The C-Suite Framework – Détails, épisodes et analyse

Louise van Haarst and Alice Driscoll are highly experienced and in-demand leadership and performance coaches and conflict specialists. They are co-founders of leadership consultancy The Power House and co-creators of Smart Conflict®—an evidenced-based approach to handling hard conversations. They have recently released their book Smart Conflict: How to have hard conversations at work.

Keywords

conflict resolution, leadership coaching, hard conversations, communication skills, workplace dynamics, emotional intelligence, relational conflict, task conflict, executive coaching, Smart Conflict

Summary

In this conversation, leadership coaches Louise Van Haarst and Alice Driscoll discuss their new book, 'Smart Conflict: How to Have Hard Conversations at Work.' They share their diverse backgrounds in conflict resolution and coaching, emphasising the importance of addressing conflict in leadership roles. The discussion covers common scenarios where conflict arises, introduces their Five Rs framework for effective conflict resolution, and explores the difference between relational and task conflict. They also address how to navigate situations with potential mal-intent and the significance of self-regulation in difficult conversations. The conversation concludes with reflections on the positive reception of their book and its impact on readers.

Takeaways

• Conflict is inherent to human relationships and can lead to growth - in fact, an absence of conflict can be a problem.

• Assuming positive intent can help navigate difficult conversations.

• Self-regulation is crucial in managing conflict effectively.

• The Five Rs framework provides a structured approach to conflict resolution.

• Relational conflict differs from task conflict and requires different strategies.

• Time does not heal; proactive measures are necessary to resolve conflict.

• Understanding the motivations behind conflict can lead to better outcomes.

• Navigating mal-intent requires careful questioning and open-mindedness.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Conflict Coaching and the Powerhouse

02:38 Backgrounds of Louise and Alice

05:16 The Journey to Conflict Coaching

08:12 The Importance of Conflict in Organizations

10:47 Common Conflict Scenarios

13:48 The Five Rs Framework for Conflict Resolution

21:01 The Importance of Repair in Relationships

29:25 Understanding Conflict: Relational vs. Task Conflict

33:45 Navigating Malintent in Conversations

40:14 Regulating Emotions During Conflict

42:55 The Impact of the Book and Its Reception

Jon co-founded eDelta Consulting, Inc. in 2000 alongside fellow Ernst & Young alumni, with a mission to deliver innovative Technology and Information Security services to Fortune 500 companies as well as dynamic mid-sized public and private organizations.

For over a decade, Jon has been at the forefront of evaluating information systems and business processes across industries ranging from financial services and retail to entertainment. 

Jon has branched into industries outside of the typical CPA range - such as Recruitment, Human Resources, and AI implementation. 

A sought-after speaker, Jon regularly shares insights on topics as wide-ranging as Sarbanes-Oxley, information security, Artificial Intelligence, disaster recovery, business continuity, corporate risk assessment, and Computer Assisted Audit Techniques (CAATs). 

Jon is also a Certified Public Accountant, serves on the board of ISACA, and is an active member of the Information Systems Security Association (ISSA). He earned his bachelor's degree in Computer Science and a Master's in Accounting from the State University of New York at Albany. 

Keywords

John Bosco, E-Delta Consulting, AI, risk management, information security, technology consulting, business growth, regulatory compliance, financial services, emerging technologies

In this episode of the C-Suite Framework podcast, John Bosco, founder of E-Delta Consulting, shares his journey from the Big Four to establishing his own consulting firm. He discusses the evolution of technology and risk management, the challenges organizations face with emerging technologies like AI, and the importance of learning from past events to navigate future risks. John emphasizes the need for organizations to adapt to changing regulations and the role of AI in transforming business operations.

Takeaways

John Bosco founded E-Delta Consulting to fill a niche in technology and information security services.

His experience in the Big Four helped him build confidence in consulting and communication.

E-Delta Consulting has grown to about 30 full-time employees, focusing on technology assurance and GRC.

Organizations are grappling with the risks associated with emerging technologies, particularly AI.

AI is seen as both an opportunity and a challenge for businesses, requiring careful implementation.

