"We Just LOVE Him.....our CEO!"

How often do you hear people say THAT?  Do you feel that way about the CEO of your company? 

When I heard those words spoken recently by several employees of an organization I had the privilege of visiting through Leadership Texas, I couldn't help but wonder how many businesses, companies and organizations feel this way about their CEO.  Probably not too many if you read the newspapers, listen to the radio, or watch any of the television or political pundits.   

I was truly intrigued by the caring and love these people have for their President and Chief Executive Officer, whose name I'll share in just a bit.  From the custodians, physicians, nursing staff and volunteers that serve Hillcrest Baptist Medical Center in Waco, Texas, I heard the same words throughout the day.  Naturally, I wanted to know more about this person, their CEO, about whom they continued to rave. Fortunately, I had the chance to hear him speak and meet him in person.  His name is Glenn Robinson, and indeed, I was very impressed to say the least.

When Mr. Robinson addressed our group of 100 plus women from all over the state of Texas, he began by saying that when he was asked about speaking to our class, he didn't know what he was going to say to such an accomplished group of women (okay, so he immediately paid us a compliment - nice beginning).  As he continued however, what I personally observed was warmth and genuineness in his tone and delivery.  He is so very proud of the employees at Hillcrest.  He shared with us the amazing feat involved in running 2 hospitals simultaneously and transporting 101 acute care patients from the old hospital to the new hospital when they moved in on April 4, 2009.  Then he iterated that THE most important asset of Hillcrest is its people, and you could feel his care and concern for them.  He said, "The best ideas come from our people, our associates and those who actually greet and interface with the patients.  It's the simple things that count - compassion from the heart". 

We learned that Mr. Robinson holds a monthly luncheon meeting in which 10 employees are randomly selected to attend every month for candid discussions.  During these get togethers, he solicits input and ideas from the employees about how to make things better.  He also always asks 2 questions:  1)  What brought them to Hillcrest  and 2)  What keeps them there?

An excellent storyteller himself, he said he loves hearing stories because he learns a lot from them and from the people who tell them.  As he concluded his talk, I noted some of the tips he shared about things he does to live a great life:

·      Find a hobby that you enjoy

·      Develop and maintain relationships outside of work

·      Take refresher courses and continue to be a student throughout life

·      Confide in a trusted associate

·      Have a peer group

·      Seek a mentor who demonstrates wisdom and integrity

After listening to Glenn Robinson and observing him throughout the day, it was easy to see why the employees of Hillcrest Baptist Medical Center cherish him so much.  That more organizations should be so fortunate as to have someone like Glenn Robinson, there would be many happier employees, happier customers and well-run organizations. 

Would love to hear from you if you know of other CEOs who are so respected by their organizations as they definitely set the right example!

Until next time,

Laura