In this episode of The Tech Trek, Amir Bormand sits down with Dave McCann, CTO at Self Financial, to dive deep into scaling strategies and the art of navigating exits in both VC-backed and private equity-backed companies. With multiple successful exits, Dave shares his insights on building cohesive teams, adapting leadership styles, and evaluating opportunities for success. Whether you're a budding technologist or a seasoned leader, this episode offers valuable perspectives on creating impactful career trajectories in the tech industry. Key Takeaways: The Core of Successful Teams: Early hires in startups are critical. Building a cohesive team with aligned goals can make or break a venture. Scaling in PE-Backed Companies: Leadership in private equity-backed companies requires a shift from hands-on management to empowering large teams and managing scalability. Framework for Success: Success isn't luck—it's about understanding market fit, leveraging financial acumen, and aligning with the right team and leadership. The Role of the CTO: Transitioning from a prescriptive leader in startups to a servant leader in large organizations is key to scaling effectively. P&L Understanding: For technologists, grasping the financial mechanics of an organization is as crucial as understanding the technology itself. Timestamped Highlights: [00:01:00] Introduction to Self Financial and Dave’s Role as CTO. [00:02:00] VC vs. PE: Key differences in growth strategies and leadership. [00:05:00] The evolution of a CTO's role: From prescriptive to empowering leadership. [00:12:00] Delegation and the challenges of letting go as a leader. [00:15:00] The importance of financial acumen for technologists. [00:18:00] Patterns and frameworks for identifying successful opportunities. [00:25:00] Private equity’s structure and opportunities for wealth creation. [00:28:00] Final insights and ways to connect with Dave McCann. Quote of the Episode:*"Great leadership isn't about controlling outcomes—it's about enabling people and trusting them to deliver their best." – Dave McCann Connect with Dave McCann: LinkedIn: Dave McCann Let’s Continue the Conversation:Enjoyed the episode? Share it with your network, leave a review, and subscribe for more insights into the tech world. Got questions for Dave or Amir? Comment below or reach out directly!