John emphasizes the importance of continuous learning and adapting to change in the industry.

Regulatory compliance varies significantly between the US and Europe, especially regarding AI.

AI is expected to transform various sectors, including finance, marketing, and legal compliance.

Organizations must be cautious and thoughtful in their approach to AI adoption.

Learning from past economic cycles is crucial for future preparedness. 

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to John Bosco and E-Delta Consulting

01:58 Career Journey and Founding E-Delta Consulting

07:45 Growth and Evolution of E-Delta Consulting

09:05 Challenges in Emerging Technologies and AI

14:27 Risk Management and Organizational Challenges

20:01 Comparative Analysis of US and European Regulations

26:47 AI in Risk Management and Business Operations

34:46 Future of AI and Its Impact on Industries

37:07 Learning from Past Cycles and Future Preparedness

In this episode of The C-Suite Framework, host Jennifer Geary is joined by Mary Foley, sustainability consultant and former mining engineer, for a deep-dive into the future of supply chain governance, regulatory compliance, and sustainable strategy.

Mary brings her rare blend of engineering, sustainability leadership, and real-world consulting experience to discuss the powerful intersection of:

• Sustainability,
  
  

• Supply chain risk, and
  
  

• C-suite responsibility.
  
  

Together, Jennifer and Mary unpack the business implications of upcoming regulations like CSRD and CS Triple D, and how companies must act now to remain compliant, competitive, and credible in the eyes of investors and stakeholders.

🔍 Key discussion points:

• What the CSRD and CS Triple D mean for C-suite leaders
  
  

• Why internal collaboration across Legal, Risk, Finance and Ops is critical
  
  

• How AI and automation are reshaping sustainability reporting
  
  

• The leadership qualities needed to drive meaningful change
  
  

• Lessons from Mary's transition from mining engineering to ESG consulting
  
  

• Advice for women in male-dominated industries — and the next generation of leaders
  
  

💡 A must-listen for COOs, CROs, CSOs, and senior professionals responsible for regulatory compliance, ESG, or operational transformation.

🎧 Hosted by Jennifer Geary, former COO and bestselling author of The Augmented COO, How to be a CSO, and the full C-Suite series.

📚 Explore Jennifer's books
🌐 Tools & insights for modern leaders: csuiteframework.com

In this episode of The C-Suite Framework, host Jennifer Geary sits down with Anne Kiely, Chief People Officer at Aer Lingus and co-author of How to be a Chief People Officer, to unpack what it really takes to lead with empathy, data, and strategy in today's C-suite.

Anne shares her journey from banking to HR leadership in global organisations like Twitter and Aer Lingus, and reflects on the evolving demands of the CPO role across industries. Together, she and Jennifer explore how employee experience, talent management, and DEIB (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging) sit at the heart of long-term business success.

🔍 In this episode:

• The dual lens of the modern Chief People Officer: employee-first and business-aligned

• How to hire for skills over background in a competitive market

• Practical strategies for building a positive, resilient workplace culture

• The role of data and AI in shaping future-focused HR decisions

• Why DEIB isn't just a programme — it's a mindset

• The impact of community leadership through Anne's work with Special Olympics Ireland
  
  

Get the book 'How to be a Chief People Officer' by Anne and Jennifer here.

This episode is filled with real-world wisdom for HR leaders, CPOs, CEOs, and anyone committed to putting people at the centre of strategy.

🎧 Hosted by Jennifer Geary, bestselling author and former COO/CPO. Jennifer and Anne are co-authors of How to be a Chief People Officer, part of the acclaimed C-Suite Series.

📘 Get the book: How to be a Chief People Officer
🌐 Tools, resources & leadership insights: csuiteframework.com
📚 Browse all titles in the C-Suite Series

Jennifer Geary interviews Anna Krotova, co-author of 'How to be a Chief Sustainability Officer.' They discuss the evolution of sustainability roles, the importance of organizational culture, the integration of sustainability into business strategy, and the concept of double materiality. Anna shares insights on building effective sustainability teams, the skills needed for a career in sustainability, and future trends in the field. The conversation emphasizes the challenges and responsibilities of CSOs and the importance of collaboration and support within the sustainability community.

Anna Krotova is a Sustainability Director and a pioneer in sustainability. She has been working in the field since 2010, advocating for transparent and responsible business practices that are rooted in respect for planetary boundaries and human rights. In her roles at the International Finance Corporation, Metabolic, Global Reporting Initiative, and private sector companies, Anna has helped organisations improve their sustainability practices, usher in impactive changes in company operations and culture, and encourage meaningful reflection around sustainability issues. She holds an MA in Environmental Policy from Moscow State University as well as an MSc in Industrial Ecology from Delft University of Technology, and she serves in various capacities across the sustainability community. She lives in Amsterdam with her husband and son.

Get 'How to be a Chief Sustainability Officer' by Anna and Jennifer here.

🎧 Hosted by Jennifer Geary, former COO and bestselling author of The Augmented COO, How to be a CSO, and the full C-Suite series.

📚 Explore Jennifer's books
 🌐 Courses, tools & insights for modern leaders: csuiteframework.com

Dr. Max McKeown is an English writer, consultant, and researcher specialising in innovation strategy, leadership and culture. He has written six influential books and conducts research with Warwick Business School. He is a fellow of the RSA. He served on the advisory board for the Rollins Center for eBusiness. He earned his master's degree in Business Administration and PhD from the Warwick Business School 

Speaker, Innovator & Author of The Strategy Book, Adaptability and The Innovation Book, Creator of Speed Strategy, Strategic Psychologist.

In this engaging conversation, Dr. Max McKeown, a strategic psychologist, discusses the importance of strategy in leadership and innovation. He emphasizes that strategy is not just a document but a dynamic process that connects actions to desired outcomes. Dr. McKeown shares insights on how leaders, especially COOs, can engage with strategy, the significance of time for reflection, and the need for adaptability in a rapidly changing world. He also highlights common pitfalls in strategic thinking and the power of innovation as a means to achieve organizational goals.

Max's website https://thespeedstrategy.com

Max's latest book https://www.amazon.co.uk/Strategy-Book-Max-Mckeown/dp/1292466634

Takeaways

• The difference between a good manager and a great leader is strategic thinking.

• Strategy is everything that leads from where you are to where you want to be.

• Engaging with strategy requires asking the right questions.

• Time for strategic reflection is crucial for effective leadership.

• Balancing strengths and weaknesses is essential for a COO.

• Strategy should be integrated into every aspect of the organization.

• Innovation is about making new ideas useful for achieving goals.

• Strategic procrastination can hinder organizational success.

• Understanding the connection between actions and results is key to effective strategy.

• Culture and strategy must work together for successful execution.

🎧 Hosted by Jennifer Geary, former COO and bestselling author of The Augmented COO, How to be a COO, and the full C-Suite series.

📚 Explore Jennifer's books
🌐 Tools & insights for modern leaders: csuiteframework.com

Welcome to the launch of the C-Suite Framework podcast!

In this short trailer, hear from me, Jennifer Geary, as I talk about my experience in stepping up to my first C-suite role, what I learned, how I distilled that learning into a set of books and why I felt compelled to start a podcast. Take a listen and head over to my first podcast with none other than Dr. Max McKeown, author of the best-selling strategy book in the world!

The "C-Suite Framework" podcast dives deep into the world of corporate leadership by speaking with experts and C-Suite executives about key roles such as Operations, Risk, People, and Sustainability. Each episode dissects the challenges leaders face today, offering insights and practical takeaways for listeners looking to enhance their own careers. Balancing depth with fun, the podcast is designed to be both entertaining and informative, giving listeners a unique perspective into the dynamics of executive roles and how to navigate their own path to success.

Clare Radford is the founder of & Culture consulting. An experienced consultant, and Occupational Psychologist, Ex EY Lane4, with twenty years of experience in culture change, leadership development and talent management, focusing on large scale transformational projects.

