In this Mentor Spotlight get to know our Endeavor Mentor German Lettieri, Managing Director at SEIDOR.
Why did you decide to join the Endeavor Network?
I’m passionate about mentoring and helping entrepreneurs succeed in their endeavors. I’m always looking for new ways to give back to my community. Investing in people is like investing in the future of our business.
Why Endeavor? I was referred by another mentor (Fernando Rubio, MercadoLibre) and I think Endeavor is well-positioned in this universe. Strong knowledge of emerging markets like Latam, Asia, and the Pacific, where I am experienced too. I know other Endeavor members and I respect their dedication and contribution.
Tell us about your background and why you decided to become a mentor.
I started studying computer science at the age of 12. I got my first degree at age 15. I was a developer at the beginning, and I then moved to the business side at the age of 22. Working at a 90’s unicorn, Intersoft, I developed my career from there exploring emerging markets in the Middle East and Europe.
After that, I started my world vendor journey, working for companies like Siebel, BMC, VERITAS, Oracle, Coupa, and many others. My sweet spot has always been the startup vibe—whether it’s with bona fide startups or launching new ventures and markets for the big-league vendors I’ve been with. Since I am considering my fourth attempt to retire, I am working on the other side of the world-class vendors, on the partner side, helping companies (like SEIDOR) to better work with the complexity of public companies with hard business agendas.
What are the most important qualities and characteristics that mentors should have?
- Listen actively
- Ask open questions
- Prepare yourself before a mentee session. Do not improvise with other people’s money!
- Help others see their good side
- Make founders speak in terms of real and doable goals, with clear action plans, and not just a “nice pitch”!
Any general advice for entrepreneurs?
Open your mind to let others help you! The power of many is bigger than the power of one!
What are you reading?
I like finance, investing (former broker), and self-improvement topics. During my free time, cooking books.
These responses have been edited for grammar.
