In my business assignments, I often produce presentations and create company descriptions or information memorandums to realize the value of companies, as well as their upcoming growth and business development. With a background that combines graphic design, business development, and board membership—along with a track record of several share issues and growth journeys in both listed and growth companies—I possess the ability to identify the right details and craft compelling business narratives.
Additionally, I am someone who always brings an extra level of detail to every meeting.
The cufflinks I wear today are from a semi-independent order of chivalry, linked to one of the former imperial or royal courts in Europe. Take note of the two-barred cross, also known as the Cross of Lorraine. Béla III was the first monarch to use the two-barred cross, a symbol that even appeared on the coinage of the Byzantine Empire during the time of the reign of Emperor Justinian II. This symbol later made its way to Western Europe via the House of Anjou and became known as the Cross of Lorraine. Notably, the Cross of Lorraine was also used as a symbol of Free France during World War II.
In the marketing and public relations strategy for my company, we plan to use ‘FIAT’ chocolates as a strategic token as giveaways during meetings, that embodies my core values: business acumen, communication of values, and a history of proven professionalism. This approach sets the stage for substantive discussions on how my expertise can be utilized in management teams, in the production of effective business communication, and for potential roles on boards of directors to add significant value to their organization.
-You know that feeling—the first drop of rain hits, followed by a pause of a few seconds. Your mind wavers, questioning whether it will rain or not, only to be convinced when a few more drops fall. We turn up our collars and quicken our pace, navigating a slalom around the motorcycles lining Bologna's cobbled streets. As the rain intensifies, our gaze scans the façades, searching for an espresso bar.
In this weather, every foggy window becomes a beacon for espresso bars, making them easy to spot the moment we decide to change direction. We maneuver past motorcycles parked on the curbside, finally stopping in front of an espresso bar distinguished by its red sign and star logotype.
Crossing the obligatory threshold, we find the door standing wide open, as though the lock has never been used. Inside, the atmosphere is lively, cozy, and abuzz with conversation—all beneath high ceilings. The worn stone floor leads us to a queue that ends at a lacquered mahogany counter in true retro style. The bartender, clad in a white uniform and blue bow tie, exudes efficient friendliness. The buzzing pressure of the espresso machine and the hiss of steam serve as the backdrop for the masterpiece being created—an espresso featuring FIAT from Majani.
The Fiat Cremino chocolate, adorned with the classic logo, is produced by Majani, the renowned Italian chocolatier. It was 1911 when FIAT, an acronym for Fabbrica Italiana Automobili Torino, held a competition among Italian chocolate makers. The objective was to invent a new chocolate, and the result was this specialty confection, designed to celebrate the launch of the Fiat Tipo 4 car.
A research trip to Copenhagen aims to enrich upcoming meetings for a variety of external boards of directors (not my ordinary assignements, in this case upcoming new clients), thereby broadening their perspective. Many boards rigidly follow a set agenda, a practice I find insufficient and shall be action based. I believe that board activities and business development initiatives are crucial for increasing shareholder value. The role of a board of directors is not just a ceremonial title; it's a mission to help the company scale and adopt a broader view.
I am exploring Copenhagen to identify a mix of board workshops, cultural experiences, and themed restaurant visits. These elements will be woven into upcoming new clients - the board's developmental agenda, focusing on themes and subjects designed to inspire growth.
This post also highlights the importance of personality. Each board is teeming with unique personalities that contribute to its DNA and, in turn, influence the company's character. How can we draw inspiration from external standout personalities? Moreover, how can we learn from their successes, even if those have been achieved in other sectors of society?
It's always special to enter a board meeting room and get your nameplate. In larger boards with several members and invited adjuncts, it provides the opportunity to increase participation and invite everyone to dialogue and reply, which builds shareholder value and develops the company.
I was hoping for a 7-day series of training, but the combination of travel and board meetings made me re-prioritise. Today I double up, training with extra strength. I still live on and feel the energy from building shareholder values at the week's board meetings. It's almost tie and hat in the gym today.