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HARVARD lBUsrNEss lscx
MICHAEL BEER
ALISA ZALOSH
3-5 62
tL 10,2013
Packaging's Midwest region, felt his cell
Background Note: The introduction to this case ca
manager, Mark Sanders, and his direct report, Fra Belby, during Belby's annual performance
review. The meeting, originally scheduled to talgpla t Belby's office earlier in the day, instead
took place at a roadside diner en route to a ned'fffi i!i&t! so that Sanders could catch an evening
flight home.
Southfield Packaging
Introduction
Mark Sanders, VP of account
phone vibrate in his pocket. " he said as he retrieved his phone and held it
out of sight below the a time sensitive issue here." Sanders scanned the
incoming text message, to aEsponse while his regional manager, Frank Belby, waited.
"Sorry about that, Sanders "OK, where were we?"
my point of view, Mark," replied Belby. "Look, I know"I just want to make sure
that mv outburst client meeting was unacceptable. But so was putting an inexperienced junior
sales associate in of long-standing clients-there's no way the proposal would have been
implemented on geL and the client knew it. If I hadn't intervened I really think our
business risk. Isn't it my job to protect our clients' interests so they'll renew their
knew his face was flushed, but continued an1.way. "Does Sales care what
.hen they sell something that's completely unrealistic? I have to be honest-
again today, I'd probably do the same thing for the good of the company."
you. Don't get upset-I think we've rehashed this scenario enough. OK, now
that discussed each of these characteristic ratings, let's move on and discuss what you might
stlive year in terms of..." Sanders paused for emphasis as he made quotation marks with his
fingers, " development. I'll be back in a second-just need to use the restroom. Please, don't
973-562 SouthfieldPackaging
Belby smiled. He agreed with Sanders's suggestion that the performance review
completely free of corporate malarkey; he'd filled out six of the reviews himself in re
at times found the process tiring and redundant. As he waited for Sanders, he
page of his performance report (see Exhibit 1) to find his overall his
annual raise and promotion eligibility would be based, and was stunned. 't his
line-item scores prove he was more than a "fully satisfactory" knew that
managers had the ability to manipulate an employee's final score by up-or down-a
notch. He felt his frustration rise as Sanders hurried back to the table. Belby was exceeding
expectations for his region in terms of client retention, and the on his
managerial style was always positive. Was Sanders expecting
-else?
If so, what was it, and
why had he never mentioned it in the two years since Belby's last appraisal?
"How did it Bet to be 3:45?" asked Sanders. "I need to pull
sorry. I can't risk missing my flight-I have to deliver a
tomorrow morning. Look, I really appreciate that you drove so
to corporate firsi thing
me; as you know; I would
have been happy to do this over the phone." Sanders
him and looked directly at Belby. "I am sensing that
report in front of
has not been as productive as it
could have been," said Sanders. "Between mv need to rush out of here to catch a
flight, I feel like I may have rushed our " Sanders continued, "I know
we missed your review last year and now I one, and for that I apologize. But I
want to make sure we discuss compensation on your overall performance
rating shown here on page 2, you're eligible , which brings your base salary to
$86,000. Congratulations, Frank. You've as usual, of motivating your team and
keeping our clients happy." Sanders "Let's schedule some time to discuss
the finer points, and any questions this week. Does Friday morning work?"
Belby hesitated. He rounded down his final score, but it was bound
to be an emotional and hea he say something to Sanders he'd later regret? Belby
Marlg but we can speak in a few days," said Belbytook a deep breath. "I do
quietly. He stood up and led restaurant,
everything that was said during their meeting. He believed Mark was a good
a lot. He also knew that his conflict with that sales executive (boy, was
that a would come up. Belby never enjoyed rehashing that event, but hopefully ii was
behind hirn'ii!.;ry. If he took a management course as he and sanders had discussed, and volunteered
southfield provided packaging materials and services to manufachrrers of medical devices and
Belby sat in his care{r,*watched Sanders pull out of the parking lot. He'd driven an hour to meet
sanders at this roadsiflq$estaurant because he hadn't wanted his performance review to be
rescheduled for the third tifftc-Eq$ now he questioned that decision. Maybe meeting here was a mistake,
he thousht. h feh fiidfmti&eWme off a feio timcs a1ld irtorlrurii t11p rTnirp ta otnnft ar hi< ron ahanohe thou8hL tt fett rgt#iilsr'm'Yne ot'f a few times ffid interrupted me riice to gtalnce ar his ce phone
messnga. Tltnt's.sofi1pthing lligt I neper do when l'm in a meeting, no matter who I,m with. Maybe it;s this
vouwer eenerotton. &-. _S,
"q+,-'q@rd
0 minutes, Frank. I'm
across the U.S. The U.S. medical packaging market, roughly $800 million in 2011, was
upon the medical device manufacturing industry. With close to $95 billion in sales, the
for a few crossldilpartmental initiatives, a promotion this year seemed likely. He knew he'd get a big
BRIEFCASES I HARVARD BUSINESS SCHOOL
market for medical devices experienced consistent annual growth due, in part, to an
elderly population d
Southfield differentiated itself from competitors by focusing on custom
for both heavy and delicate medical equipment and machinery used dental,
and veterinary clinics. Southfield focused solely on custom ; unlike many
competitors, the company was not a reseller of third-party cushioning products, and for
this reason did not compete aggressively on price. The company its packaging
solutions at three separate company-owned facilities.
Southfield employed 500 full-time employees. The company client service with its 50%
annual client retention rate, estimated to be roughly 25% the industry average.
Southfield's management team felt that maintaining close clients was critical for a
number of reasons. First, clients' packaging requirements changed in size, shape, and
weight with each new product developed. Second, clients' often as they weighed
cost-efficiency against other variables such as or domestically sourced
packaging. Manufacturers of medical devices their packaging suppliers to-
unquestionably-meet mandated government ; Southfield never compromised
safety in pursuit of reduced costs or design
Southfield Packaging: The Mi on
Southfield Packaging's account
account services led each region.
account services region, with 34
divided into five U.S. areas; a vice president of
Mark Sanders led Southfield's Midwest
"#*"tj,{5. Consulting gave me great business exposure. I was a small-town kid, and here I was in
-i: it{ietings with CEOs of all kinds of companies, listening to their intemal and extemal
-,.,.,1":":,.,'-(**,*",&$allenges.
My projects included an early-stage software business, an established computer
"qfu, qll":hurd*are supplier, a sports retailer, and a biotech startup. Southfield Packaging was my last
Y' Proiect as a consultant. Southfield's CEO and I worked well together; the industry was
'lilli,, .W growing, and he wanted someone with fresh ideas on his managerient team. So three years
'it1",.. _*$A ago he made me an offer I couldn't refuse.
le for ongoing management of 96 clients.
