Scandinavian Product Podcast
#29 Navigating hyper scale, leading in extreme crises, hardware vs software, and more | Tor Erik (ex-CPO at Easee) and Stian Øien (CPO at Futurehome and Ex-VP at Easee)
Feb 5, 2025
In this engaging discussion, Tor Erik Skårdal, former CPO at Easee, and Stian Øien, CPO at Futurehome and ex-VP at Easee, share their insights from leading product teams during crises. They delve into the stark differences in leadership approaches between hyper growth and severe downsizing. Topics include the necessity of rapid idea evaluation, the complexities of hardware versus software product management, and how cross-functional collaboration can enhance efficiency during extreme challenges. Their experiences offer valuable lessons for current and future product leaders.
01:06:13
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Quick takeaways
- Navigating crises requires a leadership approach characterized by decisiveness and adaptability, particularly when faced with organizational downsizing.
- Balancing disruptive innovation with incremental product improvements is crucial for maintaining market relevance and fostering growth in product development.
Deep dives
Navigating Leadership During Change
The podcast highlights the challenges faced by product leaders during periods of extreme organizational change, such as downsizing and leadership shifts. A former CPO shares experiences of stepping into a leadership role amidst staffing reductions, emphasizing the need for an 'iron fist' approach to navigate crises effectively. Transitioning from a stable environment to one characterized by uncertainty necessitated quick decision-making and a survival mentality among the remaining team members. The discussion illustrates the importance of adaptability and resilience in leadership positions during turbulent times.
