The CRO Podcast

In this article we explore what makes the commercial diagnosis genuinely difficult in the first 100 days as a CCO. Most experienced commercial leaders can get to the mechanical picture fairly quickly. The patterns are familiar and the frameworks exist. What is harder, and what most leaders underinvest in, is everything that lives behind the mechanics. This is what Liza Dava, Partner within Commercial Transformation explores in this article drawing on conversations with newly appointed commercial leaders and advisory experience across industries. You can find a full article - https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/first-100-days-cco-diagnosis-beyond-commercial-mechanics-liza-dava-nqoxe/

Most companies don't struggle with ambition when it comes to growth. They struggle with consistency. In this episode, Brian Andersen and Mikkel Bach-Andersen discuss why growth often falls short — not because of strategy, but because of the system behind it. Based on The Growth System, they break it down into three core layers: • Strategic focus – where to compete (and where not to) • Commercial architecture – how you actually win in the market • Execution capability – how you turn it into consistent results They also get into what typically goes wrong in practice: • "Fake focus" where priorities don't change resource allocation • Commercial models that evolve randomly instead of being designed • Execution that looks busy but doesn't compound If growth feels uneven or overly dependent on individuals, this is a more structured way to think about it. 📄 The full whitepaper is available on Mikkel Bach-Andersen's LinkedIn.

Most commercial transformations fail, not because the strategy is wrong, but because execution breaks down. In this episode, we explore why changing sales, marketing, and go-to-market ways of working is so difficult in practice, and what leaders can do to improve the odds of success. The conversation dives into the real tensions commercial leaders face: running the business while transforming it, balancing quick wins with long-term change, and aligning leadership, middle management, and frontline teams. The episode builds on insights from Kink the Curve, Kvadrant's book on commercial transformation, written by Martin Nyvang Mariussen and Oliver Lund Storgaard, and offers practical perspectives on how to design and lead change that actually sticks. 📘 Download the book Kink the Curve here: https://www.kvadrant.dk/insights-books-podcasts-articles/commercial-kink-the-curve

Three years into the GenAI wave, many enterprises are still experimenting without seeing real outcomes. In this episode, Mikkel Bach-Andersen and Hannibal Herforth share what is actually working inside large, global B2B organizations. In this podcast they explore how commercial teams can: Move from hype-driven experiments to measurable value Build a swarm of narrow assistants that free time for creativity and strategy Shift from IT-led moonshots to business-owned AI adoption Create the right governance, guardrails, and change management to scale AI across functions This episode provides a grounded perspective on how to make AI assistants a real source of productivity, creativity, and commercial impact.

What does it take for a hardware company to build a successful software business? In this episode, Mikkel Bach-Andersen and Brian Andersen explore the real challenges behind the shift. From go-to-market models and new buyer dynamics to organizational resistance and incentive design, they unpack lessons from companies like Trackunit and FOSS that made it work and why so many others failed.

On this week's Growth Agenda Podcast, Bart sits down with Anders Buchman, VP Commercial at Upry, to unpack a simpler, smarter way to build your go-to-market strategy and scale a high-impact team. Ready to discover where B2B growth really comes from?

In this episode, we sit down with Natasha Lindsey, Director of Global Sales Enablement at Jabra, to explore what it really takes to drive lasting sales transformation. From managing 500+ stakeholders to rolling out global programs across diverse sales models, Natasha shares hard-earned lessons on what works—and what doesn't—when trying to change how people sell. We talk enablement, coaching, AI, and the shift from feature selling to true value selling. Whether you're in sales, enablement, or leadership, this episode will challenge how you think about building a commercial organization that actually drives impact.

This episode explores The New Growth Agenda, a book designed to help commercial leaders identify new growth opportunities. The conversation between the three authors, Martijn, Brian and Oliver, covers the inspiration behind the book, key insights from a survey of 150 senior leaders, and practical strategies for navigating today's complex buying landscape. From rethinking sales structures to adapting marketing for sustained impact, the discussion provides actionable advice for driving commercial success. Tune in for fresh perspectives on organic growth in a changing business environment.

Just before Christmas, Jeppe and Martin had the pleasure of inviting Brand Strategy Consultant, Mats Urde, into the podcast studio. Mats shares his journey from case-based teaching to consulting and the development of his framework in his book "The Brand Matrix." They discuss the importance of aligning internal culture with external promises, how to manage corporate branding transformations, and the pitfalls of neglecting your organization's identity. With engaging stories, from building sustainable brands to a passion for Icelandic horses - this is an episode you don't want to miss. We hope you enjoy today's episode!

