As 2024 Industry Innovator of the Year, named by the Tech Ascension Awards, Phil Calvin, Chief Product Officer, Delinea, has led the company's charge in rethinking security for modern hybrid and cloud environments. In this interview, Phil shares insights into his journey in tech leadership, Delinea’s mission, and his approach to fostering innovation and adaptability in a rapidly evolving industry.
What inspired you to pursue leadership in the tech industry, and how has that journey evolved over time?
I've always been fascinated by how technology can solve real-world problems and drive innovation. Early in my career, I realized that tech leadership wasn't just about building products but about enabling teams to think critically, challenge the status quo, and collaborate on solutions that make a lasting impact. Over time, my leadership journey has evolved as I’ve learned to balance technical expertise with strategic vision, helping organizations not only adapt but thrive in a constantly changing landscape.
What is Delinea's mission? How do you help drive that mission in your role?
Delinea’s mission is to provide seamless security by securing every identity across hybrid and cloud environments. We focus on delivering solutions that reduce risk without adding complexity, empowering organizations to protect their most critical assets. In my role, I drive this mission by ensuring our product portfolio remains innovative and customer-centric. I work closely with teams to align our development efforts with the evolving needs of our customers, making sure we stay ahead of emerging threats while maintaining ease of use and scalability.
How do you foster innovation within your teams while maintaining a balance between creativity and operational efficiency?
Fostering innovation requires creating an environment where people feel empowered to take risks and explore new ideas. I encourage my teams to think outside the box, while also providing the structure needed to turn those ideas into practical solutions. We focus on iterative development, where teams can experiment with new concepts but always have clear goals and metrics to ensure we’re delivering value. This approach allows us to innovate without sacrificing operational efficiency.
In a fast-paced industry like tech, how do you ensure your organization remains agile and adaptable to change?
Agility comes from staying close to our customers and keeping a pulse on market trends. We have a feedback loop where customer input is quickly integrated into our product development process, allowing us to pivot as needed. I also emphasize a culture of continuous learning and adaptability within our teams. By embracing change as an opportunity for growth, we ensure that our organization can swiftly respond to new challenges and technologies.
What advice would you give to aspiring tech leaders looking to make a significant impact in their fields?
My advice would be to stay curious and be willing to take calculated risks. The tech industry is always evolving, and those who are willing to challenge conventional thinking often make the biggest impact. At the same time, remember that leadership is about enabling others. Focus on building strong teams, foster a culture of collaboration, and always keep the bigger picture in mind—how your work is solving real problems and contributing to a better future.
