Introducing experienced software industry veteran, Bill Owen. With a remarkable career journey that dates back to the 1970s, Owen's story offers an intriguing view of the software industry's evolution, touching on subjects including startups, venture capital, acquisitions, and mergers. Through each phase of his career, the two key elements that Owen highlights are money and people. As he discusses his understanding of the delicate balance necessary to motivate employees while also meeting financial objectives, Owen brings his long-earned wisdom to the fore. Whether it's providing insights on upcoming industry trends or reflecting on the hard-hitting decision-making involved in company acquisitions, Bill Owen takes us on his 50-year-long journey with an open and enlightening perspective.

What are your areas of expertise?

I've been in the software business since the early '70s and during this time, I have seen a multitude of changes and undertaken many roles from developer to business owner. I have acquired companies, been acquired, worked in public companies, venture-capital-funded companies, and personally funded startups. The common thread through all of this is money and people. Understanding how to motivate people makes money. However, companies have financial goals and this can create a money/people conflict. Creating the right balance is the key to success.

What's your main motivation for being an advisor?

People learn from their mistakes or the mistakes they see in others. I have made many and seen many more. What I have learned over the past 50 years in the software business could help others.

What types of situations are you capable of advising on?

Mergers and acquisitions, financial planning, software development, and consulting services.

Do you see any disruptive trends on the horizon in your industry or position?

The economy is changing, interest rates are rising, and people's expectations and understanding of the work/life balance have been significantly affected by the "Covid years". All these factors are challenging businesses.

Tell me about the most impactful project or decision you’ve been involved in as an executive.

The biggest impact on any company is when it is acquired, or it acquires another company. I have seen many good acquisitions and many that have been less successful. As an executive, deciding whether to buy or walk away is the toughest and most impactful decision one can make.

In conclusion

the wealth of experience and knowledge Bill Owen carries, from his numerous years of active involvement in the software business, undeniably distinguish him as an industry specialist. His unique expertise, spanning from developer roles to business ownership, with significant insight into mergers, acquisitions, public companies, and VC funded startups, make him a trusted and credible source of invaluable advice.

Owen's understanding on the delicate balance of money and people management offers potential employers an unmatched understanding of internal dynamics that drive financial success. Therefore, companies striving to strike the right balance to achieve their goals will greatly benefit from his unique blend of technical expertise, managerial insight, and people skills. Bill Owen is currently available for advisory roles through AdvisoryCloud. Let his experience guide your enterprise to the pinnacles of success.