The Impact Multiplier CEO 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