Company address: P.O. Box 26936 Wauwatosa, WI 53226
Company Web site: www.thelangergroup.com
Industry: Risk management & insurance
Number of employees: Nine
Education: Undergraduate study in management of human resources, Spring Arbor College; graduate study in organizational development, Bowling Green State; Dana Certified Supervisor, Dale Carnegie.
Family: "My wife Margie, who also works with our financial operations (and has successfully completed 23 years of life with me); Tom (a college student… that’s why I have no money); Andy (a high school student … and that’s why I won’t have any money anytime soon); and Zippy, the corporate springer spaniel."
What was the smartest thing your company did in the past year?
"It was really something I continued to learn … I’m getting better at getting out of the way! We have been working hard this year revisiting and updating our company operating structure and processes to prepare for the future. And I am always impressed by the dedication and quality of our team. It is really true … as Jim Collins says in his book … get the right people on the bus and stand back! I’m also fortunate that we’ve had virtually no turnover over the years."
What’s new at your company?
"Just about everything … some new people, new systems, new office space soon. We are on track with our business plan and ready for 2006."
Do you plan to hire any additional staff or make any significant capital investments in your company in the next year?
"We are currently investing in a new CRM system. We have also hired two new salespeople this year, a new marketing person and a system’s person recently and will be moving to new quarters in early 2006."
What will be your company’s main challenges in the next year?
"Balancing growth with the personal needs of our staff. We have experienced significant growth every year and expect the same next year, so controlling the burnout factor is critical."
What’s the hottest trend in your industry?
"The movement toward better risk management techniques for smaller organizations and consumer-driven health care plan designs."
Do you have a business mantra?
"Our ‘internal pledge’ for 2006 is offering client service that goes beyond best in class, while remaining true to our vision, our mission and our culture. I’m not sure, but I think some around the office may already be tired of hearing me say it."
From a business standpoint, what do you look up to?
"The Biblical teachings of stewardship are important lessons for a business owner, from risk management and ethics to the basics of cash flow and everything else."
What was the best advice you ever received?
"In terms of business, from my dad many years ago … Don’t start or manage a business without a plan, and make sure you understand your processes."
What do you like to do in your free time?
"I coach a lot of soccer, both youth and adult. I love to restore old cars and attend car shows and fly general aviation airplanes."
