In this episode of CEO Stories, John Fish, Chairman and CEO of Suffolk Construction, shares his remarkable journey in the construction industry, highlighting the pivotal role of relationships, adaptability, and fostering a caring company culture. He reflects on formative career moments, lessons from the Great Recession and COVID-19, and the value of vulnerability in leadership.

John discusses the challenges of sustaining a strong company culture and the importance of prioritizing people over financial metrics. He offers insights into his morning routine, emphasizing preparation and the values that guide his leadership style.

The conversation also explores the complexities of the real estate market, including rising costs and post-COVID dynamics. John highlights the opportunities brought by technology and AI in construction, advocating for a more respectful view of the workforce.

Takeaways:

• Building strong relationships is key to success.
• Adaptability is crucial in times of crisis.
• Vulnerability fosters trust in the workplace.
• A caring company culture leads to better outcomes.
• Mistakes are valuable learning opportunities.
• People are the most important asset in a company.
• Morning routines set the tone for the day.
• Embrace diversity and acceptance in the workplace.
• A strong brand should reflect the company's values. Morning preparation is crucial for effective leadership.
• The industry faces challenges due to rising costs and market dynamics.
• AI can enhance accuracy in architectural design and scheduling.
• Building strong relationships is vital for success.
• Leadership can be learned and developed over time.
• Surrounding yourself with smarter people is beneficial.

In this episode of CEO Stories, Luke Petherbridge, CEO of Link Logistics, shares insights from his extensive career in real estate. He discusses formative experiences that shaped his leadership style, the importance of being open to new opportunities, and how to effectively read the real estate market. Luke emphasizes the significance of surrounding oneself with smart people, maintaining a positive outlook during challenges, and the qualities that make a great leader. He also reflects on personal routines, inspirations, and the legacy he hopes to leave in the industry.

Takeaways:

• Character is forged in crisis, revealing true resilience.
• Being open to new opportunities can lead to growth.
• Curiosity drives innovation and challenges the status quo.
• Real estate operates on local insights and data.
• Surrounding yourself with smart people is crucial for success.
• Maintaining a positive attitude helps navigate challenges.
• The worst advice is to stick with tradition without questioning.
• Authenticity is key to effective leadership.
• Great leaders are humble and good communicators.
• Creating a collaborative environment fosters excellence.

In this episode of CEO Stories, Elizabeth Brink, Co-CEO of Gensler, shares her journey in the design industry, discussing her passion for design, leadership lessons learned, and the importance of optimism in navigating challenges. She emphasizes the significance of building relationships, reading the market, and making confident decisions in a fluctuating real estate landscape. Elizabeth also addresses the balance between work and family life, the impact of sustainability in design, and the value of mentorship for aspiring leaders.

Takeaways:

• Elizabeth Brinkhoe emphasizes the importance of following one's passion in career choices.
• Optimism in leadership can uplift teams and foster a positive work environment.
• Building relationships is crucial in the real estate industry for long-term success.
• Sustainability should be a fundamental aspect of design practices.
• Personal challenges, such as balancing work and family, are common among leaders.
• Leaders must be adaptable and courageous in their decision-making.
• Finding one's voice and perspective is essential for professional growth.
• Daily routines can help manage stress and maintain focus.
• Curiosity can be a double-edged sword, serving both as inspiration and distraction.
• Mentorship plays a vital role in guiding the next generation of leaders.