In this episode of The Purposeful Strategist, Belden Menkus speaks with Phill Robinson, co-founder of Boardwave about the structural challenge of scaling technology businesses in Europe and the leadership infrastructure required to compete in the age of AI. What began as a small, founder-led community sketched at a kitchen table has grown into a pan-European network of more than 2,500 tech founders, CEOs, and Chairs, spanning the UK, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, the Nordics, and the Netherlands.

In their conversation, they explore:

• Why Europe has struggled to scale global software and AI leaders.

• The widening growth gap between AI-native and non-AI tech firms.

• How community, mentorship, and shared experience accelerate scale.

• The leadership shift from experience-led to adaptive decision-making.

• Why the next decade represents a critical window for European tech.

Boardwave

MenKus & Associates

Supported by Norman Broadbent

Belden Menkus is the Managing Director of Menkus & Associates, a London-based advisory firm working with CEOs and senior teams to align strategy with purpose. Drawing on decades of experience in strategy consulting, leadership, and organisational transformation, he helps mid-sized firms—particularly law firms and membership bodies—tackle complex decisions and unlock long-term value.

Belden hosts The Purposeful Strategist, a podcast exploring how business leaders bring purpose into strategic action. His work is marked by intellectual clarity, a collaborative approach, and a commitment to practical results. A strategic thinker with wide intellectual range, blending business acumen with curiosity and cultural literacy. He brings a distinct mix of consultant, historian, and explorer of ideas.