Unlocking Value
Unlocking Value is designed to give founders and owners of professional services firms more confidence when they're working toward an exit or thinking about taking on investment.
Across six episodes, our host John Howard speaks with founders, investors and advisors about the moments that define the transaction journey - how to get ready, what to expect and how to succeed.
We cover everything from value drivers and team alignment to investor expectations and life after the deal. You’ll hear from people who’ve sold their firms, taken minority investments, stayed on, exited and started again – and from those who advise or invest in firms like yours every day.
Unlocking Value
Episode 12: Adam Craker - Leading in one of the toughest markets ever and the subtle art of GESHIDO
In this episode of the Unlocking Value podcast, John Howard speaks with Adam Craker, Chief Executive of iqbusiness, one of South Africa’s leading consulting and digital integration firms.
Adam has led iqbusiness for more than 15 years, guiding the firm through three distinct chapters: angel investor-backed growth, private equity ownership, and its current position within a listed corporate group. Throughout that journey, he has built a culture that blends high performance with purpose and personality. Central to that is GESHIDO, the trademarked spirit of Getting Sh*t Done.
Together, Adam and John explore what it takes to lead through long-term change. They discuss the shifting expectations that come with different ownership models, the realities of keeping teams motivated through volatility, and the power of humour, partnership and purpose in building a firm designed to endure.
For leaders in professional services, this is a practical and reflective conversation about scaling with intent, staying agile under pressure, and building a business that does more than last. It makes a difference.
Host: John Howard, Partner at Garwood Growth
Guest: Adam Craker, Chief Executive at iqbusiness