Grady Ligon

Abiding Edge equips technology executives to lead with impact, influence, and integrity at the highest levels. Through the 8-Week Executive Impact Sprint and ongoing coaching, I help senior leaders build strategic clarity, strengthen executive presence, and lead authentically without compromising their values. Focus areas: - Strategic decision-making under uncertainty - C-suite communication and board influence - Leadership identity and faith–work integration - Leading transformation and navigating organizational politics - Coaching for emerging and established CIOs I coach from experience — not theory — helping leaders operate with conviction and wisdom in high-stakes environments.

RareAether helps organizations navigate AI with clarity, strategy, and responsible implementation. I advise CEOs, CIOs, and boards on how to translate AI into measurable business outcomes while reducing risk and strengthening operational excellence. Focus areas: - Fractional CIO services - AI readiness assessments and strategic roadmaps - Data foundations for AI adoption - Modernization and platform transformation guidance - Executive education for AI literacy - C-suite decision frameworks for emerging technologies I work with leaders who need clarity, confidence, and trustworthy expertise as they navigate the most disruptive shift in decades.

Served as a board advisor supporting strategic direction, leadership decision-making, and organizational health during key periods of transition. BCL Vc knows that when diversity happens with our support, and with diversity among the entrepreneurs we fund, means more success for us all.

Led global technology, data, product, and security for one of the largest real estate brands in the world. Responsible for modernizing core platforms, strengthening cybersecurity posture, and guiding the executive team through AI, automation, and data-driven transformation. Key contributions: - Developed the company’s enterprise AI and data strategy - Modernized customer-facing platforms and internal systems - Strengthened cybersecurity and operational resilience - Served as a strategic partner to CEO, CHRO, CFO, and Board - Coached emerging technology leaders across the organization This role reinforced my perspective on what senior technology leaders need to thrive: strategic clarity, communication mastery, and the ability to lead through uncertainty.

Led product, engineering, data, and platform strategy for a SaaS company serving real estate professionals nationwide. Focused on scaling the platform, improving data integrity, and modernizing architecture for long-term growth. Key contributions: - Rebuilt the product and engineering organization - Upgraded architecture and data foundations - Improved product quality and speed of delivery - Partnered with industry executives to align technology with business priorities This role sharpened my focus on the intersection of product strategy, data, and leadership.

Provided selective advisory and technology consulting to executives across real estate, energy, and financial services. Focused on strategic clarity, leadership alignment, and guiding organizations through complex decisions.

Served as CIO from the brand’s inception through its rapid global expansion. Built the company’s entire technology foundation from the ground up, supporting over 60,000 agents worldwide. Key contributions: - Designed and launched the global technology platform - Scaled systems to support explosive franchise growth - Built engineering, operations, data, and security functions - Led multi-year modernization and digital transformation - Built cybersecurity competence - Partnered with industry leadership on strategy and brand expansion This experience formed much of the leadership, coaching, and transformation insight I now bring to clients.

Directed global technology delivery for real estate businesses following corporate divestiture. Ensured continuity, modernization, and alignment of technology with new business priorities. This role deepened my experience navigating corporate transitions and managing large, complex technology portfolios.

Led global technology, infrastructure, operations, and security across multiple real estate and relocation brands. Guided the organizations through major transitions, integrations, and operational change. Key contributions: - Delivered large-scale platform and infrastructure modernization - Consolidated systems post-acquisition and restructured operations - Strengthened enterprise security and compliance - Built high-performing leadership teams across technology functions - Managed business-critical, high-stakes transformation work This chapter shaped my understanding of leading in uncertainty — a constant reality for today’s technology executives.

Led global trading and investment banking technology execution. Managed teams responsible for mission-critical systems supporting high-velocity financial operations. Strengthened my ability to lead under extreme pressure and uncertainty — competencies central to today’s senior tech roles.