Logistics Management

Michael Regan

It's Just Common Sense
April 28, 2008

The last couple of weeks have been a whirlwind - which is why it has been awhile since the last blog entry. During that time I’ve been in ‘school’ and have met inspirational people who taught me some great lessons on leadership.

Three weeks ago my wife and I had the privilege of having dinner with General George Casey, Chief of Staff for the US Army, and his delightful wife, Sheila. The following day, we met with leaders of the US Army for a special briefing about world events. Then I was off to Bosnia (where I am happy to report, there was no sniper fire) to spend time in Medjugorje. It has been humbling to meet individuals who voluntarily give their lives to serve others.  

The Caseys and the other Generals reaffirmed our appreciation for the sacrifice that they, and all of our soldiers and their families, have made for the gift of freedom that truth be told, is often taken for granted. I was also able to see a side of the story which looks much different than the story in the drive-by media, and got insight into what great leadership looks like.

First, these leaders share a common vision and can clearly communicate their objectives. Both my wife and I agreed that they all “sing off the same song sheet.” They understand their mission, the chain of command, the resources that are available, and what is at stake in this war. In contrast, there are many corporate environments in which the agenda varies on a silo by silo basis.

Second, the Generals are not afraid to make decisions. They understand that their jobs involve life and death issues so they get the relevant information to make the best possible decision. There is no ‘paralysis by analysis’ where individuals avoid making decisions for fear that they’ll make the wrong decision. They understand that after reviewing the situation, it is time for action. They decide what they want to happen next – and risk that it may not turn out as planned.

Fast forward to Bosnia in an area that has been ravaged by war, and is now dealing with the consequences. During the war, troops dumped chemicals into the water supply. Especially heart-wrenching is the plight of the many orphaned children, and the children of the pregnant women who drank this contaminated water. Many were born with profound disabilities, and unlike in the United States, there are no governmental programs to provide support.

Meeting Fathers Jozo and Svett was incredible. These individuals run different orphanages that serve “the least, the last, and the lost.” Father Jozo’s orphanage provides a home for about 75 disabled children. Father Svett runs Mother’s Village, which serves kids who lost their families during the war, protects young women, and offers support for recovering drug addicts. Spending an evening at the Village opened my eyes, and my heart, and provided me with some very enlightening dialogue.

Over ice cream, Father Svett asked what TranzAct does. When I explained that we exist to help companies lower their freight costs and manage their logistics, he looked at me rather quizzically and stated matter of factly: “But isn’t managing logistics just common sense?” I replied that while that is undoubtedly true, I’d appreciate it he could keep that our little secret.

As the father of 4 children myself, I couldn’t help but question how Father Svett coped with the burden of looking after the emotional, physical and financial needs of his clients, who are the 51 kids, and almost 50 other adults and young ladies. His answer - he doesn’t overcomplicate things. Each day, the staff at the Village has a very simple priority: Serve the clients. Father Svett trusts in God, has plenty of common sense, and a firm commitment to living one day at a time. He plans for the future, while focusing himself and his staff on what happens on a day to day basis. Isn’t that a great prescription for life?   

The past three weeks have reaffirmed that there are great lessons to learn from leaders in all walks of life. So to General Casey and his Generals, and to Fathers Jozo and Svett, thanks for making this a better world.

www.tranzact.com

Posted by Michael Regan on April 28, 2008 | Comments (3)