Cultivating Leadership and Culture: Introducing Eric Williams, Director of Operations at NOVO Health Services

In the ever-evolving world of industrial laundry services, few career paths stand out as much as that of Eric Williams , the Director of Operations at NOVO Health Services. With a background in biology and an unexpected career path in the laundry industry, Eric’s story is one of growth, leadership, and a commitment to creating a positive work culture.

From Biology to Laundry: An Unconventional Path

Eric’s path into the laundry industry was not a typical one. Initially pursuing a degree in biology with dreams of becoming a dentist, he found himself drawn to a different path. “I realized in my final year of college that I was done with school and wanted to find a company that would invest in me and allow me to grow,” Eric recalls. His entry into the laundry industry was sparked by a recommendation from his brother, who was already working in textiles. What began as a hesitant step into an unfamiliar industry quickly turned into a passion for operational efficiency and leadership.

Embracing Leadership and Building Culture

Eric’s approach to leadership is rooted in a people-first mentality. “I’m a people person when it comes to leadership,” he shares. “I’m not looking for the person with the most experience; I want someone who is hungry, willing to work, and coachable.” This focus on nurturing talent and empowering his team has been a cornerstone of his success.

A significant influence on Eric’s leadership style has been the book ‘The Employee Experience Revolution’ by John R. DiJulius III . Eric mentions, “The biggest takeaway from the book for me was the importance of the employee experience as a driver of overall business success. It’s not just about meeting operational goals; it’s about ensuring that every team member feels valued and supported.” This insight has guided Eric in creating a workplace where employees thrive, knowing that their well-being directly contributes to the company’s success.

Eric’s leadership style is also deeply influenced by his personal journey of self-reflection and growth. He acknowledges that his early years in management were marked by arrogance, but through self-reflection and experience, he has developed a more balanced and empathetic approach. “I want to teach people so they can do things on their own, and I can do less,” he says with a smile. “Empowering others to make good decisions is key.”

Why NOVO? A Culture of Collaboration and Innovation

When asked why he chose to join NOVO Health Services, Eric’s answer is simple: the people. “The leadership here is incredible, and there’s a lot of information sharing and collaboration,” he explains. Eric appreciates the company’s commitment to investing in its people and fostering a culture of teamwork. “There’s no ‘this plant versus that plant’ mentality here; we’re all on the same team.”

Eric also values NOVO’s forward-thinking approach, particularly in how the company embraces innovation and growth. Karl Fillip II , [President & CEO of NOVO] saw an opportunity and brought me on board even though there wasn’t a specific position available at the time. That kind of foresight is rare, and it’s something I really respect about this company.”

Balancing Operational Excellence with Employee Well-being

One of the biggest challenges Eric faces in his role is finding the balance between driving operational excellence and maintaining a positive work environment. “I come from a very operationally focused company, but I’ve also seen the sacrifices that come with that approach,” he reflects. “At NOVO, I’m striving to find the right balance where we can improve operational efficiencies without compromising on the well-being of our employees.”

This commitment to balance is evident in his approach to managing older facilities. Rather than pushing for immediate, large-scale changes, Eric advocates for gradual improvements that result in tangible wins for the team. “You can’t overhaul everything at once,” he says. “But when people see that their hard work leads to getting off an hour earlier or making the same money with fewer hours, it’s a win for everyone.”

Looking Ahead: Challenges and Opportunities

As NOVO Health Services continues to grow, Eric anticipates that maintaining the company’s culture and values will be one of the biggest challenges. “Growth is going to happen really fast, and we need to make sure we stay true to our values and culture as we expand,” he emphasizes. He also highlights the importance of investing in maintenance talent, a crucial but often overlooked aspect of the industry.

Eric’s vision for the future of NOVO is one where operational excellence is achieved without sacrificing the well-being of the people who make it all possible. His leadership style, commitment to fostering a positive work culture, and path to this role make him a key player in shaping the future of NOVO Health Services.

Conclusion

Eric’s story is a testament to the power of leadership, self-reflection, and a people-first approach in driving success. As NOVO Health Services continues to expand, Eric’s influence will undoubtedly play a crucial role in maintaining the company’s culture and values while navigating the challenges and opportunities of growth.

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