Global Leadership Summit 2010 Day 2: Terri Kelly
From the conference notes:
President and CEO of W.L. Gore & Associates, a multi-billion dollar enterprise that is often profiled as an example of a unique leadership culture.
Employing 9,000 associates in 30 countries, Gore produces a diverse range of products, including GORE-TEX fabric, medical devices, filtration, and other advanced technology solutions.
A pioneer in adopting a non-hierarchical lattice-based management structure, Gore's "associates" become leaders based on their ability to gain the respect of their peers and to attract followers. Kelly earned the title of president and CEO in 2005 – one of the few titles within the company – following a peer-driven selection process.
W.L. Gore has appeared on all the U.S. "100 Best Companies to Work For" lists, and is included on many international lists of top workplaces.
From my personal notes:
- "Innovation requires an environment of collaboration."
- Gore evolved special task forces from his experience at DuPont into small teams across the company.
- Gore is a peer based organization – it's about helping other people's success, not just their own. It's about relationships.