People Are the Most Important Asset - Paul Aversano

Branch Out - A Podcast from Connection Builders

People are at the center of almost every business, whether clients, employees or a combination of both. This is even more true in the professional services industry, where a people-focused approach is essential to success. However, it is not always clear what a people-centered approach is and how to establish it in your organization’s culture. In today’s episode, we speak to Paul Aversano, a Managing Director and Global Practice Leader at Alvarez & Marsal, a top consulting firm with more than 5,000 team members worldwide. Paul has over 25 years of experience in the sector, leading financial and accounting due diligence projects for complicated public and private company transactions, including capital markets.

In our conversation, Paul shares what qualities he thinks drive success, the value of a people-focused approach, and much more. We start by learning about Paul’s professional background and a moment that propelled him into his current career. Then, we discuss why clients and people should be the focus of any business, the Alvarez & Marsal approach, and mentality to serving clients, how to build a work culture focused on the clients, and what it takes to be successful within the professional services sector. He also shares his approach and style to leadership, why he thinks reading is essential to success, and advice for young professionals.

Key Points From This Episode:

• We start by learning about Paul’s background and professional career journey.
• How a small moment led to greater opportunities in his career.
• Paul explains why he thinks clients and people should be a priority in professional services.
• The value of a people-focused approach to a company or organization.
• Why he thinks the focus should be on servicing clients with the right people.
• Paul breaks down the Alvarez & Marsal approach and mentality to serving clients.
• How to build a business culture that is people and relationship-focused.
• An outline of his leadership philosophy and style.
• What essential lessons Paul has learned during his career
• He shares a story about a significant lesson he learned as a mid-level manager.
• A detailed explanation of what he means by, ‘having a positive mentality.’
• He delves into how a learning mindset is helpful to your career.
• Learn why the element of ‘grit’ is so important for Paul.
• A final takeaway message regarding relationships that he has for listeners.

Paul Aversano
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Alvarez & Marsal
Alvarez & Marsal on LinkedIn
Binghamton University
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Goldman Sachs: The Culture of Success
Connection Builders
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