A Conversation With Andy Cowan, CEO, Particle Measuring Systems
In this episode of The Failure Gap, Julie Williamson speaks with Andy Cowan, president of Particle Measuring Systems, about the significance of aligned leadership. They explore Andy's journey to leadership, the importance of team alignment, and the characteristics that define effective leaders. The conversation delves into building trust within teams, navigating challenges, and celebrating successes. Andy emphasizes the role of visualization in achieving goals and the necessity of clear metrics to ensure alignment. The discussion concludes with insights on overcoming the fear of failure and key takeaways for leaders looking to foster collaboration and alignment within their teams.
Episode Takeaways
Episode Takeaways
- Alignment is crucial in both business and personal contexts
- Listening to stakeholders is a fundamental leadership skill
- Courage and transparency are essential for effective leadership
- Building trust within teams enhances collaboration
- Progress is more important than perfection in leadership
- Visualization helps in achieving strategic goals
- Metrics should align with overall company objectives
- Assuming positive intent fosters a collaborative environment
- Overcoming the fear of failure is vital for growth
- Adaptability is key in a changing business landscape
If you would like to connect with Andy Cowan outside of this episode, connect with him on LinkedIn.
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Is misalignment holding your organization back?
Aligned teams deliver better results more consistently, and they have deeper connections to each other and their organizations.
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Is misalignment holding your organization back?
Aligned teams deliver better results more consistently, and they have deeper connections to each other and their organizations.
Download our free Leadership Alignment Evaluation Tool and take the first step toward transforming how your team works together.
Learn more about Julie and Karrikins Group:
Learn more about Julie and Karrikins Group:
Creators and Guests
Host
Julie Williamson, PhD
Julie Williamson, PhD is the CEO and a Managing Partner at Karrikins Group, a Denver-based, global-serving business consultancy. Author, Keynote Speaker, and Host of The Failure Gap Podcast, Julie is a leading voice in how alignment can transform leaders and organizations.
Guest
Andy Cowan
Appointed President of Particle Measuring Systems (PMS) in March 2024, Andy leads with a global perspective and a disciplined focus on innovation and execution. He previously served at PMS as Vice President of Finance and Business Development (2016–2018). He then became CFO of the Spectris Industrial Solutions Division (2019–2022) and Interim Business Group Director (2020), where he coordinated strategy across seven operating companies, including PMS and Servomex and led the divestiture of four businesses in 2020-2021. Before rejoining PMS, Andy was President of Servomex (2022–2024), where he delivered record sales, improved on‑time delivery, and earned recognition for continuous improvement, health and wellbeing, and sustainability. At PMS, Andy emphasizes clarity of strategy, customer proximity, and empowered teams. He champions the Spectris values – True, Own It, Aim High – while investing in capabilities that matter: a new manufacturing and innovation hub in Colorado, strengthened global systems, and continued technology leadership in life sciences and electronics. Under his leadership, PMS has advanced global growth, improved customer metrics and employee engagement, and reinforced operational resilience. Originally from Scotland, Andy holds a Commerce degree from Glasgow Caledonian University and is a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants. He lives in Boulder, Colorado, is a sports enthusiast – particularly football and tennis – enjoys running, and is married with four daughters.
