in Singapore. He has held various international roles in different organisations, and has a deep exposure to marketing, sales and general management in terms of product development, communications and commercial arenas. Inside Retail: Tell me about your career journey. How did you get into the industry, what are some of the different roles you’ve held along the way? Emanuele Stano: Beginning my career on the foundation of mechanical engineering, I quickly gravitated towards marketing and sales, fascinated by the dynamism and direct impact on business growth.  My journey with the Ariston Group has taken me across continents – from spearheading marketing initiatives in the Middle East to steering our strategies in South Africa and Vietnam.  Now, as vice president of Asia Pacific, my role encompasses leading our operations across pivotal markets such as China, India, Vietnam, Indonesia, Australia and Singapore.  It’s a journey that has not only allowed me to climb the corporate ladder but more importantly, to immerse myself in the rich tapestry of cultures and market dynamics that define our global footprint. IR: What are some of the challenges you’ve faced in your career and how have you dealt with them? ES: One of the most enlightening challenges has been navigating the rich diversity of work cultures across the globe.  Each market presents its unique set of challenges but equally, opportunities for growth. The Ariston Group’s ethos of embracing diversity and fostering an inclusive environment has been instrumental.  It’s about creating spaces where different perspectives are not just heard but are integral to our strategy and innovation processes.  This approach has not only been key to overcoming challenges but has fundamentally shaped how we operate as a global brand. IR: What are some of your career highlights so far? ES: Witnessing the professional growth of individuals within the Ariston Group has been immensely rewarding.  There’s a unique sense of accomplishment in mentoring young talents and seeing them evolve into roles where they lead and inspire others.  It’s a testament to the nurturing environment we’ve cultivated at Ariston, where personal and professional development is a shared journey. IR: What do you love about your job? ES: The essence of my role – and what I find most fulfilling – is rooted in the people I work with and the relationships we build.  At Ariston, we believe in moving forward together, where each individual’s contribution is valued and pivotal to our collective success. This philosophy not only enhances our work environment but also drives our innovations and strategies, making every day rewarding. IR: What advice would you give someone who wants to get into your line of work? ES: Embrace your work with passion. Our careers consume a significant part of our lives, so finding joy and satisfaction in what we do is essential. Make your work enjoyable and fulfilling. IR: What are some of the key leadership lessons you’ve picked up over the course of your career? ES: Authenticity and adaptability have been my guiding principles. Leadership means fostering a culture where everyone feels empowered to share ideas and take initiative.  It’s about being genuine in your interactions and flexible enough to navigate the diverse landscapes we operate in. True leadership doesn’t come from imitating others but from understanding your strengths and leveraging them to inspire and guide your team IR: What does a typical day look like for you? ES: My most fulfilling days are those spent outside the office, engaging directly with our teams. These interactions offer invaluable insights into our operations and market dynamics. Office days are packed, but I always look forward to lunch breaks with colleagues – a time to unwind and connect on a personal level. IR: What’s your approach to work-life balance? ES: I love travelling and I dedicate much of my spare time to that. Work is a tool for us to make our life better and to put effort into what we like the most.  On the other hand, as I said, work takes so much of our time that it cannot be considered a sacrifice. Personally I enjoy working, I’m happy to go to the office and meet my colleagues. IR: Do you have any hobbies that help you switch off and stay balanced? ES: Travelling and photography are the biggest passions. I practise sports to try to keep fit (that also helps a lot to work better).