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    First-time CEO pitfalls, and how to avoid them

    July 14, 2025 • by Richard Roi in Podcasts • Podcast availablePodcast available

    Kevin O’Brien shares the lessons every first-time CEO needs to hear — from unpacking the brief to unlocking future potential and uniting the team....

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    Stepping into the CEO role for the first time is a leap into the unknown. Kevin O’Brien shares what new leaders often miss – and what it really takes to succeed.

     

    What got you here won’t get you there. But that’s not all, says Kevin O’Brien, CEO of Gammon Construction, in conversation with Ric Roi. You’re also going to need to really unpack the details of your new brief, marshal the data to spot the opportunities, figure out how to unlock future potential, and bring everyone with you on the journey.

    Expert

    Kevin O’Brien

    CEO, Gammon Construction

    Kevin O’Brien is the Chief Executive Officer of Gammon Construction, a leading construction and engineering services company headquartered in Hong Kong. With over 25 years of experience in the industry, Kevin brings deep expertise in project management, strategic planning, and sustainable development.

    Since taking the helm at Gammon, he has championed innovation, digital transformation, and a strong safety-first culture across the organization. Kevin is known for his ability to lead complex projects, foster collaboration, and drive long-term value in a fast-evolving sector.

    Authors

    Ric Roi

    Richard Roi

    Affiliate Professor of Leadership and Organization at IMD

    Ric Roi is Affiliate Professor of Leadership and Organization at IMD. He is a senior business psychologist and advises boards and CEOs on matters related to board renewal, CEO succession, top team effectiveness and leadership transitions.

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