Steve Hare, Ceo of Sage Group

Steve Hare leads Sage Group as its Chief Executive Officer, guiding one of the world’s top enterprise software companies. Born in April 1961 in Withernsea, East Riding of Yorkshire, UK, Hare has built a remarkable career in finance and technology. He champions small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs), helping them thrive in a fast-changing world. Under his watch, Sage Group has grown into a powerhouse, with a strong presence in regions like the Middle East. His story shows how steady leadership and smart choices can turn challenges into wins.

Steve Hare grew up in a small coastal town in the UK, where hard work shaped his early years. He pursued a degree in Accounting and Management from the University of Southampton, laying the foundation for his future. After graduating, he became a chartered accountant and a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales. These steps equipped him with the skills to handle complex finances and business strategies. Friends and colleagues often note his down-to-earth nature, a trait that stems from his humble beginnings. Hare once shared in a podcast that staying calm amid chaos comes from his Yorkshire roots, where people focus on what truly matters.

Hare’s professional path started in the 1980s, spanning over 35 years in IT and finance. He held key roles at companies like Spectris plc and Invensys, where he served as Chief Financial Officer. These positions honed his expertise in managing global operations and driving efficiency. In 2009, he joined Apax Partners as an Operating Partner and Co-Head of the Portfolio Support Group. There, he advised on investments and helped businesses grow.

In January 2014, Steve Hare joined Sage Group as Chief Financial Officer. Sage, a British multinational, provides accounting, payroll, and HR software to millions of businesses worldwide. He quickly made an impact by streamlining finances and supporting the company’s shift to cloud-based services. By August 2018, Sage appointed him interim Chief Operating Officer, and in November 2018, he became CEO. This move came at a pivotal time, as the company faced digital disruption. Hare’s steady hand helped navigate these changes, earning praise from investors and employees alike.

Beyond Sage, Hare serves as a Non-Executive Director at Sainsbury’s, bringing his insights to the retail sector. He also volunteers for organizations like CVYP and the Sage Foundation, showing his commitment to community. His career reflects a blend of financial acumen and people-focused leadership.

Leadership at Sage Group

As CEO, Hare drives Sage’s mission to empower SMBs with technology. He oversees a company with over £2.3 billion in revenue and operations in more than 20 countries, including a growing footprint in the Middle East. Sage offers tools like Sage Intacct and Sage Business Cloud, which help businesses manage finances digitally. Hare emphasizes innovation, especially in AI and cloud computing, to make these tools accessible.

In the Middle East, Sage supports local businesses through tailored software for accounting and compliance. The region’s dynamic markets, from UAE startups to Saudi enterprises, benefit from Sage’s solutions. Hare’s global strategy includes expanding here, where digital adoption rises rapidly. He believes technology levels the playing field for SMBs everywhere, including in emerging economies.

Steve Hare fosters a culture of empathy and flexibility at Sage. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he prioritized employee well-being and helped customers adapt. This approach boosted loyalty and growth. Today, Sage’s revenue has climbed, with recurring income up 9% in recent years. Hare often says leaders amplify good or bad in tough times, a lesson he applies daily.

Notable Projects and Achievements

Steve Hare has led several standout projects at Sage. One key achievement is accelerating the company’s SaaS transformation. He shifted Sage from traditional software to cloud services, increasing Business Cloud penetration to 82%. This move positioned Sage as a leader in digital accounting.

In 2017, while CFO, Hare played a big role in acquiring Intacct for $850 million. As CEO, he integrated it fully, expanding Sage’s reach in North America and beyond. The deal strengthened Sage’s offerings for mid-sized firms, driving revenue growth.

Another highlight is launching Sage AI Copilot. This tool uses artificial intelligence to automate tasks like invoicing and forecasting. Hare unveiled it at the SageFuture event, exciting partners and customers. He expects AI adoption to surge among smaller firms, helping them compete with giants.

Hare also champions sustainability and diversity. Through the Sage Foundation, he supports projects that aid young people and communities. In the Middle East, Sage partners with local initiatives to boost digital skills. These efforts earned Sage recognition as a top UK tech firm. Under Hare, the company saw 10% revenue growth to £1.09 billion in a recent half-year.

His leadership during volatility stands out. Amid global “noise” like economic shifts, Hare keeps Sage focused on innovation. He credits team collaboration for successes, often sharing stories of how employees’ ideas spark big changes.

Personal Touch and Legacy

Outside work, Hare enjoys family time and supports causes close to his heart. He is passionate about tech’s role in society and mentors young leaders. In interviews, he speaks candidly about balancing ambition with humility, a human touch that resonates with many.

Hare’s legacy at Sage is one of transformation. He turned a solid company into a digital innovator, especially aiding SMBs in places like the Middle East. As AI and cloud tech evolve, Hare continues to lead with vision and grit. His journey inspires, proving that thoughtful leadership creates lasting impact.