Robert Yeo

I write about leadership, coaching and productivity. I view writing as a process by which we improve our thinking and learning: writing is the process that helps me figure things out. And conveniently, I view process as crucial to my work and life more broadly. In fact, the quote attributed to the American sculptor Elizabeth King stating “It is only process that saves us from the poverty of our intentions” helps me maintain my focus.

I want to teach, coach and challenge how we think about the problems we face. I have a fairly unique background; I’m a former managing director and chief operating officer in investment banking, and now I’m an executive coach. Too few people with this experience speak out and take the intellectual risk because they have no economic incentive to do so. The vast majority are too busy increasing their wealth to spend time getting into the area of ideas. Unfortunately, this means academics and think tanks that have rarely actually worked in industry or created and run businesses dominate the idea-generating forums of today.

You might ask, why bother? What can you actually change?

Well, for one thing, I think I can provide insight and education by dissecting and explaining topics and by providing alternative solutions and points of view.

And second, I want to remind people of the importance of questioning what they read, hear and see – so as to think differently. When challenged with different opinions and points of view, emphasise discovery, not defence.