Empowering Teams, Empowering Success: Phil Unger, President & CEO at Cadeon Inc.
Introduction
In this thought-provoking interview, Joe Momoh sits down with Phil Unger , the President and Founder of Cadeon Inc. , a data analytics company based in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. Phil shares his experiences and insights on starting a data analytics company, the challenges in the industry, and the qualities he looks for in his team. He also discusses the importance of resilience, the changing landscape of Calgary, and the significance of leadership in his journey as an entrepreneur.
Key Takeaways
The Power of Data Analytics: A Journey from IT to Entrepreneurship
Phil's journey into entrepreneurship began with his fascination with data and its transformative potential. As an enterprise architect, he recognized the value of information in driving business strategies and outcomes. In 2007, Unger and his co-founding partner started Cadeon as an outsourcing company, but quickly pivoted to focus on data analytics. They saw the untapped opportunities in the data space and decided to position Cadeon as a leader in the field. Today, Cadeon is a thriving data analytics company, helping organizations turn information into money and driving innovation through information.
Phil's background in IT and his passion for data analytics have been instrumental in the success of Cadeon. He believes that the industry still faces challenges in convincing businesses of the value of information management services. However, with the rise of digital transformation, there is a growing recognition of the importance of IT in leveraging emerging technologies. Phil is optimistic about the future and sees a shift towards a more empowered and technologically savvy business environment.
The Qualities of an A-Player: Attitude, Knowledge, and Skill
When it comes to building a team, Phil emphasizes the importance of attitude, knowledge, and skill. At Cadeon, they strive to work with the top 10% of talent, individuals who are not only highly skilled but also possess a positive attitude and a growth mindset. Phil believes that relationships matter and focuses on creating a culture of excellence and continuous improvement. He takes pride in providing a premier service to clients and ensuring that his team members have the support and resources they need to excel.
Phil's approach to leadership is rooted in servant leadership and creating other leaders. He believes in taking care of his people and helping them grow not only professionally but also personally. By fostering a culture of empowerment and personal development, Phil aims to create a team of A-players who are not only exceptional at their jobs but also better individuals.
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The Uncomfortable Journey of an Entrepreneur
One of the lesser-discussed aspects of entrepreneurship is the discomfort that comes with it. Phil believes that being comfortable with discomfort is a crucial skill for entrepreneurs. Starting and running a company requires resilience, determination, and the ability to navigate through uncertain and challenging situations. Phil draws inspiration from the saying, "When the going gets tough, the tough get going." He emphasizes the importance of taking care of one's physical and mental health, as well as controlling the information consumed, to maintain resilience and overcome obstacles.
Calgary: The Silicon Valley of the North
Calgary has undergone significant changes since Phil founded Cadeon in 2007. The city has transformed into a vibrant hub for technology and entrepreneurship, earning the nickname "Silicon Valley of the North." Phil attributes this growth to the city's high energy vibe, entrepreneurial spirit, and supportive business environment. He believes that Calgary offers unique opportunities for entrepreneurs and is a great place to start and grow a tech company. Phil is excited about the momentum and investments in technology in Calgary and sees a bright future for the city's entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Conclusion
In this insightful interview, Phil shares his experiences and wisdom as an entrepreneur in the data analytics industry. He highlights the importance of embracing discomfort, building strong relationships, and providing exceptional service. Phil's journey from IT to entrepreneurship showcases the power of data analytics and the transformative potential of information management services. As Calgary continues to evolve into a thriving tech hub, Phil remains committed to his quest for leadership and personal growth, both professionally and personally.
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