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How do you replace a legend?
“How would I fill his shoes? I can’t. I need to find my own shoes” –Jim Daly: President: Focus on the Family
The above quote from Jim Daly was said in 2005 when a reporter asked him how he was going to fill the shoes of the world-renowned organization founder, James Dobson. To use a cliche, James Dobson was a “tough act to follow”.
In 1978, Lee Iacocca took over the helm of the nearly bankrupt Chrysler Corporation. No one I knew truly believed that Mr. Iacocca could revive a company in such serious trouble. Mr. Iacocca went to Congress and convinced the government to give him $1.5 billion in loan guarantees. He got to work and brought Chrysler back to profitability. The loans were paid off early. Iacocca, the father of the beloved Mustang, had seemingly performed a miracle. He retired in 1992.
Bob Eaton was hired to replace Iacocca. Bob had his own style, and it was quite different from his predecessor. Raised in Kansas, Bob had a low-key temperament and quiet demeanor. He knew what he was doing, and he developed a workforce that led Chrysler to be one of the most cash-rich corporations in the country in 1996. Bob knew his own style and strengths, and he put them into play. Here are some things he did to strengthen the company:
- Transformed the culture from “combative to participative”.
- Had a clear vision.
- He was flexible, forceful, a good listener, and eager to learn.
- He engaged the labor force of the company to become more than the sum of the parts.
- He introduced new models with cost-cutting discipline.
- Led Chrysler to be the lowest-cost auto producer.
- Developed effective cross-functional teams to design cars quickly and cheaply.
- He saw opportunities that had not been seen before
- He fostered teamwork, set goals, and rewarded achievers.
- Briefed everyone after Board meetings
- Would not agree to acquisitions.
I think we can safely say that Bob “found his own shoes” and left the company better off than when he started. Bob knew his strengths and the unique qualities he brought to the table, and he used them. We can too!