As I use my blog as a life diary, I feel it is appropriate to remember the person that recruited me at Xerox in 1993. Graham is one of the few people that had a profound impact on my life as an example to try to follow. His funeral was a great refresher on what one should do with the little time we have on earth to leave a legacy that will outlive you.
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To Nick and Graham’s family,
In this challenging time of loss, I wanted to share some memories of Graham to celebrate his time on earth. And maybe let you know that he lives on within me (and many others that he has touched over the years), trying to perpetuate the values that he represented.
Almost 30 years ago, I sent my CV to Xerox every month in a desperate attempt to join the treasury department at Xerox.
The odds were not in my favour; a 26 years old graduate applying from France to a finance role in Marlow in the 1990s was undoubtedly a long shot. But to my incredible luck, Graham got involved. He pushed my CV around his finance function, suggesting that giving me a chance on a six months non-renewable contract could not harm anybody even if I was French!
What followed was a 26-year career in finance at Xerox; if this were the only thing I owe to Graham, I would be eternally grateful.
But it is a lot more that Graham taught me; he was a fantastic example of outstanding leadership to learn from. His presence in a room would bring gravitas, respect and integrity. His knowledge of the business and his great sense of humour were legendary in the finance function.
During my time at Xerox, once I reached more senior roles and expected to mentor more junior managers, I often used his witted comments to illustrate his sharp and critical thinking.
On one occasion, I had done a lot of work for him and was ready to present my findings; within the first minute of our meeting, he stated the outcome of my work like if it was obvious. I complained to him:” But Graham, with all the work I did, it is unfair not to let me take you through my findings…”
He replied :
“Yes, I know Olivier, a lot of work for you, a single thought for me !”.
He had a massive smile on his face for being so witty; it made me laugh then and still today.
He expected loyalty and integrity from his staff only because his own standards were impeccable.
He also made a point of following his people’s progress closely and encouraging them regularly even after he retired. I am proud to be one of the people he sponsored.
There are so many funny stories that come to my mind and put a smile on my face. I hope that it is the same for you, his family, who miss him dearly today.
Sometimes, when somebody was using too many words to explain something important to Graham, he would get flustered and would say :
“I do not want to hear about the voyage; I just want to know the boat got to the port.”
I am certain that Graham has arrived at the port and would be proud of the legacy he created.
My deepest sympathies to you and your family.
