How does a modern CEO lead a global, hybrid workforce while staying connected to every employee? I recently sat down with Kevin Akeroyd, CEO of Sovos, a tax and compliance specialist for Fortune 500 companies. Kevin shared practical, clear insights on leadership, growth, and retention. Here are five that stood out: 🌍 Global = local: Think, act, and deliver locally while running a global company. Inclusivity isn't optional when you have employees and customers in 52+ countries. ⚡ Be nimble: Markets move fast — rigid leadership gets buried. Adaptability keeps you relevant. 🦓 Old zebras can change stripes: Blend old-school fundamentals with new-school thinking to stay competitive. 🧠 Invest in upskilling: Formal training (AI, cross-functional experience, cultural exchange) drives retention and makes employees future-proof. ✈️ Show up in person: CEOs and leaders should visit offices worldwide, host town halls, and build direct connections — people stay where they feel seen. Kevin's timeline shows how old school still matters — but only when paired with adaptability and fresh thinking. As the CEO of Sovos, Kevin leads the industry's premier SaaS technology platform company focused on enabling 100% compliance in a digital, cross-border, regulated world. With a diverse background encompassing roles at VC startups, private equity firms, and Fortune 500 companies like Oracle and Salesforce, Kevin's success is built on his distinct ability to identify opportunities for companies to innovate and find their break-through potential, applying strategic acumen, operational excellence, and an unwavering commitment to driving company growth and success. Prior to Sovos, Kevin served as the CEO of Magnit, where he spearheaded the growth of the largest contingent workforce management SaaS and services player in the HCM market. During his tenure, he significantly increased revenue from $700 million to over $2 billion across various business segments, delivering a remarkable 4x+ MOIC return for the private equity sponsor. Connect with Jon Dwoskin: Twitter: @jdwoskin Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jonathan.dwoskin Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thejondwoskinexperience/ Website: https://jondwoskin.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jondwoskin/ Email: [email protected] Get Jon's Book: The Think Big Movement: Grow your business big. Very Big! Connect with Kevin Akeroyd: Website: Sovos.com X: https://x.com/akeroyd?s=21 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sovoscompliance LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinakeroyd Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1E9W7Di2jg *E - explicit language may be used in this podcast.

Ask this episode

“What did the council decide on item 42?” — answered with the speaker and the moment.

Transcript

Related