Name: David Enrique Capcha Denegri

Title: Manager of Operational Excellence

Organisation: MR & ASOCIADOS SAC

David Capcha is an outstanding professional with a broad track record in project management and leadership across various sectors. Currently holding the position of Manager of Operational Excellence at MR & Asociados SAC, a leading and pioneering company in the geotechnical field in Peru, David has significantly contributed to strengthening operations and processes, ensuring high standards of quality and efficiency in service.

Moreover, David Capcha is the CEO of Vale Project Consulting, a consultancy specialized in management and process improvement for the retail, services, and construction sectors. His focus revolves around leading SMEs into digital transformation and operational excellence, providing innovative solutions to address the challenges of the current business environment.

With a solid background as a Project Management Professional (PMP®), David accumulated eight years of experience leading projects in buildings and metal structures for renowned companies such as GRG General Services, GyG Architects, and CAG Engineering & Construction. His management expertise extended to landmark projects involving the installation of glass for large buildings in Lima, where he led maintenance and warehouse management for Corporación Furukawa.

Subsequently, in the commercial field, David has had a significant impact by leading commercial management in the company Nicoll Perú of the international group Aliaxis for the large mining companies in southern Peru. In this capacity, he developed and drove businesses related to products such as HDPE profiled pipe, RIB LOC System, RIB STEEL and industrial CPVC, solidifying relationships and generating substantial market impact.

Throughout his career, David has demonstrated exceptional ability in leading process improvement and strategic planning projects. His experience includes pivotal roles in the retail chain Multimarket San Fernando, where he recognized the critical importance of these aspects for business profitability and excellence.

With the arrival of new technologies, David has maintained a prominent position leading digital transformation projects. He has actively participated in process automation and digitalization projects at Equans Perú, part of the Engie emoresa group, a leader in energy generation worldwide. David currently continues to provide his experience and knowledge in digital tools and digital transformation at MR & Asociados SAC.

His strategic approach, coupled with deep technical knowledge and a holistic view of business, has positioned [Name] as a comprehensive leader in the field of business management. His dedication to operational excellence and proactive adaptation to changes in the business environment reflect his commitment to the continued success of the organizations he has served.

David Capcha, recognized as an exceptional leader in the field of business management, is an Industrial Engineer with a master's degree in Economics and holds the PMP® (Project Management Professional) certification, along with certification as a SAFe V5 Agilest. His robust academic background and professional skills have propelled him as a prominent figure in project management and operational excellence.

As an enthusiast of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and a passionate lover of rock music, David brings with him a resilient and creative mindset, grounded in principles of discipline and teamwork. His expertise in implementing the 5S Kaizen methodology and proficiency in data analysis with Power BI have been fundamental pillars for success in the projects he has led.

His commitment to continuous improvement and innovation is reflected in his ability to adapt to the rapid and complex changes in today's business environment. DAvid not only contributes his technical expertise but also his passion for constant learning and the application of cutting-edge approaches to drive digital transformation and operational efficiency in every project he undertakes. His holistic approach, coupled with dedication to quality and excellence, makes him a valuable asset for any organization.

David Capcha also contributes to the non-profit organization ASPERSUD as a volunteer, providing services in family counseling, mentoring youth, and managing economic resources in the neighborhood where he resides. This showcases David's dedication to community service and underscores his commitment to making a positive impact beyond the professional sphere. His involvement in these charitable endeavors reflects his values of empathy, social responsibility, and a genuine desire to contribute to the well-being of others.

Thank you to the 2,000 leaders who’ve generously done the 7 Questions on Leadership!

I hope David's answers will encourage you in your leadership journey. Enjoy!

Cheers,

Jonno White

1. What have you found most challenging as a leader?

As a leader with a background rich in project management, operational excellence, and diverse experiences across multiple sectors, one of the most challenging aspects has likely been navigating the dynamic and rapidly evolving business landscape. Adapting to the complexities of the 4th industrial revolution and implementing digital transformation projects requires a keen awareness of emerging technologies and a proactive approach to change management.

Balancing the intricacies of leading projects in geotechnical engineering, retail, and mining industries, while ensuring operational efficiency and continuous improvement, could also present challenges. Managing diverse teams and stakeholders across these sectors, each with its unique demands and intricacies, may require a nuanced leadership approach.

Furthermore, the commitment to community service and volunteer work, such as family counseling and youth mentorship, adds another layer of complexity. Juggling professional leadership roles with a genuine dedication to social responsibility can pose challenges in managing time and resources effectively.

