What makes a good leader in these times we live in? And what does the pathway from product leader to CEO look like? I recently had the chance to speak again with Mercedes Chatfield Taylor on the Product Thinking podcast to rack her brains about these very subjects. Mercedes, who leads Artico Search, has a wealth of experience in placing high-level executives within tech companies, making her an invaluable resource for understanding the nuances of product leadership.

Over the course of our chat, we delved into the evolving landscape of CEO roles, particularly for those coming from product backgrounds. Mercedes highlighted the significant shifts in what makes a great CEO today—especially in a climate that demands efficiency and collaboration across teams. She also shared her perspective on the qualities that set successful CEOs apart, emphasizing the importance of understanding the customer and fostering teamwork within the executive ranks.

If you’re eager to learn about the strategies for transitioning from product leadership to the CEO position, or if you want to grasp how to cultivate a collaborative culture within your organization, this episode is packed with wisdom and well worth a listen.

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