Professional Title

Senior Advisor to White & Case in Mexico City, and former U.S. Ambassador to Mexico. Currently a Director to CPKC Railways (NYSE:CP) and The Greenbrier Companies (NYSE:GBX). Also, serve as a Trustee to Southern Methodist University and Director to the George W. Bush Foundation and Presidential Library. 

What’s one thing you’re learning right now — professionally or personally?

Integrating AI tools into my day to day, both professionally and personally. Although a bit embarrassed to admit that the first conversation I had with my AI asst. was on how to make the perfect mezcal negroni.

In your view, what makes a truly effective board member?

My wife’s youngest graduated from college a few years ago and I gave him Yuval Noah Harari’s 21 Lessons for the 21st Century. In one of the essays, Harari spoke to what a young person needed to succeed in a world where the only constants were change and uncertainty. Harari wrote that the ability to think critically, communicate effectively, collaborate constructively and be both resilient and creative were all essential to success. In my mind, that’s also the essence of what it takes today to be an effective leader and corporate director. 

Beach, mountains, city, or countryside — what’s your ideal getaway?

Big cities and surrounding countrysides. 

What’s a small daily habit that makes a big difference for you?

I've had back issues for years so start each day with a few yoga-like meditative exercises. Sets the back, clears the mind, and helps frame the day. 

What’s a book every board member should read?

Cicero, On the Good life; Dostoevsky, The Brothers Karamazov. 

What's the best piece of advice you've ever received?

Do right. Enjoy. Repeat. Yes, I know, has a whiff of Sam Houston reading the instructions on his shampoo. But still good advice.  

In your experience, what differentiates great board chairs?

I've served with some great ones; they wore leadership comfortably, without ego and always very well prepared. I'd characterize the style as "first amongst equals", but their hands were comfortably on the reins.

If you had an extra free hour every day, how would you spend it?

Good fiction. 

What’s the most unforgettable trip or experience you’ve ever had?

Man, tough one. How 'bout the last 66 years.