The Future Is Easy: Why the Journey Is the Hard Part
Technology transformation is often framed as a challenge of systems, platforms, and innovation. But as organisations pursue ambitious digital futures, the real obstacle is rarely the technology itself – it’s helping people navigate the journey.
In this episode of CXO Secrets, David McClelland sits down with Sarah Leteney, CIO at Urenco, to explore why successful transformation is ultimately about trust, communication, and bringing people through change. From leading major ERP programmes and driving IT/OT convergence to balancing growth with cost optimisation, Sarah shares how technology leaders can build confidence in uncertain times.
Sarah reflects on her unconventional path from biology researcher to CIO, her experience working on both sides of the supplier-client relationship, and the lessons she’s learned about leadership, empathy, and organisational change. She also discusses the challenges of modernising critical infrastructure, managing transformation without a fixed roadmap, and why understanding people remains the most important skill in any technology role.
Topics include:
- Why people embrace the future but fear the journey
- Leading large-scale ERP and business transformation programmes
- Bridging the gap between IT and operational technology
- Building trust between internal teams and technology suppliers
- Managing change in highly regulated and critical industries
- Balancing growth, innovation, and cost optimisation
- The role of empathy and communication in effective leadership
- Why successful transformation is ultimately about people