Non-Linear Careers, Resilience & Authentic Leadership with Stacey Maher

CMO Chapters Podcast with Lucy Bolan

In this episode of CMO Chapters, Lucy Bolan sits down with Stacey Maher, a Melbourne-based marketing and business leader whose career has been anything but traditional.

From discovering marketing while living overseas to stepping into senior leadership and general management roles, Stacey has built a career defined by curiosity, resilience, and authenticity.

She shares candid reflections on navigating non-linear career paths, the value of saying "yes" to unexpected opportunities, and the importance of balancing strategy with execution.

Stacey also opens up about her leadership philosophy, the role of resilience in long-term success, and why being authentic and vulnerable as a leader creates stronger, high-performing teams.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• Why a non-linear career path can be an asset, not a setback.
• How overseas experiences can shape independence, resilience, and career direction.
• The importance of understanding both the official and unofficial org charts.
• Why balancing strategy and execution is key to effective leadership.
• The role of curiosity, continuous learning, and saying "yes" to new opportunities.
• How vulnerability and authenticity strengthen teams and leadership impact.

Themes and Advice:

• Insights from Stacey’s global career experiences.
• Reflections on navigating digital, product, and commercial leadership roles.
• AI, digital transformation, and evolving leadership skills.

Chapters:

• (00:00) Introduction to the CMO Chapter Podcast
• (00:44) Meet Stacey Maher: A Non-Linear Career Path
• (01:32) Early Career and Discovering Marketing
• (04:26) Navigating Career Challenges and Building Resilience
• (13:18) The Importance of Strategy and Execution
• (16:03) Embracing AI and Future Skills
• (20:33) Networking and Building Relationships
• (24:31) Advice for Aspiring Leaders
• (27:41) Final Thoughts and Takeaways

Follow Stacey Maher on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stacey-maher-4403553/

Follow the Podcast & New Chapter Talent:

Instagram: @NewChapterTalent

LinkedIn: New Chapter Talent || CMO Chapters Podcast

This podcast is brought to you by New Chapter Talent recruitment. If you're hunting for a fulfilling new role or seeking the right talent for your company, contact Lucy Bolan today!

Website: https://www.newchaptertalent.com.au/contact-us

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/new-chapter-talent/

Email: [email protected]