionable strategies for CEOs to navigate complex organisational landscapes and drive success across the region.

Discussion points include: 

• What are the key elements in building trust and alignment between CEOs and Boards?
• How can CEOs balance transparency and confidentiality when communicating with their Boards?
• What are the common challenges in aligning CEO and Board perspectives, and how can they be overcome?
• How can CEOs foster agility in decision-making within the Boardroom?
• What strategies can CEOs use to continuously develop and evolve their relationships with the Board?

In this episode, Neya Patel, Account Manager & CFO Lead, speaks with Criticaleye Board Mentor Keith Cochrane, Chair of Qlar Group, about the unique challenges Group CFOs face when stepping into the Group CEO role.

Group CFOs are increasingly finding themselves at the helm, stepping into the Group CEO role. But what does it take to make this transition successfully? How does a Group CFO leverage their financial expertise to lead at the strategic level, and what new skills do they need to develop along the way?

Discussion points include: 

• Key drivers behind transitioning from Group CFO to Group CEO
• Shifts in responsibilities and challenges faced as a Group CEO
• Balancing strategic focus and avoiding financial detail as a Group CEO
• Engaging with the Board and internal stakeholders in a Group CEO role
• The unique value CFOs bring when stepping into the Group CEO position
• Mentorship and support for Group CFOs transitioning to Group CEO

In this episode, Yu-Wen Hsiao, Marketing and Communications Manager, APAC at Criticaleye speaks with AI expert Dr Feiyu Xu, former Senior Vice President and Global Head of AI at SAP, who now has various Board roles including Board Member at Zuhlke Group, Senior Advisor at A.T. Kearney and Non-executive Director at Airbus Group, about how leaders can harness AI and how it is reshaping leadership itself. Feiyu is also a Criticaleye Board Mentor.

During the podcast, Feiyu draws upon her experience as a data scientist, and experience in executive roles at companies including Lenovo and SAP.

Discussion points include: 

• How leaders should be thinking about their AI strategy and harnessing it across their organisations
• The AI value chain - how companies need to position themselves in the wider AI environment
• AI across the organisation and how it touches every part of the business, from processes and product to promotion
• Which regions are ahead when it comes to AI integration and innovation
• How AI is changing the way executives lead and the role mentoring can play to prepare leaders and ensure AI can work successfully for them.

In this episode, we sit down with Carol Borg, NED, Ricardo plc and Alan Bannatyne, Chair, XPS Group and Criticaleye Board Mentor to cover how the skills in finance are changing, as well as the ways in which the function itself needs to adapt to deliver the strategic insight and analysis that organisations need if they’re to retain their competitive edge.

Discussion points include: 

• What does a high-performing finance function look like today? 
• What skills that may not have been top of mind a few years ago are crucial today? 
• Are there gaps between the Group CFO and finance team due to increased complexity? 
• How is the finance function evolving? 
• Advice for first-time CFOs

In this episode of the Criticaleye podcast, General Manager Michael Crompton speaks with Valerie Chew, Global Head of Value Assurance, Transformation Office, Sandoz and Criticaleye Member. With over 18 years of experience in the pharmaceutical industry, Valerie has led transformative initiatives at global companies such as Sandoz and GSK. 

During the podcast, Valerie shares her journey into leadership, the challenges women face in stepping up as leaders, and the importance of innovation and collaboration in driving growth and transformation across the healthcare sector.

Discussion points include: 

• Navigating Gender and Cultural Challenges in Leadership
• The Importance of Diversity in Leadership
• Role of Mentorship and Inspiration for Women Leaders
• Legislative Impact on Diversity

In our latest episode of the Inspiring Leaders Podcast, we talk to Helen Miles, Group CFO for FTSE100 company Severn Trent, one of Britain's largest water companies, about her route to the CFO role, key responsibilities and what it means to take on such a senior role at Severn Trent.

Discussion points include: 

• Becoming a Group CFO - Helen talks about her path to taking on the top finance job, what support was needed and what it means to her
• Going beyond the finance function as a CFO - key strategic and social responsibilities that come with the role
• The pivotal moments that shaped Helen's career to date and support she needed to make it to CFO
• What it means to be a female leader in the FTSE100 and how Severn Trent has pioneered women in corporate roles
• Retaining and motivating talent - taking risks, building employee engagement and supporting individuals to reach their potential

In this episode of the Criticaleye podcast, Managing Director Charlie Wagstaff speaks with Pascal De Petrini, former Chair of Danone Asia and Criticaleye Board Mentor. Pascal brings 37 years of global leadership experience in consumer products, with more than two decades in Asia, where he’s built, scaled, and transformed businesses within major publicly-listed companies.

During the podcast, Pascal shared valuable insights from his experience stepping up into regional leadership roles in the APAC region. He reflected on the challenges of managing multiple stakeholders, adapting to different cultures, and aligning global business objectives with local realities. Pascal emphasised the importance of self-awareness, authenticity, and building a trusted team that provides honest feedback. He also discussed the complexities of navigating organisational politics and the need for agility and adaptability when leading in a dynamic, cross-cultural environment.

Discussion points include: 

• Navigating the complexities of regional leadership
• Cultural sensitivity in global business strategy
• The power of authentic leadership and trust
• Managing organisational politics with diplomacy
• The importance of agility in leadership

In this episode of the Criticaleye podcast, hosted by Criticaleye's Head of Research & Market Development APAC, Holly Carmichael, we are honoured to hear from Joydeep Bose, Managing Director & Group CHRO at Olam International. Joydeep has been with the company since 2003, establishing the HR function during its startup phase. Under his leadership, Olam expanded from 2,500 employees to over 44,000, evolving from a private entity to a publicly listed Fortune 500 company.

