Unlock the secrets of business growth with Andy Drummond, the mastermind behind ShireGrowth Partners, as he shares his wealth of experience in nurturing mid-market and low-mid-market industrial companies. Discover how Andy's background as a "solopreneur" and his family's legacy in sales have shaped his approach to overcoming the challenges faced by companies pursuing growth strategies, particularly those under the umbrella of private equity firms. His story is a testament to the power of great leadership, constant learning, and the courage to seize opportunities and risks along the way.

Explore the fascinating world of private equity-backed companies and the catalysts that drive them to challenge conventional norms. Andy reveals the transformative impact of transparency and engagement, emphasizing the necessity for leaders to articulate the rationale behind organizational changes. By fostering trust and involving teams in developing solutions, these companies can create a dynamic environment conducive to innovation and growth. This episode sheds light on the dynamic interplay between external pressures and internal resilience that fuels success in this unique business landscape.

Dive into the complexities surrounding CRM system implementation and the hurdles companies must overcome to unlock their full potential. Andy offers insights into aligning CRM efforts with strategic business goals and the critical role of a robust data foundation. Recognizing the human factor as a barrier to adoption, he highlights the importance of identifying key performance indicators for effective data analysis and decision-making. As the conversation unfolds, listeners are encouraged to explore the vast collection of episodes available on Sales Lead Dog and connect with Andy Drummond for further insights into sales leadership and business growth.

Andy Drummond is the Founder and Principal of ShireGrowth Partners, where he helps small and mid-sized industrial companies unlock sustainable top- and bottom-line growth. With a career spanning leadership roles at SC Johnson, Grainger, James Hardie, and more, Andy brings deep expertise in sales acceleration, commercial strategy, and operational execution.

Known for his analytical, high-energy approach, Andy works with clients through interim leadership, fractional roles, and consulting engagements. His focus areas include pricing optimization, go-to-market strategy, and scaling for growth—always with an eye toward measurable impact and lasting value.

Quotes:

"Great leadership, continuous curiosity, and the courage to seize opportunities and risks are the pillars of success in any business growth strategy."

"Private equity-backed firms are a hotbed for innovation, where challenging the status quo and embracing data-driven strategies create significant business transformations."

"Transparency and engagement are key in driving growth; leaders must communicate the 'what' and 'why' behind changes to build trust and overcome resistance.”

"CRM systems often promise more than they deliver, leaving companies to navigate the complexities of implementation and adoption. It's the human factor that poses the biggest challenge, not the technology itself."

Links:

Andy’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andydrummond4/

ShireGrowth Partners: https://shiregrowthpartners.com

Find this episode and all other Sales Lead Dog episodes at https://empellorcrm.com/salesleaddog/

Kami Thompson, our vibrant Key Account Manager at Vervint, is ready to share her insights on building a career driven by curiosity and resilience. Her journey is a testament to the power of embracing challenges and the importance of nurturing strong partnerships. Together, we explore Vervint’s evolution from OST and how the company is at the forefront of digital transformation. Kami’s story is a beacon for those eager to seize new opportunities and leverage feedback effectively, painting a vivid picture of success in a rapidly transforming tech landscape.

An ultra runner at heart, Kami brings the same endurance and tenacity from her running experiences to her professional life. She has completed ultra-marathons and even supported friends in ultra races, embodying the mindset of pushing past limits and breaking through mental blocks. This ultra runner's mindset seamlessly translates into her sales leadership journey, proving that transitioning into leadership roles without prior experience can be done with grace and efficacy.

Reflecting on her experiences at tech giants like Oracle and Coherent, Kami shares how focusing on client relationships and team collaboration paved her path to leadership success. Hear firsthand accounts of how fostering a shared sense of purpose can transform team dynamics, creating an environment where individuals are inspired to contribute and thrive. This episode is packed with real-world anecdotes, emphasizing the power of listening and understanding diverse perspectives.

