I think curiosity and stubbornness are what drive me,” says Melanie Smith, the CEO of Ocado Retail and one of an elite group of women who have visited every country in the world. “I must have been about 30 when I came up with the idea, and I remember my boyfriend at the time saying, ‘You’re never going to be able to do that.’ So I thought to myself, well, there’s a nice challenge!”
Fifteen years and 197 countries later, in 2019, Smith celebrated the completion of a journey of discovery that has left her with not only numerous stamps in her passport, but also a clearer sense of perspective, an open mind and a willingness to take chances. “I always return from a trip happy, with lots of energy,” she reflects. “Sometimes, I’ll take just a tent, my sleeping bag and some food, and I’ll walk in complete solitude, so I come back fitter and having had a chance to meditate on things. Or I’ll go somewhere I can learn something—my husband and I are offto Iraq this month for a road trip from Baghdad to Basra, because there are so many ancient ruins along the way.” The vast range of geographies and cultures she has explored has changed her leadership style for the better. “I’m from New Zealand, which doesn’t have a lot of cultural diversity, but I lead a business made up of incredibly diverse individuals,” says Smith, who is Maori. “I think my experiences have helped put me in their shoes.”
This story is from the September 2022 edition of Harper's BAZAAR Singapore.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the September 2022 edition of Harper's BAZAAR Singapore.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
Twice As Nice
Thai actresses Sarocha "Freen" Chankimha and Rebecca "Becky" Patricia Armstrong have broken barriers for inclusivity with their onscreen portrayals, leaving global audiences wanting more.
10s Across The Board!
Ten Lee is stepping into an even bigger spotlight. The K-pop superstar opens up about going solo and growing into his many facets.
The House That Fred Built
FRED, the jewellery Maison that Fred Samuel created, pays tribute to his philosophy of life, light, and an unmistakable bold aesthetic in the art and pioneering craft of precious gems.
Impossible Is Possible
In a marriage of aesthetics and technology, Richard Mille strikes the perfect balance with its RM 07-01 Automatic collection.
Beauty Visual Cues
Amp up your peepers with bold lines and punchy colours that accentuate metallic frames. Librarian chic never looked so good.
Hair - Raising Issues
Unpacking the relationship between hair, health and mental well-being.
MORE THAN MEETS THE EYE
Managing consultant Corinne Ng's brutalist home is a safe space that showcases her passion for minimalist design and playful art.
FEELS GOOD. MAN
Feather-light hydrators and sunscreens that pamper and protect, without the weight.
MOST WANTED
The Kelly clasp is one the most distinctive visual codes in the Hermès canon-one of the many reasons why a product from the House never needs any logos to be recognisable.
HOROSCOPE
TAURUS (21 APR - 21 MAY) Happy birthday, Taurus! This May, your life takes the form of a mandala an intricate shape made from coloured sand that is destroyed after its creation. This doesn't mean that you'll lose everything. In fact, the whole month has the potential to be highly abundant, especially around the 19th, when Venus transits through your sign. Be brave and let go of attachments.