Leading with Impact: Laura Ortman's Journey to CEO at COLOGIX

In this episode of CXO Conversations, host Michael Mitchel engages with Laura Ortman, CEO of COLOGIX, to explore her dynamic journey from the athletic fields through various pivotal roles in the tech industry to her current position at the helm of a leading network-neutral interconnection and Hyperscale Edge data center company. Laura shares her comprehensive insights into the power of teamwork, perseverance, and a broad understanding of business operations that shaped her into a results-driven leader. She delves into the nuances of customer experience, the importance of culture, and the collaborative ethos underpinning successful leadership.

Through her narrative, Laura provides invaluable advice for aspiring leaders, emphasizing the significance of building relationships, embracing risks, and the continuous pursuit of learning, making this episode a treasure trove of leadership wisdom and inspiration.

Key highlights include:

• Laura’s diverse career path across tech, DOD, and aviation, culminating in her role as CEO of COLOGIX.
• How Laura’s leadership philosophy was shaped by an athletic background, emphasizing teamwork, resilience, and a broad operational understanding.
• The pivotal role of customer experience in business success, illustrated by her approach to rebuilding trust and driving customer retention.
• The significance of culture, network building, and embracing risks as foundational elements for reaching the C-suite and fostering a successful organization.

Tune in for an inspiring conversation that unveils the secrets of resilient leadership in the fast-paced business world.

Timestamps

• Introduction to Laura Ortman and COLOGIX (00:01:06)
• Overview of COLOGIX's Business Model (00:01:58)
• Differences Between Public and Private Companies (00:03:48)
• Athletic Background Influence on Leadership (00:06:23)
• Attraction to the CEO Role (00:08:48)
• Moment of Realization for CEO Ambition (00:10:47)
• Leadership Philosophy: Presence, Listening, and Leading (00:15:19)
• Implementing 'Together We Win' Mantra (00:16:20)
• Adapting Leadership Approaches Post-2020 (00:17:57)
• Advice for Aspiring C-Suite Executives (00:20:41)
• The Importance of Building a Trustworthy Team (00:22:17)
• Role and Challenges in Customer Experience (00:25:32)
• Acquiring Listening Skills and Importance of Crucial Conversations (00:29:33)
• Reflections on Building a Network and Importance of Culture in Organizations (00:32:56)

Resources

• Laura Ortman’s LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauraortman/
• Book: Crucial Conversations: Tools for Talking When Stakes are High - https://www.amazon.com/Crucial-Conversations-Tools-Talking-Stakes/dp/1260474186

Thank you to ACG Denver for being a sponsor of CXO Conversations Podcast. Association for Corporate Growth in its role as the hub of the middle market business community for quality networking, education and events. Connections are made, deals are formed and thought leadership is exchanged.

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