During the podcast, Joydeep shares his views on key success factors for CPOs, including building personal credibility by solving problems, meeting commitments, and wisely using access to senior leaders. Maintaining credibility involves transparency, owning mistakes, and learning from them. The conversation also highlights the importance of aligning HR initiatives with business goals, prioritising impactful tasks, and demonstrating financial value. Collaboration with business heads is emphasised as crucial for driving meaningful HR impact.

Discussion points include: 

• Building and maintaining personal credibility
• Delivering measurable business impact
• Understanding what drives value and growth
• Bringing global trends and insights to the Board
• Leveraging personal and professional networks
• Securing sponsorship for executing mandates

In our latest episode of the Inspiring Leaders Podcast, we break down some of the findings from Criticaleye’s 2024 CEO Research. Hosted by Criticaleye Senior Editor Jacob Ambrose Willson, this episode features Karen Fawcett, Non-executive Director, Aegon, LGT and Temus, and Criticaleye Board Mentor, and Criticaleye CEO, Matthew Blagg.

Karen and Matthew discuss the shifting priorities of CEOs in the last 12 months, agility versus strategy, the influence of major geopolitical swings, executive burnout, stakeholder management and the ongoing importance of personal development.

Discussion points include: 

• Focus on improved business performance
• Sustainability slipping down the agenda
• Balancing agility with strategy
• Macroeconomics and the impact of geopolitics
• The rise in executive burnout
• Managing internal and external stakeholders
• External reference points for leaders 

In this episode, our guest speaker shares invaluable insights into his journey as a CEO, Board member, and leader navigating the complexities of modern business. ​Featuring Criticaleye's Managing Director Charlie Wagstaff, plus our guest Board Mentor at Criticaleye and Independent Non-Executive Director at Tencent - Ian Stone.

Discussion points include: 

• Real-life experiences and insights as a CEO.
• How can the approach to M&A be optimised to prioritise partnering over-controlling?
• How crucial is it to collaborate with existing key personnel and founders in this process?
• Identifying emerging issues for CEOs that need greater attention from Boards.
• The significance of committees at the senior level and what distinguishes effective committees from ineffective ones.
• Navigating the balance between operational involvement and strategic oversight for CEOs and Boards.

In this episode, hosted by Criticaleye's Managing Director Charlie Wagstaff, our esteemed guest speaker, William Lo, shares invaluable insights from his extensive career as a seasoned executive based in Asia. With over three decades of experience in senior management and serving on the Boards of numerous publicly listed companies, William's portfolio spans a variety of industries, including telecommunications, internet, banking, fashion and retail. He delves into the challenges of leadership, organisational resilience, and the ever-changing landscape of technology.

Discussion points include: 

• The key challenges faced by CEOs today, and how can they navigate them effectively?
• What strategies can organisations employ to build resilience in the face of uncertainty and change?
• How is the ever-changing landscape of technology impacting businesses?
• What opportunities does it present for growth and innovation?
• Role of the Board in shaping culture

In this episode of the Criticaleye podcast, hosted by Managing Director Charlie Wagstaff, we are honored to hear from Till Vestring. With over 25 years of consulting experience at Bain & Company in Asia, Till offers profound insights from his distinguished career. His expertise extends beyond consulting into significant leadership roles across various Boards. In his NEDs, he chairs an Audit Committee, a remuneration Committee, and a CSR Committee, and he also sits on remuneration and nomination Committees.

Discussion points include: 

• What makes a CPO high-performing and how should they partner with CEOs?
• What are CPOs' crisis challenges and how to stay realistic in a crisis?
• What traits are crucial for CPOs?
• How can CPOs influence business strategy?
• How should CPOs communicate with Board Members?

In this episode, we speak to Tanuj Kapilashrami, Chief Strategy & Talent Officer at Standard Chartered. 

Hosted by Bridgette Hall, Senior Editor at Criticaleye, we ask Tanuj about the evolving role of HR, managing cross-cultural dynamics, and major trends to watch in 2024. 

Discussion points include: 

• Data driven HR 
• The future of the workforce
• Advice for first-time HR leaders
• Evolving HR practices
• Where can Boards support the HR function? 

In this episode, we invite leaders to discuss the role of the CEO in the current climate, Board dynamics, and what guidance and support senior executives should be utilising.

Hosted by Marc Barber, Director of Content at Criticaleye, we were pleased to invite special guests Rachel Osborne, NED and Audit Committee Chair at Ocado Group, NED and Audit Chair at Marstons, and former CEO of Ted Baker and Fiona Ross, Chair of Córas Iompair Éireann (CIE), Chair of the National Paediatric Hospital Development Board and NED at The Scottish Government, onto this episode.

Both are Board Mentors at Criticaleye. 

Discussion points include: 

• Priorities and perspectives in boardrooms
• How to be an agile CEO?
• What distinguishes the best chief executives? 
• Guidance and support for leaders
• Challenges for first-time CEOs

In this podcast, our guest speaker discusses the key findings from Criticaleye's Research on Chairs and Non-executives, board dynamics and the current landscape for businesses. Hosted by Emily Jones, Senior Editor at Criticaleye, we were pleased to invite Criticaleye CEO, Matthew Blagg.

Discussion points include: 

• Do Chairs and NEDs need to be much closer to the business? 
• Is psychological safety discussed enough on Boards? 
• Boardroom dynamics and alignment on strategy, stakeholders and leadership. 
• Issues moving up the agenda.
• Do Boards need more from committee Chairs in terms of data and insights?

