“I don’t know how to put this, but I am kind of a big deal. People know me. I’m very important.” So says Will Ferrell in the 2004 Hollywood comedy Anchorman, a favourite of Drayton consultant Rob Thrower.
But thankfully, as I quickly discover, Rob is nothing like Ron. Everything about Thrower’s genial manner and considerate demeanour tells you that. On the contrary, his focus is on other people.
‘I'm very much a people person. I succeed by being able to understand, what people are thinking and what might make somebody tick. It's not a conscious decision, but I tend to kill folks with kindness to get things across the line.’
It’s high EQ, that’s key to Thrower’s success. Both his own and being able to recognise the trait in others. Which brings us to what you might call ‘The Anchorman Tell.’ In today’s business world, it’s vital for senior candidates to have the emotional intelligence to successfully and effectively support their team.
‘I think cultural fit is really important which will largely stem from EQ,’ says Thrower. ‘We’re usually trying to identify someone who either, already shares the same cultural values of the organisation, or could easily adopt them. There can be people with a great CV on paper, but often, at that vital first meeting, you can tell they just wouldn't fit for the particular organisation we’re working for.’
At Drayton, Thrower is primarily focused on the Consumer Sector, recruiting operational and functional high-level roles. Prior to joining the company, he worked in Supply Chain and Logistics for DHL. Starting as a graduate, he quickly rose to more senior positions.
When asked about his time at ‘the world’s largest logistic company,’ he demonstrates an instinctive understanding of supply-chain strategy.
‘To me, there are lots of components but three key components would be: One: understand there is no one strategy and that each solution and approach should be bespoke. Two: planning ahead, putting effort into your forecasts, so you understand what you need to buy, make, and sell in terms of quantity and value, then you can manage your inventory levels and procurement cycles more effectively. And finally, optimising your assets, take advantage of things like network and backhaul opportunities, utilise the correct amount of labour, etc.’
One that, no doubt, helps him identify key hires in the continually expanding logistics sector.
Somewhat fittingly, my last question for Rob ends up being about Ron – ‘So, if Ron Burgundy came to see you, would you send him for an interview?’
First, A wry smile. Then – ‘If the client was looking for a lead for Anchorman 3, well yes.’
Smooth answer, Rob. Classy, even. Mr Burgundy would be proud of you.