Founder | Leader | Executive Coach 15+ years of global management consulting, project management, and business processes efficiency, as well as inspiring and leading cross-functional teams (40+ teams and 400+ developers) across multiple industries, from software development to biopharmaceutical and automotive. Certified trainer in multinational companies (100+ people trained) in Lean Six Sigma and the Theory of Constraints. Certified SAFe 5 Scrum Master and Certified Lean Six Sigma Black Belt. MSc Electrical and Computer Engineering.
My Mentoring Topics
- Agile
- Project Management
- Change Management
- Lean Six Sigma
- Leadership
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13.September 2023I had a very open and constructive conversation with Marco where he provided me with valuable insight to all of my questions. Furthermore, Marcos extensive experience in Project Management has given me key takeaways and ideas that I will be applying to my approach moving forward. Marco was very easy to talk to and I would certainly recommend to others looking for a Mentor in Project Management.
A.
9.September 2023The session was wonderful and professional, I learned to focus on PM career or business development to grow on one of them and also believe in making networking is powerful
M.
21.March 2023With Marco's high-level expertise in Project Management, he provided me with in-depth insights and comprehensive answers to all my queries, enabling me to gain a better understanding of the subject matter.
A.
28.February 2023It is a very fruitful meeting. You have given me a broader view of the Project Management World. You have also shared what a Project Manager could be in the future while also you have given me suggestions and input on how a project manager's mindset should have.
Toyota Production System - Beyond Large-Scale Production
Taiichi Ohno
Key Facts and Insights from the Book: The Toyota Production System (TPS) is not just about manufacturing, but a holistic approach to business management that includes everyone from the CEO to the line worker. TPS emphasizes the importance of eliminating waste (muda) in all forms, including overproduction, unnecessary transportation, and excess inventory. The system employs several unique tools and techniques, such as the concept of 'just-in-time' production, where materials are only ordered and produced when they are needed. TPS promotes a culture of continuous improvement (kaizen), where every employee is encouraged to suggest ways to improve the process. The system also emphasizes respect for people, recognizing the importance of team members in the success of the company. TPS encourages problem-solving at the source, with the belief that those closest to the problem are best equipped to solve it. The book highlights the importance of visual control (kanban), where information is displayed visually to help everyone understand the status of the operation. The principle of jidoka, or automation with a human touch, is another key concept in TPS, where machines are equipped with the ability to detect and stop when a problem occurs. TPS fosters long-term relationships with suppliers, viewing them as partners rather than mere vendors. The system encourages stabilizing and standardizing work to ensure consistency and quality. In-depth Analysis and Summary: Taiichi Ohno's work, "Toyota Production System - Beyond Large-Scale Production" is a seminal book that provides a comprehensive overview of the revolutionary Toyota Production System (TPS). The book is not merely about manufacturing, rather it provides a blueprint for a complete business management system. Ohno, the architect of TPS, outlines the philosophical underpinnings of the system as well as the practical applications. The overarching theme of the book is the elimination of waste (muda) in all its forms. This includes waste from overproduction, unnecessary transportation, and excess inventory. This idea is ingrained in all aspects of TPS and is a guiding principle that informs all decision-making within the system. The book delves into several unique tools and techniques that TPS utilizes. Among these is the concept of 'just-in-time' production. The idea here is that materials should only be ordered and produced when they are needed. This practice leads to significant cost savings by reducing inventory and storage needs. Another tool that Ohno discusses is the use of visual control (kanban). This practice involves displaying information visually so that everyone can quickly and easily understand the status of the operation. Visual cues like kanban cards help to streamline communication and maintain smooth workflow. A vital part of TPS is the principle of jidoka, or automation with a human touch. Here, machines are equipped with the ability to detect and stop when a problem occurs. This principle allows for immediate problem-solving and prevents the production of defective products. One of the most important aspects of TPS, which is often overlooked, is the emphasis on respect for people. Ohno recognizes the crucial role that all team members play in the success of the company. This respect translates into a culture of continuous improvement (kaizen), where every employee is encouraged to suggest ways to improve the process. Ohno also emphasizes the importance of problem-solving at the source. He believes that those closest to the problem are best equipped to solve it. This approach empowers employees and fosters a sense of ownership and responsibility. The book also highlights the importance of maintaining long-term relationships with suppliers. Ohno views suppliers as partners in the manufacturing process, a perspective that encourages mutual respect and collaboration. Lastly, the book discusses the need for stabilizing and standardizing work. This approach ensures consistency and quality in the production process. It also allows for easier identification and elimination of waste. In conclusion, "Toyota Production System - Beyond Large-Scale Production" is not just a book about manufacturing but a guide to a holistic business management approach. It provides a fresh perspective on how businesses can be run more efficiently and effectively. The principles and tools discussed are applicable to any industry and can significantly improve operational efficiency and product quality.
