The Naked CEO: the truth you need to build a big life (Alex Malley 2015)

In late 2015, I heard Alex Malley present at an investment function. He spoke about his personal journey and his vision for the CPA. It was a great talk and the story behind his interview with Neil Armstrong was the highlight for me. So when I saw this book at the airport, I bought it.

I wish I had read this book 10 years ago before my first day at ABN AMRO Morgans. Actually I wish I had read it whilst still at uni and working as a teller at Suncorp. The book is a bit of a traveller’s guide through the world of employment and building a career.

Although the book has a corporate and accounting flavour to it, I have no doubt that the lessons offered could be applied to nearly any position in any career path. Many employers would do well to provide this book to each year’s graduates or interns.

Much of the book contained lessons that I’d come to learn the long way (through the trial and error of experience), but some advice cannot be heard enough. Having said this, Part One of the book ‘Dare to Dream’ contained tips and perspectives that were absolute gold, most of which I hadn’t yet read or heard before. A good, useful, easy read.