Midwest accounts were regions, each with its own regional manager.
Regional managers either Sanders, or to one of two regional directors who, in
tum, reported to between 5 and 18 accounts, with a team of account
managers and assistant responsible for day-to-day client communication and
project management (see an organizational chart). Client contracts generally lasted
Mark Sand
Professional
At Southfield's youngest regional vice president of operations. Sanders had
grown uP where he attended a state university and earned a place as a "walk-on,' for
one soccer team. Graduating with a degree in economics, Sanders worked
before enrolling in a highly regarded MBA program. When he graduated, a
well-kitq]lr"I management consulting firm hired sanders to work in its strategy and operations
practice iri5f Louis. Said Sanders:
HARVAHD BUSINESS SCHOOL I BRIEFCASES
913-562 I Southfield Packaging
Role and Responsibilities
Sanders was hired by Southfield to fill a leadership vacancy in the
The region was small relative to its counterparts, so Sanders's role
responsibilities were to maintain successful operations with existing
corporate growth opportunities, in new geographic markets or new
Sanders lived and worked in Cincinnati, Ohio, but as vice president to travel
frequently. Each quarter, he traveled to the cities in his region and spent the day alongside a
regional manager or director. Together, they met with their junior
gauge client satisfaction. Sanders's ability to think strategically
valuable; his enthusiasm for his job was contagious and his visits
client's perspective was
colleagues and their
teams. Sandersreflected:
Unlike the other regional VPs, my job includes analvsis in addition to
operational management of the region. Juggling both bhallenging-there isn't
enough time to do both well because of the day manaBement duties that require my
attention. When I started, my direct reports included , and five regional managers;
all were older than me, with more hands-on longer than I expected to eam
their respect and trust, but I've adapted my over time, and now I don't
months ago, I promoted onethink age or experience inJluences their
of my five regional managers, Mike . With four direct reports I
am now able to devote more time to
Management Style
Sanders described his
I like to know what's
surprised by something
every day, sometimes just
I'm big on
has done, I tell
I think mv
sometimes
ved, but not overly so.
team, Frequent communication means I won't be
out of control. I talk to my directors and malagers
but we always check in and I help them prioritize.
-if
I'm or disappointed with something one of my employees
the spot.
where they stand with me most of the time, which is why I
fuming annual review process redundant. Look, I'm not going to
performance review form. If someone's fallen short of my
they'll know it before our review.
In December 2011, Belby, 48, was married with two teenaged daughters, and was actively
olved in his community and his church. As board member for his town,s community center, h'e
onal Manager of Midwest Accounts
school teacher. At the urging of his parents, Belby eamed his two-year degree from a local
college; but instead of transferring directly to a four-year institution, he accepted a
a well-paying hourly wage in the assembly division of a nearby packaging plant. Soon
married and put his plans for continuing his education on hold indefinitely.
BRIEFCASES I HAHVARD BUSINESS SCHOOL
organized and attended local events for residents of all ages, serving as the
the outdoor summer concert sedes each year. Said Belby:
l've lived in this area my whole life-there aren't a lot o[
and even less that don't know me. My high school classmates will
ringleader, hamming it up for a crowd. Maybe I should have been
front of people and that's why I volunteer, for example, to be
fundraisers or to play Santa during ihe Christmas parade. Recently our
me as the "unofficial mayor."
Work Historu
at school
referred to
Betby prelerred work to school. While Belby strugglefuI@grYQ4uage grades in school, he
lhrived at work, learning quickly and eaming the respectff his c$eagues in each new role. He
worked in the assembly plant, in sales, and on the corporate Sk of tlflbusiness as a Project mana8er.
When one of his corporate colleagues he admired left to wor&Iffiuthfield, Belby applied for and
secured a salaried position with more responsibility a@outhfield as well. Said Belby:
I was never a strong student, and that
school, brought out the best in me. There
for me. All I know is that work, not
many business problems that I can't
eventually resolve. But give me a It's like my thoughts evaporate
and the only thing I can think about is
I'm 48 now and at this point t think I have the skills to start over in
another industry. I'm grateful, is always ahead of the game. This
company's going to be around I enjoy my iob, respect my clients and
colleagues, and am
good, I'm optimistic
Since growth prospects for our industry are
the company.
Role and Responsibil
Belbv had worked at 15 years, climbing the company ranks until he was eventually
promoted to his role as regional manager for the Midwest region. Belby's primary
responsibility was his region's roster clients remained satisfied and loyal customers. As
such, Belby and account managers and assistant account managers often worked with
Southfield's divisions to discuss new products and to monitor prol'ect schedules.
, especially these last six years as regional manager. I feel like I've hit
I love teaching young folks about the business, and watching them build
I've given them. When I watch the paths their careers take I realize my role
mentor has a lot of impact.
in this role means you have to know how to manage people up and down the
corporaTff ladder, and I'm good at that. I'm constantly juggling information from clients,
..;iil;i,account managers and company leaders, and I thinl< I have a knack for knowing who needs to
/i'-'o* what, a"nd when. It'i m"ore strategic than you might think, and sometimes I have to
.,,.-- _&" fi$ure out my own way to get things done.
,iilli**'i&1&r.*e*&l{*f I'm easily frustrated by company process; it was an issue that my previous manager
,i,i1 'iA* brought up inmy last review three years ago. More than a few times I've reached out to former
'lt,ll,. *r; employees across the company to Bet answers, even if doing so didn't follow company
t{i1,,"
,*i protocol. Just last week a client wanted to get an idea of timing for delivery of a new custom
'q.t{ package. I waited two days for our VP of production to give me an answer to my relatively
a
HARVARD BUSINESS SCHOOL I BRIEFCASES
913-562 I Southfield Packaging
simple question. On the third day, I called one of my former direct reports-he's now
of operations at one of our plants. He accessed the client file and passed along
timeline, which I in turn forwarded to the client. I've stoPped calling the VP, and
from him since.
Managing and Proffioting Subordinates
As regional manager, Belby had the power to grant or deny requests his acQlmanagers made
for internal transfers, Belby reflected,
^
Y
I usually grant transfer requests-I only hesitate *t
"r, &ffinr" a client might be
aggravated by an abrupt change in account management. I feel like lfulone a good iob when
one of my employees "graduates" to a different role; I feel ffifoir $trcess is my success.oii ot my employees
'"graduites"
to a different role; I feel@S[J@ress is my success.
Plus. it doesn't hurt to ha,e atlies sprinkled throughout the cSPdnyS
I'm a brg believer in giving people the chance to perform @llEvel tasksif they want to
try. But, thatiaid, if something isn't getting done, I'm Ut going to-wait around forever' I'll rust
go and do it myself. I think one of the problems with Sfrthfield, and probably with any larger
iompany, is that things can be too bureaucratic arULEan @e too long if you have to follow the
rules.
