Taurimas’s approach to business is deeply rooted in his belief that true leadership goes beyond financial success. He emphasizes the importance of surrounding oneself with supportive and inspiring individuals, understanding that great victories are rarely achieved alone. His commitment to fostering innovation and creativity within his organizations has not only kept him at the cutting edge of global business trends but also positioned him as a mentor and guide to the next generation of entrepreneurs.
Throughout his career, Taurimas has faced numerous challenges, from navigating the global financial crisis to making pivotal career decisions that have shaped his path. Each of these experiences has reinforced his philosophy of resilience and adaptability. By continuously seeking out new knowledge and staying ahead of industry trends, Taurimas has not only built a successful career but also created a legacy of leadership that continues to inspire and influence others in the business world.
Tell us about yourself and your story, how did you end up where you are?
My entrepreneurial journey started almost twenty years ago when I was a 20-year-old university student. After spending six months in the United States, I realized that earning a salary wasn’t as tough as I thought. But I soon understood that running my own business would give me more freedom and allow me to use my passion and creativity more effectively.
My first business was in business advisory, where I teamed up with some of the brightest students from my university. We helped private companies and public institutions with grant writing, business analysis, and planning. Instead of focusing on tech startups, I saw an opportunity in the high demand for grant writing services, especially as Lithuania was preparing to join the European Union and NATO. This demand led to rapid and successful growth for my business.
While still studying at Vilnius University, I was elected as the executive director of the National Association of Bankruptcy Administrators, which deepened my understanding of the business cycle and risk management. This experience motivated me to pursue a legal degree, earning a Master of Laws (LL.M.). My career then took me to leadership roles at Ernst & Young and other asset management companies across Europe, the GCC, and Asia. This experience eventually led me to launch a private credit institution that is now a leader in our region. I’ve also taken on vice president roles in several chambers of commerce, representing about 1,000 businesses in the Baltic region, and continue to stay engaged with startups, venture capital, and global business trends.
What’s your biggest lesson learned in your journey?
The global financial crisis of 2008-2009 was a defining moment in my life. At just 27 years old, I found myself suddenly unemployed from my position at a licensed asset management company. As the sole provider for my young family, with a mortgage to pay and a 3-year-old daughter to care for, the pressure was immense. This challenging period taught me an invaluable lesson: never rely on a single source of income. Since then, I have made it a priority to diversify my income streams, a strategy that has not only strengthened my financial stability but also brought greater confidence and peace of mind in both my personal and professional life.
What separates you from the competition or other companies?
What truly distinguishes me is my unwavering commitment to efficiency and innovation. I am a firm believer in lifelong learning, continuously expanding my knowledge to stay ahead of global trends. This dedication to growth has led me to take on the role of a part-time associate professor in financial programs, where I’ve had the privilege of lecturing at ten European universities and three American institutions, including Stanford. By blending academic innovation with real-world entrepreneurial practice, I ensure that I remain at the forefront of my field, always pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.
Any tips/advice for young professionals or entrepreneurs?
My most important advice is simple: take action. Over 80% of your success hinges on that first step. In many cultures, failure is still seen as a setback, but the truth is, the only people who never fail are the ones who never try. Every mistake is a valuable lesson that paves the way for future success, and the wisest among us learn not just from their own missteps, but from the experiences of others. Seek out those who excel, and learn from them. Remember, no great victory is won without a few battles along the way. Stay focused on your goals, and be willing to make small sacrifices to achieve your ultimate objectives.
How do you see yourself in 10 years?
In 10 years, I hope to devote more time to art, culture, and sports—the core superpowers of humanity. I also aspire to publish a few books sharing the insights I’ve gained about business principles and life in general.
What keeps you motivated every day?
My daily motivation comes from understanding that we are the creation of a higher power. I believe that everything happens for a purpose, and it’s our duty to find our place in the big picture and strive to create value. This belief drives me to become the best version of myself and leave a meaningful footprint in history.
