Phil has more than 24 years’ experience in the fast-moving consumer goods industry in various senior positions. Phil has previously served as COO – Africa for Coca Cola SABCO and as an Executive Director at Tiger Brands.
My Definition Of Success | Success is two-fold. My job is extremely important to me. That said, as I have matured more, my family and caring for others in a meaningful way is reaching heightened focus.
I Am Driven By | I hate losing. I am highly disciplined and somewhat of a perfectionist. High performance outcomes are an imperative.
My Highlights | Meeting my career aspirations, my marriage of 18 years, and my wider family.
The Difference Between Good And Great | Discipline and never accepting mediocrity.
A Key Talent | Being both strategic and operational. Be prepared to take risks, and pursue a non-traditional career. Learn – learn – learn!
Principles I Live By | I believe in hard work, being forthright, and authentic.
How I Use My Mind | You need mental and physical fitness. To the former you need to continuously be expansive in your thinking. Being an avid reader assists this. You literally need to train yourself on this type of integrative thinking ability. To the latter I stay very fit physically. Train at 5 am and cycle on road over weekends.
Lessons I Have Learnt | Judge less. Manage impetuousness. EQ counts a lot! Never compromise on standards. Hiring the best talent is critical. Never compromise integrity.
Dealing With Doubt | I am continuously fearful and anxious. It comes with high performance. I work harder to compensate which may seem counterintuitive. Plan and manage the detail relentlessly. Lean on my family for support.
Performing At My Peak | Keeping my mind and body ‘fit’ and never becoming over confident –hubris.
Resources I Use To Stay Inspired | Business literature, ex CEO’s and mentors.
My Future Dreams And Ambitions | I want to leave Pioneer in much better shape and organizational health that I found it. I may retire early and take on a different career or go on to lead an even bigger corporate.
The Meaning Of Life | We all need purpose. Work defines a lot of who I am. I love my family dearly and want to see them prosper and support them to the hilt. I also support many others financially which is rewarding.
The Best Advice I’ve Received | Don’t be so hard on yourself. Difficult to apply.
On Inspiring Others | I try to inspire them. I create a visualization of the future. I work them really hard and don’t tolerate sub-standard performance. Those that count respond to it well. I try to care about the whole person.
I Am Inspired By | My deceased father. I don’t emulate anyone in particular. There have been many business greats. I am my own man.
The Legacy I Would Like To Leave | Having added value to lives.
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