Explore the dynamic landscape of talent management and leadership development in rapidly evolving Asia. Discover effective strategies for cultivating top talent, including guiding transitions and mentoring high performers.​ Featuring Criticaleye's General Managing Director, Michael Crompton, plus our guest President, APAC at Flywheel Digital, Dan Cotton. 

Discussion points include: 

• Challenges in acquiring and mentoring Talent
• Transitioning from Fast-Paced Startups to Large Corporations
• How has the nature of business disciplines changed over time?
• The Role of Mentorship in Management​
• Identifying and Leveraging Opportunities for Growth

In this podcast, our speakers discuss priorities for the next twelve months, advice for first-time CEOs and how can the Chair support the CEO? Hosted by Jacob Ambrose Willson, Senior Editor at Criticaleye, we were pleased to invite special guests Brittany Harris, Co-founder and CEO, Qualis Flow, Mark Whitby, Criticaleye Board Mentor, Chair, BibliU, and Melanie Lane, CEO, Pod Point. 

Discussion points include: 

• Pressure points for growth company CEOs over the next twelve months
• Board dynamics 
• Where should Chairs be supporting and guiding the CEO? 
• Evolving as a founder-CEO
• How can a mentor support a CEO of a Growth Company? 
• Essential elements to drive high performance

Focused on the HR Director role within the current landscape, future of the workforce, and how HR is evolving. Hosted by Bridgette Hall, Senior Editor at Criticaleye, we were pleased to invite special guests Claire Costello, Chief People and Inclusion Officer, Co-operative Group, and Nick Ulycz, Chief People Officer, Aldermore Group.  

Discussion points include: 

• The business landscape and how that’s impacting HR leadership
• The HRD’s role in supporting the senior leadership team and the Board, plus where they can make the most difference?  
• What makes a high-performing HR leader?  
• Advice for a first-time Group HRDs
• The impact AI is having on the workforce 
• How our speakers’ leadership styles have changed and adapted over time 

Exploring the unique role of the Senior Independent Director (SID), this episode is part of Criticaleye's Inspiring Leaders Podcast. Featuring host and Senior Editor Emily Jones, and special guests Maria Darby-Walker, Senior Independent Director, Redwood Bank, Non-executive Director, Personal Group plc, and Natalie Ceeney CBE, Chair, Cash Access UK, SID, LV=, REM Chair, Anglian Water, Non-executive Director, OpenReach, and Criticaleye Board Mentor.

Discussion points include: 

• The main responsibilities and duties of the SID
• What should the relationship between the SID and Chair be like? 
• The role of the SID in times of crisis 
• Where can Board dynamics go wrong? 
• Should the SID be the successor to the Chair? 
• Advice for NEDs stepping into the SID role

Exploring the significance of mentoring in career development, particularly in transitioning from management to leadership roles.​ Featuring Criticaleye's Managing Director Charlie Wagstaff, plus our guest Board Mentor Bala Swaminathan.

Discussion points include: 

• What is the role of a mentor?  
• Is mentoring the bridge between management and leadership?​  
• Challenges when transitioning from an operational to the leadership role.
• Real-life experiences and insights mentors share to guide mentees through leadership challenges. 
• How mentors can empower their mentees.​
• Ways that mentees can effectively prepare for mentoring sessions to maximise their impact and benefit. 

Exploring how to be agile as a leader in 2024, this episode is part of Criticaleye's Inspiring Leaders Podcast. Featuring Host and Director of Content, Marc Barber, and special guests Sally Bridgeland, Chair, Impax Asset Management, Non-executive Director, RSA, Royal London, and David Guise, Senior Advisor, Newton Europe. Both are Criticaleye Board Mentors. 

Discussion points include: 

• The perspectives in Boardrooms over the next twelve months. 
• Geopolitical trends and how might these impact businesses? 
• The value of having access to external reference points in uncertain times. 
• The CEO and Chair partnership and should the Chair be a mentor for the CEO?
• How can executives become more agile and does the role of the Chair/Non-executive Director need to change? 

Exploring the landscape for businesses in 2024, this episode is part of Criticaleye's Inspiring Leaders Podcast. Featuring Criticaleye Host and Director of Content, Marc Barber, and special guest Matthew Blagg, CEO, Criticaleye. 

Discussion points include:

• The uncertain geopolitical landscape and how businesses are tackling a high interest rate and inflation environment.
• How can Boards keep up with the current economic trends.
• The latest tech trends and is there a knowledge gap within Boards?
• What should leaders prioritise in 2024, and what’s on the people agenda?
• What next year will bring for private equity backed companies.
• What areas can Boards be optimistic within the next twelve months?

Exploring what it means to be a high performing executive in today's challenging environment, this episode is part of Criticaleye's Inspiring Leaders Podcast. Featuring Criticaleye Host and Director of Content Marc Barber and special guests Priya Chowdhary, Former CFO Europe, Encyclis and Ed Jones, Non-executive Director, NOW: Pensions.

Discussion points include: 

• Outtakes from Criticaleye's CFO Retreat, where this episode took place. Interest rates are high and that creates unpredictability for CFOs.
• CFO's and the finance function needs to be agile in today’s current environment.
• Sustainability comes with a cost, and leadership teams need to recognise risk and make it a frequent discussion point in the boardroom. 
• Businesses can proactively implement sustainability in their business model if it is baked into the strategy.
• How can CFOs help mitigate risk? What role should they play in the Boardroom when navigating the risks an organisation is facing?
• Guidance for newly appointed CFO, and that all-important relationship with the CEO.

