Hard-won truths on leading transformation (Mike Ettling, former CEO of Unit4)

What if your biggest leadership challenge wasn’t strategy, but self-doubt? 

In this episode, Richard Medcalf speaks with Mike Ettling, who recently stepped down as CEO of Unit4 after a transformative six-year tenure. Mike led the company through a complete business model overhaul—from a fragmented, on-premise software provider to a unified, cloud-first organisation. Along the way, he navigated culture shifts, private equity pressures, and the internal doubts that come with playing at the highest level. Now in his new role as a chairman and mentor to CEOs, Mike reflects on what it really takes to lead and multiply impact.

In this conversation, you’ll learn: 

• Why hiring for hardship and failure stories beats CV credentials
• How to manage self-doubt when you're surrounded by brilliant people
• What really breaks a transformation (hint: it's not your product)
• The overlooked power of cadence, culture, and purpose in a private equity environment
• Why moving from CEO to chairman demands a radical shift in how you add value

A must-listen for any leader navigating complexity—or preparing to let go and lead in a new way.

 

Resources/sources mentioned:

• Unit 4 (https://www.unit4.com/ )
• Mike Ettling Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikeettling/
• Join the Crucible (XquadrantTHE CRUCIBLE (Private Invitation, our exponential programme for elite CEOs dedicated to transforming themselves, their businesses, and the world.
• Ready for a big leap forward in your own leadership? Elevate your leadership forever with Richard's book "Making time for Strategy: How to be less busy and more successful". Buy your book here: 
• Xquadrant‘Making Time For Strategy’ book, by Richard Medcalf - Xquadrant
• ‘Making Time For Strategy’ book, by Richard Medcalf - Xquadrant
• xquadrant.com/time

For full show notes, head to https://xquadrant.com/mike-ettling