What is your favorite quote of all time?
I have two favorite quotes:
“Weak people revenge, strong people forgive, and the smart ones ignore.”
“Gladiator formulates his final plan in the center of the arena” (Seneca: “Gladiator in arena consilium capit”).
These quotes remind me of the importance of wisdom, adaptability, and continuous learning.
What are the main factors that led you to where you are right now?
The most significant factor in my success has been the people around me. It’s nearly impossible to achieve great victories alone. Being surrounded by supportive and inspiring individuals boosts productivity and helps you become the best version of yourself.
Who is your role model or inspiration in your life?
My role models and inspirations include family members, friends, mentors, and historical or mythological figures. These individuals provide guidance, motivation, and a sense of direction in my life. It’s crucial to choose role models who align with your values and goals, as they can inspire you to achieve your aspirations.
What are the top 3 core values in life?
My top three core values are:
- Respect: Treat others with kindness, empathy, and consideration.
- Resilience: Adapt, persevere, and overcome challenges in the face of adversity.
- Integrity: Uphold honesty, ethics, and moral principles in all aspects of life.
What are key moments/turning points of your life?
Two key moments stand out in my life. The first was organizing an international conference as a university student, which was attended by the President, ministers, and diplomats. This event showed me that even young people can make significant changes. The second was holding my newborn daughter for the first time, which made me realize the importance of parenthood and the responsibility of preparing her for the world.
What personality traits make a good leader?
A good leader must have:
- Empathy: Understand and connect with the emotions of others.
- Communication skills: Convey ideas and foster collaboration.
- Adaptability: Adjust to changing circumstances and learn from failures.
- Decision-making: Make informed decisions and navigate challenges with confidence.
What is the best and the worst part of your job?
The best part of my job is the opportunity to work globally, across five continents, which has made me a global citizen with a broad perspective on business. The worst part is the challenge of balancing work with personal life, but this is a common issue in any demanding career.
What is the biggest challenge you have faced in your career? How did you overcome it and what did you learn from it?
The biggest challenge was deciding between continuing my career at a Big4 company or joining a major private equity fund. I chose the latter, and it turned out to be the right decision. However, staying at the Big4 could have provided different opportunities. This experience taught me that every decision shapes your future, but it’s essential to embrace the path you choose without regrets.
What do you look for when outsourcing or hiring?
In today’s business world, flexibility and goal-oriented models are key. While outsourcing is becoming more common, certain roles require ownership and cannot be fully outsourced.
What strategies do you use to stay ahead of the curve in your industry?
I focus on data analytics, AI, and digital transformation. These technologies provide insights into customer behavior, enhance decision-making, and improve overall operations. Staying ahead of the curve means continuously investing in these areas.
In what ways do you foster innovation and creativity within your organization?
Innovation and creativity are fostered through collaboration with external partners, providing opportunities for employee development, and creating dedicated spaces for brainstorming and experimentation. These initiatives drive innovation and keep the organization competitive.
How do you balance the pursuit of wealth and success with personal fulfillment and happiness?
Balancing wealth and success with personal fulfillment requires aligning your goals and values. It’s essential to find harmony between professional and personal life to achieve true happiness.
Name three books that changed your life and what did you learn from them!
- The Iliad and Odyssey by Homer: These epic poems teach the importance of leadership, resilience, and strategic thinking, which are vital in modern business.
- The Intelligent Investor by Benjamin Graham: This book provides timeless principles of value investing and risk management, essential for strategic decision-making.
- The Prince by Machiavelli: This classic offers insight into leadership, power dynamics, and decision-making, relevant to navigating the complexities of business.
Taurimas Valys’s story is a testament to the power of perseverance, innovation, and continuous learning. His journey from a young entrepreneur to a global business leader offers valuable lessons for aspiring professionals and seasoned entrepreneurs alike.
BY Egli HAXHIRAJ, Anamaria MESHKURTI and Jonida GJUZI
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