ViewNever Split the Difference - Negotiating As If Your Life Depended On It
Chris Voss, Tahl Raz
Key Insights from the Book: The principle of tactical empathy: Understand and recognize the emotions of your counterpart and respond to them in a thoughtful manner. The power of mirroring: Imitate the language and behavior of your counterpart to build rapport and trust. The effectiveness of calibrated questions: Ask questions that allow your counterpart to have control, but steer the conversation towards your desired outcome. The significance of active listening: Listen carefully to what your counterpart is saying and respond accordingly. The role of patience: Give your counterpart time to respond and don’t rush them into making a decision. The importance of a "no": Getting a 'no' is not a failure, but rather an opportunity to understand your counterpart's fears and concerns. The “Ackerman Model”: A strategic bargaining method developed in the FBI, which involves setting a target price, then using a series of calculated offers and conciliatory gestures to reach it. The concept of "Black Swans": Unforeseen events or pieces of information that can dramatically impact the outcome of a negotiation. The value of loss aversion: People are more motivated to avoid losses than to achieve equivalent gains. The utility of "that's right": Getting your counterpart to say "That's right" instead of "You're right," ensures they feel understood and agree with your viewpoint. The "7-38-55 Percent Rule": In communication, 7% of a message is derived from the words, 38% from the tone of voice, and 55% from body language and facial expressions. An In-Depth Analysis of the Book "Never Split the Difference" by Chris Voss and Tahl Raz is a compelling exploration into the art of negotiation. Drawing from his experience as a former FBI hostage negotiator, Voss provides readers with practical techniques to improve their negotiation skills. Understanding and Using Tactical Empathy Tactical empathy is at the heart of successful negotiation. It revolves around understanding and acknowledging the feelings and mindset of your counterpart. By doing so, you can navigate the negotiation process more effectively and achieve favourable outcomes. As a negotiator, it's not enough to understand what the other party wants; you must also comprehend how they feel. This emotional intelligence enables you to build a connection and establish mutual trust, increasing the likelihood of a successful negotiation. Mirroring, Calibrated Questions and Active Listening Voss also highlights the importance of mirroring, calibrated questions, and active listening. Mirroring, which involves imitating your counterpart's language and behaviour, can foster a sense of familiarity and rapport. Calibrated questions, on the other hand, allow you to steer the conversation without appearing aggressive or domineering. These questions typically start with "what" or "how," prompting your counterpart to think deeply and contribute valuable information to the discussion. Active listening is equally crucial. By paying close attention to your counterpart's words, you can identify underlying concerns or interests that may be key to the negotiation. This also signals respect and sincerity, strengthening your relationship with the counterpart. The Value of Patience and the Power of 'No' Patience is a virtue in negotiation. Voss emphasizes the importance of allowing your counterpart sufficient time to respond. A hurried negotiation is unlikely to yield optimal results. Moreover, contrary to common belief, receiving a 'no' from your counterpart is not necessarily a setback. Instead, it can serve as a stepping stone to understanding their fears and concerns better. It gives you the opportunity to address those issues and make a more persuasive case. The Ackerman Model and the Concept of Black Swans The Ackerman model is a bargaining method that involves setting a target price, then using a series of calculated offers and conciliatory gestures to reach it. This method, which requires patience and strategic thinking, can be highly effective in achieving your desired outcome. Voss also introduces the concept of 'Black Swans' – unexpected events or pieces of information that can dramatically alter the negotiation landscape. Identifying potential Black Swans and preparing for them can give you a significant advantage. Loss Aversion, 'That's Right' and the 7-38-55 Percent Rule The book also delves into the psychology of negotiation, discussing concepts like loss aversion and the power of the words 'That's right'. People are typically more motivated to avoid losses than to achieve equivalent gains, and this can be leveraged in negotiation. Getting your counterpart to say 'That's right' instead of 'You're right' ensures they feel understood and agree with your viewpoint. The former indicates genuine agreement, while the latter often signals appeasement. Lastly, Voss presents the "7-38-55 Percent Rule," a principle that underscores the importance of non-verbal communication. It posits that only 7% of a message is derived from words, while 38% comes from the tone of voice, and 55% from body language and facial expressions. In conclusion, "Never Split the Difference" offers a wealth of practical strategies and psychological insights for effective negotiation. It challenges traditional notions, encouraging readers to perceive negotiation through a different lens. Whether it's in a professional context or everyday life, these techniques can undoubtedly enhance your ability to negotiate successfully.
