Business Leaders interview: Gianluca Sardo

Tell us a little about yourself and your business

I’m Gianluca Sardo, the President at The Glasshouse in NYC. The Glasshouse is a premier event venue known for its state-of-the-art facilities and unparalleled service. We host a wide range of events, from corporate gatherings to weddings and galas. I’m also involved in other ventures, including Studio Productions, an AV company.

What motivates you in your work and what do you find most fulfilling about being a business leader? 

I’m motivated by the challenge of creating unforgettable experiences for our clients and continuously improving our services. The most fulfilling aspect of being a business leader is seeing the direct impact of our work on clients' satisfaction and success, and fostering a team environment where everyone can thrive and grow.

How did you develop your leadership skills and how would you define your leadership style? 

My leadership skills were honed through a combination of formal education, hands-on experience, and learning from mentors. I would define my leadership style as collaborative and empowering. I believe in giving my team the autonomy to innovate and the support they need to succeed.

Innovating is crucial in our very diverse industry. How do you stay ahead of trends and incorporate them into your global strategy?  

Staying ahead of trends involves continuous learning, networking with industry professionals, and attending industry events. I also make it a point to analyze market data and client feedback to anticipate changes and adapt our strategies accordingly.

What do you consider to be the key component(s) of effective business operational development?  

The key components are clear communication, strategic planning, and continuous improvement. Effective business operations require aligning goals with actionable plans and regularly reviewing processes to identify and implement improvements.

How do you approach identifying areas for improvement within a company's operations?

I use a combination of data analysis, feedback from clients and employees, and benchmarking against industry standards. Regular audits and performance reviews help pinpoint areas that need enhancement.

Where do you think the most promising investments should be focusing on and/or made on?  

The most promising investments should be in technology and innovation, employee development, and expanding our reach to new markets. Investing in these areas ensures we stay competitive and can meet the evolving needs of our clients.

What is or are your biggest career achievement(s)?

One of my biggest achievements is the successful launch and growth of The Glasshouse into one of NYC’s premier event venues. Additionally, expanding Studio Productions has been a significant milestone in my career.

Do you have examples where your leadership made a difference? If so, what were they? 

During the pandemic, we had to pivot quickly to virtual and hybrid events. My leadership in driving this transition allowed The Glasshouse to continue serving clients and even attract new business, despite the challenging circumstances.

What’s the most important leadership lesson you’ve learned? 

The most important lesson is that listening is just as important as leading. Understanding the needs and concerns of your team and clients helps you make better decisions and build stronger relationships.

How did you identify and seize opportunities for advancement in your career? 

I’ve always been proactive in seeking out new challenges and opportunities. By staying informed about industry trends and building a strong professional network, I’ve been able to identify and capitalize on opportunities for growth.

Have you achieved everything you wanted in your career so far?  

While I’m proud of what I’ve accomplished, I believe there’s always more to achieve. I’m constantly setting new goals and looking for ways to expand and innovate within my businesses.

How important is personal development to your success, and how do you approach it? 

Personal development is crucial to my success. I invest time in learning new skills, attending workshops, and seeking mentorship. Staying curious and open to new ideas helps me grow both personally and professionally.

How do you prioritise tasks when everything feels like a priority?  

I prioritize tasks based on their impact and urgency. I use a combination of strategic planning and time management techniques to ensure that the most critical tasks are addressed first, while also delegating effectively to my team.

What was the hardest decision you have taken as a leader?  

One of the hardest decisions I had to make was transitioning from our traditional business model to incorporating more technology-driven solutions. This shift required significant investment and a change in mindset for the entire team. It was challenging to balance the risks and uncertainties of new technology with the need to stay competitive and meet our clients' evolving expectations. However, this decision ultimately positioned us better for future growth and resilience.

What steps do you take to measure your own performance? 

I set clear, measurable goals and regularly review my progress against them. Feedback from my team and clients is also invaluable in assessing my performance and identifying areas for improvement.

What does success mean for you as a business leader?  

Success means creating value for our clients, fostering a positive and productive work environment for my team, and achieving sustainable growth for the business. It’s about making a lasting impact and continuously striving for excellence.