Business Leaders interview: Joao Serio

Tell us a little about yourself and your business. 

I am the Group Hospitality Director at Rise Hospitality. Our business bringing renowned international entertainment and food and beverage brands to the GCC region.

Within our portfolio, we represent a wide range of international brands that offer exceptional social dining experiences.

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

I am motivated by the opportunity to make a positive impact on our industry and community. The most fulfilling aspect of being a business leader is seeing our team and venues grow and succeed and knowing that our work makes a difference.

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

My leadership skills were honed through a combination of military education, amazing mentorship from people I had the luck to work with, and hands-on experience. I would describe my leadership style as collaborative and empowering, frontal and honest, always aiming to bring out the best in my team.

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 and staying connected with industry thought leaders. We incorporate trends into our strategy by fostering a culture of innovation and being agile in our approach to new opportunities.

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

Effective business operational development hinges on clear communication, strategic planning, and continuous improvement. It's essential to align operations with the overall business goals and ensure that every team member understands their role in achieving these objectives.

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

Identifying areas for improvement involves regular performance reviews, gathering feedback from employees and customers, and staying informed about industry best practices. It's about being proactive and open to change.

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

The most promising investments should focus on technology and innovation, sustainability, and talent development. These areas are crucial for long-term growth and competitiveness.

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

One of my biggest career achievements is being able to reach the global scale in what I do, it is incredible to be involved in projects around the globe and see the people that were part of my journey grow with it. 

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

Yes, one example was during covid where we had to close our business and it was only through my close relationship with all the team as well as suppliers and shareholders that we were able to retain all our staff and ensure they were looked after while there was no business

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

The most important leadership lesson I've learned is the value of listening. Understanding the perspectives and needs of your team can lead to better decision-making and a more cohesive work environment.

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

I identified opportunities for advancement by staying curious, seeking out new challenges, and building a strong network of mentors and peers. Seizing these opportunities often involved stepping out of my comfort zone and taking calculated risks.

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

Far from it. While I am proud of what I've achieved, I believe there is always room for growth and new challenges. I am continuously looking for ways to improve and make a greater impact.

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

Personal development is crucial to my success. I approach it by setting clear goals, seeking feedback, and dedicating time to learning and self-improvement. This helps me stay adaptable and effective as a leader.

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

Prioritizing tasks involves assessing their urgency and impact. I focus on what will drive the most significant results and delegate tasks, when possible, to ensure that everything gets the attention it needs. It’s about defining the difference between what’s urgent vs what’s important.

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

The hardest decision I've taken was having to close some of our business due to underperformance and having to let go of staff. It required careful consideration and a balance of empathy and strategic thinking.

What steps do you take to measure your own performance?

I measure my performance by setting my own goals and achievements, making a 30,60,90 days plan and stick to it, I can adjust the road, but never the destination

What does success mean for you as a business leader? 

Success as a business leader means achieving our business goals. It's about making a meaningful impact on our industry and community and seeing our team members thrive.