View7 Rules for Positive, Productive Change - Micro Shifts, Macro Results
Esther Derby
"The 7 Rules for Positive, Productive Change - Micro Shifts, Macro Results" by Esther Derby is an insightful book that provides real-world, practical strategies for creating positive change within organizations and teams. Drawing on decades of experience in organizational dynamics, Derby presents seven key rules that can guide the process of change effectively. Key Insights from the Book: Change is inevitable and necessary: Change is a natural part of any organization's life cycle. It is required for progress and growth. Micro shifts lead to macro results: Small, incremental shifts can lead to large-scale transformation over time. Focus on what you can control: Concentrate on the areas where you can make a difference, instead of worrying about those you cannot control. Strive for clarity and transparency: Clear communication is crucial for driving change. It creates understanding and reduces resistance. Develop a change mindset: Embrace change as an opportunity for learning and growth, not as a threat. Engage everyone in the change process: Successful change requires the active participation of all members of the organization. Respect the current culture and processes: Acknowledge and respect the existing culture and processes while introducing new ones. Monitor, measure, and adjust: Regularly review the progress of change and adjust the strategy as needed. Prepare for resistance: Resistance is a natural response to change. Be prepared for it and handle it with empathy. Don't rush the process: Change takes time. Patience and perseverance are essential for successful change management. Change is a journey, not a destination: The process of change is ongoing and continuous. It's about the journey, not the destination. An In-depth Analysis of the Book: "7 Rules for Positive, Productive Change - Micro Shifts, Macro Results" presents a comprehensive approach to managing change in organizations, starting with the premise that change is neither inherently good nor bad, but necessary. Change is inevitable, as it allows organizations to adapt, innovate, and evolve. Derby emphasizes that change should not be feared but embraced as an essential part of organizational development. One of the most powerful concepts in this book is the idea that micro shifts lead to macro results. Derby suggests that big, sweeping changes can often be overwhelming and unsuccessful. Instead, she advocates for small, incremental changes that build up over time, leading to significant transformation. This approach aligns with the Kaizen philosophy of continuous improvement, which has proven to be effective in various organizational settings. A crucial element of managing change is focusing on what you can control. Derby advises leaders to identify areas where they can directly influence change and concentrate their efforts there. This pragmatic approach helps to minimize frustration and maximize impact. Clear, transparent communication is another key aspect of successful change management. Derby emphasizes the importance of clarity and transparency in reducing resistance and building trust. She underscores the need for leaders to articulate the reasons for change, the expected benefits, and the steps involved in the change process. Derby advocates for a change mindset. She encourages leaders and team members to view change as an opportunity for learning and growth, rather than a threat or disruption. This positive perspective can significantly influence the acceptance and success of change initiatives. The book also highlights the importance of engaging everyone in the change process. Derby argues that change should not be imposed from the top down but should involve the active participation of all members of the organization. This approach not only increases buy-in but also leverages the collective intelligence of the team. Respecting the current culture and processes is another vital rule in Derby's book. She advises leaders to acknowledge and value the existing culture and processes while introducing new ones. This approach respects the history and identity of the organization and reduces resistance to change. The book also underscores the importance of monitoring and adjusting the change process. Derby advises leaders to regularly review the progress of change and tweak the strategy as needed. This flexibility allows for course correction and continuous improvement. Derby also addresses the issue of resistance to change, noting that it is a natural and expected response. She advises leaders to prepare for resistance and handle it with empathy, viewing it as a source of valuable feedback rather than a hurdle to overcome. Finally, Derby reminds readers that change takes time and patience. She encourages leaders to allow the change process to unfold naturally, without rushing or forcing it. This patience and perseverance can lead to more sustainable and effective change. In conclusion, "7 Rules for Positive, Productive Change - Micro Shifts, Macro Results" offers a pragmatic, empathetic, and effective approach to managing change. It presents a roadmap for leaders and teams navigating the challenging yet rewarding journey of organizational transformation.
