Blog
Notes:
Behind every “professional journey” is a human being dealing with doubt, growth, and reinvention. Our guest today, Rick Byrne, shares his candid insights into what people don’t see behind the scenes of SE management: politics, career development, and the emotional intelligence needed to truly lead.
Rick Byrne is the Director of Systems Engineering at Veeam Software, but he did not start that way. We go back in time to trace his path that starts in Newfoundland and leads people. We discuss being the “knob-turner” (yes, that’s a technical term) to embracing sales and then leadership, he opens up about failures, life jolts, and the mindset shifts that made him who he is today.
Key Takeaways:
- How Rick accidentally stepped into pre-sales (spoiler: curiosity was involved)
- The art of “selling” — even if you thought you were only talking tech
- Difference between “managing people” and leading people (it’s not just a title)
- Why self-awareness, accountability, and small daily failures are your best growth tools
- What happens behind the scenes: politics, promotions, recognition, and those awkward conversations
- Building a leadership style as an introvert — yes, it’s possible
- Resiliency in work and life — when things get personal, work doesn’t stop
- How to know whether SE management is really right for you
Quotes:
“Just because you manage people doesn’t mean you’re a leader. I was a leader long before I had direct reports.” – Rick Byrne
“I was always selling — I just didn’t know it. I thought I was educating people on technology.” – Rick Byrne
“Failure is my greatest teacher. I’ve failed more than I’ve succeeded, and that’s how I learn.” – Rick Byrne
“If you don’t like hard conversations or holding people accountable, management isn’t for you.” – Rick Byrne
“You can’t lead without self-awareness. If you can’t look at yourself and admit mistakes, you can’t help others grow.” – Rick Byrne
“Resiliency isn’t just about work — it’s about getting through life and coming out better on the other side.” – Rick Byrne
Links from the show:
- John Care – Mastering Technical Sales & SE Leadership Handbook
- Jocko Willink – Extreme Ownership
- Michael D. Watkins – The First 90 Days
- VMware User Group (VMUG) – Industry events that shaped Rick’s early SE journey
