Interview with Nicola Diodovich

Company: Diodovich s.a.s.
Location: Milano, Italy
Position: CEO

Where did you learn the basics of running a business?
I learnt the basics of running a business working in executive roles in very successful companies having the “customer first” objective. I have been developing the capacity in taking risks since I was young, and thanks to my personal entrepreneurial spirit, I started my own business and I am still enlarging it.

Whom did you work with before becoming a Consultant?
I spent a great part of my professional career (17 years) in the human resources area with IBM as a compensation & benefits specialist and with Sperry Univac covering all areas concerning HR management and organisation.
Later, as a consultant, I worked with two companies (Telos/Deloitte Consulting and Studio Ambrosetti) being involved in some of the most important projects related to strategy, organisation, HR development in major Italian groups such as Fiat, Montedison, 3M … and then I started my own business (1984).

What will you do in ten years?
Even if I will be “senior-senior” it is my strong intention to continue my job in order to face my challenges and “feed my brain”.

What kind of people do you like to work with?
I like to work with result oriented people who also have enthusiasm, optimism and a sense of humour and enjoy life; indeed I like efficient people who can challenge me and in this way help my personal and professional growth.

Is there someone whom you would describe as intelligent?
In my opinion “intelligent” is anyone who knows and efficiently practices how to listen, understand and respect others. “Simplify complexity”.

After working many years as a consultant you managed many projects. Are there really special ones among them?
Our clients are mainly multinational companies and we are often involved in merger & acquisition projects (strategy – organisation and HR management).
Among the projects developed in the past years, the ones that gave me the most added value and satisfaction are:
- Advisory for the strategic and organisational alignment of a TLC service company acquired by a Swiss energy group
- Assessment of top management and key people of an Italian TV/media company acquired by an international TV/media top player (Sky)
- Executive search programme (top and key people) for a leading supplier of high precision components owned by hedge funds; (the company tripled the manpower in 3 years and is very successful)

Why is your company a member of IMCN?
These are the reasons why:
- to be part of a very highly professional network to effectively contribute to international projects
- to have the opportunity to exchange professional experience in a multicultural environment
- to increase my business offer to customers who have international operations

Which is your favourite motto?
“If you can dream it, you can do it.” (Walt Disney)