While Mongo—an open source database provider—lost a leader, his family and society gained one. What lesson can we take from Schireson’s decision?
Families give us meaning and purpose. This is very much in line with the teachings of Dr. W. Edwards Deming who referred to this as a “constancy in purpose.” Leaders, much like fathers and mothers, must have a stated constancy in purpose. The message must be clear to employees, suppliers and customers. While it can change and improve as conditions dictate, it should not vary much long-term as we so often see in American leadership today. How might the following mission and values statement be applied to your business purpose?
“To help our spouses and children consistently prosper by benefiting society and one another. We will do so by raising great human beings through continuously improving one another along with those we come in contact with. … To provide an environment to promote joy at home and at school where we can all achieve our personal goals and give families in the future an opportunity to share in the same values. These must be pursued in a manner that is socially responsible and commands respect for integrity by making positive contributions to society.” (1)
Unfortunately, the company responsible for these statements lost their way and closed their doors a few years ago, but Max Schireson did not. He learned that some things are more important than money, fame and the allure of trying to lead by being away from home.
Chief Executive Group exists to improve the performance of U.S. CEOs, senior executives and public-company directors, helping you grow your companies, build your communities and strengthen society. Learn more at chiefexecutivegroup.com.
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1:00 - 5:00 pm
Over 70% of Executives Surveyed Agree: Many Strategic Planning Efforts Lack Systematic Approach Tips for Enhancing Your Strategic Planning Process
Executives expressed frustration with their current strategic planning process. Issues include:
Steve Rutan and Denise Harrison have put together an afternoon workshop that will provide the tools you need to address these concerns. They have worked with hundreds of executives to develop a systematic approach that will enable your team to make better decisions during strategic planning. Steve and Denise will walk you through exercises for prioritizing your lists and steps that will reset and reinvigorate your process. This will be a hands-on workshop that will enable you to think about your business as you use the tools that are being presented. If you are ready for a Strategic Planning tune-up, select this workshop in your registration form. The additional fee of $695 will be added to your total.
2:00 - 5:00 pm
Female leaders face the same issues all leaders do, but they often face additional challenges too. In this peer session, we will facilitate a discussion of best practices and how to overcome common barriers to help women leaders be more effective within and outside their organizations.
Limited space available.
10:30 - 5:00 pm
General’s Retreat at Hermitage Golf Course
Sponsored by UBS
General’s Retreat, built in 1986 with architect Gary Roger Baird, has been voted the “Best Golf Course in Nashville” and is a “must play” when visiting the Nashville, Tennessee area. With the beautiful setting along the Cumberland River, golfers of all capabilities will thoroughly enjoy the golf, scenery and hospitality.
The golf outing fee includes transportation to and from the hotel, greens/cart fees, use of practice facilities, and boxed lunch. The bus will leave the hotel at 10:30 am for a noon shotgun start and return to the hotel after the cocktail reception following the completion of the round.
