Romain Picard

Senior vice president EMEA, Cloudera

What has been your business highlight of 2022?

As a business, knowing that throughout 2022 Cloudera's solutions and services helped customers streamline and shift to a greener and more sustainable way of operating is extremely rewarding. Like other world-leading organisations, Cloudera also places immense importance on the ESG part of the business strategy. Therefore, creating a cleaner, greener and more sustainable world. One step at a time, we can do this.

If you were ruler of your own country, what law would you introduce first?

There are many areas of society that I believe need to go through drastic change, to better the world we live in. However, the ones that I believe are of the most urgency to the survival of our world and humankind are global sustainability and the green economy. If I had the power to enforce a law, it would be one based on ensuring that this is a top priority for everyone.

Which channel or tech leader (outside of your own company) has impressed you most in 2022?

I am impressed by Yvon Chouinard, the founder and CEO of Patagonia, who gave his company for Mother Earth.

If you had a warning label, what would it say?

"Warning! Life is precious, moments are fleeting, and opportunities can be rare. Believe in yourself and in what you do and enjoy every moment. Always prioritise your passion and happiness."

What was your first job?

After finishing my degree in international business administration at Fachhochschule Wiesbaden, a University of Applied Sciences, I worked as an account manager in sales for a French supply chain and logistics start-up.

What was the last book you read, and was it any good?

As an avid beekeeper, I am always reading books on how to produce organic honey and develop natural beehives. I have spent years analysing the complex social structures that foster productive communities. I believe leaders should look to these honey-makers for business tips. Playing the long game, innovating processes, harmonising teams and focusing on communication are some leadership lessons that run parallel with the corporate world. When these lessons are applied correctly within a business, they could be the critical ingredients for driving success, innovation, and growth - turning the honey into money.

What is the most important lesson you've learned from another business leader or mentor?

Success is not a destination, it's a journey that ebbs and flows. Be kind, respectful and invest in your colleagues along the way.

Who would play you in a movie of your life?

I would say hopefully a young Harrison Ford during his days as Indiana Jones or Tom Cruise in his Top Gun days.