Interview with Santa Clause - 2024

Every year since 2017, I’ve had the privilege (and festive delight) of interviewing none other than Santa Claus. It all started as a light-hearted chat about his work bringing joy to the world, but over the years, it’s grown into a cherished tradition – one that blends his love of making people happy with my passion for connecting the right humans. Turns out, Santa and I share more than just a fondness for mince pies – we both thrive on spreading cheer and building meaningful relationships (though I’ll admit, his reindeer team meetings might be a touch more magical than my Zoom calls).

As my life and career have developed over the years, so has our friendship, and I’ve been fascinated by how Santa’s operation has evolved behind the scenes. On the surface, Christmas feels timeless, but trust me, he’s no stranger to change. From upgrading sleigh logistics to mastering supply chain management in the age of online shopping, Santa’s business is a masterclass in adapting while staying true to tradition. This year’s interview promises plenty of laughs, insights, and maybe even a sneak peek into what’s on his wish-list for 2024. Stay tuned – it’s going to be holly, jolly, and wholly entertaining!

RW: Santa, it’s great to sit down with you again for our annual interview. Big year for me with a new role as the CEO of The CEO Institute, so I must ask – as CEO of Christmas Inc., how do you manage such major transitions yourself? What advice would you give to a new CEO?

SC: Ho, ho, ho, glad to see you’re still full of curiosity, Richard! Let me tell you, transitions are no small feat at Christmas Inc. Mrs Claus reminds me every year that, despite the red suit, even I can’t do it all alone. I’m just the face of the operation! Behind me, I’ve got my reindeer team, the elves, Mrs Claus – they’re the ones making the magic happen. When you’ve got a solid team, you’ve got the best foundation for any change, even in a season as high stakes as ours. “Lead from the front” as they say but lead in the right way. That’s my advice. I might look happy and jolly all the time, but occasionally I show my vulnerable side. That makes me authentic and real. And that builds trust with my team. I’ve done it like this for years – and it works. Ask the reindeer!

RW: Speaking of reindeer, how’s the team? I imagine they’re crucial to your supply chain strategy.

SC: Absolutely! They’re the power and speed behind our entire logistics system. This year, though, we had some… let’s call them ‘reindeer relations issues.’ Dasher has been pushing for a faster approach, a bit of a speed demon that one, while Dancer insists we need to put on some shows for the elves. Blitzen wants a performance bonus, and don’t even get me started on Rudolph – he’s got new AI driven LED nose technology that is, let’s just say, a bit bright for the other reindeer’s taste. I’m practically running a mini board meeting every time I hitch them up.

RW: "AI driven LED nose"? That sounds very 2024. Speaking of which, with so many global changes this year, how’s Christmas Inc. adapting?

SC: Ah, yes! World events – they’ve kept us on our toes. With everything going AI crazy, we’ve had to up our game too. We’ve got ElfTech working on a ‘Gift-o-matic’ app – it uses AI to predict what kids want based on their social media activity. Of course, Mrs Claus raised an eyebrow at that. She keeps me grounded, saying, “Santa, nothing replaces a handwritten letter.” So, we’re still getting sack-loads of those.

And we can’t forget sustainability – everyone’s talking about it. Mrs Claus insists we use biodegradable wrapping paper now, and the elves have implemented a “one gift, one tree planted” policy. Mind you, that was their idea after last year’s “Sustainability Summit.” You wouldn’t think elves would get so passionate about going green, but they’re quite the advocates!

RW: Impressive! So, between app development and sustainable gift-giving, how are the elves managing? I imagine they’re busy with new processes?

SC: Oh, the elves… managing them is another story! They’re very dedicated but keeping them focused is like herding reindeer. Jingle, my Head of Elf Resources, is always introducing new “elf-engagement” strategies. This year, he implemented a weekly “Hot Chocolate Huddle” to keep morale high. But honestly, as soon as they get a sniff of peppermint cocoa, productivity drops faster than a sleigh in turbulence.

We also had a small “Elf Union” protest last month – they want more ergonomic toy-making stations and an extra cocoa break per shift. It’s fair to say I’m negotiating holiday benefits more than I expected this year!

RW: And Mrs Claus – she’s a key part of the team too, isn’t she? How’s she influencing Christmas Inc.’s direction these days?

SC: Mrs Claus is the true COO of Christmas Inc. Without her, we’d be knee-deep in melted candy canes and drowning in overdue gift lists. She’s the one making sure the elves are fed, the reindeer stay in line, and I actually check the naughty-and-nice list twice (she says it’s a “quality assurance” thing). She’s even spearheaded some big changes – thanks to her, we now offer a range of vegan and gluten-free holiday treats. She’s sharp as a peppermint stick and always two steps ahead.

But beyond that, she’s not just my partner in business; she’s my partner in everything. She’s my wife, my rock, and the reason the North Pole keeps ticking. Whether it’s keeping operations on track, making sure I’m fuelled up with cookies (and sneaking in the occasional salad), or reminding me to take a moment to breathe amidst the holiday rush, she’s the real magic behind Christmas.

I may get all the glory on Christmas Eve, but Mrs Claus is the heart of it all. She’s even a better negotiator than me – you haven’t seen true diplomacy until you’ve witnessed her settle a reindeer dispute over extra oats. Every year, I’m reminded just how lucky I am to have her by my side. Without her, let’s face it, the sleigh would’ve gone off course long ago… probably somewhere over Finland!

RW: She sounds like a strategic asset, indeed. Now, let’s talk about you, Santa – managing all this must be a lot. How do you stay motivated?

SC: Ho, ho! A hearty belly laugh and a few gingerbread cookies go a long way! But if I’m honest, it’s the purpose behind what I do that keeps me going. Seeing the joy on people’s faces – the kind that can’t be captured in a KPI or a quarterly report – that’s the real magic. It’s not about delivering presents; it’s about delivering happiness, hope, and connection. That’s the best ROI anyone could ask for, and it’s what keeps me strapping on my boots every year.

And let me tell you, having a partner like Mrs Claus to share that vision with is invaluable. Every year, she says, “Santa, don’t lose sight of why you’re doing this,” and those words stick with me. She reminds me that it’s not just about making the night of Christmas perfect; it’s about the ripple effect of that joy – how it inspires kindness, generosity, and togetherness in the world.

It’s a reminder to any leader out there: while the systems and structures of your business might shift, staying grounded in your purpose and values is what ensures longevity.

Leadership, after all, isn’t about the individual at the helm; it’s about the mission that drives them and the people who rally around it. And for me, knowing that everything we do here, from the workshop floor to the sleigh ride, is in service of spreading joy – that’s what fuels me. That, and maybe a few extra gingerbread cookies along the way!

RW: Santa, you just touched on it – but what is your approach to purposeful leadership

SC:?Purpose is the cornerstone of Christmas Inc. – without it, all we’d have is a factory of toys and a bunch of reindeer clocking in and out. Purpose keeps us all focused on what really matters: bringing joy, spreading kindness, and creating a little magic in the world. When things get tough, like this year with supply chain issues and elf negotiations, it’s that sense of purpose that keeps me and the whole team going. Every Christmas Eve, I remind myself – this isn’t just about delivering presents; it’s about delivering hope. That’s a purpose worth leading for.

RW:?That’s really inspiring, Santa. You mentioned this at the very beginning of our interview; leaders being encouraged to show vulnerability. How do you bring that to Christmas Inc.

SC:?As much as I’m Santa, I’m also just a person (albeit one with a great giant beard). If the team sees me acting like I’ve got it all figured out all the time, they’re not going to come to me when?they?need help. I let them see when I’m having a moment of doubt, or when I don’t have all the answers. For example, last year when we had that toy production delay, I had to go down to the workshop, look the elves in the eyes, and say, “I don’t know how we’re going to catch up yet, but I know we will – and I’m with you every step of the way.” The truth is, a little vulnerability shows your team that you trust them – and that trust goes both ways.

RW:?I love that. Vulnerability really does open doors for trust. A friend of mine talks a lot about being “wholehearted” in leadership, especially when it comes to creating a legacy of significance rather than just focusing on the success of Christmas Inc.? What do you think about that?

SC:?Your friend has hit the nail on the head there, Richard. To me, wholehearted leadership means showing up as my real self – jolly, yes, but also genuine. It’s about putting in 110% for something that’s bigger than myself. I’m not just here to run a smooth operation or hit delivery targets; I’m here to make a lasting impact. Every child who believes in Santa, every act of kindness we inspire – that’s what makes a legacy. Success is great, but significance? That’s something else entirely. It’s why Mrs Claus and I keep coming back each year – because the legacy of Christmas is one of love, hope, and a little sparkle. And that’s the kind of legacy worth working for.

RW: That’s a great perspective, Santa. Last question – any big changes or exciting updates we should look forward to in 2024?

SC: Well, I won’t spoil too much, but let’s say Christmas Inc. is going digital in more ways than one. We’re beta-testing virtual reindeer rides, and Mrs Claus has just greenlit a “Direct from the North Pole” video message option. We’re also looking into hybrid working models for the elves – though I’ll believe it when I see a workshop on Zoom! So yes, 2024 is all about balancing tradition with innovation. Just like any good CEO, I know I have to stay relevant, and this year’s mix of old and new should keep things interesting.

RW: Sounds like you’re well-prepared! Thanks for sharing, Santa. Best of luck with the final Christmas push.

SC:?Ho, ho, ho! Absolutely, Richard! Just remember – a little authenticity and a whole lot of heart can make any leader memorable. Merry Christmas to you and all your CEOs – keep leading with a little holiday spirit, it goes a long way!

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As we wrap up another insightful and festive chat with Santa, it’s clear that purpose and partnership are at the heart of his enduring success. Whether it’s leading with joy, adapting to change, or leaning on a trusted team, his approach offers lessons for us all. Here’s to a season of connection, reflection, and a little magic – straight from the North Pole!? Until next year!!!