Robert Reton (MBA ’89) on the Reward of Global Journeys
Robert Reton’s varied career experiences leads him to believe “the journey is the reward.”
Robert Reton (MBA ’89) currently serves as manager of business development in Latin America for Nortek Security & Control, a company behind a suite of wireless technology and products.
Along the way, Reton has held a series of positions around the globe, including managing a cigar operation in the Dominican Republic and multiple roles with Diebold.
In a recent Q&A posted to Darden’s The Network section, Reton discusses leading global teams, his view of leadership and staying open to new opportunities.
I believe that attitude is more important than experience, knowledge or languages (although those things can be very helpful). You will never truly fit in and be one of the locals, so don’t try to be what you are not. Be open minded, flexible, adaptive, sensitive and respectful. Have the ability to realize that sometimes “the way we do it back home” may actually be the best way to do it locally, but work on how to persuade others that it is.
About UVA Darden School of Business
The University of Virginia Darden School of Business prepares responsible global leaders through unparalleled transformational learning experiences.
Darden's graduate degree programs and Executive Education & Lifelong Learning programs offered by the Darden School Foundation set the stage for a lifetime of career advancement and impact.
