Marvin Ellison’s Winning Way
by Miki Saxon
The following points are from a profile of Marvin Ellison, CEO of JC Penney and author of its successful turnaround strategy.
He is also the guy credited with Home Depot’s turnaround after Bob Nardelli’s disastrous run as CEO.
Ellison’s attitude and approach is the 180 degree opposite of Nardelli’s imperial, top down, command and control management style.
I was at Home Depot last weekend and in conversation with two employees who were solving a problem for me, which they did brilliantly.
I mentioned how different shopping there was now compared to during Nardelli’s reign. It turned out they had both worked at HD during that time and a couple of the stories they told were beyond belief.
If you think I’m exaggerating, or are too young to remember him, note that Nardelli is number 17 on Portfolio’s Worst American CEOs of All Time.
How different is Ellison?
The following four Ellison quotes clearly illustrate his approach.
Beyond explaining his leadership skill the quotes are solid cornerstones on which to build your own approach.
“I’m trying to understand the culture and customer. In retail, understanding those two things is essential.”
“…listening to people about what we need to do;”
“There will be change, but not for the sake of change.”
“There’s nothing more instructive than asking store employees for their opinions. I have no problem doing it.”
Hat tip to Wally Bock for pointing me to this article.
Image credit: BlackPast.org
