My background
With a corporate career spanning 40 years, my vast international experience in the Middle East & Africa primarily centered around business development, supply chain, and facilities management; across various industry segments including government & defense, aid & relief, and the extractive industries.
I managed international supply chains as varied as sourcing of spices in Africa for international clients; industrial materials and technical parts into manufacturers in the Middle East and Africa through to specialist food and beverage products from international markets while also overseeing commercial shipping business in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia. This included operating in remote and austere conditions including hostile situations.
With 'C' level experience in several roles in the PLC environment and Directorships in numerous subsidiaries and Joint Ventures across multiple markets.
The power of coaching & mentoring
Early in my career, I had the privilege of being entrusted with significant responsibilities and a broad range of tasks. This was made possible by the guidance and mentorship of some incredible individuals who I remember with great gratitude. I often look back on those formative years that played a crucial role in shaping my future. Without their belief in me and their willingness to take a chance, I doubt I would have achieved the level of success I enjoy today. I strive to embody the same principles and values that they instilled in me - being open-minded, approachable, attentive, solution-oriented, and willing to take risks in people. I also make it a point to provide advice and feedback to keep others on the right path and instill confidence in them.
Many years ago, I was asked to mentor young leaders in my organisation, even though they were not directly under my supervision. This experience made me realise the incredible impact coaching and mentoring can have on young leaders, and it reminded me of my own early career. I enjoyed the experience so much that I decided to pursue further education and achieved the CMI Level 7 Certificate in Leadership Coaching and Mentoring, CMI Chartered Manager, a full member of the Association for Coaching and a Fellow of the Institute of Leadership.
Now, having experienced the power of coaching and mentoring both as a recipient and as a facilitator, I am passionate about helping others achieve their full leadership potential and happiness in life. But it doesn't stop there – I also want to show organisations how coaching and mentoring can play a central role in their performance development and strategy execution goals.
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Robert Smith
Founder & Coach, Attain Performance
