In the exclusive realm of Monaco's business elite, a discreet revolution is unfolding as the Monaco Business Circle provides a sanctuary for leaders to connect authentically.

Founded by Gavin Sharpe in 2025, the circle rapidly reached its capacity of 25 members, with an increasing waitlist reflecting a growing demand for such a space within the principality's leadership community.

Gavin Sharpe, the founder of Riviera Wellbeing, noted the pervasive need among executives for genuine connection, stating, "There are a hundred places to network.

There are a hundred cocktail events.

But there isn’t a place where you can say: ‘Yes, right now, my team is failing.

I am overwhelmed.’”

This invitation-only forum convenes every six weeks at the CREM, where the warm atmosphere fosters vulnerability, a theme Sharpe emphasizes.

The setting is intentionally designed not as an auditorium but as a lounge, where executives gather on sofas for authentic exchanges.

Sharpe's journey to create this haven is as unconventional as the circle itself.

Formerly a lawyer who transitioned to build a global recruitment firm, he sold his business after a pivotal realization regarding material possessions: "There are only so many watches I can wear.

There are only so many cars I can drive.” Following a so-called midlife crisis, Sharpe retrained as a therapist and executive coach.

He amalgamated these disciplines into his leadership program, "The Path to Success,” which underpins the Business Circle's offerings.

To explain the necessity for continuous growth among high achievers, Sharpe quoted coach Marshall Goldsmith: "What got you here won’t get you there." He pointed out that the skills that led to past successes may no longer suffice in a rapidly evolving business landscape.

Among the key issues that resonate deeply with members is what Sharpe refers to as the "3 Ps" – perfectionism, procrastination, and people-pleasing – identified as particular challenges for high performers in Monaco's competitive environment.

He remarked, "All high performers certainly suffer from perfectionism," attributing this need for excellence to both individual personality and job demands.

The circle addresses these dynamics and other leadership challenges such as emotional intelligence, conflict management, and the overcoming of limiting beliefs that hinder executives.

Following the sessions, Sharpe extends learning by providing resources via a private online platform, enhancing development beyond in-person meetings.

Co-founded with Irene Luke of Savills Monaco, who shares Sharpe's legal background and commitment to service, the circle comprises a diverse group of leaders from various nationalities, industries, and ages, ranging from those in their thirties to seasoned veterans in their final career phases.

This intentional balance, with nearly equal representation of men and women, fosters richer dialogue than might be found in more homogeneous settings.

Each member also contributes €25 per session to Child Care Monaco, reflecting the group's community-oriented ethos.

Ultimately, the Monaco Business Circle signifies more than just professional development; it emphasizes a quest for authenticity.

As Sharpe reflected, "Your best life will be different from my best life." Through various exercises focusing on values and profound questions like "When do you feel most alive?", he guides leaders to reconnect with their core values and sense of purpose beyond profit margins and business plans.

In a world where isolation among leaders is commonplace, the Monaco Business Circle offers a rare opportunity for executives to pause, reflect, and thrive alongside peers who understand the unique pressures of leadership.