Adapting Leadership in a Global Marketplace with Simon Kenney, CEO of Goodfellow

The Human CEO Podcast

Episode Summary:
In this episode of The Human CEO, we sit down with Simon Kenney, CEO of multinational supplier of specialist scientific materials, Goodfellow. Simon shares his journey of professional growth from a Sales Manager to CEO, navigating challenges in various industries and markets. He discusses the critical role of leadership in fostering resilience and adaptability, especially during times of global disruption such as COVID-19. Simon also talks about the importance of aligning personal goals with professional aspirations, the value of cross-departmental experience, and how companies can maintain a strong internal culture while scaling globally.

Key Takeaways:

• How adapting to changing markets and customer needs can build business resilience.
• The importance of understanding different business functions, such as sales and purchasing, to become an effective leader.
• Why maintaining strong leadership and company culture is crucial during periods of growth and acquisition.
• Insights on balancing personal and professional goals, and why setting clear objectives is key to success.
• Simon’s advice for aspiring CEOs on taking risks, making decisions, and learning from failure.
• The future of sales and leadership in a world influenced by AI and digital transformation.

Quote of the Episode: "For me, it’s about understanding. I’m taking from the good whilst being cognizant of how you feel when you’re being led by people that you don’t think are so good... there’s times when you work for leaders and they made you feel in a certain way and you go right, actually, I’m not going to do that."

Resources Mentioned:

Awaken the Giant Within by Tony Robbins

Follow Simon:
LinkedIn: Simon Kenney
Company: Goodfellow