Insights from TH Herbert: Navigating the CEO Journey
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The Importance of Compassion in Leadership
To effectively lead, one must embody compassion. It is essential to approach all interactions with empathy, as the absence of compassion can lead to poor outcomes. Numerous examples exist of leaders who falter without this crucial trait. Compassion toward both employees and customers should be a foundational principle.
In our ongoing series, 'Five Things I Wish Someone Told Me Before I Became A CEO,' we had the privilege of speaking with TH Herbert, the CEO of Semarchy. Before stepping into this role in 2021, he served as the Chief Operations Officer and sales leader at Semarchy. He also held significant positions at SWG LLC and various other companies. TH holds a Bachelor of Science in Engineering Science & Mechanics from Virginia Tech and a Master of Science in Aerospace Engineering from Texas A&M University.
A Unique Backstory
TH Herbert's journey began as an exchange student from Germany, which influenced his engineering studies. His name, derived from Nordic mythology, is quite rare and has caused some amusing complications in his career. Sharing a name with his father led to mix-ups, such as receiving tax refunds meant for his dad. These experiences highlighted the critical need for effective data management, steering him towards the data sector. While he initially dreamed of building rockets, he found his passion in developing software that serves data needs.
Challenges and Insights
One memorable experience occurred with a major energy client. They sought assistance with a seemingly simple question: "How can customers locate our products at airports?" This situation illustrated how data challenges can vary greatly in complexity. Addressing this straightforward query for a top global company underscored the importance of staying engaged with the issues that matter.
Lessons from Mistakes
Reflecting on early missteps, TH recalls a conference in New York where their booth setup went awry. A cracked television screen forced him and his VP of customer success to dash through the rain to purchase a replacement. This incident taught them the value of preparation and the necessity of backup plans.
The Role of Mentorship
TH expresses gratitude toward Semarchy's founding CEO, who imparted valuable lessons on valuing people within the organization. His philosophy centers on ensuring employee success and happiness, which ultimately translates to positive customer interactions. Influential figures like Tom Siebel have also shaped his approach to leadership.
Diversity in Executive Teams
In today’s climate of social awareness, TH emphasizes the need for diverse executive teams. Different perspectives foster innovation and adaptability, especially as companies transition from startups to established businesses. Semarchy prioritizes diversity and inclusion, which enhances their approach to challenges faced by Fortune 500 clients.
Creating an Inclusive Society
The tech industry grapples with homogeneity in candidate pools, often leading to a lack of diversity. TH advocates for a proactive approach in recruiting, pushing for varied candidates and fostering an open-minded culture. This includes accommodating different religious holidays and being responsive to employee needs.
Defining Executive Responsibilities
When asked about the unique responsibilities of a CEO, TH outlines the importance of decision-making and accountability. His process hinges on evaluating the impact on employees, business outcomes, and organizational risk. Ultimately, his role is to empower his team to succeed, providing them with the necessary tools and support.
Dispelling Myths
There is a misconception that CEOs operate without significant responsibilities. In truth, the weight of many lives rests on a CEO's shoulders, necessitating stability for employees and their families. The decisions made at Semarchy rely heavily on accurate data, highlighting the importance of informed decision-making.
Work Culture and Employee Engagement
A thriving work culture prioritizes enjoyment and connection among employees. The pandemic posed challenges to building these relationships, but TH emphasizes the importance of finding ways to foster camaraderie, even in a virtual setting. Past company retreats have proven beneficial in strengthening team bonds.
Giving Back to the Community
TH believes that addressing data issues can significantly enhance lives. Semarchy dedicates time to community service and collaborates with nonprofits, providing software solutions to organizations like Cancer Research UK. This commitment to social responsibility is integral to their work culture.
Five Key Lessons for Future CEOs
- Avoiding the Pitfalls of Success: Use available tools, especially data, to guide decisions. A metrics-driven approach is crucial for effective growth.
- Transparency and Integrity: Uphold honesty in all dealings. Building trust with employees and customers is essential for lasting success.
- Caring for Employees: Prioritize employee well-being, as their happiness directly influences customer satisfaction.
- Embrace Diversity: Foster an inclusive culture to harness a range of perspectives and ideas.
- The Importance of Humility: Approach business with a humble mindset, recognizing the value of every team member's contribution.
Final Thoughts
In closing, TH Herbert articulates his philosophy: employees come first. By taking care of staff, they in turn care for customers, creating a positive cycle that benefits all involved.
If given a chance, TH would love to meet philanthropist Mackenzie Scott, recognizing the need for greater generosity in the world.
Thank you for sharing these valuable insights and experiences with us.