Rend Stephan is a globally recognized senior executive, thought leader, and strategist who thrives on simplifying complex challenges to unlock unparalleled performance. With 25 years of experience across multiple industries and continents, Rend has built a reputation for transforming organizations, driving growth, and fostering innovation. His career is anchored in a unique combination of strategic insight, cultural adaptability, and leadership excellence.
As the founder and Managing Director of anticomplex.org, Rend champions the philosophy of “Performance via Simplicity™.” Through full-scale leadership development programs, he empowers executives to simplify their business models and lead with clarity and impact. This pioneering work is backed by a wealth of anticomplex writings and seminars, which Rend delivers globally, including keynote engagements at institutions like HEC Paris.
Rend’s professional journey spans influential roles at world-class organizations. As CEO of Arameic Capital, he leads a boutique investment firm specializing in the growth of innovative businesses. Simultaneously, he serves as CEO and Board Member at ClicData, where he oversees operations and strategy for a cutting-edge data analytics and management platform. Rend’s leadership style is rooted in his belief that simplicity drives both innovation and performance, an ethos he applies across all his endeavors.
Rend spent 18 years with The Boston Consulting Group (BCG), where he excelled in advising senior decision-makers across Sydney, Chicago, and Dubai. Focused on growth and complex leadership challenges, he also contributed to groundbreaking studies, including BCG’s global board governance research. His experience extends to managing the European practice at Partners in Performance and serving as Vice President at Booz & Co, where he drove client advisory and growth initiatives across MENA and Europe.
Rend’s diverse expertise spans M&A, strategy, governance, business transformation, and sustainability, supported by robust financial and analytical skills. His passion for technology, airlines, manufacturing, distribution, and luxury industries complements his proven ability to navigate cultural and operational complexities. Despite this breadth, Rend is transparent about areas outside his purview, such as banking, telecom, and insurance, ensuring alignment with roles where his expertise truly adds value.
An engineer by training, Rend holds an MBA with top honors from both London Business School and AGSM @ UNSW Business School, where he earned multiple prestigious awards, including the Sazawaka Scholarship and the Institute of Management Consultants Award. His academic background is further strengthened by a master’s degree in Civil and Structural Engineering from Centrale Lyon.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Rend is deeply committed to giving back. He is a member of the Evolutionary Business Council (EBC), a community of thought leaders dedicated to driving positive change worldwide. He actively supports causes in arts and culture, children’s welfare, science and technology, and economic empowerment.
Fluent in English, French, and conversational Arabic, Rend has cultivated a global perspective that resonates in every boardroom and leadership forum he engages with. His ability to bridge cultural divides and foster collaboration makes him a trusted advisor and thought partner in diverse settings.
When not driving transformation and growth, Rend indulges his passion for cars and airplanes, reflecting a lifelong appreciation for design, innovation, and performance. Whether in the boardroom or in personal pursuits, Rend exemplifies a commitment to excellence and simplicity.
Character:
Rend demonstrates unwavering integrity, transparency, and a deep commitment to delivering results through simplicity. His leadership inspires trust and fosters collaborative environments where diverse teams can thrive.
Knowledge:
With extensive expertise in strategy, M&A, governance, and business transformation, Rend provides actionable insights that drive organizational success. His deep understanding of industries like technology, airlines, and manufacturing enables him to identify and unlock value effectively.
Strategic:
A visionary leader, Rend excels in simplifying complex challenges to craft clear and impactful strategies. His ability to align organizational goals with actionable plans ensures sustainable growth and transformation.
Communication:
Rend’s multilingual skills and cultural adaptability enable him to engage effectively with diverse stakeholders. His clear, concise communication fosters alignment, builds consensus, and drives initiatives forward in global and cross-functional settings.