Featuring Criticaleye's Managing Director Charlie Wagstaff, plus guests Hai Meng Tan, President, Animal Nutrition & Health, APAC, Kemin Industries and Sian Abel, Global Head, HR Business Partnering, Kyowa Kirin. Talking points include:

• The skill set needed to be a successful and effective regional leader
• Adapting to leadership in a region and culture which is different that your own - how to flex to various cultural and operating environments
• Building resilience as a leader in APAC - and developing a growth mindset
• The importance of communication and understanding how this helps win over hearts and minds
• The challenges of getting staff back into offices and what trends executives are seeing in Asia
• Using data as a leader to understand the challenges and nuances of regional leadership

Exploring what it means to be a high performing executive in today's challenging environment, this episode is part of Criticaleye's Inspiring Leaders Podcast. Featuring Criticaleye Host and Director of Content Marc Barber and special guests Francesca Ecsery, Non-executive Director, Air France and Mark Spelman, Non-executive Director, Buro Happold. Both are Criticaleye Board Mentors.

Discussion points include:

• Reflections on our CEO Sustainability Retreat, where this episode was recorded. There are reasons to be optimistic with record investment in ESG in 2023 so far, and reporting metrics which are "keeping executives and Boards feet to the fire."
• Sustainability is also on the global agenda as we approach Cop28 at the end of November. Companies need to understand the macro signals. 
• If 80% of emissions are in Scope 3, how are business leaders addressing this within their own strategy? 
• The pace of technology is set to 'go through the roof'. Leaders need to be on top of this and understand how AI will influence decision making.
• Boards and NEDs will need to keep up with trends. You will become irrelevant in just a few years without investment your own education on sustainability issues.
• Companies need to have the data and the processes lined up, as well as incentivising internally to drive results.

Featuring Criticaleye's General Manager, APAC, Michael Crompton, plus guests Louise Chaplin, Partner & Head of Board Practice, Eton Bridge Partners and Yen Yen Tan, Independent Director, OCBC Bank (plus a Criticaleye Board Mentor). Talking points include:

• What Boards and investors are looking for from new non-executives
• Being a future-proof NED - the core competencies needed to be successful in a Board role
• Putting together a winning NED CV - plus key things to think about before interviewing
• What new NEDs get right and what approach they should be taking for the first six months of their first role
• Taking on NED roles during your executive career, including how it can benefit your current organisation 

Featuring Criticaleye's Senior Associate, APAC, Hannah Daniels, plus guest Neha Pareek, HRD Global Supply Chain Operations, Dyson Operations Pte. Ltd. Talking points include:

• The driving forces behind business transformations - and what impact changing customer behaviours are having
• Using data and analytics in the right way - data as the new oil
• How the HR function has changed as business models have transformed and evolved
• The relationship between the HRD and CEO - what support should the CEO be offering HRDs during transformation
• The complex dynamic between global, regional and local priorities and how to manage this as an HRD or Chief People Officer

Exploring what it means to be a high performing executive in today's challenging environment, this podcast is part of our High Impact Leadership series. Featuring Criticaleye’s CEO Matthew Blagg, plus guest Mary Jo Jacobi, Non-executive Director of Savannah Resources plc and the NED for Engagement of the Weir Group plc, as well as a Criticaleye Board Mentor. Discussion points include:

• Leadership in 2023 - the impact for executives of a tough, recessionary landscape
• What does a high performing Board look like? We get Mary Jo's view on approaches that work
• Corporate reputation in the year ahead 
• Winners and losers over the next 12-months, plus why leadership development will be more important than ever
• Are executives ready for 2023, and what traits will be most important to successful leadership

Criticaleye Asia Podcast - Talking Talent with Wesley Payne McClendon

Featuring Criticaleye's Head of Research & Market Development, APAC, Holly Carmichael, plus guest Wesley Payne McClendon, Chair of the Board at The GROW Project Foundation, Non-Executive Director at Vortex Innovations, and Independent NED & Chair, People & Culture Committee, at the Australian Institute of Architects, plus a Criticaleye Board Mentor.

• Talent is the top priority for APAC leaders according to Criticaleye’s research. What role does the HR Director have in reinforcing this as a priority?
• Advice on how HRDs can gain a seat at the top table and be fundamental to strategic debate
• The business case for why HRDs should access to Board-level discussions
• Developing the next generation of leaders - how to create a culture of leadership development
• Diversity, equity and inclusion - why we need to deconstruct and disrupt structures that have been built by privilege to get the best outcomes

Criticaleye Asia Podcast - Talking Talent with Wesley Payne McClendon

Featuring Criticaleye's Head of Research & Market Development, APAC, Holly Carmichael, plus guest Wesley Payne McClendon, Chair of the Board at The GROW Project Foundation, Non-Executive Director at Vortex Innovations, and Independent NED & Chair, People & Culture Committee, at the Australian Institute of Architects, plus a Criticaleye Board Mentor.

• Talent is the top priority for APAC leaders according to Criticaleye’s research. What role does the HR Director have in reinforcing this as a priority?
• Advice on how HRDs can gain a seat at the top table and be fundamental to strategic debate
• The business case for why HRDs should access to Board-level discussions
• Developing the next generation of leaders - how to create a culture of leadership development
• Diversity, equity and inclusion - why we need to deconstruct and disrupt structures that have been built by privilege to get the best outcomes

Criticaleye Asia Podcast - Talking Talent with Wesley Payne McClendon

Featuring Criticaleye's Head of Research & Market Development, APAC, Holly Carmichael, plus guest Wesley Payne McClendon, Chair of the Board at The GROW Project Foundation, Non-Executive Director at Vortex Innovations, and Independent NED & Chair, People & Culture Committee, at the Australian Institute of Architects, plus a Criticaleye Board Mentor.

