CEO Global Network Podcast
🎙 Hosted by John Wilson, founder of CEO Global Network and author of GREAT CEOs and How They Are Made, this podcast delivers powerful insights for CEOs and executives looking to grow as leaders and drive lasting success.
Each episode features candid conversations with high-performing business leaders, expert speakers, and industry trailblazers—all focused on sharpening your leadership edge, building resilient companies, and improving your life, your team, and your impact.
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CEO Global Network Podcast
David Smith, Leadership Coach, CEO Global Network - Transitioning from CEO to Leadership Coach
In this episode of the CEO Global Network podcast, David Smith, Leadership Coach and Mentor at CEO Global Network, shares his insights on leadership and the transition from serving as President in major companies like Compass Group to mentoring top executives. He discusses the essential attributes of great CEOs, common blind spots in senior leadership, and the critical importance of emotional intelligence and accountability in business. David also reflects on his career and offers advice to leaders seeking to balance growth with company culture.
Tune in for invaluable advice on leadership, change management, and navigating the challenges of the C-suite.
00:00 – John Wilson:
David, I can't thank you enough for being with us on the CEO Global Network podcast today. You've held many important leadership positions at Compass Group. I'll mention a few: President of Compass One and Support Services, President of Chartwells and Quebec, President of Business and Industry Compass Group Canada, and President of Urest Dining Services. You've led many people through your long, successful career. Now, as a Group Leader and Mentor with CEO Global Network, you're helping others achieve success. Welcome, David!
00:46 – John Wilson:
My first question—Was the shift from president to mentoring presidents and CEOs a natural next step for you? Or was there something that triggered you to move into mentoring?
01:20 – David Smith:
Great question, John. After leaving Compass, I reflected on my career, from growing the company to navigating through COVID. As I transitioned, I realized that leadership coaching and mentoring were natural next steps. People reached out, saying I helped them develop their careers, which confirmed that this was the right path for me.
02:12 – John Wilson:
It’s wonderful to have you with us on the team. You've helped so many leaders. Next question: What separates a good CEO from a truly great CEO?
02:29 – David Smith:
A great CEO has four key attributes: Emotional intelligence and empathy, vision and strategic thinking, a genuine care for people, and a passion for achieving great results. Mastering all four makes the difference between a good and a truly great CEO.
03:54 – John Wilson:
That’s terrific advice! You've worked with many senior executives. Is there a common blind spot you see in senior executives, especially in CEOs?
04:17 – David Smith:
Yes, there are two types. For business owners and entrepreneurs, it’s often the ability to delegate. As they scale, they must empower others to avoid burnout. For C-suite executives, the blind spot is developing a culture of accountability and focusing on the right priorities.
05:27 – John Wilson:
How do you help leaders balance aggressive growth while maintaining a strong company culture?
05:41 – David Smith:
The two aren’t mutually exclusive. A company with a strong culture naturally grows. It’s important to cultivate a growth mindset throughout the company. I coach leaders to focus on resetting the culture, especially if mindsets aren’t in the right place.
06:01 – John Wilson:
What’s one leadership principle you wish you had mastered earlier in your career?
06:13 – David Smith:
Change management. Early in my career, we didn’t always handle change well. I learned that involving project managers and keeping people accountable during transitions is key to successful change.
07:20 – John Wilson:
That’s a great idea. One last question, David: What advice do you give CEOs or senior executives who feel isolated and lack honest feedback?
07:42 – David Smith:
I’d recommend joining CEO Global Network. The benefits include having a coach or mentor, getting feedback from peers, having one-on-one check-ins with your coach, and continuous learning through the network's resources. It’s a great way to get the support and feedback you need.
08:50 – John Wilson:
Thank you so much, David, for sharing your wisdom. We truly appreciate it!
09:29 – David Smith:
It’s my pleasure, John. Thank you!
