What I'VE DONE, doesn't reveal Who I AM.
Learn more about my experiences and what drives me below.
I've had an incredible international career with leading consulting and technology firms such as PwC, IBM, Oracle, and KPMG.
Fun facts about me...
Passion for improvement
From childhood to now, I've never settled for the ordinary. Always a step ahead, I've had an eye for better ways of doing things, be it in sports, chores, or even some occasional mischief. This mindset guides me in both my personal and professional life driving me to innovate and excel.
The Traveler
I'm deeply passionate about learning from diverse cultures through travel, although I can sometimes be innocently unaware of potential risks and dangers. For instance, during a 3-month leave from PwC in London, I joined 15 counterparts on an African overland journey from Cape Town to Cairo. This adventure brought unexpected challenges like thefts, breakdowns and extreme weather, transforming me into a seasoned traveler. It taught me valuable lessons in teamwork, cultural understanding, history and empathy. This experience made Survivor look like Club Med.
Keeping Pace
I used to be a competitive runner, but now I prefer leisurely morning jogs with my wife. It's a great way for us to clear our heads and plan our day. Plus, it helps balance out the indulgences from our epicurean habits.
My Spanish kitchen
During my time in Spain, I was fortunate to join my Spanish friends for their traditional Sunday family paella meals. While they enjoyed wine and cigars in the garden, I spent time in the kitchen with their “madres”, learning their secret paella recipes. Now, I impress friends at dinner parties and receive regular requests for my paella contribution.
Balancing act
I’m a true Libra, always striving for balance and inclusion in everything I do. This ethos guides me in both personal and professional realms, contributing to my success in managing teams and fostering collaborative achievements in projects and personal endeavors.
Embracing a global perspective
After my college graduation, I embarked on a 3-month backpacking tour through Europe. It was eye-opening! I discovered that the world is smaller than we think and that we share more similarities than differences. This journey sparked my interest in international work, leading me to my exploration in over 50 countries to date.
Top Chef
In my spare time, I enjoy cooking, delving into the science of food, and discovering unique dining spots. My wife and I avidly follow celebrity chefs, akin to tracking stocks. Our love for food is matched by our appreciation for fine wine. We've collected over 200 bottles from our tasting adventures worldwide, earning our home the nickname "the tasting room" among friends.
Guitar strings and Spanish verbs
I've always loved music and learned to play guitar and other instruments at a very young age. Becoming fluent in a second language was also a goal. Seven years of Spanish in school laid the foundation, but true fluency came during my 2-year international rotation in Madrid while working at PwC. Checking off those life goals!
A close encounter of the worst kind
During a safari in Africa, our pontoon boat nearly capsized when a local driver thought it would be funny to cut off a mother hippo and her calves crossing the estuary. The mother retaliated, grabbing a pontoon and nearly flipping our 2-story boat. Lesson learned: Respect the natural environment, especially when it involves African hippos!
Career shape shifting
In 2024, I’ve shifted from corporate life to carve my own path. I've moved from a vendor relationship to a problem-solving role, aiming to deliver value by merging consultancy and software solutions. Taking ownership, I measure outcomes to benefit my clients effectively.
Let's Talk
I'm here to assist you every step of the way. Let me know what you need help with, and I'll make sure the process is efficient. Don't hesitate to reach out!
Have a question?
Email me at dean@crtnadvisory.com