• Talent is the top priority for APAC leaders according to Criticaleye’s research. What role does the HR Director have in reinforcing this as a priority?
• Advice on how HRDs can gain a seat at the top table and be fundamental to strategic debate
• The business case for why HRDs should access to Board-level discussions
• Developing the next generation of leaders - how to create a culture of leadership development
• Diversity, equity and inclusion - why we need to deconstruct and disrupt structures that have been built by privilege to get the best outcomes

Criticaleye Asia Podcast - Talking Talent with Wesley Payne McClendon

Featuring Criticaleye's Head of Research & Market Development, APAC, Holly Carmichael, plus guest Wesley Payne McClendon, Chair of the Board at The GROW Project Foundation, Non-Executive Director at Vortex Innovations, and Independent NED & Chair, People & Culture Committee, at the Australian Institute of Architects, plus a Criticaleye Board Mentor.

• Talent is the top priority for APAC leaders according to Criticaleye’s research. What role does the HR Director have in reinforcing this as a priority?
• Advice on how HRDs can gain a seat at the top table and be fundamental to strategic debate
• The business case for why HRDs should access to Board-level discussions
• Developing the next generation of leaders - how to create a culture of leadership development
• Diversity, equity and inclusion - why we need to deconstruct and disrupt structures that have been built by privilege to get the best outcomes

Criticaleye Asia Podcast - Talking Talent with Wesley Payne McClendon

Featuring Criticaleye's Head of Research & Market Development, APAC, Holly Carmichael, plus guest Wesley Payne McClendon, Chair of the Board at The GROW Project Foundation, Non-Executive Director at Vortex Innovations, and Independent NED & Chair, People & Culture Committee, at the Australian Institute of Architects, plus a Criticaleye Board Mentor.

• Talent is the top priority for APAC leaders according to Criticaleye’s research. What role does the HR Director have in reinforcing this as a priority?
• Advice on how HRDs can gain a seat at the top table and be fundamental to strategic debate
• The business case for why HRDs should access to Board-level discussions
• Developing the next generation of leaders - how to create a culture of leadership development
• Diversity, equity and inclusion - why we need to deconstruct and disrupt structures that have been built by privilege to get the best outcomes

Featuring Criticaleye's Head of Research & Market Development, APAC, Holly Carmichael, plus guest Wesley Payne McClendon, Chair of the Board at The GROW Project Foundation, Non-Executive Director at Vortex Innovations, and Independent NED & Chair, People & Culture Committee, at the Australian Institute of Architects. Talking points include:

• Talent is the top priority for APAC leaders according to Criticaleye’s research. What role does the HR Director have in reinforcing this as a priority?
• Advice on how HRDs can gain a seat at the top table and be fundamental to strategic debate
• The business case for why HRDs should access to Board-level discussions
• Developing the next generation of leaders - how to create a culture of leadership development
• Diversity, equity and inclusion - why we need to deconstruct and disrupt structures that have been built by privilege to get the best outcomes

Exploring what it means to be a high performing executive in today's challenging environment, this podcast is part of our High Impact Leadership series. Featuring Criticaleye’s CEO Matthew Blagg and Director of Content Marc Barber, plus guest Sally Bridgeland, Chair of Impax Asset Management. Discussion points include:

• The role of the Board in a volatile business environment. What support do executives need from their NEDs
• What does a high performing Board look like? We get Sally's view on approaches that work
• The critical relationship between the Chair and CEO. 
• High performing CFOs - how to put the 'chief' in CFO
• Mentoring and why senior executives need wider reference points

Exploring what it means to be a high performing executive in today's challenging environment, this podcast is part of our High Impact Leadership series. Featuring Criticaleye’s CEO Matthew Blagg and Director of Content Marc Barber, this episode kicks off our new series, including:

• What does it mean to be a high impact leader? How do you achieve the best with what you've got
• What mindset do leaders need as inflation and high interest rates take their toll? How do you ensure the ExCo, the Board and the workforce are aligned?
• Inspiring followership in your teams - and why honesty is important in a recessionary climate
• Challenges for new CEOs and ensuring you have the right team around you
• The contribution of the Chair and the Board - the role of NEDs in inspiring high impact leadership and performance

Featuring Criticaleye's General Manager, Michael Crompton, plus guests Benny H. Goh, Non-executive Director at Cyber Data Centre, Innovation Advisor at IPI Singapore, Non-executive Director at TaqTik Health and a Criticaleye Board Mentor, and Margaret Rumpf, Vice President, Global Marketing Head at GSK. Talking points include:

• Challenges faced by leaders in APAC over the last three years, what has and hasn't changed
• The mindset needed by senior executives to build a diverse and effective team
• How to help executives moving into new locations to have cultural awareness? How can they adjust/adapt to their new environment
• Succession planning and whether big corporates are able to optimise talent in Asia 
• Business model transformation and what leadership capabilities are needed to drive success

Featuring Criticaleye's Managing Director Charlie Wagstaff, plus Min Yih Tan, SVP Global Mobility Network, Shell and Bhawna Gandhi, HR Director, Corporate Service, APAC, Sodexo. Talking points include:

• What does it mean to be a high performing leader in APAC, what are the main challenges
• Customer trends, use of data and the rebirth of conscious consumerism   
• Adapting your leadership approach between global and local leadership roles - small global vs. strong local
• The responsibility of leadership and how to inspire those around you 
• Dreaming big as a team, removing constraints so you and your people can outperform

