richard watts

Partner Europe, McKinney Rogers

Following 25 years’ experience as an officer in the Royal Marines, where leading and operating in the most extreme conditions was the norm, Richard now runs the Europe Region.  He really believes in the importance of Mission Leadership behaviours – having used them throughout his career to be empowered himself and also to set free his subordinates to make their own decisions. His extensive experience of strategy includes working with Government Ministers at developing long-term policy. As an operator he is highly experienced at strategic planning, having served globally in the most challenging multi-national environments. He operated as a COO and leader in Afghanistan and Iraq where he was awarded an OBE for his inspirational leadership and strategic planning leading to 'flawless execution'.  Working at the strategic level he thrives on the challenge of ensuring a client’s strategy is clearly understood throughout the organisation and 'operationalised' into a plan that can actually be implemented.  Richard has studied at Ashridge and Manchester Business Schools and appeared recently on BBC News commenting on leadership issues. His interests, when family time allows, include running and enjoying trying to fill his wine cellar.