Physical Health
Belby's daughters and wife
exercise. Said Belby;
The nagging has , a sharp chest pain sent me to the ER in the
figure. Listen, I know I could stand to lose amiddle of the night-a
few pounds, but I also and socializing with my clients on a regular basis
contributes to my my region's high client retention rate. Between
work commitments and 't have a lot of time to exercise like I used to, and I
doubt I ever will. But, hey, I I'd quii smoking either, and I did seven years a8o.
Work Habits and
The more time clients, the better his ability to understand their current needs,
predict future excellent service and secure recurring revenue. Belby's work
schedule into the evening hours:
with clients three to four nights a week, so my work days begin
typically greeted by five to ten emails from Sanders first thing in the
's ai*early riser and does a lot of emailing dght after his moming run. I like to
check with my account managers each morning. If something is troubling them, we
can tackle first thing and move on. Because I've worked here for a long time, in
ghts on Manager Mark Sanders
-*6;i6py different capacities, I know who to call and how to fix things. I strive to be approachable
;df"ffikF.urr" of that I have a good sense of the issues our region faces on any Siven day. I try to
fi. spenffi two to three days a week working alongside my account managers or assistant
*,. qyafiifters. My schedule is fluid, so I just go where I think I'm needed on any given day. When
I - IYff not out on calls, I often find I can work most effectively from home.
about his weight and lack of consistent
For three years Belby reported directly to Sanders.
BRIEFCASES I HARVARD BUSINESS SCHOOL
I like Sanders personally and I'm glad I work for him. He's a lot younger
sometimes I question his judgment because he iust doesn't have the
clients that I have. He's a corporate strategy guy, with a lot of great
reality is that the priority should always be our clients. Our clients
keeping us in business. Sometimes I think Sanders forgets that.
With Sanders, though, what you see is what you get-he a hidden agenda
and doesn't buckle to company politics, and I like that. He also what I do, and
acknowledges that I am doing it well. He knows I'm a performer that count on me
to anchor our regional success-that's whai he told me in my review. I couldn't stand to
work for a micromanager; thankfully, Sanders just encourages keep doing what I do best
and leaves the rest to me. He's not overly critical, and he to me even when I
know he's short on time. I'd say we are friends as well as
Promotion Eligibility
I'm not going to lie; I was hurt and t he chose to promote my friend Mike
is smart and a good manager, he hasn'tWilliams to regional director and not me. Though
worked here as long as f have, and I client retention rate is better than his.
For a while I hoped that Sanders would but he didn't. Listen, I know
managers have to make tough choices
rock the boat. I'm not worried about
want to make a big deal of it and
in this economy, there are a lot of
talented people out there that could confident that, if I keep up my good
performance, a promotion is in my
Southfield P
Each December, all
reviews, or "SPRs" (Sou
an undisturbed
concerns to
despite the fact
corporate,
organization
,;s.ii$iManagers scored employees on a variety of metrics such as technical knowledge, mental energy,
,l!' aridlrdecision-making capability, and supplemented the score with a short written narrative
''
L evaluation. A printed copy of the report in its totality was given to the employee during the SPR.
t t
fu-r.tQ.S9n the emPloyee was expected to sign the report as confirmation that he or she received and
.:" 6 understood the information shared during the meeting. The final page of the SPR report was reserved
'|i],.,. $i for employee comments, and was to be completed withi., serer, iluyr of the SPR meeting. Here,
'"ll.ltl, ,ff emPloyees noted any additional comments they wanted to include that may not have been
'*ifi,' ,it|" mentioned or highlighted by their manager. Employees might use the space, for example, to highlight,1,;a1
payments were straightforward. Under the formula developed by
distributed only if profits exceeded forecasted revenue for the
increases and promotions, on the other hand, were merit-based and
's manager and an annual review score.
an online tool to help managers collect, evaluate, and communicate
to employee performance. Managers could easily save an employee's noteworthy
tion, email, or even voicemail, to their online SPR file. At evaluation time,
could easily review the information they'd saved in one place to help them make informed
employee performance.
ce Appraisal
loyees and managers participaied in annual performance
Reviews). SPRS typically lasted two hours and provided
to communicate direcily with the subordinate about their
offered employees a venue to voice career goals or workplace
for the coming year was always discussed at these meetings
HARVAHD BUSINESS SCHOOL I BBIEFCASES
p"rf--un." review, f,ut he set aiide an hour to complete Belby's ontine evaluatio As he entered
numerical scores, sanders ."",",,'i'rr,!i
-a"ii/'
p"iritt"u"""' ihar+ql( and career potential His
thoughts on Belby are captured below' * &
-G.EA'hxcq&*gltF
ises )Wflie th
Ouerall Performance & B
Belby's a solid resional manager, and I appreciate ni'fr5ggFv Tl t*::1: -l]*honest-i know I can count on him to deliver what he,;l romises;ffifether it's revenue or.clrent
,u-ri"fu.,ior, o,
"-ployee
guidance. Ai as years o1d, nefusouthfield veteran; I think he started
i"-ii.'" f".t"gi"g'asJemb"ly plant more.ihan rs.grsfu "ld ':" tq:Yl,',I"::^TflI':
a new skill they'd mastered outside of work, or to explain extenuating circumstances
contributed to'weak performance. The comPleted SPR report was then sent to. Sout'
r"ro.,.a"" departmen't, where it was scanned and filed electronicallv as nart of
' '.*,
permanent record.
