One of the most significant hurdles was learning how to attract and manage capital. Tieng admitted that building relationships with investors and understanding their needs was a steep learning curve. He explained, "How do you build that network? How do you garner trust? How do you filter out those that aren't going to be a great fit for whatever reason?" This trial-by-fire experience shaped Tieng’s approach to fundraising and building a sustainable firm.
Read More"In our industry, I don’t want people who just push numbers. I want a team that’s always looking for the next improvement, that isn’t afraid to challenge the numbers when they don’t make sense,” Piastre explained. Holding the title of the prestigious "Woman in Manufacturing" STEM award and leading the creation of the most modern and complete precious metals laboratory in the United States, she attributes her accomplishments to the people who helped make it possible. “Innovation is something we can only achieve when we have the right people in place,” she said.
Read MoreIn the past 40 years, compensation for CEO’s has increased by 1000% inflation-adjusted. Ryterband explains that it’s simply a product of that paramount economic law: supply and demand. Exceptional talent is scarce, and the market for it is always expanding. Executive leadership, Ryterband says, is not like a TV, where paying less buys you slightly lower resolution; the difference between a good CEO and a great one is the difference between failure and success for a company.
Read MoreParker is keenly aware of the inequities that exist in standardized testing and professional exam preparation. “We need to standardize how we teach and provide information so it’s accessible to anyone, regardless of their background,” he says. This philosophy drives Knopman Marks’ outreach efforts, including partnerships with historically Black colleges and universities and other under resourced communities.
Read MoreWebster shared how he transitioned from studying law to mergers and acquisitions, and ultimately to executive search. This journey, he explained, underscores the non-linear nature of many successful careers. “The most successful professionals often navigate unexpected turns with adaptability, always maximizing value from their current roles while staying open to new opportunities,” he said. This adaptability, paired with judicious risk-taking, has been a defining trait of individuals who thrive in competitive fields. Webster emphasized that career plans are crucial, even if they evolve over time, as they provide focus and increase the likelihood of long-term success.
Read More“Every time you [take risks], you get a little bit more confidence that you can do the next one… It’s about pushing yourself to learn and to take on challenges.” Wolfe views risk not as a burden but as an opportunity for growth, creativity, and self-discovery, encouraging others to embrace change rather than fear it.
Read More“When you're in the government service, you're generally a risk-averse person,” Wilcox said. “I learn something new [now] every day about the types of businesses that are out there, the finance aspect of it, the laws you have to comply with, [things that] have nothing to do with export controls and sanctions that pertain to actually owning and running a business.”
Read More“The finance world is small,” she said. “It’s crucial to build and maintain strong connections throughout your career, both inside and outside of your company.” Vairavan attributes much of her career success to the mentors she’s had along the way, particularly those who helped guide her through difficult decisions and transitions.
Read MoreCansler pointed out the direct relationship between energy consumption and quality of life. “Energy is not just about comfort; it’s a lifeline. Countries with higher per capita energy use enjoy longer lifespans, better education, and greater economic opportunities,” he explained, illustrating how energy access remains a cornerstone of development.
Read MoreValentine’s work spans continents, with team members spread across time zones in Dublin, India, the Philippines, and the United States. This global distribution offers distinct advantages, including the ability to maximize productivity. Valentine explains, “We can shoot a deliverable off to our team members overseas. They can start working on it in their morning. And so you start to get into more of a 16-hour production schedule versus an eight-hour production schedule.”
Read MoreAs Hermès continues to navigate the digital age, Ken Feyder's leadership in IT demonstrates that even in a world of advancing technology, the human touch remains at the heart of luxury retail. His approach ensures that while Hermès embraces digital transformation, it never loses sight of the craftsmanship and personal connections that have defined the brand for generations.
Read MoreHe described the firm’s role in financing projects that create jobs, promote equity, and revitalize economically disadvantaged areas. “Whether it’s a low-income community investment program or a renewable energy incentive, we take great joy in seeing businesses flourish and projects fulfill their mission,” he explained.
Read MoreCathy O’Brien’s career trajectory is far from linear - she bounced from Tommy Hilfiger to the music industry to her own branding agency to now CEO of Naturopathica. Her path represents a blended interest in business, media, and creativity.
Read MoreThomas Catalano covers the keynote delivered by Blair Effron, Co-Founder of Centerview Partners, on Sunday, November 5th, 2023 at the 49th International Conference.
Read MoreSee the statistics for the 2023 IC, from the percentage of first-generation low-income students to acceptance rate.
Read MoreSo is it true? Does no one read anymore? Is the book-industry slowly eroding along with our collective intelligence? Thankfully, according to James Daunt, CEO of Barnes and Noble, this claim is “utter nonsense.”
Read MoreOn Sunday, November 5th, James Clavel had the chance to interview Paul Webster, a Managing Partner at Page Executive, a prominent executive recruiting firm in finance.
Read MoreAngelique Bellmer Krembs dives into the driving force behind writing You Should Smile More: How to Dismantle Gender Bias in the Workplace.
Read MoreFrom Princeton to Podcaster, Davena Hoskins dives into the unconventional odyssey of 27 Rogue’s founder Scott Newman.
Read MoreInterview with Lawrence Wu, a principal at venture capital firm Recharge Capital.
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