Episode 5: Criticaleye Asia Podcast - Stepping Up with William Lo

Featuring Criticaleye's Managing Director Charlie Wagstaff and Dr William Lo, Chair of Captcha Media Ltd and a Criticaleye Board Mentor. Talking points include:

1. An overview of William Lo's career, his time as an executive, progression up the leadership ladder and non-executive roles
2. What leaders should be doing in the current climate and the impact political and social pressures are having on organisations
3. Stepping up into a regional leadership role - what this means and William's own journey to a senior position
4. The importance of the right leadership team - how to get the right people around you and develop the next generation of leaders 
5. What the new landscape of remote working and relationships means for leaders

Criticaleye Asia Podcast - Stepping Up with William Lo

Featuring Criticaleye's Managing Director Charlie Wagstaff and Dr William Lo, Chair of Captcha Media Ltd and a Criticaleye Board Mentor. Talking points include:

1. An overview of William Lo's career, his time as an executive, progression up the leadership ladder and non-executive roles
2. What leaders should be doing in the current climate and the impact political and social pressures are having on organisations
3. Stepping up into a regional leadership role - what this means and William's own journey to a senior position
4. The importance of the right leadership team - how to get the right people around you and develop the next generation of leaders 
5. What the new landscape of remote working and relationships means for leaders

Criticaleye Asia Podcast - Stepping Up with William Lo

Featuring Criticaleye's Managing Director Charlie Wagstaff and Dr William Lo, Chair of Captcha Media Ltd and a Criticaleye Board Mentor. Talking points include:

1. An overview of William Lo's career, his time as an executive, progression up the leadership ladder and non-executive roles
2. What leaders should be doing in the current climate and the impact political and social pressures are having on organisations
3. Stepping up into a regional leadership role - what this means and William's own journey to a senior position
4. The importance of the right leadership team - how to get the right people around you and develop the next generation of leaders 
5. What the new landscape of remote working and relationships means for leaders

Criticaleye Asia Podcast - Stepping Up with William Lo

Featuring Criticaleye's Managing Director Charlie Wagstaff and Dr William Lo, Chair of Captcha Media Ltd and a Criticaleye Board Mentor. Talking points include:

1. An overview of William Lo's career, his time as an executive, progression up the leadership ladder and non-executive roles
2. What leaders should be doing in the current climate and the impact political and social pressures are having on organisations
3. Stepping up into a regional leadership role - what this means and William's own journey to a senior position
4. The importance of the right leadership team - how to get the right people around you and develop the next generation of leaders 
5. What the new landscape of remote working and relationships means for leaders

Criticaleye Asia Podcast - Stepping Up with William Lo

Featuring Criticaleye's Managing Director Charlie Wagstaff and Dr William Lo, Chair of Captcha Media Ltd and a Criticaleye Board Mentor. Talking points include:

1. An overview of William Lo's career, his time as an executive, progression up the leadership ladder and non-executive roles
2. What leaders should be doing in the current climate and the impact political and social pressures are having on organisations
3. Stepping up into a regional leadership role - what this means and William's own journey to a senior position
4. The importance of the right leadership team - how to get the right people around you and develop the next generation of leaders 
5. What the new landscape of remote working and relationships means for leaders

Featuring Criticaleye's Managing Director Charlie Wagstaff and Dr William Lo, Chair of Captcha Media Ltd and a Criticaleye Board Mentor. Talking points include:

• An overview of William Lo's career, his time as an executive, progression up the leadership ladder and non-executive roles
• What leaders should be doing in the current climate and the impact political and social pressures are having on organisations
• Stepping up into a regional leadership role - what this means and William's own journey to a senior position
• The importance of the right leadership team - how to get the right people around you and develop the next generation of leaders 
• What the new landscape of remote working and relationships means for leaders

Offering an outlook for leadership in 2022, this podcast is part of our Leadership with New Horizons series. Featuring Criticaleye’s CEO Matthew Blagg and Director of Content Marc Barber, it covers the business and leadership landscape, our Asia Leadership Retreat and draws on our recent research, including:

• Global leadership challenges including organisation restructure, inflation, interest rate rises and supply chain disruption
• The appetite for risk in senior leadership teams - what opportunities are there for well-run businesses? 
• The mindset of leaders - you've got to be comfortable with ambiguity in the current environment
• Our research suggests a shift towards performance over strategy, but leadership teams now need to re-learn strategic debate and longer-term thinking 
• The shift to local in global business and why this has created a huge need to invest in middle management

Offering an outlook for leadership in 2022, this podcast is part of our Leadership with New Horizons series. Featuring Criticaleye’s CEO Matthew Blagg and Director of Content Marc Barber, it covers the outtakes and learnings from our recent HR Director Retreat, including:

• The trend from HRDs, and other senior executives, to seek inspiration. There is a hunger to benchmark and share ideas this year
• Long-term trends for the workforce and how leadership teams are addressing these 
• How senior leaders are finding ways to reinforce their organisation's purpose, e.g by tying remuneration with ESG
• The link between HR Directors and Chief People Officers with their peers, and the people agenda for 2022 
• The current political landscape and what impact this might have for businesses in the short-term

Featuring Criticaleye General Manager Michael Crompton, plus Susan Chen, Director & Head of People, HK & SG Game Development Studios, Riot Games and Mukta Arya, Regional Head, HR, Asia Pacific, Société Générale, this podcast was recorded following our Asia Leadership Forum. Talking points include:

• Managing people and change across a broad framework 
• The challenges of being a global company, rather than one which has an international presence   
• How to foster a 'speak up' culture, while also encouraging meaningful conversations rather than opinions
• Leadership resilience and how you build it up 
• Personal development, how do you prioritise it as a leader and what does it look like?

