Managing and Coaching Negativity in the Workplace

In conducting exit interviews, I am sure to use a spirit of open and honest feedback with the goal of continuous improvement. As I reflect back on some of the interviews I’ve done over the years, I recognize that negativity has been forefront in the ultimate departure of some former employees. Negativity doesn’t make a […]

The ESOP Leader – What It Takes to Lead an Employee Owned Company

ESOP companies are special and unique. Employee ownership creates a culture of employees that are actively involved in the business on all levels. Employee owners can and do participate fully in every aspect of company management and growth. Engagement in this type of company is rivaled and helps ESOPs out perform other types of companies. […]

Best Practices for Exiting a Great Culture

There are many reasons one chooses to change jobs. Making the decision to leave and considering the unknown of a new career path can be daunting. Changing jobs can also be exciting and give you a fresh outlook on your career. Before you start an exciting new role, you have to end your relationship with […]

The Mentality of Ownership Thinking

Helping your employees develop an ownership mentality benefits them and the organization as a whole. Ownership thinking means taking accountability for the quality and success of the outcome of your work. A culture of accountability, where employees are able to make decisions and are encouraged to take ownership is a powerful characteristic of a successful […]

Coffee, Chicken, and the First 20 Years

20 Years Went By Fast Wow, 20 years went by fast. It’s hard to believe Pro Food Systems was started as a coffee/cappuccino company on July 13, 1998. Not only was the coffee black, but my hair was too! My wife Julie and I had our first of three daughters just three months earlier in […]

Communication in Open-Book Management

Businesses exist to produce profits. More importantly, businesses exist to generate cash flow. Without cash flow, businesses fail. When businesses fail, people lose their jobs and the company obviously has no ability to create new jobs. I’m not sure why more leaders don’t communicate and teach the importance of cash flow.

A View from 40,000 Feet

General Aviation and PFSbrands: Unless you’ve experienced the advantages of corporate aviation first hand, it’s hard to truly understand the benefits.  However, organizations such as the National Business Aviation Association and their members undoubtedly “get it”. In 2006, our foodservice company PFSbrands started growing well beyond the Missouri state line.  Prior to that year we did business […]