Not Another CEO Podcast

Building a Breakout Company - Howard Ting - Not Another CEO Podcast - Episode #21

Dec 10, 2024

Howard Ting, CEO of Cyberhaven and former CMO, shares his transformative leadership journey in the cybersecurity industry. He emphasizes the importance of transparent communication through weekly video updates, which boost team engagement. Ting discusses his strategic shift in targeting mid-market companies and fostering a culture of innovation. He highlights the critical qualities he looks for in hires, such as self-awareness and hunger, while navigating the delicate balance between personal life and business growth.

01:08:04

Creator website

Episode guests

Howard Ting

AI Summary

AI Chapters

Episode notes

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

Howard Ting emphasizes transparent communication through 'Friday Five' video updates to enhance team engagement and alignment.

Focusing on mid-market companies with high IP turnover has allowed Cyberhaven to grow rapidly by adapting product strategies based on customer feedback.

Ting highlights the importance of balancing compassion for employees with operational needs, fostering resilience and community amidst challenges.

Deep dives

Impact of Market Awareness

A crucial aspect of success at Cyberhaven focuses on continuous market awareness and product evolution. The CEO emphasizes the importance of synthesizing multiple data points from various sources, including customers, competitors, and market trends, to anticipate shifts in the cybersecurity landscape. By constantly analyzing information, he ensures that the company remains adaptable and strategic in its approach. This proactive mentality has proven essential in navigating the fast-paced and often unpredictable tech environment.

Intro

2min

Navigating Business Insights and Communication

6min

Navigating Growth Strategies in Tech

15min

Strategic Fundraising and Investor Relations

8min

Key Qualities for Hiring Success

20min

From CMO to CEO: A Personal Journey

14min

Finding the Right Rhythm in Your Career Journey

3min

Joining the show this week is a seasoned CMO who has transitioned into a CEO role. Committed to creating a standout and lasting company in the cybersecurity space, this guest is none other than the CEO of Cyberhaven, Howard Ting.

Howard shares his leadership journey, lessons on building a culture of innovation, and insights into tackling challenges ranging from product positioning to team dynamics.

Takeaways:

Weekly Video Messages: Ting introduced five-minute weekly video updates early in his tenure at Cyberhaven. These videos keep teams aligned and foster engagement across the organization, showcasing his commitment to transparent communication.
Changing from the Start: Upon joining, Ting made sweeping changes to product strategy, positioning, team structure, and culture. This grew the company's ARR by over 120x, positioning it as one of the fastest-growing cybersecurity companies today.
Focusing on the Ideal Customer Profile: Ting emphasizes the importance of discipline in targeting mid-market companies with high IP turnover rather than pursuing large enterprises prematurely, accelerating product feedback and company learning.
The Role of Investors: Ting prioritizes working with investors who share his ambition, understand market dynamics, and actively help scale the company through strategic guidance and connections, rather than just governing from the sidelines.
Hiring for Growth: Ting values self-awareness, vulnerability, and hunger in hires. He digs deep during interviews, exploring candidates’ childhoods and motivations to assess their capacity for growth and alignment with company culture.
Life Lessons for Career Rhythm: Ting's advice to his younger self includes finding a balance between high-intensity career growth and enjoying the journey. He shares how slowing down at times could have enhanced his personal and professional satisfaction.

Quote of the Show:

“The people who are self aware and demonstrate enough vulnerability, I think they have the best chance of growing and scaling with the company.” - Howard Ting

Links: