#252: It’s Not Just Tech: Why People Drive Real Transformation with Bernd Ziethen

Business Transformation Pitch with The CX Goalkeeper

In this episode, we explore the truth behind real transformation with Bernd Ziethen, an experienced CEO, HR consultant, and headhunter. Bernd shares that while technology is advancing fast — especially with AI — true business success depends on leadership, culture, and human connection. He explains that even the best tech tools will fail without strong people and trust behind them. Bernd draws a powerful parallel between business transformation and mergers, where up to 70% fail due to cultural misalignment. He stresses that transformation is not just about strategy or tech—it’s about how leaders engage people through empathy, honesty, and listening. He explains that leadership today means being open, embracing rapid change, and genuinely liking people. “To lead others,” Bernd says, “you must first like yourself.” He also shares behind-the-scenes tips from his experience as a top-level headhunter. Cultural fit, he emphasizes, can’t be measured only with numbers. It requires emotional intelligence, deep listening, and understanding personal goals. His approach to hiring goes beyond resumes—he spends time understanding if a leader aligns with company values and if both sides are willing to invest in the relationship. The Top 3 Key Learnings 1. People Are the Core of Transformation: Technology is a tool, but success depends on building trust and leading with empathy. 2. Leadership Is Listening: Today’s leaders must be open-minded, self-aware, and comfortable not having all the answers. 3. Cultural Fit Drives Success: In hiring and transformation, matching values and communication styles is critical — not just hard skills. About Bernd Ziethen As a Leadership Architect, Bernd combines executive mentoring and executive search – practice-oriented, analytically sound, and backed by deep industry expertise. He supports leaders in their personal development – and help companies find exactly these kinds of leaders. With compelling direct outreach and an honest message. As a senior executive search consultant, he supports managers in their personal growth and companies in filling key positions with precision. With 30 years of industry experience, sound diagnostics, and clear direct outreach, Bernd brings together what truly drives impact: Leadership that enables transformation. Resources Bernd Ziethen - Management Minder: https://www.management-minder.com/en https://www.management-minder.com/en Please, hit the follow button: Apple Podcast: http://cxgoalkeeper.com/apple Spotify: http://cxgoalkeeper.com/spotify We’d love to hear your thoughts — leave a comment and share your feedback! Follow Gregorio Uglioni on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregorio-uglioni/ About Gregorio Uglioni: Transforming Business Into Value Generating Engines - Creating Long-Lasting Impact Leveraging Customer Experience - Host Of The Globally Recognized CX Goalkeeper Podcast “Customer Experience Goals” - Speaker at global events & at podcasts - Judge at International Awards - CX Lecturer for several institutions Listen to more podcasts on The Agile Brand network here: https://agilebrandguide.com/the-agile-brand-podcasts/