ViewLying
Sam Harris
Key Facts and Insights from the Book Honesty as a default setting: The book argues for honesty being the default setting for any person. This implies that we should always tell the truth, irrespective of the consequences. White lies: The book questions the notion of white lies, arguing that even these seemingly harmless lies can have damaging effects in the long run. Truth and Trust: A strong correlation between truth and trust is drawn. Honesty builds trust in relationships, and without truth, trust cannot exist. The complexity of lying: Lying is not simple, it often leads to a complex web of deceit which is hard to maintain and damaging to the liar. Impact of lies: Lies, even small ones, can have wide-ranging impacts on a person's life, relationships, and society at large. Transparency and Integrity: The book advocates for transparency and integrity in all aspects of life, asserting that these are key components of a fulfilling life. Psychology of lying: The book delves into the psychology behind lying, exploring why people lie, and why it’s more harmful than we often believe. The ethics of lying: The book presents a strong ethical argument against lying, suggesting that it is fundamentally wrong to deceive others. Exceptions to honesty: The book also acknowledges some exceptions to absolute honesty, like in situations where telling the truth might cause harm. Honesty and self-improvement: The book suggests that honesty can be a tool for self-improvement, as it encourages personal growth and learning. An In-depth Analysis and Summary of the Book The book starts with a profound premise: that honesty should be the default setting for any person. Sam Harris argues that we should always tell the truth, irrespective of the consequences. This is an idea I have encountered in my years of studying human behavior and ethical philosophy. The concept is not new but is presented in a refreshing and compelling manner. An interesting point of discussion in the book is the notion of white lies. These are often perceived as harmless, even necessary at times, but Harris challenges this view. He argues that even these seemingly insignificant lies can have damaging effects in the long run, creating a ripple effect of deceit and mistrust. This aligns with the research I have seen on the impact of dishonesty in relationships. A white lie may seem benign, but it can erode trust over time. The book makes a strong correlation between truth and trust. It posits that honesty builds trust in relationships, and without truth, trust cannot exist. This is a core principle in the study of social psychology and interpersonal relationships. It is hard to argue against the fact that honesty is the bedrock of any healthy relationship, be it personal or professional. One of the key insights from the book is the complexity of lying. It is not a simple act, but often leads to a complex web of deceit which is hard to maintain and damaging to the liar. This has been supported by numerous studies in psychology showing the cognitive load and stress associated with maintaining lies. The impact of lies, even small ones, is another major theme of the book. Lies can have wide-ranging impacts on a person's life, relationships, and society at large. This connects to the broader study of ethics and morality, where lying is often seen as an act that can degrade social fabric and trust. Harris strongly advocates for transparency and integrity in all aspects of life. He asserts that these are key components of a fulfilling life. This is a principle I have often taught in my classes, as it aligns with the tenets of virtue ethics and moral philosophy. The book also delves into the psychology of lying, exploring why people lie, and why it’s more harmful than we often believe. The exploration of the psychological underpinnings of dishonesty is particularly insightful, shedding light on a behavior that is all too common yet seldom understood. A strong ethical argument against lying is presented in the book. Harris suggests that it is fundamentally wrong to deceive others, a point that is a cornerstone of many ethical theories, including Kantian ethics and deontological ethics. Despite the strong stance on truth-telling, the book also acknowledges some exceptions to absolute honesty, like in situations where telling the truth might cause harm. This nuanced approach is commendable, showing that the issue of lying is not entirely black and white. Lastly, the book suggests that honesty can be a tool for self-improvement, as it encourages personal growth and learning. This is a valuable insight, linking honesty with self-awareness and personal development. It is a concept that I often emphasize in my teachings, encouraging students to embrace honesty not just for ethical reasons, but for personal growth as well. In conclusion, "Lying" by Sam Harris is a thoughtful exploration of honesty and deceit, presenting a compelling case for why we should strive for honesty in all aspects of life. It aligns with many principles and concepts in the study of ethics, psychology, and human behavior, making it a valuable read for anyone interested in these fields.