18 months ago, she walked away from a safe job, a steady salary, and a career she'd carefully built to start a consultancy to work with businesses who value their people as much as their profit and to see if it was possible to run a consultancy with a conscience. She has been named a finalist in the Great British Entrepreneur Awards 2025.

Keywords

 consultancy, culture change, leadership development, women in the workplace, human capital, AI in business, ethical business practices, return to work, learning experiences, entrepreneurship

Summary

In this episode of the C-suite framework podcast, Claire Radford shares her journey from a stable corporate career to founding her own consultancy focused on culture change and leadership development. With over 20 years of experience, Claire discusses the importance of valuing people in business, the challenges women face returning to work after maternity leave, and the need for human-centered leadership in an increasingly AI-driven world. She emphasises the significance of creating engaging learning experiences and the value of human capital in organisations. Claire also shares insights from her global experiences and the importance of ethical business practices.

Takeaways

• Claire Radford transitioned from a stable job to start her own consultancy.

• Her experiences in different cultures shaped her understanding of workplace dynamics.

• The importance of data collection in making informed career decisions.

• Creating memorable learning experiences is crucial in leadership development.

• Human-centered leadership is essential in today's work environment.

• AI should enhance human interaction, not replace it.

• Women returning to work face significant challenges that need addressing.

• Organizations often undervalue the implicit knowledge of their employees.

• Engagement in the workplace is linked to personal connections.

• Play and simulations can enhance learning and decision-making skills.

Sound bites

"If it's worth doing, it's worth paying for."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Claire Radford and Her Journey

02:46 Cultural Insights from Global Experience

05:46 The Courage to Start Anew

08:23 Navigating Ethical Business Practices

11:14 The Importance of Human-Centered Leadership

14:19 AI and the Human Element in Workplaces

16:59 Supporting Women Returning to Work

19:37 The Value of Human Capital

22:42 The Role of Play in Learning

25:24 Final Thoughts and Future Aspirations

The "C-Suite Framework" podcast dives deep into the world of corporate leadership by speaking with experts and C-Suite executives about key roles such as Operations, Risk, People, and Sustainability. Each episode dissects the challenges leaders face today, offering insights and practical takeaways for listeners looking to enhance their own careers. Balancing depth with fun, the podcast is both entertaining and informative, giving listeners a unique perspective into the dynamics of executive roles and how to navigate their own path to success.

🔎 Hosted by Jennifer Geary — former COO, CRO, and bestselling author of How to be a CRO, The Augmented COO, and more.

➡️ For more insights, access to online courses, book information and more, visit csuiteframework.com

Michael Rasmussen is an internationally recognized authority, thought leader, and pioneer in the disciplines of governance, risk management, and compliance (GRC). With over 30 years of experience, he is globally known for defining and shaping GRC strategy, processes, and technology. In February 2002, while at Forrester Research, Michael developed the concept of GRC — establishing the foundation for how organizations approach strategy, process, and technology in today's complex business environment. For this, he is widely acknowledged as the "Father of GRC."

A trusted advisor to boards, executives, and professionals around the world, Michael has dedicated his career to helping organizations design and implement effective GRC strategies that are aligned with business objectives. 

Michael is also the host of the Risk is Our Business podcast.

Join us for a special edition of the C-Suite Framework podcast as we welcome Michael Rasmussen, a globally recognised authority in governance, risk management, and compliance (GRC). With over 30 years of experience, Michael shares his journey from graphic design to becoming a pioneer in GRC. Discover insights into the evolution of risk management, the differences between US and European approaches, and the future of GRC technology.

Key Highlights:

• Michael's career journey and the birth of GRC 

• Differences in risk management approaches between the US and Europe 

• The importance of aligning risk management with business objectives 

• The role of technology in enhancing GRC strategies 

• Future trends in risk management, including GRC 7.0 and digital twins

Key Takeaways: 

• The Evolution of GRC: Michael Rasmussen discusses the development of GRC and its impact on organizations worldwide. 

• US vs. Europe in Risk Management: A comparison of risk management maturity and practices across continents. 

• Strategic Alignment: The necessity of aligning risk management with business objectives for effective governance. 

