Ep. 122 - "Building a Business Across Europe", with Kev Eley

The Conference Room with Simon Lader

In this week's episode of "The Conference Room," we welcome LogRhythm's VP EMEA, Kev Eley, an industry veteran with nearly thirty years of experience in growing technology businesses across EMEA. Join us as we dive into a conversation about the challenges and intricacies of launching and growing technology businesses in Europe, including the impact of Brexit and the importance of understanding regional differences.

KEY TAKEWAYS FROM THIS WEEK'S EPISODE

• 00:10:38: Kev emphasizes the constant innovation in the tech industry and the unique position cybersecurity professionals hold as the "good guys" in the battle against cyber threats.
• 00:11:20: He draws an analogy between the cybersecurity community and superheroes, highlighting the inspiring aspect of working to protect organizations and society from cyber threats.
• 00:12:17: Kev delves into the evolving landscape of cybersecurity, describing it as an ongoing arms race driven by political motivations, financial incentives for cybercriminals, and increasing digital reliance.
• 00:14:23: The conversation shifts to Kev's experience at TrapX and the challenges he faced while growing a non-European business in Europe. He explores the regional disparities and cultural differences within Europe that organizations must navigate.
• 00:15:40: Kev discusses the common approach of American organizations launching in Europe, often starting with the UK as a beachhead and expanding to other European regions. He acknowledges the complexity of managing regional disparities.
• 00:22:46: The impact of Brexit on businesses entering Europe is discussed. Kev highlights the advantages of the UK as a launchpad due to its language, cultural affinity, and mature market for cybersecurity.
• 00:29:15: Kev emphasizes the importance of hiring local talent when expanding into European regions. Understanding regional differences and the need for a global-fit product are critical for success.
• 00:34:00: The complexity of managing teams across different European countries is explored. While coaching principles remain consistent, understanding regional nuances in business conduct is essential.
• 00:38:03: Kev and Simon stress the importance of appreciating the subtleties and regional differences when launching a business in Europe. Hiring the right talent and understanding cultural nuances are keys to success.

THIS WEEK'S GUEST - KEV ELEY

Kev Eley is a seasoned industry professional with nearly three decades of experience in driving the growth of technology businesses across EMEA (Europe, the Middle East, and Africa). His impressive career includes notable positions at industry giants such as IBM and Microsoft, where he honed his expertise. Kev has also made significant contributions during his tenure at innovative cybersecurity companies like TrapX and Egress Software. Currently, he holds the prestigious role of Vice President for EMEA at LogRhythm, a global cybersecurity powerhouse.

YOUR HOST - SIMON LADER

Simon Lader is the host of The Conference Room, Co-Founder of global executive search firm Salisi Human Capital, and lead generation consultancy Flow and Scale. Since 1997, Simon has helped cybersecurity vendors to build highly effective teams, and since 2022 he has helped people create consistent revenue through consistent lead generation.

Get to know more about Simon at:

Website: https://simonlader.com/

Salisi: www.salisi.com

Twitter: https://twitter.com/simonlader

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/headhuntersimonlader

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