Tom Hamilton, Executive Vice President, Keller Brothers Construction
Summary of Tom Hamilton’s leadership interview
- Leadership Mentor/Role Model: Tom was mentored by a superintendent named Mark when he first entered commercial construction. Mark taught him how to do the job well, manage stress, and take challenges in stride.
- Surprise About the Leadership Role: There are endless challenges, but also endless opportunities to overcome them. He enjoys bringing the team together to tackle these challenges.
- Biggest Leadership Lesson Learned: Problems worsen when ignored. Addressing issues head-on, like “ripping off the band-aid,” leads to better outcomes for both the organization and its people.
- Best Leadership Decision: Elevating employees when they prove themselves. Giving them autonomy and support helps them grow and succeed, benefiting both the company and the individual.
- Worst Business Decision: Promoting an employee to a leadership role while allowing him to continue managing two significant projects. This divided his attention, resulting in unsatisfactory project outcomes and a reputational setback. In hindsight, Tom wishes he had reassigned the projects to allow the employee to fully embrace their new role.
- Excitement About the Future: The company has successfully recruited young talent with strong career potential. Tom is excited about the company’s rapid growth and looks forward to supporting the team’s development.
- Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs: Dream big, set ambitious goals, and execute them with determination.
