Sunday 4th March 2018
By Michelle Hammond
Q1 - How did your childhood influence your work ethic and attitude towards business?
As a child, at 6 years old, I first became an entrepreneur when I set up a trading/selling business for my toys. In my teens, I began to build electronics and would always affix a logo to my creations, already understanding the concept of brand identity! I then was awarded a scholarship to attend a prestigious engineering school in Germany which was a definite eye opener and allowed me to thrive in a structured yet creative environment.
Q2 - What do you believe the principles of a successful business are today?
First and foremost, innovation is key and must be in the forefront. Investment in research and joining forces with people outside the industry have led to incredible partnerships and ground breaking technology for what used to be a commodity.
Gharieni is elevating the treatment experience by incorporating equipment into the modalities and protocols thereby truly offering a unique encounter between guest and practitioner.
Q3 - Looking back, what was your best business decision?
In 2005, I decided to expand my company to service the spa and wellness industry from my initial focus of working with medical practices and aesthetic boutiques/day spas.Using our recognized manufacturing practices and optimal quality components, I
designed a treatment table with never before seen features such head cradle optimization, adjustable arm supports when in supine position, built in heaters and speakers, and an integrated vibro massage function. It truly altered the traditional equipment industry and heralded the launch of highly technological performing beds.
Q4 - Who has influenced you the most through your career?
I have observed so many successful people such as Steve Jobs or Bill Gates and what I learned from studying them were that they and many others have a consistent methodology and work approach. Both took risks and had failures in what were uncharted territories but yet they persevered and ultimately reached the pinnacle of
success.
Q5 - What was your most difficult / worst business decision?
When I first launched The Gharieni Group in 1991, I had a business partner. The demands and constraints imposed by that relationship led to great frustration, discontent and ultimately separation. I believe one captain steering the ship is sufficient and ultimately more satisfying and sensical.
Q6 - What would you say was the single most advantageous character trait for success?
I am driven by passion. I live and work at a constant elevated pace and I absolutely love what I do which is really vital and important in the path that one ultimately chooses. I love to listen to the marketplace and ingest all the feedback and information that other people share.
Q7 - What happens when you’re stressed or overwhelmed?
I SPA – in the original meaning of the word which is Sanitas Per Aquam. It actually means “health by water” but I also regain sanity and clarity from going to the beach and disconnecting completely from the clamors and demands of the outside world.
Q8 - How do you invest in your own wellbeing. How do you look after yourself?
Ironically, I get most of my rest when I am aloft in the air flying to the numerous destinations where Gharieni is present – 70 countries to date! When I am aground, I like to balance workouts and enjoy what life has to offer in regards to food and wine, in moderation of course!
Q9 - If you could change one thing about the spa and wellness industry what would it be and why?
One of my ongoing challenges in the spa/wellness industry is the fact that some of my customers still hesitate to take risks and be open to real innovation – to what has never been done before. They seek security in the tried and true and ultimately return to an established routine. I want to lead them into uncharted territories so that they can ultimately reap the rewards and set themselves apart. The ones who have been willing to integrate innovation have seen unparalleled results and are lauded as trend setting leaders in their fields.
Q10 - Finally, What’s your favourite quote or the best advice you’ve ever been given
“Don’t be intimidated by other people’s opinions. Only mediocrity is sure of itself, so take risks and do what you really want to do.”― Paulo Coelho, Aleph
FLASH FACTS - FOR FUN SECTION
1. What’s your favourite book?
