From Building to Execution
January 18, 2019
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1SO-kRqU4jo
It has been a very fast 12 months since I joined CoolSys as COO. I have been actively listening and learning about the history of our operating businesses, the experience of our customers and employees, and the way we grow and operate. I find myself inspired by the knowledge, passion and desire to do what is right among all with whom I interface. I am also excited to have validated that the vision to create a one-stop shop for a broad range of best-in-class refrigeration and HVAC solutions is not just a hope for the future, but something we can really achieve.
Operationally, 2018 was a building year. The Operations team and our corporate partners identified and simplified processes, with a goal of making them consistent and easier to execute. We developed key metrics that we will all use to manage our business in a consistent and profitable way. We ensured that the field organizational structure, roles and responsibilities were well defined, and that they could be measured to best support our customers and overall business. There is still a lot more work to do in this regard, and Operations will continue to evolve.
2019 will be about execution. As we aim to improve productivity, we will ensure we have proper performance accountability. We will begin our journey to identify the appropriate IT platform(s) that will enable proactive and responsive tools, resources and support for our teams in the future.
Our business environment remains a complex one, and the only antidote for such complexity is focused execution. This includes getting a job done on time and on budget, executing a cost plan, or getting a customer sale at the end of a month or quarter. Flawless execution must be part of our DNA. Lastly, we will continue to develop our culture, ensuring that CoolSys is a great place for our employees to work, prosper and grow.
Thank you to those who have helped me to learn our business, to those who have worked with me to design process improvements and to all the rest of you for making CoolSys the fantastic company that it is. I look forward to what we’ll achieve together in 2019.
I want to leave you with some thoughts on execution I believe are important for us all to embrace…
Build repeatable and fast processes. We need standard processes and cycle times to be able to execute in our complex environment.
Focus on simple operating metrics. Whenever I see an operation that is failing, it’s a pretty sure bet the business lacks simple metrics with operating disciplines to match. Focus counts.
Plan for surprises. Our business dynamics change quickly and we must have contingencies.
Reward good execution. The people and teams that execute will always be rewarded. Together, we must always strive for continuous improvement and recognize those who find new and better solutions.
Here’s to an amazing year!
Amy Freeman
COO