The Braas Monier Building Group is the world’s leading provider of building materials for pitched roofs as well as innovative roof, chimney, ventilation and residential energy systems. With representation in 36 countries, its operations span four continents. Regional President Asia Pacific & Chief Executive Officer, Malaysia, Marco Francesco Righi, 47, has been instrumental in the developing of the brand’s regional market. He shares his leadership experiences.
What makes your business stand out from the others?
Professionalism, dedication, and the integrity of our employees, consistency of products and service quality, outstanding innovation capabilities, technical competencies, a strong brand and reputation.
What were the most difficult challenges your business has faced and how did that help build your leadership character?
Residential market downturns, organisational restructurings, fierce competition in some markets, critical financial situations: all tough challenges which helped me to develop strong business acumen and awareness on the relevance of having a strong and aligned team to support you in any decision. As an individual you cannot do much, but as a team you can overcome the toughest challenges.
What is your educational background?
Degree in Civil Engineer (Polytechnic of Milan), Master of Business Administration (SDA Bocconi), and Program International Leadership {lnsead). My educational path has been the pillar of my career. Apart from learning skills, it developed and prepared my mindset to face future challenges.
Did you have any role models when you were growing up?
I had mainly negative models and I developed the wish to do something else. It triggered me to be determined to achieve what I aimed for.
Are there any business people you admired? Howard Schultz, the head of Starbucks comes from a poor family, like me. He was able to develop himself with courage, hard work and intelligence.
What characteristics make someone a good leader?
Strong emotional intelligence, capability in understanding strengths and weakness of the team members, positive attitude, outstanding decision making process, accountability and integrity, clear and fair communication. Must be a great motivator, capable of listening and delegating.
What kind of a leader are you?
I believe in ‘working with me and not for me’. I care about people, their emotions and problems. I have been trying to build a working environment where everyone feels free to express opinions. I give respect and I ask for the same. Everything comes from a mix of personality, education and training, but more importantly from what I learnt from other leaders’ behaviors.
How different in terms of personality and leadership style are you to other peers in your industry?
I don’t know much about the leadership style of my peers, but I think my dedication and energy are contagious and it pushes others to perform and behave better.
Can good leadership be taught?
It can be taught, but only with the proper humility can it be learnt. Teaching leadership is a long journey where you have to act always as a role model, a true leader, providing continuous and honest feedback while giving chances to practice and even to make mistakes.
How do you tackle human resource issues?
Any people-related issue should be carefully handled by a well-organised HR Department and any decision should be discussed before it is taken. Human resources is a fundamental department for any company. A good HR department accompanies employees along their career path. A good HR department balances the interests of employees with the interests of the company.