Frank Belby's Annual Performance Review
sanders was facing several hish-stakes deadlT:::ljl"":,T:I::::S:-*"::Ymff:"il'#:il
t^"r.- ii"*3-i.'"" hi*-i.t"'.ur, wine them and@16$fu but also roll up-his sleeves in a
-""iing to p"rtotrn an on-the-spot pacraghslFxwiilree s onlylost a-few
"l':"It-:*:
;';;;% h:3 ;;.t"i fo, tt
"
itlla'*est ieffi an?S<now$becu'se I attended his surprise
birthday party last year
- he counts many
Belby's extremelY imPortant to stream; I know he's the reason manY
of our clients come back to us Year
the company for a comPetitor, I bet
between five and ten clients guess is that it would take more than a year
for a new manager to
Mo tio atin g S ub or dinat es
Belby's team of three accounfuq;ffi and- three assistan:
^'":c:tt, "l1 Y:-",-1]:l^tf"ff^"::
913-562 I Southfield Packaging
iit"'i3r.iry.'ritfr".i,;fu "i
his former subordinates now manages the company's second-
largest
loyal to his account team and to his clients, but I ve seen thl}
]"f]ty
ti-""l f,i succeed in his role he has to be able to balance the needs of his team
*ittr tnor" of his colleagues and our greater corPorate agenda He can't iust
m.rz6 .i,ra thinoi oer done Luicklv for his clients, which
il;"d;.1;,*;;;";;;l; tffi! c,"ait for a job well done, but alwavs takes ihe blame if
if*r"t u proUl"- ffip aittii.t. I also like that he spends a lot of time with new account
;;;;;;t: iit teamq&snsistentlv a toP performei in client retention' and his account
;;;;;;;; r;;;'Bd@*lffiter pace than tireir counterparts both in the M]d*:::.:11
11t::t
and his
year, he lambasted a newly hired junior sales associate durinB-not after-a client
iccordlt g to e"lby, the presentation was an embarrassment-and I don't doubt him'
t kno# he was list trying to protect his client's interests But instead of guiding the
pr"""ntu,io,l in a positivL dlrectio]n, Belby
-interruPted
the sales executive'
iryt:-!f:^1^? ^tl:
:l'il;;;G f,;;;;,;il ;."i"deithe meeting- rhe sales associate was humiliated and
then escalated th"e issue to his manaBer, and at that point I had to intervene to patch things up'
company policy or Process to
^ike
st ,e things get done quickly clients, which
inthe past without letting me know.
gHEFCASTS I HARVARO BUSINESS SCHOOL
Belby, though, made little effort to make amends. The sales associate left Sr
*onihs lut"i for a competitor, and our regional revenue production slowed as a
Self-Awareness
I think Belby views professional guidance from me as
constructive critiiism in a gentle manner to avoid a negative reactid@gprding on the day,
he might overreact emotionally or he might iust close up and distance@1elf from me for a
while,"which impedes our team's produciivity. There isn't much-of a brea@tween personal
and professional life for Belby, so perhaps that's why he interprS professionil criticiim as an
attaci on his character.

I sense Belby was disappointed that I didn't prorng@g[Segional director a fewI sense Belby was disappointed that I didn't proqgffiS@egional -director
a few
months ago, but he never asked me about it directly. H{eemedfljstant for a few weeks.after
Williamsi promotion. Maybe it was a coincidence but &S5e welp a )ot of Problems with his
group during those same weeks: one client nearly cancele$[Si(onhact, b;t I intervened and
Ialvaged the"relationship. But now, thankfully, th@'s are back to normal between Belby and
me.
Time Management
Belby's daily telephone
communication to email. I don't think
which is critical these days.
wander, I have to intenuPt
usually gets him back on tra&. I
filter the distractions
capability. I know he
wonder if he realizes
three hours.
Physical Energy
a 1q'8 of my time-he prefers Phone
in hYs ability to express himself in writinB,
on the phone and his thoughts begin to
like "Franl, Bet to the pointl" That
s going on in his region, bui he just doesn't
:s with
when
f"'"*' -'" dJ a
qsd
I question ffifuls ability to make the riSht choices-for himself, and for the company'
We're both br.g*ggy$tgffirmer athletes; but he mentioned offhand recently ihat he's at high
risk for diabdffi, aifll h" told -" *ade a late night visit to the ER for chest pain last year.
and to me that's a sign of limited managerial
ifter normal business hours on a regular basis, but I
his day at 9:30 a.m., I've already been working for
't seem too concemed about what he eats or drinks. This disregard tor
with our company's recent efforts to promote and reward healthy
football than playing it.
fort I spearheaded for the good of our employees and our bottom line'
Cleveland sports fary even though, judging from his physique, he spends a
HARVARD BUSINESS SCHOOL I BRIEFCASES
913-552 L Southfield Packaging
Exhibit 1 Southfield Performance Review
Name: Frank Belby
Position: Manaser. Reeional Ooerations, Midwest Reeion
Review Date: December 2011
Months in Current Position: Zz
Duration of Southfield Employmenh 15 Years
Current Salary: $81. 900
Supervisor: Mark Sanders, VP
requirements; 2-
li *r'ii
"rlr,l1: t:i:r)
Grade Values: 8-10: More than needed for job requirements; 5-7:
4: Moderately meets iob requirementsi 1: Does not meet iob reu*
iob
x
t" -r?{
1
*t ";
DEscRrPno[n r---------L-, G RADE
Technical KnowledRe
lnformation and skills required to fulfill job
resoonsibilities. t. 10
PeoDle Knowledse
understanding of inllilijlya l&d group behavior and
awareness of othels. iffibaB"lf -u*ur"n"rr. 9
Administrative Knowledse
lnformation ablf,tiffihny protfidures, policies,
directives andEouir"-8t.. @ 7
Physical Energy Level of dvnami&uitaUd. and activitv. 6
Mental Enersv
Level o[.iff€l]EbualY&ce, creativity, comprehension
andcohieptualiifns.'v 1
ir
Factor X:
stics.")
Belby is gifted ot onticipqting client
and diliqent obout brieling his superiors on
client situotions thot mov imDoct levenue. 8
ridd
Aoolications
.iiiut
;l'*ql€e, *
,}} *sf
1tt
PlEi:iiine q*L *f
SettinB goals and objedives, forecasting, establishing
oroerams. schedulins. time manaeement. 7
siruclurin-gg&{
lnitiating activities, controlling, coordinating events,
communicati ns, directins. 5
:r,.
'qh-
tlloti$ihne
Providing personal support, coaching, and
development opportunities to subordinates.
Eff ectivelv aDoraisins and rewardins subordinates. 9
Decision Makins
Problemsolving, resolvingconflict. Usingfeedbackto
imorove situation and self. 3
FactorY
(supervisor: Please list any action believed important
to conductjob not included in above list of
"applications.")
Mark Sanders: Belby is o tolented developer of
subordinotes. s
10 BRIEFCASES I HARVARO BUSINESS SCHOOL
Southfield Packaging
Exhibit 1 (continued)
Southfield Performance Review (cont'd)
Overall Ratine: Shaded ratine should reflect the overall Derformance
consideration all factors.
Unsatisfactory 4!!9p!9!_19
5% of employees 15% of employees
SatiFul
LOmments:(Iorermporranroraoor.onatlactolrurr".ur'tr,6]*"qr);r.,
Frank understands company policies and pro."lMnd successfully applies this
knowledge, as it relates to subordinates and client&in the maiodty of situations. He does not,
however, always follow company processes relatedQ information flow. Frank should focus on
developing his patience to avoid unnecessary cqL0lf,t subordinates and colleagues across the
comPany.
Compensation:
Current Annual Salary: $81.900
Proposed Annual Salary: $85.000
Bonus Eligibility: Pending
Development:
qt: Franl< needs more exposure to company strategy.
