Richard C.
About me
| Richard C. | |
| Chemistry | |
| Chemistry and Industry | |
| Undergraduate | |
| Derwent | |
| 1987 | |
| United Kingdom |
My employment
| Regional Director MEIA - Emerging Markets | |
| Jotun Paint | |
| United Arab Emirates | |
| Engineering and manufacturing |
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A day in the life of a Regional Director MEIA - Emerging Markets in the United Arab Emirates
I struggled to know what I wanted to do. Not everyone can follow a passion that offers a decent living so my recommendation is to check out some good companies which will invest in developing you and give you potential to grow.
Briefly describe the organisation you work for
Jotun Paint is a global top 10 paint company
What do you do?
I run our companies in the emerging markets across Africa and South Asia. This involves responsibility for the profitabiltiy, people, operations and our partners when present.
Reflecting upon your past employment and education, what led you to your current career choice?
I qualified as a chemist but felt more suited to a commercial role. I started as a graduate trainee which give me a wide experience of operations, purchasing and finally I settled in sales and marketing. Moving into management, I then managed our UK/Ireland and Jotun India companies. This has now led to a regional role.
Is your current job sector different from what you thought you would enter when you graduated?
No
Describe your most memorable day at work
Each day currently is pretty memorable as we deal with Covid-19. Starting as the Managing Director in 2004 was a great experience and meeting my new team. These roles can create a great journey in life of exploration, learning and developing others.
Are there any challenges associated with your job?
Challenges make the day go fast! The complexities of managing remote teams in countries which are difficult to operate and succeed in - from South Africa to Pakistan and Algeria for example.
What’s your work environment and culture like?
It's one of the best. It is casual and balances work with life. We are a large family owned company of over 10,000 employees but the company retains its family value - care, loyalty and respect. It also has a value of boldness for seeking growth and development. I am based in Dubai but travel extensively.
What extracurricular activities did you undertake at university and what transferable skills did you develop through these?
I Chaired Derwent JCRC when it was in financial crisis. We staged three large events culminating in the Derwent BBQ incolving 800 heads to feed and 14 bands on 3 stages. Despite our outdoor stage being shut by the local authorities for too much noise, we made enough money to get back on track and pay back the loans.
What would you like to do next with your career?
I would like to carry on seeing the world and manage the development of companies. There's always interesting opportuntities as long as we can demonstrate progress.
What top tips do you have for York students preparing for today’s job market and life after graduation?
I struggled to know what I wanted to do. Not everyone can follow a passion that offers a decent living so my recommendation is to check out some good companies which will invest in developing you and give you potential to grow. Once you experience different roles, you will hopefully find your forte.
What topics from students are you happy to answer questions on?
Industry, chemicals, sales and marketing, trade groups and lobbying, Business in Europe, Asia and Africa
Next steps...
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