Offering an outlook for leadership in 2022, this podcast is part of our Leadership with New Horizons series. Featuring Criticaleye’s CEO Matthew Blagg and Director of Content Marc Barber, it covers predictions for the year ahead and comment on our latest CEO Research, including:

• Forward trends for 2022, and how leaders need to be bold, brave and have followership in the year ahead
• The focus on productivity, and need for a clear, simplified strategy  
• The workforce this year, and the need for leaders to motivate and optimise as pressure continues
• The investor landscape and how integrity of story and alignment of resources will be key
• Opportunities over the next 12-months, and why longer-term planning needs to be a priority in the leadership team

Offering an outlook for leadership in 2021, this podcast is part of our Leadership with New Horizons series. Featuring Criticaleye’s CEO Matthew Blagg and Managing Editor Emma Carroll, it covers some of the key outtakes from our recent CFO Retreat, including:

• A poll taken at our CFO Retreat where 65% said burnout is having a negative impact on performance
• Why culture and people are the biggest barriers to collaboration, according the CFOs 
• Changing business models and how they are driving new partnerships and innovation
• The focus of shareholders going into 2022, including growth and ESG
• The CFOs role as a leader, and importance of focusing on the longer-term strategy as we go into next year

Featuring Criticaleye Managing Director Charlie Wagstaff, plus Board Mentor Venkataramanan Anantharaman, this podcast was recorded following a roundtable looking at creating an effective risk management framework, including:

• The dynamic nature of risk in the current environment, and why leaders need to shift their thinking 
• The opportunity that risk management can present, plus how Boards and leadership teams can harness these   
• What questions should Boards and Non-executives be asking on risk, and what approach to Exec teams need to take when putting plans in place
• The role of the Board in defining a risk culture 
• The risk posed by data overload, how does the risk register need to shift in today's data driven environment

Featuring Criticaleye Asia’s General Manager Michael Crompton, plus two Criticaleye Board Mentors Karen Fawcett and Mui Hoon Poh, this podcast was recorded following an event with Singapore Institute of Directors on the topic of innovation in the boardroom, including:

• The Board's role in creating and maintaining a culture of innovation for an organisation
• The importance of being able to have challenging conversations at board levels so innovation can thrive  
• Whether the culture of a board is influenced more by location or what type of organisation it oversees
• Diversity at board level and the impact this has on innovation
• Having Non-executives who are willing to learn, and processes which do not limit a board and what it can achieve

Offering an outlook for leadership in 2021, this podcast is part of our Leadership with New Horizons series. Featuring Criticaleye’s CEO Matthew Blagg and Director of Content Marc Barber, it covers some of the key outtakes from our recent CEO Research, including:

• The landscape for leadership drawing upon our recent Criticaleye CEO Research 2021
• Why agility is the top area of change for leaders - what this means in practice and how to get internal processes and teams to keep up with an agile strategy 
• The relationship between Boards and executives, and how the drive for new tech is creating a need for a new type of leadership
• Followership over leadership, and why this is becoming more important
• The role of the CEO to inject energy, to give people confidence and to make sure they have the right team around them

Offering an outlook for leadership in 2021, this podcast is part of our Leadership with New Horizons series. Featuring Criticaleye’s CEO Matthew Blagg and Director of Content Marc Barber, it covers some of the key outtakes from our recent CEO Retreat, including:

• Topics raised during our flagship event including board dynamics, customer focus, agility and purpose
• Where the CEO and top team need to align in 2021, including hybrid working, the pace of decision-making and future strategic direction 
• What the return of greater travel and movement for executives will mean for leadership energy and motivation
• Shifting mindsets of leaders from internal to external, and why CEOs need to be externally focused more than ever
• The learning process for first-time CEOs and how most Boards are now exerting greater pressure on leadership teams

Offering an outlook for leadership in 2021, this podcast is part of our Leadership with New Horizons series. Featuring Criticaleye’s CEO Matthew Blagg and Managing Editor Emma Carroll, it covers some of the key outtakes from our recent HR Director Retreat, including:

• Reviewing the role of the HR Director and how it has evolved as a result of the pandemic
• The future challenges of hybrid working - how can organisations break the 'virtual-working' cycle and ensure focus on the customer 
• Relationships in the top team including how the CEO should be leveraging the CHRO going forward
• Are HRDs rethinking their career path after Covid-19? A poll taken at the Retreat reveals that many are.
• Visibility at Board level for HR leaders and whether a return to in-person interactions will impact on this

Offering an outlook for leadership in 2021, this podcast is part of our Leadership with New Horizons series. Featuring Criticaleye’s CEO Matthew Blagg and Managing Editor Emma Carroll, it covers some of the key outtakes from our recent Growth Company, NED and Asia Leadership Forums, including:

• At our Asia Leadership Forum, 87% agreed that leadership teams need to be more agile. What does this mean in practice, and what distinctions need to be made between agile working across the business and the approach of leaders?
• Businesses talk about operating at pace - how do leaders ensure pace doesn't supersede profitability? 
• The difficulties of needing to change strategy when many leadership teams still can't come together physically
• How local leaders are more isolated than ever, and need the right support and development, particularly access to global reference points, to be successful
• Looking forward to our HRD Retreat at the end of April - what role does the HR Director play in today's environment? They have a core responsibility to ensure the people strategy aligns with the business strategy.

