Inside the Mind of a Global CEO: Doug Deardorf's Path to Impact

Summary

In this conversation, Doug Deardorf '84 shares his journey from childhood aspirations to becoming a CEO. He reflects on his upbringing, the influences that shaped him, and his experiences at Thunderbird School of Global Management. Doug discusses the importance of building relationships, the challenges of running a business, and the excitement of product development. He emphasizes the value of attitude in hiring and offers advice for young professionals entering the workforce, encouraging them to focus on community and contribution.

Doug Deardorf is owner and CEO of NiSoft, a technology company providing
software and professional services to optimize plant operations in complex
process industries including power generation and refining. NiSoft’s flagship
product, e3, is used by industry to enhance safety, compliance and
productivity. The company is based in Belfast, Northern Ireland, and maintains
offices in Singapore, Brisbane and Denver.

Doug attended Seattle Pacific University and obtained degrees in both
Business and Psychology. While there, he also competed on the rowing team.
He earned a Master’s Degree from the Thunderbird School of Global
Management, a unit of Arizona State University. Doug is committed to
education and is a strong proponent of global trade. He serves on an
Advisory Board at Seattle Pacific University and is a member and former Co-
Chair of the Thunderbird Global Alumni Network.

Doug has held positions of increasing responsibility with technology and
consulting firms including Itron, PwC, S2 Systems, Indus International (now a
division of Hitachi Energy), NiSoft and Wausau Financial Systems (now a
Deluxe company). In 2008, Doug returned to NiSoft through a friendly
acquisition. His leadership of NiSoft puts focus on addressing industry needs
with innovation and attention to customer requirements. This involves
extensive travel throughout Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.

Doug and his wife Rachel live in Castle Rock, Colorado, and enjoy the
outdoor activities the area offers including running, skiing, biking, and motorcycle riding.

https://www.nisoft.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/deardorf/

This podcast is sponsored by Freshwater Investments