The Global Executive's Journey: Pedro Pereira da Silva on Leadership and Life (Portugal)

Send us Fan MailMeet Pedro Pererira da Silva, a Portuguese international executive whose extraordinary career spans four continents and multiple industries. In this captivating conversation, Pedro reveals the leadership principles that guided him through 25 years at Jeronimo Martins and subsequent roles as CEO of major retail operations in Poland, Russia, and Africa.Da Silva’s  journey began with a brief stint in auditing before discovering his true calling in retail management. By age 29, he was managing 700 people on Madeira Island – what he calls "a school for life." His most significant achievement came in Poland, where he transformed a struggling retail chain into the country's second-largest company with 65,000 employees. This pattern of unlocking dynamic, sustainable growth would define his career across multiple geographies.What stands out in Pedro Pererira da Silva’s approach is his people-first philosophy: "There is no right team. There are only people that are dedicated, engaged, aligned, motivated, and focused on the same basic principles and values." This mindset helped him navigate complex challenges, from managing 85,000 Russians to developing retail operations across eight African countries.Now based in Portugal, da Silva has entered a new chapter that blends executive work with passion projects. He's developing "Passion Zone" in his hometown of Alcobaca, creating initiatives to promote Portuguese wine internationally, and building "Value for All" – an ambitious project making quality products accessible at affordable prices across Africa.Pedro Pererira da Silva, also shares insights about BridgeWatt, his digital platform connecting companies with experienced advisors. Unlike traditional consultancy, BridgeWatt offers access to executives who've lived through real successes and failures. As he explains, "The consultant knows the models...the advisor knows what is failure, what is success."Additionally, Pedro serves on the board of the Portuguese Network Council, which has grown from 80 to over 300 members across 50 countries during his tenure. This network connects influential Portuguese professionals worldwide through regional hubs and competence centers.Throughout our conversation, Pedro Pererira da Silva's passion for meaningful connection and contribution shines through. His approach to this new phase of life embodies his personal philosophy: "I don't have available time today, but I use it in a more proper way...celebrating life every single day."Join us for this inspiring discussion about global leadership, creating value, and Pedro's simple yet powerful mantra: "Whatever you do, try to be the best ever."Music, lyrics, guitar and singing by Dr Ariel Rosita KingTeach me to live one day at a timewith courage love and a sense of pride.Giving me the ability to love and accept myselfso I can go and give it to someone else.Teach me to live one day at a time.....Support the showThe Business of LifeDr Ariella (Ariel) Rosita KingOriginal Song, "Teach Me to Live one Day At A Time"written, guitar and vocals by Dr. Ariel Rosita KingDr King Solutions (USA Office)1629 K St, NW #300, Washington, DC 20006, USA, +[email protected]