On this Episode of Unbound Conversations
Stephen McDonnell sits down with John Gilley, CEO of Kent, for a raw and inspiring look at leadership and building a culture that scales. From his roots in Cobh, County Cork, to leading billion-dollar projects across Saudi Arabia and Venezuela, John reflects on how Irish values, family influence, and a relentless drive for growth shaped his journey.
He opens up about leading through the chaos of COVID, the loneliness of the CEO role, and the tough lessons learned through Kent’s major acquisitions and cultural transformation.
Packed with humility and real-world insight, John shares how to create belonging in fast-growing teams, empower people to lead, and stay grounded while driving global success.
Listen to the Episode
About the Guest
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John Gilley is the CEO of Kent and has been an executive member of the board of directors since 2005. He has been instrumental in the growth of the previous Kentech company and their acquisition of SNC-Lavalin’s O&G division. John is an inspiring leader who has not only set a clear vision for the Kent business but is determined to promote a culture that ensures that vision is not only achieved but exceeded.
With a degree in mechanical engineering and more than 25 years of industry experience across locations worldwide, John has excelled in roles at both the project and corporate levels, primarily in planning, EPC, strategy, and management. John joined the former Kentech business in 2001.
Show Notes
- Leading through loneliness (the unseen side of being CEO)
- Why culture comes before strategy in every great business
- Empowering teams by letting go of control
- Building psychological safety that drives real performance
- Balancing ambition with family, values, and wellbeing
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