Participation in cross-depai al endeavors and/or management training at a university level
would contrib&& his development in this area.
person be promoted in the future: Director, Regional Operations,
of emolovees 5% of emol
To what
Midwest
HARVARD BUSINESS SCHOOL I AHIEFCASES 'fl
913-562 I Southfield Packaging
Exhibit 2 Southfield Packaging Organizational CharL Account Services, Midwest Region
Southfield Packaging Account Services
Midwest Region
12 BRIEFCASES I HARVABD BUSINESS SCHOOL

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IBA HRMC Group Assignment Case

  • 1. HARVARD lBUsrNEss lscx MICHAEL BEER ALISA ZALOSH 3-5 62 tL 10,2013 Packaging's Midwest region, felt his cell Background Note: The introduction to this case ca manager, Mark Sanders, and his direct report, Fra Belby, during Belby's annual performance review. The meeting, originally scheduled to talgpla t Belby's office earlier in the day, instead took place at a roadside diner en route to a ned'fffi i!i&t! so that Sanders could catch an evening flight home. Southfield Packaging Introduction Mark Sanders, VP of account phone vibrate in his pocket. " he said as he retrieved his phone and held it out of sight below the a time sensitive issue here." Sanders scanned the incoming text message, to aEsponse while his regional manager, Frank Belby, waited. "Sorry about that, Sanders "OK, where were we?" my point of view, Mark," replied Belby. "Look, I know"I just want to make sure that mv outburst client meeting was unacceptable. But so was putting an inexperienced junior sales associate in of long-standing clients-there's no way the proposal would have been implemented on geL and the client knew it. If I hadn't intervened I really think our business risk. Isn't it my job to protect our clients' interests so they'll renew their knew his face was flushed, but continued an1.way. "Does Sales care what .hen they sell something that's completely unrealistic? I have to be honest- again today, I'd probably do the same thing for the good of the company." you. Don't get upset-I think we've rehashed this scenario enough. OK, now that discussed each of these characteristic ratings, let's move on and discuss what you might stlive year in terms of..." Sanders paused for emphasis as he made quotation marks with his fingers, " development. I'll be back in a second-just need to use the restroom. Please, don't
  • 2. 973-562 SouthfieldPackaging Belby smiled. He agreed with Sanders's suggestion that the performance review completely free of corporate malarkey; he'd filled out six of the reviews himself in re at times found the process tiring and redundant. As he waited for Sanders, he page of his performance report (see Exhibit 1) to find his overall his annual raise and promotion eligibility would be based, and was stunned. 't his line-item scores prove he was more than a "fully satisfactory" knew that managers had the ability to manipulate an employee's final score by up-or down-a notch. He felt his frustration rise as Sanders hurried back to the table. Belby was exceeding expectations for his region in terms of client retention, and the on his managerial style was always positive. Was Sanders expecting -else? If so, what was it, and why had he never mentioned it in the two years since Belby's last appraisal? "How did it Bet to be 3:45?" asked Sanders. "I need to pull sorry. I can't risk missing my flight-I have to deliver a tomorrow morning. Look, I really appreciate that you drove so to corporate firsi thing me; as you know; I would have been happy to do this over the phone." Sanders him and looked directly at Belby. "I am sensing that report in front of has not been as productive as it could have been," said Sanders. "Between mv need to rush out of here to catch a flight, I feel like I may have rushed our " Sanders continued, "I know we missed your review last year and now I one, and for that I apologize. But I want to make sure we discuss compensation on your overall performance rating shown here on page 2, you're eligible , which brings your base salary to $86,000. Congratulations, Frank. You've as usual, of motivating your team and keeping our clients happy." Sanders "Let's schedule some time to discuss the finer points, and any questions this week. Does Friday morning work?" Belby hesitated. He rounded down his final score, but it was bound to be an emotional and hea he say something to Sanders he'd later regret? Belby Marlg but we can speak in a few days," said Belbytook a deep breath. "I do quietly. He stood up and led restaurant, everything that was said during their meeting. He believed Mark was a good a lot. He also knew that his conflict with that sales executive (boy, was that a would come up. Belby never enjoyed rehashing that event, but hopefully ii was behind hirn'ii!.;ry. If he took a management course as he and sanders had discussed, and volunteered southfield provided packaging materials and services to manufachrrers of medical devices and Belby sat in his care{r,*watched Sanders pull out of the parking lot. He'd driven an hour to meet sanders at this roadsiflq$estaurant because he hadn't wanted his performance review to be rescheduled for the third tifftc-Eq$ now he questioned that decision. Maybe meeting here was a mistake, he thousht. h feh fiidfmti&eWme off a feio timcs a1ld irtorlrurii t11p rTnirp ta otnnft ar hi< ron ahanohe thou8hL tt fett rgt#iilsr'm'Yne ot'f a few times ffid interrupted me riice to gtalnce ar his ce phone messnga. Tltnt's.sofi1pthing lligt I neper do when l'm in a meeting, no matter who I,m with. Maybe it;s this vouwer eenerotton. &-. _S, "q+,-'q@rd 0 minutes, Frank. I'm across the U.S. The U.S. medical packaging market, roughly $800 million in 2011, was upon the medical device manufacturing industry. With close to $95 billion in sales, the for a few crossldilpartmental initiatives, a promotion this year seemed likely. He knew he'd get a big BRIEFCASES I HARVARD BUSINESS SCHOOL
  • 3. market for medical devices experienced consistent annual growth due, in part, to an elderly population d Southfield differentiated itself from competitors by focusing on custom for both heavy and delicate medical equipment and machinery used dental, and veterinary clinics. Southfield focused solely on custom ; unlike many competitors, the company was not a reseller of third-party cushioning products, and for this reason did not compete aggressively on price. The company its packaging solutions at three separate company-owned facilities. Southfield employed 500 full-time employees. The company client service with its 50% annual client retention rate, estimated to be roughly 25% the industry average. Southfield's management team felt that maintaining close clients was critical for a number of reasons. First, clients' packaging requirements changed in size, shape, and weight with each new product developed. Second, clients' often as they weighed cost-efficiency against other variables such as or domestically sourced packaging. Manufacturers of medical devices their packaging suppliers to- unquestionably-meet mandated government ; Southfield never compromised safety in pursuit of reduced costs or design Southfield Packaging: The Mi on Southfield Packaging's account account services led each region. account services region, with 34 divided into five U.S. areas; a vice president of Mark Sanders led Southfield's Midwest "#*"tj,{5. Consulting gave me great business exposure. I