In this episode, Mark chats with Joel Cawthorn, Board Director and Former President of Startec Group. Joel shares his experience in managing rapid growth, expanding the company from 100 to 250 employees. He delves into the critical aspects of aligning strategy with culture, overcoming the challenges of scaling systems and processes, and ensuring the right managers are in place. The discussion also highlights the role of the TRAITS tool in identifying and developing leaders, maintaining cultural fit, and effectively managing organizational changes.

0:00 – Intro to episode

1:41 – Introduction to Joel and Startec

3:57 – Challenges of growth in the HR department

5:16 – How were hiring problems solved in a high growth environment?

7:02 – How culture is essential to sustainable growth

7:56 – What is an everyday Maverick?

10:50 – What to do about turnover during high growth

11:40 – How to identify people who aren’t a fit

13:00 – What is the place for psychometric assessments in high growth companies?

17:03 – An example of someone who wasn’t a fit and left happy!

19:25 – The role of a great manager in successful growth

20:52 – What are the personality TRAITS that are essential for managers?

24:40 – Advice for other companies going through faster growth

26:45 – The value of strategic planning to prepare for fast growth

30:20 – Some help for companies looking for more help

TRAITS: https://www.concordconsulting.com/tools/

Strategic Planning for your organization: https://www.concordconsulting.com/consulting/

https://traits.com/how-do-i-find-the-right-balance-in-managing-others/

Website: startec.ca

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/startec-refrigeration-compression-&-process-solutions/