Ep.183 -Bringing Structure and Systems to Accidental CEOs

In this episode, Simon sits down with Val Coin, the Digital Transformation Fairy Godmother and a systems and technology strategist helping business leaders navigate growth and change. Val shares her journey from hospitality to technology and explains why true digital transformation starts with people and processes—not software. She also discusses optimizing tech stacks, avoiding unnecessary subscriptions, creating clear accountability, and helping accidental CEOs transition from working in the business to working on it. Whether you're a CEO, founder, or operations leader, this episode offers practical insights on systems, leadership, technology, and building businesses that can scale. Key Moments Introduction to Val Coin and her digital transformation journey Why digital transformation is more than simply implementing software Why businesses should streamline processes before introducing technology How to assess whether your technology stack fits your stage of growth Why growing businesses accumulate too many disconnected software platforms How to identify duplicate software and unnecessary subscriptions The importance of clear organizational charts, roles, and accountability The common challenges faced by accidental CEOs How leaders can balance working in the business with working on the business Why curiosity, listening, and avoiding technology-first thinking are essential to digital transformation To learn more about Val Coin, please visit her LinkedIn profile To learn more about via technology, please visit her website. YOUR HOST - SIMON LADER Simon Lader is the host of The Conference Room, Co-Founder of global executive search firm Salisi Human Capital, and lead generation consultancy Flow and Scale. Since 1997, Simon has helped cybersecurity vendors to build highly effective teams, and since 2022, he has helped people create consistent revenue through consistent lead generation. Get to know more about Simon at: Website: https://simonlader.com/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/simonlader LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/headhuntersimonlader/ The Conference Room is available on Spotify Apple podcasts Amazon Music IHeartRadio