As the European software market matures and consolidates, leaders in the sector must balance local needs against the move towards globalisation. They need to address customers' changing demand for solutions rather than technology and cater to a trend in which clients view software as a service rather than a product.
These factors, along with economic and cultural diversity, make EMEA leadership a role that calls for a rare mix of skills — the most critical being communication, intellect, sales skills, flexibility and pragmatism. Presiding over a complex and diverse region and a large staff requires deep knowledge of markets, a keen eye for trends and opportunities, a focus on the bottom line, energy, drive, fortitude and an array of soft skills to help bring the best out of people. It is not for the faint-hearted, but the international experience is invaluable and, a successful stint in the EMEA role should open up new opportunities to develop a career in the corporate world or in the venture-backed environment.
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