In this episode, Carsten Pingel, Partner at Kvadrant Consulting, has his podcast debut in the Palægade studio; joined by Toke Lund, CEO, Partner, and Founder of Enterspeed. Together, they explore Toke's extensive experience in the B2B space, delving into the principles that drive sustained growth. From understanding the power of simplicity to mastering responsiveness in a world of constant change, this conversation uncovers actionable strategies to unlock commercial value. Tune in for practical insights and stories that will inspire your approach to growth and transformation. We hope you enjoy today's episode!

In this episode, Mikkel Bach-Andersen, Senior Partner, and Martin Mariussen, Partner, discuss the evolution of account management, shifting from static annual plans to dynamic, monthly engagement models. They examine common pitfalls, like misallocating resources and overinvesting in smaller accounts, and emphasize the skills needed for key account managers to become orchestrators rather than lone operators. Packed with practical advice, this episode is a must-listen for sales leaders and account managers looking to build stronger customer relationships, optimize account plans, and take on the "playmaker" role crucial for navigating complex, multi-stakeholder accounts. We hope you enjoy today's episode!

In this episode, Jeppe and Martin sit down with Novonesis' Head of Sales & Business Development, Alexander Broe. They explore his fascinating career journey, from endurance sports enthusiast to navigating the corporate world, including his transitions from procurement to sales, marketing, and distributor management. Alexander shares insights into how companies can effectively bridge the gap between B2B and B2C, the challenges of managing distributors across global markets, and how to create real-world impact by developing innovative products. This conversation offers a wealth of knowledge on sales strategy, distributor relationships, and the future of consumer health trends, particularly in probiotics and the gut-brain axis. We hope you enjoy today's episode!

What makes a top sales leader? How do you scale success across global markets? How can leaders adapt and thrive in ever-changing business landscapes? These are among the questions today's episode seek to answer. Oliver Lund Storgaard, Director at Kvadrant Consulting, and Jeppe Andersen, Senior Consultant, sit down with Global Sr. Manager Sales Operating Model & Deployment at VELUX, Daniel Mann. Together, they explore Daniel's journey through the world of sales, from his early days as a frontline sales rep to leading global initiatives that empower sales teams across multiple markets. Along the way, Daniel shares his insights on transitioning from individual sales success to coaching and leading others, balancing global strategy with local execution, and driving real impact in a fast-moving commercial environment. His story provides inspiration and practical advice for sales professionals and leaders looking to navigate complex organizational structures and succeed in a global role. We hope you enjoy this episode!

What drives success in the fintech world? Is digital banking redefining the financial landscape? What does it take to succeed in digital banking? In this episode, Martin Nyvang Mariussen, Partner at Kvadrant Consulting, and Jeppe Andersen, Senior Consultant, sit down with Camilla Frøsig, Head of Banking Services, Commercial, from LUNAR - the leading digital bank in the Nordics. Together, they dive into Camilla's journey through the fintech world, exploring her experiences with big, complex deals, building meaningful partnerships, and navigating the fast-paced digital banking landscape . While searching for answers to the questions above, Camilla shares her insights and challenges, offering inspiration and practical wisdom for sales professionals and commercial leaders alike. We hope you enjoy today's episode!

It's a question worth asking: Are websites still as crucial for businesses as they once were? In this episode, Brian and Charlotte draw on their 30 years of combined experience in website creation to dive into the debate on the importance of websites in today's digital world. They explore the evolving role of websites, consider alternative digital strategies, and discuss whether websites remain the backbone of a strong online presence. Tune in and join the conversation!

In this episode, Martin Mariussen, Partner at Kvadrant, and Jeppe Andersen, Senior Consultant, sit down with Claus Ipsen, Commercial Director at Teton AI, for a dynamic conversation in our Palægade office studio. They dig into some fascinating stories about big, complex deals that have made a real difference for companies and customers alike. Claus shares his wealth of experience, the obstacles he's overcome, and the victories he's achieved on his journey within the industry. This episode is designed to inspire and equip the next generation of sales professionals and commercial leaders with fresh insights and practical wisdom. We hope you enjoy!

