304: Dave Smoley, Legendary Serial CIO & Investor, On Transforming Tech Culture at Apple, AstraZeneca, GE, Honeywell, and Flex

Dave Smoley recently received a well-earned Lifetime Achievement Award (and signed Billy Idol guitar) from Workday co-founder Aneel Bhusri to recognize his 30 years of technology leadership.

This week, we discussed his journey from basement to boardroom as a leader at companies like Apple, AstraZeneca, GE, Honeywell, and Flex.

Dave shares unique insights about the impact of technology on the workplace and the evolving role of the CIO. Currently, he invests in and advises early-stage tech companies, leveraging his extensive expertise.

Dave holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science from Clemson University and an MBA from the Darden School at the University of Virginia. Thanks to friends of the podcast (and PeopleReign investors) Thomas and Jason from Acadian Ventures for the introduction.

In this conversation, we discuss:

• Dave's early fascination with computers and how it influenced his interest in computer science. • His experience transitioning from programming at a bank to pursuing an MBA and the lessons learned along the way. • The pivotal moment at GE that rekindled his passion for technology, leading him to combine tech with business roles. • His insights on the cultural differences between GE and Apple, particularly in leadership styles and organizational structures. • The role of teamwork and specialized skills in today’s tech-driven industries, especially in the context of cloud computing and AI. • His current ventures as an investor and advisor, including his work with companies like PeopleReign.

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