Mentoring in action

Robert Riley, Chief Executive of the Armani Hotel Group and Brian Keegan, Managing Director of 360 Group

Brian Keegan thought a mentor would be able to help him breathe new life into his business. He met Robert Riley at an Entrepreneur Organisation training session, liked and respected him and decided to approach Robert to be his mentor.

Brian has a structured and definite approach to the mentoring relationship. He always has an agenda and ensures their time is used effectively to discuss the important issues with his mentor - the things that keep him awake at night.

Robert was immediately encouraged to mentor Brian—he was enthusiastic and operating in an area Robert was interested in.

Robert gains a lot from the relationship – a personal connection, a new approach to his own way of working and the opportunity to refresh and hone his skills. He feels it is important that a mentee is focused on using his time effectively and this was something that Brian always fulfils.

Brian made a commitment to deliver and ensures that he gets the most out of having a mentor. He is committed to giving back and showing appreciation for the time Robert devotes to the relationship and often takes both Robert and his wife out to dinner or the theatre His business has now reached seven-figure profitability and says himself that it is no coincidence that mentoring came at the same time as his business success.

“The mentoring process has for the first time ever, given me the sense that dreams and goals are achievable. It sets the protocol and there is a way of systematising mentoring to build confidence in the mentee that is lasting and now I am mentor to others in my team.”

Brian Keegan

“You need the balance of a person who can drive and have influence over your business. I identified traits in Brian that I had 30 years ago and recognised ways I was helped through my career.”
Robert Riley