Leaders on Leaders: WideOrbit’s Post-Acquisition Leadership Reflection
This Leaders on Leaders conversation examines WideOrbit’s experience following its acquisition. The discussion focuses on how long-term ownership, disciplined operating frameworks, and a data-informed approach support execution over time. It offers a practical view of post-acquisition life at Lumine, where businesses continue to operate independently, retain full accountability, and make decisions locally, while benefiting from clearer visibility and a more measured approach to growth.
In this video from Lumine’s Leaders on Leaders series, two long-time industry leaders reflecting on WideOrbit’s experience following its acquisition by Lumine Group in 2023. The conversation features perspectives shaped by decades of experience building and operating media software businesses.
The discussion offers a practical view of leadership continuity, operational discipline, and how a more structured, data-informed approach has influenced WideOrbit’s post-acquisition journey. It focuses on how the business continues to operate with clear accountability while strengthening execution over time.
Video features, Toni Coonce, Chief Executive Officer at WideOrbit and Susie Hedrick, Group President at Lumine Group and former CEO of WideOrbit post-acquisition.
With a long shared history at WideOrbit, Toni Coonce and Susie Hedrick bring a candid, experience-led perspective to this conversation. Their discussion focuses on leadership continuity, operational discipline, and the practical realities of guiding a media software business through the post-acquisition phase.
Key Takeaways From the Conversation
The Acquisition Marked a Shift Toward More Measured Execution
Susie describes a clear before‑and‑after following Lumine’s acquisition. Lumine introduced a more structured, data‑driven operating framework that complemented WideOrbit’s experience‑led decision‑making. This approach brought greater consistency and pragmatism to how decisions were made, without displacing leadership judgment.
Data Created Clarity for Teams and Customers
Toni describes Lumine’s emphasis on measurement and data attributed to WideOrbit’s ability to develop a deeper understanding of its customers and outcomes. Both said that with clearer metrics and shared definitions of success, decisions became more aligned across the business. This clarity improved collaboration with customers and supported faster, more confident execution.
Structure Helped Identify Where to Tighten the Business
Toni notes that the company was already successful prior to acquisition, but the added structure surfaced areas that could be strengthened. These were not fundamental issues, but operational soft spots. Addressing them led to better alignment internally and with customers.
The Ecosystem Provided Perspective and Support for Leadership
Susie highlights the value of operating within Lumine’s ecosystem, particularly at the leadership level. Access to peers in similar roles created opportunities to talk-through challenges, compare approaches, and apply proven practices. This reduced isolation as a leader and improved confidence in decision making.
Sustainable Leadership Requires Space Beyond the Business
Toni reflects on the importance of stepping away from day-to-day demands to maintain creativity and perspective. Time outside of work enables clearer thinking and renewed energy. These moments often lead to better ideas and stronger leadership.
The Next Phase is Built on Focused Growth
Both leaders see the future shaped by continued transformation, customer listening, and investment in technology. Toni points to digital convergence, AI, and partnerships, while Susie emphasizes building a stronger media ecosystem within Lumine. Growth is framed as deliberate, collaborative, and long-term.
Post‑Acquisition at Lumine: What the WideOrbit Experience Shows
WideOrbit’s experience reflects a post‑acquisition model built on continuity, support, and practical improvement. Leadership remained accountable for the business, while Lumine provided access to data, playbooks, and an ecosystem of experienced peers to strengthen decision‑making.
Change was incremental and measured, focused on clarity, customer alignment, and long‑term execution rather than short‑term transformation.
If you’re considering the next chapter for your business, this discussion reflects Lumine’s approach to long-term ownership and disciplined growth. Contact our team to learn more.
