Imagine if purpose, meaning, and authenticity could act as lighthouses along your path—that’s my belief, my passion, and my approach.
I work with people like you to shape professional paths that create value both for themselves and their environments. Drawing on my entrepreneurial experience, world-class education, consulting and coaching skills, and my clients’ own professional expertise and life experience, we build a deeper awareness of the larger network of stakeholders and resources available to foster professional growth.
One of the kindest compliments I received came from IMD Professor Stuart Read: “[Liviu] is one of a small number of people who possess genuine intellectual curiosity and the capacity to apply it productively. Whatever he does, it is bound to reflect the creativity that derives from this curiosity, implemented with energy and thoughtfulness.”
Here are some highlights of my journey:
I didn’t set out to be an entrepreneur, but life is full of surprises and opportunities in disguise. After being fired, I decided to start my own company, and a few years later, the same person who fired me became my partner. Together, we spent the next ten years building a software company that became a leading player in payroll software and a pioneer in payroll services outsourcing, processing hundreds of thousands of payrolls annually.
I love learning new things, exploring technology, and working with people to foster personal and professional growth. Building a software and services company gave me a taste of it all. My passion for entrepreneurship runs deep, and I believe we’re all entrepreneurs in some way—whether in our careers, our businesses, or simply navigating life.
At the height of my career, I received a difficult diagnosis: multiple sclerosis. It shook me to my core.
After a successful exit, I took on new kinds of challenges—the kind I wanted to experience while still in good shape. One of these challenges was going from “zero to 60” across the Atlantic. With no prior sailing experience, I became one of the first Romanians to cross an ocean, an achievement that took years of perseverance. I’ve also been fortunate to learn at some of the world’s most prestigious business schools.
The hardest part, though, was losing the ability to plan long-term—or even to dream.
Fast-forward many years, and today, I dedicate my energy to helping people achieve their dreams. I design programs that provide the energy, confidence, and tools to step boldly into new professional paths—whether pursuing a side hustle, a fulfilling new job, or a startup. I partner with like-minded colleagues and recognized experts to deliver these programs. If you’re interested in learning more, drop me a line.
I live in the gourmet capital of France, speak four languages, and discovered a passion for motorcycling at 40. I occasionally enjoy riding through the winding roads of the Alps and of the Massif Central.
AKA/Misspellings: Livio Petri, Liviu Petry
How do you pronounce my name? (a frequently asked question). As we say on a boat: “lee view”.
Trivia: The name of my consulting company, Upward Thrust, company was inspired from a sculpture by a Romanian born artist: Bird in Space by Constantin Brancusi. (https://www.metmuseum.org/art/collection/search/486757)
Find my professional profile on LinkedIn