S3 Episode 9: Authenticity & Trust: The Past, Present, and Future of Transformation and Leadership with Terry O’Connor (OBE)

The Forward Podcast with SmartOSC

“We have to leave behind the fear of what might go wrong and replace that with the opportunity of what happens if it goes right.”

We’re so happy to have Terry O’Connor OBE on this episode of #TheForwardPodcast! With over 20 years of experience transforming global businesses and a track record that includes CEO roles at Courts Asia and Matahari.

Today, Terry brings his strategic vision and fresh perspectives to companies like Bain and Company, Mirakle, Trustana, and… SmartOSC!

He’s also the author of Why Not? The Story of a Retail Maverick and Courts, and has received numerous accolades, including an OBE from Her Majesty The Queen and an Honorary Doctorate from the University of Stirling.

In this episode, Terry shares his unique insights on:

• Transforming Global Businesses

• The Importance of Feedback and Learning from Mistakes

• The Future of Retail in Southeast Asia: Decision-Making and Digital Strategies

• Tech Vendor Partnerships: Moving Beyond the Pitch

• Breaking Down Internal Silos

• Opportunities and Threats of AI

• What Brands Should Embrace Moving Forward

• What CEOs Should Leave Behind

And much more!

Episode Breakdown:

01:00 OBE: Honors

02:45 Future of Leadership, Retail

04:01 Balancing Life's Aspects

06:12 Career: Start to Finish

08:52 Action Overcomes Fear

10:37 Strategy: Curiosity, Collaboration

13:11 Decision-Making: Doors Analogy

15:38 eCommerce and Retail Challenges

17:06 Adapting Communication

21:11 Building Trust: New Offerings

26:57 AI: Power and Threats

30:46 What is Technology for? Improving Lives?

31:00 AI Chatbots: Helpful or a Hindrance?

32:15 Change Management with Technology & Enhancing Data Literacy

32:48 What Does Good Execution Mean?

33:18 Vendor Reliance Issues

34:48 Agile Tech Partnerships

37:08 Marketing in Tech Decisions

38:45 Team Involvement in Projects

40:16 Future of Retail

43:19 Sustainability Focus

45:10 What Makes A Good Leader?