Purpose
What’s in it for You?

Over the years, I have regularly been asked to provide ‘insights’ and supposed ‘wisdom’ to others about the invaluable lessons that I have acquired throughout my career as a multinational CEO spanning continents, markets and industry segments.

In many ways, I cannot help but feel slightly embarrassed each time I'm asked for these stories. Whether this self‐consciousness comes from my own humility or the ever‐present imposter syndrome that we all seem to suffer from, I remain unsure.

One thing I do know is that I always seem to get positive feedback when I share these stories. From new recruits, eager graduates and hungry apprentices to seasoned executives and senior leaders, from dedicated factory folk to driven agency partners, anyone who cares to listen seems to get something out of it.

I know it sounds like a cliché, but ‘if I knew then what I know now’ I would have been so much better: more capable, more confident, potentially more successful and, most importantly, infinitely happier. So that's why I've written this book.

Will you walk away a completely different person after reading these pages? I very much doubt it.

But let's face it: life is damn hard at the best of times, particularly in the cut and thrust of the corporate world. Whether you're just starting out or you're a battle‐hardened global leader, the demands of business are relentless.

So if you walk away from this book with one or two things that resonate strongly, go on to claim them as your own, and even stamp your leadership style on them, then hey, mission accomplished. If my insights help you to be just that much more self‐assured and self‐equipped for business success, then surely it's a good thing. Enjoy.

Best, Hamish