Home: Roanoke, Texas. Age: 59. Birthplace: Ridgefield, CT. Profession: Fractional C.O.O. Organization: Fractional Executive Solutions, LLC. Title: President. Significant other: Vicki Baughman, my wife and business partner.
Current project: Creating content for coaching young operations professionals. I see a need to help and teach the skills that I have acquired to be an impactful COO and I want to share that. Recent recognition: “You’re coaching was the best investment that I have ever made for my company.” A client told me that he was astounded by the impact his Director of Operations has made due to our coaching sessions. Latest accomplishment: Taking the leap and launching my own business after thirty years of working for others. Latest contribution to others: Helped a client avoid financial catastrophe. They were on the verge of major financial difficulties and we helped guide them through a turnaround and a great ending! Hobbies: Books, gardening, golf, and the Texas Hill Country. Anywhere in the Hill Country. Recently viewed and recommended: Columbo, from the 1970s. Fantastic writing and acting with Peter Falk. “Just one more thing.” Recent unique acquisition: Complete set of 1974 Topps Baseball cards. Brings me back to my youth!
Personality profile: Focused on processes and results, willing to help and willing to learn, inspiring others to be the best they can. What one word would your closest friend use to describe you? Dependable. Moral compass: Do the right thing, always. How do you define an ideal business relationship? Honest, open and collaborative with customers, suppliers and employees. What is your greatest joy? Giving back my knowledge to new leaders, as my mentor did for me. How do you relieve stress? I read every night for about 45 minutes. History and baseball help take me away and relax.
What book have you repeatedly read? The First 90 Days, by Michael Watkins. It’s the absolute best book for new leaders seeking to make an impact in their new organization. Who has had the greatest influence on your life? My grandfather. No nonsense and straight talk. What is the best advice you received growing up? Do your job when you are paid to do so. Nothing is free and I firmly believe in that. What is the best advice you received in your career? Make your decisions and own them. You’ll be surprised who follows when you do. What is your favorite app? LinkedIn. I'm learning how to use it more effectively for business development. What is your go-to source of news and information? The Wall Street Journal.
What change are you working on to effect in your profession or field?
Fractional executives can and will help small business owners at a very affordable price. My passion and my company.
What change would you like to see in the world? An end to the partisan divide. Working together, listening to each other, in both business and life. What message do you want to send out into the world? Be a servant leader and do what is best for all. What widely held belief do you reject? “That’s the way we've always have done it”. My gosh, how many times have I heard that in struggling businesses?
What title would you choose for the movie about your life? One Helluva Ride. What actor would you choose to play you in the movie about your life? James Garner. He's funny, serious and likable. What advice would you give your younger self? Calm down, you’ll get there!
Personal mission: To take care of my family, today and tomorrow. Personal motto: Do what we can to help each other.
