Garry Ridge spent 25 years as the CEO of WD-40 Company where people and purpose were always at the forefront. Garry’s accomplishments as CEO are impressive. He helped expand the business to a global market and exponentially increase profits. But what Garry is most proud of, is a people driven culture of servant leadership where 98% of people loved working there and had a 93% employee engagement.
On this week’s episode of Conscious Curiosity SD, Garry dives into his tenure as CEO and the ongoing work of creating a culture that permeated every aspect of their business. Garry shares the equation for creating culture and although the work is simple, it’s not easy, but is so worth it. “Purpose driven passionate people guided by their values create amazing outcomes.”
Garry’s philosophy on company culture comes from a quote by Aristotle, “pleasure in the job puts perfection in the work.” People spend most of their days at work which means businesses have the biggest opportunity to influence our collective happiness. Garry has never been afraid to say, “I don’t know” and fostered a learning environment where managers became coaches, and leadership was taught and embodied in every aspect of the company.
Garry is now “REFIRING” as a coach, consultant, and speaker with his company, The Learning Moment. Garry referred to his time as CEO as a “25 year apprenticeship” in leadership and is taking the same open handed approach to learning as he always has, sharing it with others. Garry’s next book, “Any Dumbass Can Do It,” is sure to provide insight and wisdom we can all benefit from.
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