ETA Insider Podcast

From Finance to Innovation: A CEO's Journey

Jan 3, 2024

Former President & CEO of SMS Assist, Marc Shiffman, shares his journey transitioning from finance to innovation and building a billion-dollar enterprise. Topics include strategic decision-making during the pandemic, the importance of technology, and scaling up a small business through diversification and clear vision.

44:46

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Episode guests

Marc Shiffman

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Episode notes

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Quick takeaways

Transitioning from a finance track to becoming a CEO involves seeking challenges and gaining experience within an organization.

SMS Assist's growth from a $30 million revenue company to a billion-dollar enterprise was attributed to diversifying the customer base, expanding service offerings, and prioritizing customer relationships.

Deep dives

Mark Schiffman's career experiences and journey to becoming CEO of SMS Assist

Mark Schiffman shares his career path, starting in New York and working for McAndrews and Forbes before moving to Chicago. He discusses how he transitioned from a finance track to becoming a general manager and ultimately landing the CEO position at SMS Assist. Mark explains the importance of seeking challenges and gaining experience within an organization to prepare for a big role.

Introduction

4min

The Significance of a Finance Background for a CEO

2min

Exploring the Value Proposition and Expansion of SMS Assist

3min

Scaling Up a Small Business

18min

Investing in People and Technology

15min

Final Words of Wisdom for Aspiring Leaders in Small or Mid-Sized Businesses

2min

This month’s episode of the ETA Insider Podcast features Marc Shiffman, MBA ’94, Former President & CEO of SMS Assist. In this episode, we explore the dynamic career journey of a finance professional who transitioned into the realm of innovation and leadership. Beginning in New York with McAndrews & Forbes owned and operated businesses, Marc played pivotal roles in iconic companies like Revlon, Coleman, and Sunbeam. The narrative takes a turn with a move to Chicago and a decade plus-long stint at SMS Assist, where Marc rose to the role of CEO. Delve into his experiences navigating challenges, embracing innovation, and building SMS Assist into a billion-dollar enterprise. The episode touches on the importance of technology, strategic decision-making during the pandemic, and the eventual merger with another company. Join us for a captivating discussion on leadership, entrepreneurial spirit, and the strategic choices that shape a successful career in the business world. Released January 3, 2024.

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ETA Insider Podcast

From Finance to Innovation: A CEO's Journey

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

Deep dives

Mark Schiffman's career experiences and journey to becoming CEO of SMS Assist

Overview of SMS Assist's business model and value proposition

The growth and success of SMS Assist under Mark Schiffman's leadership

The culture of innovation, risk-taking, and investment in technology at SMS Assist

Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts