“The preparation for every race is exciting. It begins with heaps of planning and scheduling that takes place months before the actual event. This involves project management coordination that requires multiple meetings with the client to ensure that the logistics are ready and goals are met,” Grilli continued. 

Of course, as one can imagine, lighting up the city to this extent is no easy feat particularly because Singapore’s race is held right in the heart of the city. “So everyday life leading up to race week has to remain status quo and accommodate the city’s movements which means we need to plan very carefully and thoroughly,” said Grilli.

When the planning is done, Grilli explains, they will ensure that all the equipment is accounted for and working well. They do this at their storage facility in Tampines. 

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The main set-up will then begin my mid-June with the lights being tested just weeks before the race. It is then that they will make sure everything is working and ready to go. 

“Because we have to keep the city going, it’s like starting from scratch every time the race comes around. We were initially nervous that things might have changed drastically here after the two-year hiatus, however, we were pleasantly surprised to find Singapore’s infrastructure still as sturdy and great as ever,” said Grilli.

Despite his busy schedule here during race weekend, Grilli was able to sit down with Tatler Singapore to tell us all about how he makes it work.

What is a typical morning like for you?

Roberto Grilli (RG): I usually wake up early and start the day with my morning routine which involves meditation or exercise. I believe that taking care of our own personal well-being is important before we are able to take care of those around us.

What do you usually have for breakfast?

RG: As an Italian, I start the day with a continental breakfast or a pastry and cappuccino.

What does a standard work day look like for you?

RG: Upon reaching the office, I like to have a short and casual chat session with my team while we are having an espresso, just to know how everyone is doing in the projects they are involved in. The real work starts after I have checked my emails for the morning.

How would you describe your working style?

RG: I always believe in being a leader before acting as a boss. I am one who takes a lot of time to build up the team’s synergy and trust. Without the team, none of our projects would be possible. Hence, I ensure that each team member’s well-being and performance are well-monitored. We are all there for one another should anyone face any issues.

What time do you usually have lunch? What do you usually have for lunch?

RG: I typically have lunch around 1 pm and use the opportunity for either business lunches or to catch up with my staff over business or even personal conversations.

As for what I usually have for lunch, it depends. Back in our HQ in Italy, it is mostly Italian cuisine. If I am posted overseas, I would certainly be keen on having a taste of the local food.

Right here in Singapore, you can consume a wide variety of food and the Japanese options here are one of my favourites.

Free time: overrated or underrated? Why?

RG: Underrated. Over the years, I have constantly tried to find that balance between busy workdays to have some free time for just myself. Such breaks are important for us to wind down and evaluate our own thoughts.

How do you achieve a work-life balance? How do you set boundaries?

RG: It is not easy to achieve work-life balance and I am not shy to share that I am still on that journey and working towards it.

Now, that is why it is important to have multiple staff members that are able to focus on their own expertise and contribute to the team in their own domain of specialisation–this means no redundant tasks to take up their time. This is one of our first steps in enabling proper work-life balance. Not just for me but also for all my team members.

How do you chase your dreams?

RG: Focus, trust, and determination. You need to focus on your dreams, have a clear vision of what they are, and then trust that achieving them is possible, regardless of any obstacles standing against you. Always rise up when you fall.

Risks: should you take them? Why or why not?

RG: Always take them. For me, I most certainly have to take risks. It is an important part of my life and business. With no risks involved, we cannot take the next step forward.

How do you deal with your shortcomings?

RG: It is important to process to understand and accept my shortcomings. Always stay calm. Problems will always arise, but it is more important to be prepared when they come. Understanding my own shortcomings also helps me to work on myself, which is very important in order to achieve the results I am looking for. 

What is the best piece of advice that you have ever gotten?

RG: When I was in the military, I learnt from my captain that your crew has to be fed before you. It is such an important piece of advice that guides me till today–one has to gain respect from the people they lead.

What is an idea/thought that you heard recently, that you thought was interesting?

RG: I thought of an amazing, interesting, and groundbreaking business idea recently. Well, I am not sharing this with you because otherwise, the idea will be obsolete.

How do you unplug?

RG: Switching off my phone completely and reading a good book.

How do you stay grounded?

RG: I like to spend time in all the different aspects of my business and for me, staying grounded means always being reminded of the core goals of my work.

For instance, in Singapore, during the preparation of setting up the races, I can switch from being suited up, to attending an important meeting with certain VIPs, then change right into my site work clothing and be on the ground with my guys at work. Being part of their work on-site and attending to their needs keeps me grounded by reminding me of the hard work that goes on behind each project and how I can play my part on different levels.

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How do you manage stress?

RG: Thinking positive is important. Meditating every morning helps me get all my thoughts in order and the endorphins from my daily gym session really help me to manage my stress.

How do you stay motivated?

RG: It might be weird, but challenges keep me motivated. I love challenges and am always hungry for new achievements.

Do you have moments of doubt and how do you overcome them?

RG: Of course, but I am glad for those moments. If you have no doubt, it means that you are not ready for changes and you take everything for granted. It is not always easy to overcome your doubts, until you take risks, and learn from mistakes to fix your shortcomings.

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What would you consider your greatest accomplishment to date?

RG: My greatest accomplishment will definitely be representing DZ Engineering SRL—the company that lit up the first Formula One night race ever in the history of Singapore, and also the first night race ever for Formula E in Riyadh. These milestones will never fade in my memory and also in the history of motorsports.

What would you still like to accomplish?

RG: Growing as an individual–mentally, intellectually, and work-wise. It is important to know that none of us should ever stop desiring to grow.

What is the last thing you do before you go to bed?

RG: Another way to wind down is to do something you love. As someone passionate about horology and timepieces, reading up on timepieces and learning more about unique collections is my way of distressing as I get ready for bed.

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