CUES 164: What Does It Take to Be a Great CEO?

CUES Podcast 164: What It Takes To Be a Great CEO

In this CUES Podcast episode, host Carla Kalogeridis welcomes guests Deedee Myers, Ph.D., CEO of DDJ Myers, and Peter Myers, Senior Vice President at DDJ Myers, to discuss what it takes to be a great CEO in the credit union industry. 

The conversation covers several key aspects of CEO selection, onboarding, and performance. You’ll discover: 

• The process of finding and selecting a CEO, including vetting internal vs. external candidates
• Differences in interviewing internal and external candidates
• The importance of a robust onboarding process for new CEOs
• Characteristics that distinguish good CEOs from great ones
• Regular practices that high-performing CEOs engage in

Deedee and Peter share insights on: 

• The evolving landscape of CEO searches
• The importance of emotional intelligence and strategic thinking for CEOs
• How boards can prepare for CEO transitions years in advance
• The critical first 90-120 days for a new CEO and building relationships with staff, board members, and the community
• Five key characteristics of exceptional CEOs, including having a clear vision and putting "points on the board"
• Regular practices CEOs should engage in, such as semi-annual development conversations with executives and regular strategy deep-dives

"Never stop learning. Always be curious. Be open. Be hungry," Deedee advises aspiring and current CEOs.

This episode provides valuable insights for credit union professionals interested in leadership development, board members involved in CEO succession planning, and current CEOs looking to enhance their performance.

Links for this show:

•  Transcript
•  DDJ Myers