was a small-town kid, and here I was in -i: it{ietings with CEOs of all kinds of companies, listening to their intemal and extemal -,.,.,1":":,.,'-(**,*",&$allenges. My projects included an early-stage software business, an established computer "qfu, qll":hurd*are supplier, a sports retailer, and a biotech startup. Southfield Packaging was my last Y' Proiect as a consultant. Southfield's CEO and I worked well together; the industry was 'lilli,, .W growing, and he wanted someone with fresh ideas on his managerient team. So three years 'it1",.. _*$A ago he made me an offer I couldn't refuse. le for ongoing management of 96 clients. Midwest accounts were regions, each with its own regional manager. Regional managers either Sanders, or to one of two regional directors who, in tum, reported to between 5 and 18 accounts, with a team of account managers and assistant responsible for day-to-day client communication and project management (see an organizational chart). Client contracts generally lasted Mark Sand Professional At Southfield's youngest regional vice president of operations. Sanders had grown uP where he attended a state university and earned a place as a "walk-on,' for one soccer team. Graduating with a degree in economics, Sanders worked before enrolling in a highly regarded MBA program. When he graduated, a well-kitq]lr"I management consulting firm hired sanders to work in its strategy and operations practice iri5f Louis. Said Sanders: HARVAHD BUSINESS SCHOOL I BRIEFCASES
  • 4. 913-562 I Southfield Packaging Role and Responsibilities Sanders was hired by Southfield to fill a leadership vacancy in the The region was small relative to its counterparts, so Sanders's role responsibilities were to maintain successful operations with existing corporate growth opportunities, in new geographic markets or new Sanders lived and worked in Cincinnati, Ohio, but as vice president to travel frequently. Each quarter, he traveled to the cities in his region and spent the day alongside a regional manager or director. Together, they met with their junior gauge client satisfaction. Sanders's ability to think strategically valuable; his enthusiasm for his job was contagious and his visits client's perspective was colleagues and their teams. Sandersreflected: Unlike the other regional VPs, my job includes analvsis in addition to operational management of the region. Juggling both bhallenging-there isn't enough time to do both well because of the day manaBement duties that require my attention. When I started, my direct reports included , and five regional managers; all were older than me, with more hands-on longer than I expected to eam their respect and trust, but I've adapted my over time, and now I don't months ago, I promoted onethink age or experience inJluences their of my five regional managers, Mike . With four direct reports I am now able to devote more time to Management Style Sanders described his I like to know what's surprised by something every day, sometimes just I'm big on has done, I tell I think mv sometimes ved, but not overly so. team, Frequent communication means I won't be out of control. I talk to my directors and malagers but we always check in and I help them prioritize. -if I'm or disappointed with something one of my employees the spot. where they stand with me most of the time, which is why I fuming annual review process redundant. Look, I'm not going to performance review form. If someone's fallen short of my they'll know it before our review. In December 2011, Belby, 48, was married with two teenaged daughters, and was actively olved in his community and his church. As board member for his town,s community center, h'e onal Manager of Midwest Accounts school teacher. At the urging of his parents, Belby eamed his two-year degree from a local college; but instead of transferring directly to a four-year institution, he accepted a a well-paying hourly wage in the assembly division of a nearby packaging plant. Soon married and put his plans for continuing his education on hold indefinitely. BRIEFCASES I HAHVARD BUSINESS SCHOOL
  • 5. organized and attended local events for residents of all ages, serving as the the outdoor summer concert sedes each year. Said Belby: l've lived in this area my whole life-there aren't a lot o[ and even less that don't know me. My high school classmates will ringleader, hamming it up for a crowd. Maybe I should have been front of people and that's why I volunteer, for example, to be fundraisers or to play Santa during ihe Christmas parade. Recently our me as the "unofficial mayor." Work Historu at school referred to Betby prelerred work to school. While Belby strugglefuI@grYQ4uage grades in school, he lhrived at work, learning quickly and eaming the respectff his c$eagues in each new role. He worked in the assembly plant, in sales, and on the corporate Sk of tlflbusiness as a Project mana8er. When one of his corporate colleagues he admired left to wor&Iffiuthfield, Belby applied for and secured a salaried position with more responsibility a@outhfield as well. Said Belby: I was never a strong student, and that school, brought out the best in me. There for me. All I know is that work, not many business problems that I can't eventually resolve. But give me a It's like my thoughts evaporate and the only thing I can think about is I'm 48 now and at this point t think I have the skills to start over in another industry. I'm grateful, is always ahead of the game. This company's going to be around I enjoy my iob, respect my clients and colleagues, and am good, I'm optimistic Since growth prospects for our industry are the company. Role and Responsibil Belbv had worked at 15 years, climbing the company ranks until he was eventually promoted to his role as regional manager for the Midwest region. Belby's primary responsibility was his region's roster clients remained satisfied and loyal customers. As such, Belby and account managers and assistant account managers often worked with Southfield's divisions to discuss new products and to monitor prol'ect schedules. , especially these last six years as regional manager. I feel like I've hit I love teaching young folks about the business, and watching them build I've given them. When I watch the paths their careers take I realize my role mentor has a lot of impact. in this role means you have to know how to manage people up and down the corporaTff ladder, and I'm good at that. I'm constantly juggling information from clients, ..;iil;i,account managers and company leaders, and I thinl< I have a knack for knowing who needs to /i'-'o* what, a"nd when. It'i m"ore strategic than you might think, and sometimes I have to .,,.-- _&" fi$ure out my own way to get things done. ,iilli**'i&1&r.*e*&l{*f I'm easily frustrated by company process; it was an issue that my previous manager ,i,i1 'iA* brought up inmy last review three years ago. More than a few times I've reached out to former 'lt,ll,. *r; employees across the company to Bet answers, even if doing so didn't follow company t{i1,," ,*i protocol. Just last week a client wanted to get an idea of timing for delivery of a new custom 'q.t{ package. I waited two days for our VP of production to give me an answer to my relatively a HARVARD BUSINESS SCHOOL I BRIEFCASES
