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'They Did Matter'
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My Mentors
Life can be challenging, and being a leader is often one of the most demanding roles. Being a leader is one of the most demanding and, at times, lonely roles anyone can take on. Unfortunately, leaders cannot share their burdens with just anyone. This is why having a mentor is so important—find someone you respect, know well enough to confide in and consider a leader in their own right. I have been fortunate to have multiple mentors throughout my long journey. Their advice, guidance, encouragement, and constructive criticism have significantly and positively impacted my growth.
Let me introduce you to four mentors; they truly made a difference in my journey.
David F
David was a remarkable individual known for his versatility and integrity. He could remove an engine from a Land Rover, pilot a plane from his Zambian landing strip, and prepare a wild beast for dinner, all while excelling at tennis. I admired his skills and his positive attitude toward challenges.
Born in Zambia, David thrived in Africa. His deep understanding of the continent and its people made him a respected leader in African businesses. His openness and honesty impressed me, showcasing his exceptional integrity.
He taught me that effective leaders should focus on
what works well rather than what doesn’t.
Jim C
Jim’s leadership transformed the UK business remarkably. He selected a strong management team and motivated everyone to exceed expectations through hard work and persistence. Jim led from the front.
The business shifted from inefficiency and low morale to being one of the most profitable in the Global Group.
I was fortunate to be his second-in-command as we tackled challenges together.
Jim taught me to lead confidently and how to turn a sow's ear into a silk purse.
'Willie' T
Willie was an early advocate of "management by walking about," embodying the Grand Old Gentleman image with a red carnation in his lapel. He greeted everyone by name and ensured his apprentices received thorough training in all departments. He sent us on the "Outward Bound" course to learn winter survival skills and offered paid time off for further studies.
As a director of two large UK banks, a member of the Scottish Tourism Board, and President of the Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce, Willie established "The Thyne Scholarship," enabling young people to travel, broaden their perspectives, and explore their vocations.
He taught me that being
a leader goes beyond simply being a boss!
Alan G
I met Alan accidentally one Sunday morning
while on holiday, 30 minutes later -
he offered me a job - and I accepted! Based on a simple handshake, we moved 300 kilometres away to a new city, it transformed my life.
Alan led by example and supported others.
This charismatic leader often got his hands dirty, driving trucks, sweeping floors, and making coffee. He prioritised helping before taking on his CEO role, dedicating himself to the success of his employees while teaching other leaders to take responsibility for their teams.
Alan instilled self-belief in me and gave me my first management opportunity. He mentored many, and I was lucky to be one of them.
"Wisdom only comes with age, but age is no guarantee that you'll become wise.
However, growing older does mean you probably are becoming a little less stupid.
A mentor is like good whisky - they age well!" (from 'it does matter.')
Thinking
"Employing people is the most important thing a leader does. Be prepared to pay them more than you budgeted, or don't hire them!"
"Enjoyed 'it does matter' and found it very helpful. I got a bit lost in some technical detail, but I like the way the Author kept emphasising his message. I've never come across a book before that was so well printed and bound - it'll last 100 years!"
Michael -
Welton, Lincs.
Buy My Book!
'it
does
matter'