In summary, your diverse and multifaceted leadership journey, encompassing various industries and community service, likely presents challenges in staying ahead of industry trends, adapting to technological advancements, and managing the diverse demands of both professional and volunteer commitments.

2. How did you become a leader? Can you please briefly tell the story?

My journey into leadership evolved organically through a combination of academic excellence, professional growth, and a genuine passion for making a positive impact. It began with earning a degree in Industrial Engineering, complemented by a master's in Economics, setting the foundation for a robust understanding of both technical and economic aspects of business.

Early in my career, I pursued the Project Management Professional (PMP®) certification, marking a pivotal point where I transitioned from managing projects to leading them. Over eight years, I honed my skills as an Administrator of Projects, overseeing significant endeavors in building and metal structures.

The pivotal moment in my leadership journey came with roles in prominent companies, such as GRG General Services and CAG Engineering & Construction. These experiences not only provided exposure to diverse industries but also allowed me to lead teams through complex projects, gaining valuable insights into effective project management and operational excellence.

Stepping into the role of Manager of Operational Excellence at MR & Asociados SAC, a leading geotechnical company in Peru, marked a significant achievement. Here, I played a crucial role in enhancing operations and processes, ensuring high standards of quality and efficiency.

As CEO of Vale Project Consulting, my leadership expanded into consultancy, focusing on digital transformation and operational excellence for SMEs in retail, services, and construction sectors. This venture showcased my commitment to innovation and adapting to the evolving business landscape.

Beyond the professional realm, my leadership extends to community service, volunteering with ASPERSUD. Here, I contribute to family counseling, youth mentorship, and resource management, reflecting a holistic approach to leadership that combines professional success with a genuine dedication to social responsibility. This multifaceted journey has shaped me into a leader who values continuous learning, adapts to change, and strives for excellence in every endeavor.

3. How do you structure your work days from waking up to going to sleep?

My typical workdays are structured to balance professional responsibilities, personal growth, and a commitment to community service. Here is a general outline:

Morning:

1. Early Start: I usually wake up early to kickstart the day, ensuring a calm and focused beginning.

2. Physical Activity: As a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu enthusiast, I often incorporate morning workouts to promote physical well-being and mental clarity.

3. Planning and Prioritization: Before diving into work, I review and prioritize tasks for the day, ensuring alignment with broader project goals and personal objectives.

Work Hours:

4. Professional Commitments: The core of my workday involves addressing professional commitments, whether as the Head of Operational Excellence at MR & Asociados SAC or leading projects at Vale Project Consulting EIRL.

5. Project Management: I allocate specific time for project management tasks, ensuring efficient planning, execution, and monitoring of ongoing initiatives.

6. Meetings and Collaborations: I schedule meetings strategically, allowing for collaboration with teams, stakeholders, and clients. This includes discussions on strategy, progress updates, and problem-solving sessions.

7. Continuous Learning: Amidst work, I allocate time for continuous learning, staying abreast of industry trends, new technologies, and management methodologies.

Afternoon:

8. Lunch Break: I prioritize a healthy lunch to recharge and maintain sustained energy levels.

9. Community Service: Depending on the day, I may engage in volunteer activities with ASPERSUD, contributing to family counseling, youth mentorship, or participating in community resource management.

Evening:

10. Project Review: In the evening, I review the day's project progress, ensuring alignment with strategic goals and addressing any challenges.

11. Digital Transformation Initiatives: If applicable, I dedicate time to digital transformation projects, leveraging technology to enhance operational efficiency.

12. Family Time: I prioritize quality time with family, fostering work-life balance and personal well-being.

13. Reflection and Planning: Before winding down, I reflect on the day's accomplishments and challenges, making note of any adjustments needed for future improvement.

Night:

14. Personal Growth: The night often includes time for personal growth activities, such as reading, studying, or engaging in online courses.

15. Rest: To ensure sufficient rest, I aim for a consistent bedtime, recognizing the importance of quality sleep for overall well-being.

This structured approach allows me to efficiently manage diverse responsibilities, maintain a healthy work-life balance, and contribute meaningfully to both professional and personal spheres.

4. What's a recent leadership lesson you've learned for the first time or been reminded of?

Recently, I found myself leading a cross-functional team in a challenging project aimed at implementing a comprehensive digital transformation strategy within a tight timeline. The project involved integrating new technologies, streamlining processes, and fostering a cultural shift toward embracing digital innovation.

Amidst the complexities, a leadership lesson emerged that reinforced the significance of clear communication and active listening. While navigating the intricacies of technology adoption and process changes, it became apparent that not every team member had the same level of familiarity or comfort with the proposed changes.