  • 6. 913-562 I Southfield Packaging simple question. On the third day, I called one of my former direct reports-he's now of operations at one of our plants. He accessed the client file and passed along timeline, which I in turn forwarded to the client. I've stoPped calling the VP, and from him since. Managing and Proffioting Subordinates As regional manager, Belby had the power to grant or deny requests his acQlmanagers made for internal transfers, Belby reflected, ^ Y I usually grant transfer requests-I only hesitate *t "r, &ffinr" a client might be aggravated by an abrupt change in account management. I feel like lfulone a good iob when one of my employees "graduates" to a different role; I feel ffifoir $trcess is my success.oii ot my employees '"graduites" to a different role; I feel@S[J@ress is my success. Plus. it doesn't hurt to ha,e atlies sprinkled throughout the cSPdnyS I'm a brg believer in giving people the chance to perform @llEvel tasksif they want to try. But, thatiaid, if something isn't getting done, I'm Ut going to-wait around forever' I'll rust go and do it myself. I think one of the problems with Sfrthfield, and probably with any larger iompany, is that things can be too bureaucratic arULEan @e too long if you have to follow the rules. Physical Health Belby's daughters and wife exercise. Said Belby; The nagging has , a sharp chest pain sent me to the ER in the figure. Listen, I know I could stand to lose amiddle of the night-a few pounds, but I also and socializing with my clients on a regular basis contributes to my my region's high client retention rate. Between work commitments and 't have a lot of time to exercise like I used to, and I doubt I ever will. But, hey, I I'd quii smoking either, and I did seven years a8o. Work Habits and The more time clients, the better his ability to understand their current needs, predict future excellent service and secure recurring revenue. Belby's work schedule into the evening hours: with clients three to four nights a week, so my work days begin typically greeted by five to ten emails from Sanders first thing in the 's ai*early riser and does a lot of emailing dght after his moming run. I like to check with my account managers each morning. If something is troubling them, we can tackle first thing and move on. Because I've worked here for a long time, in ghts on Manager Mark Sanders -*6;i6py different capacities, I know who to call and how to fix things. I strive to be approachable ;df"ffikF.urr" of that I have a good sense of the issues our region faces on any Siven day. I try to fi. spenffi two to three days a week working alongside my account managers or assistant *,. qyafiifters. My schedule is fluid, so I just go where I think I'm needed on any given day. When I - IYff not out on calls, I often find I can work most effectively from home. about his weight and lack of consistent For three years Belby reported directly to Sanders. BRIEFCASES I HARVARD BUSINESS SCHOOL
  • 7. I like Sanders personally and I'm glad I work for him. He's a lot younger sometimes I question his judgment because he iust doesn't have the clients that I have. He's a corporate strategy guy, with a lot of great reality is that the priority should always be our clients. Our clients keeping us in business. Sometimes I think Sanders forgets that. With Sanders, though, what you see is what you get-he a hidden agenda and doesn't buckle to company politics, and I like that. He also what I do, and acknowledges that I am doing it well. He knows I'm a performer that count on me to anchor our regional success-that's whai he told me in my review. I couldn't stand to work for a micromanager; thankfully, Sanders just encourages keep doing what I do best and leaves the rest to me. He's not overly critical, and he to me even when I know he's short on time. I'd say we are friends as well as Promotion Eligibility I'm not going to lie; I was hurt and t he chose to promote my friend Mike is smart and a good manager, he hasn'tWilliams to regional director and not me. Though worked here as long as f have, and I client retention rate is better than his. For a while I hoped that Sanders would but he didn't. Listen, I know managers have to make tough choices rock the boat. I'm not worried about want to make a big deal of it and in this economy, there are a lot of talented people out there that could confident that, if I keep up my good performance, a promotion is in my Southfield P Each December, all reviews, or "SPRs" (Sou an undisturbed concerns to despite the fact corporate, organization ,;s.ii$iManagers scored employees on a variety of metrics such as technical knowledge, mental energy, ,l!' aridlrdecision-making capability, and supplemented the score with a short written narrative '' L evaluation. A printed copy of the report in its totality was given to the employee during the SPR. t t fu-r.tQ.S9n the emPloyee was expected to sign the report as confirmation that he or she received and .:" 6 understood the information shared during the meeting. The final page of the SPR report was reserved '|i],.,. $i for employee comments, and was to be completed withi., serer, iluyr of the SPR meeting. Here, '"ll.ltl, ,ff emPloyees noted any additional comments they wanted to include that may not have been '*ifi,' ,it|" mentioned or highlighted by their manager. Employees might use the space, for example, to highlight,1,;a1 payments were straightforward. Under the formula developed by distributed only if profits exceeded forecasted revenue for the increases and promotions, on the other hand, were merit-based and 's manager and an annual review score. an online tool to help managers collect, evaluate, and communicate to employee performance. Managers could easily save an employee's noteworthy tion, email, or even voicemail, to their online SPR file. At evaluation time, could easily review the information they'd saved in one place to help them make informed employee performance. ce Appraisal loyees and managers participaied in annual performance Reviews). SPRS typically lasted two hours and provided to communicate direcily with the subordinate about their offered employees a venue to voice career goals or workplace for the coming year was always discussed at these meetings HARVAHD BUSINESS SCHOOL I BBIEFCASES
  • 8. p"rf--un." review, f,ut he set aiide an hour to complete Belby's ontine evaluatio As he entered numerical scores, sanders ."",",,'i'rr,!i -a"ii/' p"iritt"u"""' ihar+ql( and career potential His thoughts on Belby are captured below' * & -G.EA'hxcq&*gltF ises )Wflie th Ouerall Performance & B Belby's a solid resional manager, and I appreciate ni'fr5ggFv Tl t*::1: -l]*honest-i know I can count on him to deliver what he,;l romises;ffifether it's revenue or.clrent ,u-ri"fu.,ior, o, "-ployee guidance. Ai as years o1d, nefusouthfield veteran; I think he started i"-ii.'" f".t"gi"g'asJemb"ly plant more.ihan rs.grsfu "ld ':" tq:Yl,',I"::^TflI': a new skill they'd mastered outside of work, or to explain extenuating circumstances contributed to'weak performance. The comPleted SPR report was then sent to. Sout' r"ro.,.a"" departmen't, where it was scanned and filed electronicallv as nart of ' '.*, permanent record. Frank Belby's Annual Performance Review sanders was facing several hish-stakes deadlT:::ljl"":,T:I::::S:-*"::Ymff:"il'#:il t^"r.