The path to leadership often begins with a simple question: “How can I solve this problem?” This mindset, combined with a willingness to take on responsibility, has propelled many professionals into leadership roles. One shining example is Gulya Mukhambet Kyzy, CFO of Cydeo, who shared her journey and insights on a recent episode of the Future Focused CXOs podcast.

Gulya’s career began at Cydeo as the company’s second employee. Initially tasked with bookkeeping and accounting, she quickly realized the startup needed more than just a number cruncher—it needed someone who could tackle inefficiencies and create scalable systems.

Her first major project involved automating the company’s payment system, which had been managed manually by the founder. This initiative not only solved a critical problem but also demonstrated her ability to think strategically and execute effectively. Over time, her proactive problem-solving led to promotions and greater responsibilities, culminating in her role as CFO.

“With every issue I solved, I added value to the company. That value was recognized, and the company wanted to give back,” Gulya shared.

Gulya’s journey offers valuable lessons for anyone aiming to grow their career and leadership skills:

1. Take Initiative

Leadership begins with ownership. Look for opportunities to solve problems, even if they fall outside your job description. This not only builds your skills but also demonstrates your value to the organization.

2. Reskill and Adapt

Gulya continuously expanded her knowledge through coding classes, an MBA, and later, a CFO program at Columbia. She emphasizes the importance of staying ahead of industry trends and developing new skills to remain relevant.

3. Trust and Delegate

As organizations grow, leaders must evolve from individual contributors to team builders. Delegating responsibilities and trusting others are essential to scaling operations effectively.

4. Ask for Help

Seeking guidance from mentors, coaches, and colleagues can accelerate personal and professional growth. Gulya credits her CEO, husband, and external mentors for helping her navigate her journey to the C-suite

5. Foster a Strong Culture

Leadership isn’t just about achieving goals—it’s about building a workplace where everyone feels valued and heard. Gulya highlighted how trust, empathy, and open communication are foundational to Cydeo’s success.

One of the biggest challenges Gulya faced was Cydeo’s transition from a small team of a few employees to a global organization with thousands of clients. This hyper-growth required significant changes in decision-making, technology adoption, and team structure.

The key to navigating these changes? A strong company culture and a visionary leader. By fostering trust and empowering employees to contribute ideas, Cydeo adapted to new challenges without losing its core values.

“We trust each other and are open to feedback. Even in uncertain times, this approach helps us make the best possible decisions,” Gulya explained.

As a CFO in the tech-driven EdTech industry, Gulya is already exploring how generative AI can enhance operations and improve productivity. From automating coding validations to assisting with research and decision-making, AI is becoming a critical tool for Cydeo’s growth. However, she warns of the risks, emphasizing the importance of privacy and thoughtful implementation.

“AI can take your job if you don’t adapt to it,” Gulya noted, underscoring the need for professionals to embrace and integrate AI into their workflows.

Gulya’s story is a testament to the power of initiative, continuous learning, and strong culture in driving career growth and organizational success. Her advice for aspiring leaders? Take ownership, build a roadmap for your development, and surround yourself with people who believe in your potential.

Whether you’re a seasoned CXO or just starting your career, Gulya’s journey serves as a reminder that leadership isn’t about titles—it’s about making a difference.