We also touch on the mental fortitude required to overcome personal and professional obstacles. Drawing parallels from sports, Kami recounts inspiring tales of conquering mental blocks and how these lessons translate into effective leadership strategies. From scaling metaphorical mountains to discussing the nuanced integration of AI and CRM systems, this episode offers a compelling narrative on navigating the complexities of modern business environments. As we wrap up, a delightful appearance by Bentley, the first ever dog of Sales Lead Dog, reminds us to appreciate the small joys in life. Join us for this heartening conversation and subscribe for more thought-provoking content and charming stories.

With over 20 years in technology and 15+ years in sales and customer leadership, Kami Thompson has built a career at the intersection of business performance and human connection. Currently a Key Account Manager at Vervint, she brings deep experience in operations, delivery, and strategic account management—always grounded in a people-first mindset.

Known for leading with authenticity and care, Kami believes true success comes from aligning purpose, culture, and customer needs. Outside of work, she’s a passionate runner, outdoor enthusiast, and proud human to two golden retrievers. Inspired by her father’s integrity, Kami is driven to help others reach their goals—on the trail and in business.

Quotes:

"I never let what I don't know stop me from achieving my goals. With determination, focus, and drive, I believe I can figure it out."

"Embracing vulnerability has been crucial in my leadership journey. It's okay not to know everything—what matters is the willingness to learn and grow."

"The secret to overcoming mental blocks is persistence. Whether it's running a marathon or leading a team, pushing past those limits leads to extraordinary achievements."

"Success in technology isn't just about the tools; it's about solving business problems and building strong partnerships that last."

Links:

Kami’s LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/kami-holtz/

Vervint - https://vervint.com

Find this episode and all other Sales Lead Dog episodes at https://empellorcrm.com/salesleaddog/

Erik Braden, managing partner at Braden Business Systems, uncovers the secrets behind transforming a family business into a nationwide managed technology powerhouse. From his early days on Wall Street to navigating the intricate balance of preserving a strong business legacy while fostering growth, Erik's journey is a testament to the power of persistence, accountability, and adhering to core values. This episode unpacks the challenges of working with AI and cybersecurity, highlighting the imperative of a secure infrastructure to prevent data leaks and ensure seamless technology integration.

Our conversation with Erik also takes a fascinating turn as we explore innovative sales strategies and the critical role of CRM technology in modern business operations. Collaborating with Dale Dupree of the Sales Rebellion, Erik shares insights on how to break away from traditional sales methods and embrace a more community-driven, impactful approach. Through strategic roadmapping, compliance with cyber insurance policies, and the art of pattern interrupt marketing, Erik reveals how businesses can not only survive but thrive in a competitive environment.

Leadership with a genuine touch is the cornerstone of Erik's philosophy, as he emphasizes vulnerability and authenticity in managing successful teams. By sharing personal growth stories and illustrating the power of leading by example, Erik underscores the importance of empowering team members to devise solutions and innovate. As businesses gear up for the AI revolution, he stresses on fostering a culture of collaboration and emotional intelligence, paving the way for a future where technology and humanity coalesce for unprecedented success.

Erik Braden is the CEO and Managing Partner of Braden Business Systems, where he has led the company’s evolution from a regional office equipment dealer to a nationally recognized technology leader. With a background in investment banking and private equity across New York, Los Angeles, and Zurich, Erik brought strategic discipline and a global outlook to the family business. Under his leadership, Braden has quadrupled in size, expanded into managed IT, cybersecurity, and document management, and earned top rankings on the MSP 501 list.

Known for his people-first approach and culture of transparency, Erik has driven record growth while maintaining exceptional client satisfaction and employee retention. His leadership has earned him accolades including the MSP 501 Executive of the Year and the Fortress Cybersecurity Leadership Award. Outside of work, he supports over 100 nonprofits annually and serves on several industry boards.

Quotes:

"Persistence opens doors, but accountability keeps them open."

"Leadership with a genuine touch is the cornerstone of my philosophy. Vulnerability and authenticity in managing teams lead to success."

"As businesses gear up for the AI revolution, it's crucial to foster a culture of collaboration and emotional intelligence."

"You can't just bolt AI onto your operations without a secure infrastructure; the risks of data leaks are too great."

Links:

Erik’s LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/erik-braden-1930904/

Braden Business Systems - https://bradenonline.com

Find this episode and all other Sales Lead Dog episodes at https://empellorcrm.com/salesleaddog/