Formerly a director at Digitain and CEO of Sport Generate, Simon Westbury explores a wide array of topics in conversation with TGB’s Kate Chambers and Jon Bruford. The conversation covers Simon’s transition from a corporate role to a period of reflection, the importance of sales experience in leadership, and the balance between management and leadership. They discuss the culture of accountability in the gaming industry, the pervasive insecurity and risk aversion among professionals, and the impact of ego on business relationships. The episode also touches on the glamorous perception of the gaming industry versus its realities, the importance of substance over style in networking, the significance of leadership in team development, and the role of leadership in shaping a positive work environment. They reflect on personal experiences, the challenges of employee retention, and the balance between data-driven decision-making and gut instinct. The dialogue emphasizes the significance of trust, support networks, and the need for authenticity in the workplace.
This is the first TGB podcast; stay tuned for more… And we’ll also get this out on audio podcast formats very soon.
To jump to what you’re most interested in, here’s a breakdown:
02:46 The Role of Sales in Leadership
05:36 Management vs Leadership: Finding the Balance
08:59 Insecurity and Risk Aversion in the Gaming Industry
13:05 The Glamour and Reality of the Gaming Industry
16:31 Substance vs Style in Professional Networking
20:31 The Impact of Leadership on Team Development
22:59 Navigating Career Transitions and Reflections
25:00 The Impact of Company Culture on Employee Retention
28:06 Trusting Instincts and Building Support Networks
30:07 The Role of Leadership in Shaping Company Culture
32:50 Balancing Data and Gut Instinct in Decision Making
36:10 Influencing Company Culture as an Individual
38:57 Understanding Truth and Perspective in Business
41:54 Finding Fulfillment in Work and Authenticity
