What They Don't Tell You About Being CEO: Fiona McKenzie on Growth, Exits, and Starting Over

What does leadership really feel like when you step into the CEO role and realise the weight is real? In this episode of Everyday Leadership, Sope Agbelusi speaks with Fiona McKenzie, CEO of Revere, about the reality of leadership under pressure. Fiona shares her journey from Account Director to CEO, taking over from the founders, building a leadership team, scaling culture, and leading the business through a successful sale to Marketbridge. All while raising a family and navigating decisions most leaders never talk about publicly. This is an honest conversation about modern leadership, not theory. You will hear Fiona unpack • What it truly means to become a first-time CEO • The leadership habits that stop working at the top • How to let go of control without losing performance • The real process of selling a business while still leading it • Strength, vulnerability, and speaking up as a leader • Why leadership decisions often feel lonely • How to navigate identity shifts after an exit This episode is essential listening for CEOs, founders, senior leaders, and anyone stepping into bigger responsibilities who wants clarity, not clichés. Connect with Fiona McKenzie: LinkedIn | Marketbridge Connect with Sope Website | Youtube | Instagram | LinkedIn