In this episode of The Portfolio Pod, co-hosts Caroline McAuliffe and Jacinta Whelan, explore the seismic shifts redefining the world of work. With traditional career paths giving way to portfolio careers, project-based roles, and flexible work models, we ask: Is one job still enough?
Our guest, Steve Vamos—former CEO of Xero and veteran of Microsoft, Apple, and IBM—shares insights from his book Through Shifts and Shocks, offering a front-line perspective on navigating disruption and building a resilient, purpose-driven career.
We unpack the evolving nature of leadership and career design in a world where one job may no longer be enough. Steve Vamos shares how the shift from traditional employment to portfolio careers is reshaping how we define success, lead others, and navigate change. We explore the balance between the “being” and “doing” of leadership, and how identity evolves when stepping outside corporate structures.
Steve offers practical insights for managing transitions and uncertainty, especially in careers marked by flexibility and frequent reinvention. Drawing on decades of experience in tech—from mainframes to AI—he reflects on the timeless skills that remain essential and how to prepare for the next wave of disruption.
We also dive into the mindset needed to thrive in a non-linear, multi-career world, including how to lead without a formal title and influence without authority. Finally, we explore how CEOs and corporates are rethinking talent strategies in response to the rise of fractional roles and AI-driven transformation. Steve leaves listeners with one powerful piece of advice for navigating the future of work—tune in to hear it!
Source References for Episode Quotes & Data Points
Featured Book
Through Shifts and Shocks: Lessons from the Front Line of Technology and Change by Steve Vamos
Key Data Points
- 65% of today’s children will work in jobs that don’t yet exist (WEF)
- 30% of tasks in most jobs could be automated by 2027
- 40%+ of organisations are shifting to on-demand, flexible talent models
Book Reference
- The Rise of the Interim Executive
Official Website: The Rise of the Interim Executive - Also available on Amazon Australia
Host LinkedIn Profiles
- Caroline McAuliffe – LinkedIn Profile
- Jacinta Whelan – Linkedin Profile
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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