Gucci CEO Marco Bizzarri shares his knowledge about fashion
This is what the Italian manager told to Bocconi University students in Milan
Given his bright career by luxurious and popular brands such as Bottega Veneta and Stella McCartney, no one better than the current Gucci CEO Marco Bizzarri could give useful tips to aspiring managers.
Characterized by an appreciated down-to-earth attitude and a simple language, Mr Bizzarri told the students the lessons he learnt during his professional path, without neglecting significant anecdotes.
The first rule is to dream without boundaries. In fact, after his graduation he wanted to work at Accenture. Although he had neither contacts nor references, he decided to try anyway. He called the company, persuaded the secretary to schedule an interview and at the end he was successfully hired. Furthermore, after only four years he became an executive.
The second rule he learnt is to be strong. Especially with people who have been spoiled and are not very keen to refusals, if you have your own idea and you think it is valid, you need to support it until the end. This is what happened while Bizzarri was working at Stella McCartney. H&H asked for a cooperation but Miss Stella did not agree. The Italian manager vigorously insisted, convincing her and the joint collection was very successful.
Thirdly, one should never be scared of brilliant colleagues. They should be regarded as a model and as a way challenge ourselves continuously. In fact, Mr Bizzarri argues that a CEO should keep his position for five years maximum and then look for other inputs.
Last but not least, it is better to make a mistake for the own decisions rather than to be fired for someone else's choice. The previous executives at Gucci were fired all together because they were undertaking a non-fruitful path all together. Mr Bizzarri has revolutionized the company, promoting a new model based on digital and creativity. Fearless, he declared "change needs to be deep, substantial and not cosmetic".
Hopefully, these bold tips will lead some future managers to the success Mr Bizzarri enjoys now.
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