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Listen "A candid conversation with Mark Sunday, former CIO @Oracle"
Episode Synopsis
In this episode of SaaS Therapy, Todd Kirk and Casey Trujillo welcome Mark Sunday, former CIO of Oracle, to discuss his extensive career and insights into the role of a CIO.
Mark shares his journey from semiconductor companies to leading IT at Oracle, emphasizing the importance of strategic thinking, security, and driving adoption of technology. He provides valuable advice for startups looking to engage with large enterprises and discusses the evolving landscape of cloud technology.
Takeaways
Security is a top priority when evaluating new applications.
Driving adoption of technology is crucial for adding value.
Startups should focus on building trust with enterprise leaders.
Understanding the business is key to adding value as a vendor.
Cloud technology has transformed how companies operate and innovate.
Renewal discussions should focus on future value, not just past performance.
CIOs should engage with teams to understand their needs and challenges.
Building relationships and trust is essential for successful vendor partnerships.
Contents
00:00 Introduction to SaaS Therapy and Guest Background
03:01 Mark Sunday's Career Journey and Insights
06:44 Evaluating Applications from a CIO Perspective
12:11 The Proactive Role of a CIO
16:09 Advice for Startups Seeking Enterprise Engagement
22:15 The Persona of a CIO
27:01 Building Trust and Adding Value
29:02 Renewal Considerations for Software Subscriptions
34:28 The Impact of Cloud on Business Dynamics
41:20 Final Thoughts and Homework Assignment
Resources
Connect with Casey
Connect with Todd
Visit the show page
Get to know BrainStorm
Credits
Show direction: Debra Wilson
Show design: Kensie Smith
Show manager: Angela Allred
Mark shares his journey from semiconductor companies to leading IT at Oracle, emphasizing the importance of strategic thinking, security, and driving adoption of technology. He provides valuable advice for startups looking to engage with large enterprises and discusses the evolving landscape of cloud technology.
Takeaways
Security is a top priority when evaluating new applications.
Driving adoption of technology is crucial for adding value.
Startups should focus on building trust with enterprise leaders.
Understanding the business is key to adding value as a vendor.
Cloud technology has transformed how companies operate and innovate.
Renewal discussions should focus on future value, not just past performance.
CIOs should engage with teams to understand their needs and challenges.
Building relationships and trust is essential for successful vendor partnerships.
Contents
00:00 Introduction to SaaS Therapy and Guest Background
03:01 Mark Sunday's Career Journey and Insights
06:44 Evaluating Applications from a CIO Perspective
12:11 The Proactive Role of a CIO
16:09 Advice for Startups Seeking Enterprise Engagement
22:15 The Persona of a CIO
27:01 Building Trust and Adding Value
29:02 Renewal Considerations for Software Subscriptions
34:28 The Impact of Cloud on Business Dynamics
41:20 Final Thoughts and Homework Assignment
Resources
Connect with Casey
Connect with Todd
Visit the show page
Get to know BrainStorm
Credits
Show direction: Debra Wilson
Show design: Kensie Smith
Show manager: Angela Allred
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The Quality of Your Questions: CS Secrets from the Trenches with Todd Kirk and Casey Trujillo
18/11/2025
Establishing New Success Metrics for Customer Education with Todd Kirk and Casey Trujillo
04/11/2025
The Evolution of Customer Success Strategies with Dan Steinman, Director @ Colson Fellows
28/10/2025
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