• Technological Integration: How technology supports and enhances GRC strategies. 

• Future of Risk Management: Insights into GRC 7.0 and the role of digital twins in modeling risk scenarios.

Soundbites:

"Technology doesn't solve bad process and bad strategy. It can magnify those issues." 

"Europe is more mature than the US when it comes to risk management." 

"The best chief risk officer in the Marvel superhero universe is Dr. Strange."

Chapters:

Introduction to Michael Rasmussen (0:00 - 2:30) 

The Birth of GRC (2:31 - 10:00) 

Comparing Risk Management Across Continents (10:01 - 20:00) 

Aligning Risk with Business Objectives (20:01 - 30:00) 

The Role of Technology in GRC (30:01 - 40:00) 

Future Trends: GRC 7.0 and Digital Twins (40:01 - 50:00) 

Closing Thoughts and Future Outlook (50:01 - End)

Hashtags: #RiskManagement #GRC #Podcast #Leadership

Subscribe now to stay updated on the latest insights in risk management and governance.

The "C-Suite Framework" podcast dives deep into the world of corporate leadership by speaking with experts and C-Suite executives about key roles such as Operations, Risk, People, and Sustainability. Each episode dissects the challenges leaders face today, offering insights and practical takeaways for listeners looking to enhance their own careers. Balancing depth with fun, the podcast is both entertaining and informative, giving listeners a unique perspective into the dynamics of executive roles and how to navigate their own path to success.

🔎 Hosted by Jennifer Geary — former COO, CRO, and bestselling author of How to be a CRO, The Augmented COO, and more.

➡️ For more insights, access to online courses, book information and more, visit csuiteframework.com

Julien Haye is an experienced board advisor and risk leader with over 26 years in financial services. He is Chief Risk and Compliance Officer at FinTech firm Fennech and Managing Director of Aevitium LTD, a specialist advisory practice supporting boards and executive teams in strengthening governance, culture, and strategic resilience.

A former Chief Risk Officer and senior risk executive in global financial institutions, Julien has led major risk and compliance transformations across complex, regulated environments—including heading a Global Non-Financial Risk function. He is the author of The Risk Within, a book exploring how psychological safety enables better decision-making and risk oversight, and host of the CPD-accredited RiskMasters podcast

In this episode of the C-suite Framework Podcast, host Jennifer Geary interviews Julian Haye, an experienced board advisor and risk leader. They discuss Julian's career journey, the importance of psychological safety in risk management, and how organizations can foster a culture that encourages open communication and effective decision-making. Julian shares insights from his book, 'The Risk Within,' and emphasizes the need for organizations to empower their people during transformation. The conversation also touches on Julian's writing process and the impact of his book on his consultancy work and personal life as a new parent.

Links

Timothy R. Clark's work: https://www.aevitium.com/post/four-stages-of-psychological-safety-risk-management 

Takeaways

Julian Haye has over 26 years of experience in financial services.

Psychological safety is crucial for effective risk management.

Organizations must empower their people to drive transformation.

Open communication can lead to better risk awareness and decision-making.

The number of reported risk events can increase as a sign of a healthy culture.

Julian's book, 'The Risk Within,' explores the connection between risk and psychological safety.

Writing a book can open new opportunities and enhance one's career.

Consultancy services should focus on strategic risk leadership.

Julian emphasizes the importance of understanding organizational culture during change.

Parenthood has changed Julian's perspective on women's roles and parenting.

Sound Bites

"Psychological safety is not a woolly, soft concept."

"Writing a book is the start of a new journey, not the end."

"You need to be super clear as to why you're going there."

Time Stamps

00:00 Introduction to Julian Haye

01:19 Julian's Career Journey

03:48 The Role of Risk in Organizations

07:45 Psychological Safety and Risk Culture

11:15 The Importance of Open Communication

15:08 Managing Change and Transformation

19:36 Embedding Psychological Safety

22:29 The Writing Process and Book Insights

28:29 Impact of Writing on Career

31:06 Consultancy Services and Client Engagement

35:24 Personal Reflections on Parenthood