- ii"*3-i.'"" hi*-i.t"'.ur, wine them and@16$fu but also roll up-his sleeves in a -""iing to p"rtotrn an on-the-spot pacraghslFxwiilree s onlylost a-few "l':"It-:*: ;';;;% h:3 ;;.t"i fo, tt " itlla'*est ieffi an?S<now$becu'se I attended his surprise birthday party last year - he counts many Belby's extremelY imPortant to stream; I know he's the reason manY of our clients come back to us Year the company for a comPetitor, I bet between five and ten clients guess is that it would take more than a year for a new manager to Mo tio atin g S ub or dinat es Belby's team of three accounfuq;ffi and- three assistan: ^'":c:tt, "l1 Y:-",-1]:l^tf"ff^":: 913-562 I Southfield Packaging iit"'i3r.iry.'ritfr".i,;fu "i his former subordinates now manages the company's second- largest loyal to his account team and to his clients, but I ve seen thl} ]"f]ty ti-""l f,i succeed in his role he has to be able to balance the needs of his team *ittr tnor" of his colleagues and our greater corPorate agenda He can't iust m.rz6 .i,ra thinoi oer done Luicklv for his clients, which il;"d;.1;,*;;;";;;l; tffi! c,"ait for a job well done, but alwavs takes ihe blame if if*r"t u proUl"- ffip aittii.t. I also like that he spends a lot of time with new account ;;;;;;t: iit teamq&snsistentlv a toP performei in client retention' and his account ;;;;;;;; r;;;'Bd@*lffiter pace than tireir counterparts both in the M]d*:::.:11 11t::t and his year, he lambasted a newly hired junior sales associate durinB-not after-a client iccordlt g to e"lby, the presentation was an embarrassment-and I don't doubt him' t kno# he was list trying to protect his client's interests But instead of guiding the pr"""ntu,io,l in a positivL dlrectio]n, Belby -interruPted the sales executive' iryt:-!f:^1^? ^tl: :l'il;;;G f,;;;;,;il ;."i"deithe meeting- rhe sales associate was humiliated and then escalated th"e issue to his manaBer, and at that point I had to intervene to patch things up' company policy or Process to ^ike st ,e things get done quickly clients, which inthe past without letting me know. gHEFCASTS I HARVARO BUSINESS SCHOOL
  • 9. Belby, though, made little effort to make amends. The sales associate left Sr *onihs lut"i for a competitor, and our regional revenue production slowed as a Self-Awareness I think Belby views professional guidance from me as constructive critiiism in a gentle manner to avoid a negative reactid@gprding on the day, he might overreact emotionally or he might iust close up and distance@1elf from me for a while,"which impedes our team's produciivity. There isn't much-of a brea@tween personal and professional life for Belby, so perhaps that's why he interprS professionil criticiim as an attaci on his character. I sense Belby was disappointed that I didn't prorng@g[Segional director a fewI sense Belby was disappointed that I didn't proqgffiS@egional -director a few months ago, but he never asked me about it directly. H{eemedfljstant for a few weeks.after Williamsi promotion. Maybe it was a coincidence but &S5e welp a )ot of Problems with his group during those same weeks: one client nearly cancele$[Si(onhact, b;t I intervened and Ialvaged the"relationship. But now, thankfully, th@'s are back to normal between Belby and me. Time Management Belby's daily telephone communication to email. I don't think which is critical these days. wander, I have to intenuPt usually gets him back on tra&. I filter the distractions capability. I know he wonder if he realizes three hours. Physical Energy a 1q'8 of my time-he prefers Phone in hYs ability to express himself in writinB, on the phone and his thoughts begin to like "Franl, Bet to the pointl" That s going on in his region, bui he just doesn't :s with when f"'"*' -'" dJ a qsd I question ffifuls ability to make the riSht choices-for himself, and for the company' We're both br.g*ggy$tgffirmer athletes; but he mentioned offhand recently ihat he's at high risk for diabdffi, aifll h" told -" *ade a late night visit to the ER for chest pain last year. and to me that's a sign of limited managerial ifter normal business hours on a regular basis, but I his day at 9:30 a.m., I've already been working for 't seem too concemed about what he eats or drinks. This disregard tor with our company's recent efforts to promote and reward healthy football than playing it. fort I spearheaded for the good of our employees and our bottom line' Cleveland sports fary even though, judging from his physique, he spends a HARVARD BUSINESS SCHOOL I BRIEFCASES
  • 10. 913-552 L Southfield Packaging Exhibit 1 Southfield Performance Review Name: Frank Belby Position: Manaser. Reeional Ooerations, Midwest Reeion Review Date: December 2011 Months in Current Position: Zz Duration of Southfield Employmenh 15 Years Current Salary: $81. 900 Supervisor: Mark Sanders, VP requirements; 2- li *r'ii "rlr,l1: t:i:r) Grade Values: 8-10: More than needed for job requirements; 5-7: 4: Moderately meets iob requirementsi 1: Does not meet iob reu* iob x t" -r?{ 1 *t "; DEscRrPno[n r---------L-, G RADE Technical KnowledRe lnformation and skills required to fulfill job resoonsibilities. t. 10 PeoDle Knowledse understanding of inllilijlya l&d group behavior and awareness of othels. iffibaB"lf -u*ur"n"rr. 9 Administrative Knowledse lnformation ablf,tiffihny protfidures, policies, directives andEouir"-8t.. @ 7 Physical Energy Level of dvnami&uitaUd. and activitv. 6 Mental Enersv Level o[.iff€l]EbualY&ce, creativity, comprehension andcohieptualiifns.'v 1 ir Factor X: stics.") Belby is gifted ot onticipqting client and diliqent obout brieling his superiors on client situotions thot mov imDoct levenue. 8 ridd Aoolications .iiiut ;l'*ql€e, * ,}} *sf 1tt PlEi:iiine q*L *f SettinB goals and objedives, forecasting, establishing oroerams. schedulins. time manaeement. 7 siruclurin-gg&{ lnitiating activities, controlling, coordinating events, communicati ns, directins. 5 :r,. 'qh- tlloti$ihne Providing personal support, coaching, and development opportunities to subordinates. Eff ectivelv aDoraisins and rewardins subordinates. 9 Decision Makins Problemsolving, resolvingconflict. Usingfeedbackto imorove situation and self. 3 FactorY (supervisor: Please list any action believed important to conductjob not included in above list of "applications.") Mark Sanders: Belby is o tolented developer of subordinotes. s 10 BRIEFCASES I HARVARO BUSINESS SCHOOL
  • 11. Southfield Packaging Exhibit 1 (continued) Southfield Performance Review (cont'd) Overall Ratine: Shaded ratine should reflect the overall Derformance consideration all factors. Unsatisfactory 4!!9p!9!_19 5% of employees 15% of employees SatiFul LOmments:(Iorermporranroraoor.onatlactolrurr".ur'tr,6]*"qr);r., Frank understands company policies and pro."lMnd successfully applies this knowledge, as it relates to subordinates and client&in the maiodty of situations. He does not, however, always follow company processes relatedQ information flow. Frank should focus on developing his patience to avoid unnecessary cqL0lf,t subordinates and colleagues across the comPany. Compensation: Current Annual Salary: $81.900 Proposed Annual Salary: $85.000 Bonus Eligibility: Pending Development: qt: Franl< needs more exposure to company strategy. Participation in cross-depai al endeavors and/or management training at a university level would contrib&& his development in this area. person be promoted in the future: Director, Regional Operations, of emolovees 5% of emol To what Midwest HARVARD BUSINESS SCHOOL I AHIEFCASES 'fl
  • 12. 913-562 I Southfield Packaging Exhibit 2 Southfield Packaging Organizational CharL Account Services, Midwest Region Southfield Packaging Account Services Midwest Region 12 BRIEFCASES I HARVABD BUSINESS SCHOOL