Offering an outlook for leadership in 2021, this podcast is part of our Leadership with New Horizons series. Featuring Criticaleye’s CEO Matthew Blagg and Managing Editor Emma Carroll, it covers some of the key outtakes from our HR Director Forum 2021, including:

• HR Director sentiment in the current climate - are HRDs more or less positive than their executive counterparts?
• HRDs contribution to strategy - are HRDs getting a seat in the top table and can strategy be done virtually? 
• The future of the workplace and hybrid-working
• The role of the HRD in aligning the top team, plus those crucial relationships between HRD, CEO and CFO
• Benchmarking and external reference points - what role will looking outside the business play in 2021?

Offering an outlook for leadership in 2021, this podcast is part of our Leadership with New Horizons series. Featuring Criticaleye’s CEO Matthew Blagg and Director of Content Marc Barber, it covers our CEO Research 2021, including:

• The challenge of aligning people, strategy and culture in 2021
• Putting strategy back on the leadership agenda and how to overcome the difficulties of strategic debate in a virtual environment  
• Top priorities for leaders in the year ahead including sustainability and ESG
• C-suite succession - will we see a lot of change at the top of organisations in 2021?
• The likelihood of increased investor pressure this year and how leaders will approach key stakeholder relationships

Offering an outlook for leadership in 2021, this podcast kicks off our new Leadership with New Horizons series. Featuring Criticaleye’s CEO Matthew Blagg and Director of Content Marc Barber, it covers key themes for leaders and senior executives in 2021, including:

• Customer and employee experiences in the year ahead - will lessons learned in 2020 stick? What changes will be long-term?
• How organisational agility and the need for leaders to move at pace in 2021 will determine success  
• Criticaleye’s CEO Research 2021, including news that sustainability has moved into CEO’s top three priorities for the first time
• HR Director pressure as the people agenda becomes even more important in 2021
• The need to reconnect in person and why Criticaleye has adjusted its support for the year ahead in response
• Why balanced and impartial benchmarking will be critical this year, especially when it comes to influencing stakeholders

In this 32-minute podcast, our Managing Editor Emma Carroll speaks to Catriona Schmolke, former SVP Operational Centres of Excellence, Jacobs and Charlie Wagstaff, Managing Director, Criticaleye about the leadership challenges of 2020. They discuss:

• Have leaders questioned their ability to lead in 2020? At our CFO Retreat in November, 58% told us they had doubted their leadership
• The importance to leaders of outstanding teams
• Leadership isolation and how the virtual world has impacted leaders
• Employee engagement and support - how did this play out in 2020? Did leaders get it right in terms of maximising productivity and motivation?
• The ‘return to the workplace’ - how 2020 will transform the way we all work and interact in the future
• What our speakers have learned about their own leadership style and what they will take into 2021

In this 38-minute podcast, our Managing Editor Emma Carroll speaks to Dr William Lo, Chair of Captcha Media (plus a Criticaleye Board Mentor), Catriona Schmolke, former SVP Operational Centres of Excellence, Jacobs, and Charlie Wagstaff, Managing Director, Criticaleye about the business challenges of 2020. After a year of not often getting what you want, but appreciating what you have, our leaders cover:

• How leaders have both captured and acted upon the lessons of the year
• Shared experiences of the early days of COVID-19
• The increased importance of employee wellness in 2020, and how employers took on the role as trusted reference points for their teams
• Responses from different regions - the opportunities arising in Asia as case numbers have fallen
• The challenges for leaders of balancing honesty with positivity, and the role of purpose in 2020
• How have we stayed close to and understood our customers in the last 12-months

Following our recent Asia Leadership Retreat (held on 26 November 2020), Criticaleye’s CEO Matthew Blagg and Director of Content Marc Barber reflect on some of the key discussion points in this 26-minute podcast, including:

• What leaders will be focusing on in 2021, and how challenges of customer centricity and employee behaviour are universal
• The opportunities we are likely to see in the next 12-18 months - what areas companies are likely to focus on when it comes to leadership, purpose and the people agenda?
• The key question of purpose - why do organisations exist and how do leaders align teams behind purpose?
• What change we will see across executive teams (are we are likely to see many executives making the move to a plural career after the changes in 2020?)
• How has the pandemic changed consumer behaviour long-term?

Following our recent CFO Retreat (held on 12 November 2020), Criticaleye’s CEO Matthew Blagg and its Director of Content Marc Barber reflect in this 28-minute podcast on some of the key themes:

• How finance leaders can remain resilient, the balance between cost-cutting and investment, data, talent and digitisation, plus much more
• In a poll taken at the Retreat, 84% said they see the current economic situation as an opportunity to accelerate operating model change
• The role of the CFO, and how this plays out when operating in a complex and fast changing market
• The CFO as ‘timekeeper of the current moment’ alongside the need to play an integral role in strategy and future innovation
• What the end of 2020 will bring in terms of future planning, what opportunities there are for 2021, as well as ongoing challenges that we will see into the New Year.

Following our recent virtual CEO Retreat (held on 15 October 2020), Criticaleye’s CEO, Matthew Blagg, and its Director of Content, Marc Barber, reflect in this 26-minute podcast on some key outtakes:

• 65% of CEOs at our CEO Retreat revealed they had doubted their ability to lead in the last six months
• Making difficult calls as a CEO, and how the pandemic has forced all leaders to be flexible on strategy
• The importance for leaders to stay calm and to give themselves time
• Views on the economy in Asia and if we are seeing a return to normal activity levels

Matthew comments “Experience is what you get when you don’t get what you want, and there are a lot of leaders getting a lot of experience at the moment.”