Leaders on a Mission: Rick Greubel, Board Executive & Operating Director, Paine Schwartz Partners, Episode 1

I launched the leaders on a mission podcast to share the inspiration and journey of leaders, who are creating impact and contribution to humanity by creating a healthier world.

In today’s episode I was joined by Rick Greubel to launch our first leaders on a mission podcast.  Rick is testament to good guys do win, with his warm, engaging, and down to earth approach. He has a unique background, having worked globally across the food value chain in both multinational and start up environments living and working in; Argentina, Brazil, Singapore, Switzerland, US and Israel.

Rick reflects and shares the leadership philosophies and value systems which were heavily influenced by his immigrant parents who came to the US with no money and not being able to speak the language.  Rick explains about the perceived nature of risk, and whenever faced with difficult career decisions, that on first glance, looked risky, was able to rationalise through the eyes of his father, who had taken “real risk”.

Rick talks about how on moving to Brazil, for a high-profile job whilst not speaking the language, helped create a paradigm shift in his communication and listening skills. He talks about the real mission and personal drivers to bring sustainable and healthy food and nutritional products to the marketplace and improving the lives of farmers. Rick discusses the differences and transition challenges between working for global multinationals, to a cash strapped start-up venture.

Rick was a fantastic first guest, and a real pleasure to talk with.