After the lunch break (I had the pizza) was an interview with Brad Anderson, the CEO of Best Buy.  Interestingly, Brad attended a year of seminary before going into retail.  He started with Best Buy when they had three stores and now helps run the giant that it is.

Like the interview with Catherine Rohr, I can not say it as profoundly helpful but I did have a few positive impressions and thoughts none the less.

First, he broke a few stereotypes of the hard charging CEO.  For example,

  • He seems like a really nice guy.  He came across as very humble and likable.
  • He is not dynamic and hard charging.  He seems deliberate and thoughtful.
  • He is not an adrenaline addict.  He says he comes to the office at 9 AM.
  • He seems to prefer leading from behind the scenes and not from up front.

Secondly, he is a learner.  Bill kind of did not let him finish answering his question, but Brad talked about the reading he does and has read thousands of biographies.

Third, he seems to fit the bill perfectly of Jim Collins and his level five leader.

Fourth, he spends most of his time “leading down.”  By his own estimation he spends 85% of this time working with the people “below” him.  He solves problems, provides encouragement, and listens to those under his supervision.  He does not spend nearly as much time leading the board and appealing to stockholders as compared to many other CEOs.

Fifth and finally, he believes in giving his people freedom to get things done.  He proscribes outcomes he would like but not the methods as much.

Again, the previous interview was great because of the inspiration.  This one, a few good take aways but not the highlight of my time.