Wanted: Future leaders
Here’s a simple way to remember our approach to discovering—and covering— the next generation of leaders for the HBSDealer GenNext special feature coming to print and digital pages in October.
If you see someone, say something.
If you see someone – under 40 years of age —leading a team in a way that suggests that someone is on the path to long-term success in the hardware or building supply industry, say something to HBSDealer, because that’s exactly who we’re looking for.
Wanted: Future leaders
Do you know a future leader—under 40 years of age— working in any capacity in the hardware and building supply industry?
We would love to know about him, or her. Send us a note here.
If you see someone who is every bit as comfortable around stacks of dimensional lumber as a seasoned lumberyard hand, and yet this someone also has the aptitude for data and digital communications every bit as competent as a sought-after Silicon Valley recruit, say something. Because it’s clear that technology is going to play an increasingly important role in the distribution of building materials and the retail business.
If you see someone stand up in a meeting against the prevailing opinion voiced by experienced colleagues, and this someone sensibly and respectfully wins the room with arguments backed by logic and data, say something. Because future leaders can't be afraid to disagree.
On the other hand, if you see someone who agrees to take on the task that no one else wants, and throws himself or herself into the matter in a way that gains respect from customers and colleagues, well then, we want to know about him or her, too.
To those who suggest the 40-year-age limit should be stretched upward, remember that Napoleon was only 31 when he crossed the Alps with his Revolutionary army.
HBSDealer’s editorial team enters this project knowing full well the perils of attempting to identify future leaders. We have had our successes. Back in 1999, we recognized Bob Taylor as an “industry innovator,” when he was president of his family hardware store business. He entered the Home Channel hall of Fame in 2012 as CEO of Do it Best Corp. We identified Michael Cassidy as one of “Seven to watch in 2007,” long before he took on the role of CEO at T.W. Perry.
Of course, we have had our misses, which we hope the reader will generously allow us to pass over without extended comment.
The point is: We need your help. If you see someone, say something. We’re here to listen. Share with us at [email protected].
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