Get out of the Way

Founders, I’m talking to you!??

Recently a young client of mine made the momentous decision to hire a CEO to run his business. When I first met my client, he ran his business from home and a small workshop on his client’s premises. Yet within a few short years he had his own large workshop, and the business had grown exponentially. His team were running very large projects with ever increasing staff and contractors, and the founder was relying on bringing in people with skills in the various areas needed.?

However, it got to the point where the skills needed were top management. He needed someone capable of bringing in structure and process who could also be involved in business development.?

Often founders bring in a general manager who reports to them. This young man was wise enough to bring in a boss. Whilst the CEO reports to the founder as director, the founder as staff reports to the CEO. An interesting dynamic that allows each person to play to their strengths.?

It is not the first time I have seen this play out. Founders are often practical, hands-on people who enjoy time back in the field or the workshop playing an expert advisor role, training others and solving problems.?

Understanding leadership strengths and weaknesses, and identifying what the business needs in each stage of growth, are essential for a successful business.?