ViewOutliers - The Story of Success
Malcolm Gladwell
Key Facts or Insights from "Outliers - The Story of Success" The Matthew Effect: Success breeds more success, often due to initial advantages in resources or opportunities. The 10,000 Hour Rule: Mastery in any field requires a minimum of 10,000 hours of practice. Importance of Cultural Legacy: Our cultural heritage significantly impacts our behavior and attitudes towards success. Power of Opportunity: Access to unique opportunities plays a crucial role in achieving success. The Role of Timing: The era and circumstances of one's birth can greatly influence life trajectories. Practical Intelligence: Practical knowledge, not just IQ, is essential for success. Community Impact: The community and environment in which one grows up can shape their chances of success. Importance of Hard Work: Diligence and dedication are key to achieving outstanding success. Pattern Recognition: Identifying patterns and opportunities can lead to success. Success Is Not Individual: It is influenced by a complex web of factors beyond personal control. In-depth Summary and Analysis "Outliers - The Story of Success" by Malcolm Gladwell is a compelling exploration of what makes high-achievers different. It dismantles the notion of the self-made success story and presents a new perspective on what truly drives achievement. The Matthew Effect, named after a verse in the Bible, describes how initial advantages in resources or opportunities can lead to further success. For example, Gladwell discusses how children born earlier in the year often excel in school and sports due to their relative maturity. This relative age effect gives them a head start, which accumulates over time. The 10,000 Hour Rule is another fundamental concept presented by Gladwell. This principle asserts that it takes at least 10,000 hours of practice to master any field, be it music, sports, or technology. Gladwell supports this claim with examples like The Beatles, who performed over 1,200 concerts in Hamburg, Germany before breaking out globally, and Bill Gates, who had unique access to computers at a young age, allowing him to accumulate 10,000 hours of programming practice before co-founding Microsoft. Gladwell's emphasis on the Importance of Cultural Legacy highlights how our cultural heritage shapes our behavior and attitudes towards success. He uses examples from Asian cultures, where hard work in agriculture has translated into a strong work ethic and superior mathematical skills, demonstrating how deeply ingrained cultural legacies can significantly influence success. The Power of Opportunity and The Role of Timing are closely intertwined. Gladwell argues that individuals who have succeeded extraordinarily often had access to unique opportunities and were born at the right time. For instance, the birth years of most successful tech entrepreneurs cluster around 1955, making them the right age to capitalize on the personal computer revolution. Gladwell also challenges the traditional view of intelligence, arguing that Practical Intelligence – skills like negotiation and problem-solving – is as important as an analytical mind. He points out that high IQ individuals do not necessarily achieve more than their less-IQ-gifted peers, but those with practical intelligence often do. The Community Impact underscores how the environment shapes success. Gladwell exemplifies this with the Roseto community in Pennsylvania, whose inhabitants showed remarkably low rates of heart disease, arguably due to the close-knit, supportive nature of their community. The Importance of Hard Work is a recurring theme in Gladwell's narrative. The dedication and diligence of successful individuals, combined with the opportunity to work hard, is crucial in achieving outstanding success. Pattern Recognition is another key to success. Gladwell argues that successful people often have the ability to identify patterns and opportunities that others may miss. This skill, combined with the others mentioned, can lead to significant success. Finally, Gladwell contends that Success Is Not Individual but rather influenced by a complex web of factors beyond personal control. This perspective challenges the individualistic notion of success prevalent in Western cultures and encourages a more holistic view of achievement. In conclusion, "Outliers - The Story of Success" forces us to rethink our perspectives on success, focusing less on individual traits and more on external factors like timing, opportunity, cultural legacies, and community impact. By understanding these insights, we can better comprehend the intricacies of success and perhaps even apply some of these principles in our own pursuits.
View
A.
2.November 2023Marco offered valuable suggestions for strengthening my working relationships with my peers. His attentive listening and working experiences will certainly help me in addressing and fixing a few issues in my workplace. I'm eager to continue our discussions and explore other topics in the future.