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Welcome to simongifford.com

I’ve developed this web-space to offer a bit of insight into phases of my life that have influenced my work outlook.

My intention here is to connect with other professionals who may be interested in or share my worldview and industry experience; or who may like to work with me in some form or other.

About

Background

Born in Devon in the UK, I enjoyed the freedom and humour of a 1960’s English childhood. In my teens, my family emigrated to South Africa, where I studied, and launched what became a global consulting career in the ‘80s and ‘90s, before relocating to Madrid in the early 2000’s , where I began life as an entrepreneur.

What makes me tick

I’m an optimist who is curious about life and embraces challenges … and am a global citizen … strategist … traveller … seeker … family man … Christian … marathoner  …  stoic … and generally persistent beyond rationality!

Skills and expertise summary

Introduction to skills and expertise

I have three areas of focus that are inter-related and self-reinforcing. Click here or on the diagram below to view the details.

 

 

Simon Gifford
Simon Gifford skills and expertise

Marathon madness

Few activities push you to the limits like road running - but for me, the necessary discipline and frequent soreness is outweighed by the unexpected joys.

Responding to the early morning alarm, regardless of African heat or European cold, the Cape wind, the English drizzle … yet rounding a corner to glimpse sunrises, expanses of mountain or ocean, rough bush or neatly patterned green fields, the edgy structure of the urban … running combines the gut and the senses - and when in "the zone", leaving your mind free to roam even further afield.

And few activities reinforce the deep challenges faced by the business consultant and entrepreneur than training for and running a marathon …

To date I have clocked up 57 marathons, including the two iconic South African ultra-marathons – the Two Oceans Marathon (I’ve run 14 times along the  56 km of mountains and sea of the Cape Peninsula) and the Comrades Marathon (twice I’ve run the 88 km of pain and ecstasy in Kwazulu).

... and maybe a few more left in these dodgy knees.

Contact

You know ... years ago I read about the concept of being a "digital nomad" and thought that it sounds cool. And now, I guess by accident, I am one!
(And it is cool).

Connect with me on LinkedIn at: www.linkedin.com/in/simongifford

Get in touch with me at simon.gifford@simongifford.com

Check out Mashauri at https://mashauri.org

Visit my Business School at IE Business School

To book me for lectures, conferences or workshops, complete the form and I will get back to you within 24 hours.

 

 

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