In today's episode, Mikkel Bach-Andersen and Brian Andersen will unveil the inner workings of marketing strategies at Kvadrant Consulting. Discover how they tackle marketing challenges in large professional service firms, and dive into the power of building a strong brand, both for the company and for individuals within it, highlighting how personal branding can enhance credibility and strengthen overall brand reputation. Gain practical insights and real-world examples that redefine how you approach consultancy marketing and sales.

In this episode, Martin Nyvang Mariussen and Sixten Schultz dive into ecosystem selling and partnership sales, exploring the evolving sales dynamics and the importance of nurturing relationships with various companies. They examine the critical considerations for assessing product suitability for partnership selling, emphasizing the need to avoid channel conflicts and establish clear rules with partners. Highlighting the role of partners in enhancing customer service and extending product lifespan, they stress the value of investment in partner enablement and collaboration. Strategic partner selection, mutual success contributions, and setting standards for effective partnerships are key aspects discussed for building successful partnership ecosystems. In today's episode, we cover: 0:00: Introduction and Weekend Plans 0:14: Introduction to Ecosystem Selling 7:01: Importance of Service in Ecosystem Selling 8:48: Starting Small in Partnership Sales 12:36: Importance of Selective Partnerships 14:55: Balancing Partner Revenue Contributions 16:30: Setting Requirements for Healthy Partnerships 22:11: Integration of Touchpoints in Sales Management 23:23:Ownership of Customers in Partnerships 24:05: Ensuring Communication and Alignment in Partnerships 32:30: Structuring Partner Programs 36:25: Common Partnership Pitfalls 39:09: Leveraging Informal Partnerships 42:47: Balancing Partnership Resources 44:49: Healthy Partnership Approach 47:03: Importance of Trust in Partnerships 50:10: Organic Partnership Growth

In this podcast, Mikkel Bach-Andersen and Martin Mariussen dive deep on the topic of sales trainings. How can organisationes design impactful capability programs, avoiding traditional training pitfalls, and tailoring training to specific roles are highlighted. The importance of aligning training with performance gaps, involving cross-functional teams, and using interactive methods for behavior change is underscored. The discussion also covers aligning sales and marketing efforts, digitalization's impact, and fostering continuous learning. Martin and Mikkel stress adaptability, alignment, and continuous improvement in sales training design for better outcomes. In todays episode we cover: 0:05 Introduction 4:14 The Flaws in Sales Training Delivery 4:24 Designing Effective Sales Training Programs 8:37 Avoiding Pitfalls in Implementing Sales Training 12:37 Importance of Role-Specific Training in Sales 17:05 The Value of Different Sales Methodologies 19:05 Customization vs. Off-the-Shelf Training Programs 20:33 Adapting Training Programs to Digital Trends 22:32 Balancing Physical and Virtual Sales Training Delivery 29:39 The Role of Sales Managers 32:30 Motivation in Training Programs 38:24 Initiating a Training Program 43:59 Designing the Program Execution 47:20 Closing Thoughts on Sales Training

In this episode, we had the opportunity to dive into the world of revenue operations with Toni Hohlbein, a seasoned professional and co-founder of Growblocks. Toni highlights the evolution of RevOps from basic system management to a crucial element of strategic planning, focusing on the significance of understanding the sales funnel, leveraging data for decision-making, and aligning technology with business needs. He delves into the challenges and opportunities within RevOps, such as optimizing resources, navigating growth phases, and the importance of cross-functional collaboration for achieving revenue targets. The discussion also touches on the future of RevOps, including the integration of AI technologies and its role in shaping business strategies. In todays episode we cover: 0:00:06 Introduction to Revenue Operations 0:01:53 Transition to Growblocks and Personal Story 0:04:39 Definition and Scope of Revenue Operations 0:06:17 Need for Revenue Operations Integration 0:08:08 Importance in Changing Funding Environment 0:11:46 Challenges and Misconceptions of Revenue Operations 0:14:31 Pillars of Strategic RevOps Function 0:18:34 RevOps: Connecting Departmental Insights 0:22:04 Process Anchor and Live Software Benefits 0:24:15 Providing Informed Actionable Advice 0:27:59 Emergence of Revenue Operations in B2B 0:45:38 Planning and Forecasting Challenges 0:46:37 Future Paths for Revenue Operations 0:50:07 Strategic Role of Revenue Operations