The lesson learned was the importance of tailoring communication to the specific needs and perspectives of individual team members. What might be crystal clear to someone deeply involved in the technical aspects of the project might be a source of uncertainty or anxiety for those less familiar with the intricacies of digital transformation.

I was reminded that effective leadership involves not only conveying information but also ensuring that the message is understood and embraced by the entire team. This realization prompted me to implement regular check-ins and feedback sessions, encouraging team members to express their concerns, ask questions, and provide insights.

The leadership lesson, therefore, revolved around the power of fostering an inclusive and open communication culture. By actively listening to the team's feedback, addressing concerns promptly, and adjusting the communication strategy accordingly, we were able to enhance collaboration, boost morale, and ultimately achieve successful implementation of the digital transformation initiative.

This experience reinforced the notion that successful leadership is not just about setting the vision but also about ensuring that every member of the team is aligned with and empowered by that vision. In complex projects, particularly those involving transformative changes, effective communication tailored to the audience is a leadership skill that cannot be overemphasized.

5. What's one book that has had a profound impact on your leadership so far? Can you please briefly tell the story of how that book impacted your leadership?

One book that has had a profound impact on my leadership is "Drive: The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us" by Daniel H. Pink. The book explores the science of motivation and challenges traditional notions about what drives human behavior.

The impact of "Drive" on my leadership was transformative, particularly in how it reshaped my approach to motivating teams. Pink's exploration of autonomy, mastery, and purpose as key drivers of motivation prompted a reevaluation of my leadership style.

Autonomy: The realization that individuals thrive when given autonomy over their work prompted me to reassess the level of independence and decision-making authority I granted to team members. This shift resulted in increased engagement and a sense of ownership among team members.

Mastery: Pink's emphasis on the importance of mastery in motivation led to a greater focus on skill development and continuous learning within the team. Encouraging opportunities for professional growth and recognizing achievements became integral to fostering a motivated and high-performing team.

Purpose: The concept of purpose-driven work profoundly influenced my leadership philosophy. Aligning team goals with a broader sense of purpose beyond individual tasks elevated the team's sense of significance and contributed to a more meaningful work environment.

The book's impact extended to the implementation of these principles in various projects, resulting in improved team dynamics, heightened motivation, and a more innovative approach to problem-solving. By incorporating the principles of autonomy, mastery, and purpose, I witnessed positive shifts in team morale, creativity, and overall project outcomes.

"Drive" continues to influence my leadership, serving as a reminder of the intrinsic motivators that fuel individual and collective success. It has shaped a leadership approach centered on empowering team members, fostering continuous growth, and instilling a sense of purpose in the pursuit of shared goals.

6. If you could only give one piece of advice to a young leader, what would you say to them?

If I could offer one piece of advice to a young leader, it would be to cultivate a mindset of continuous learning and adaptability. In today's rapidly evolving business landscape, the ability to learn, unlearn, and relearn is a cornerstone of effective leadership.

Embrace every opportunity to acquire new skills, expand your knowledge base, and seek experiences that challenge and stretch your capabilities. Be curious, stay open to feedback, and view challenges as opportunities for growth rather than obstacles. This mindset not only positions you as a resilient and resourceful leader but also fosters innovation and agility within your team.

Remember, leadership is a journey of continuous improvement, and the willingness to evolve and adapt will not only enhance your effectiveness but also inspire those you lead. Embrace change, stay curious, and commit to lifelong learning as you navigate the dynamic landscape of leadership.

7. What is one meaningful story that comes to mind from your time as a leader, so far?

One particularly meaningful story from my time as a leader involves a project that posed unexpected challenges but ultimately strengthened the resilience and cohesion of the team.

We were tasked with overseeing a large-scale construction project, and despite meticulous planning, unforeseen issues arose, causing delays and putting the project's success at risk. The team faced mounting pressure, and morale was tested as we navigated through the unexpected hurdles.

Instead of succumbing to frustration, we decided to approach the challenges as opportunities for growth. I encouraged open communication and collaboration, creating a space for team members to share their concerns and ideas. This shift in perspective allowed us to identify innovative solutions collectively.

As a leader, I took a hands-on approach, working closely with team members in problem-solving sessions. We reevaluated timelines, adjusted strategies, and implemented new processes to overcome the obstacles. The experience reinforced the importance of transparent communication, adaptability, and a shared commitment to the project's success.

In the end, the project was not only completed successfully but exceeded expectations. The challenges we faced became a catalyst for stronger team bonds, improved problem-solving skills, and a collective sense of accomplishment. The story serves as a reminder that, in the face of adversity, effective leadership involves not only navigating challenges but leveraging them to foster growth and fortify the team's resilience.