In 1993 Bob Andersen became managing director of Mount Elgon Orchards, which was founded by Bob's grandfather in 1920. Back then, in 1993, the farm was growing apples and peaches exclusively. In 1993 Bob bought the farm from his father, and over the last three decades the farm has grown to a large scale export farm now exporting 90 to 100 million roses and over 15 million avocados each year - with 1800 employees. Thanks to the success of the farm, The Mount Elgon Trust was founded by Bea Schippers and the Andersen Family in 2005. The trust has a hospital, an orphanage, 4 schools with well over 3.000 students and many community development projects.
Mount Elgon Orchards recently published an interview on LinkedIn with their managing director, Bob Andersen.
What's the biggest leadership lesson you've learned in your career?
People are by far a companies greatest resource so look after them. Our Company Policy is "treat everyone as if they are you brother or your sister". No matter how bad the news - you do it in a compassionate way if it is your brother or sister. Also remember, appraisals give recognition, timely feedback and when done properly .. there is never shocking news.
How do you stay focused on your company's long-term vision?
I always keep in mind our core values of Quality, Responsibility (of people and the environment) and Fun - and as long as every long term vision contains these values - it makes the focus very easy.
What's one habit or mindset that helps you succeed every day?
I write lists. If you write a to do list (this month, this year or next 10 years) then you are working towards that list - consciously and most often in the longer term - subconsciously.
What advice would you give to someone aiming for a leadership role?
Public Speaking. Practice overcomes any fear of public speaking and then always give speeches from key points rather than reading it. Reading it from a paper weakens the best of messages. Most leadership is about strategic thinking and direction, without fear. Set the rules, point the direction and go for it.
How do you keep your team motivated during challenging times?
That is a great question. When things get tough, always communicate. When COVID-19 was suddenly upon us, we quickly made an emergency plan based on levels and scenarios, after which we communicated. In every workers discussion, I reminded them that my Grandfather survived Spanish Flu, two world wars, the Great Depression and so many financial crashes, that in comparison, this was going to be much easier. We also gave assurances to all staff that no matter the depth of pain Covid was going to throw at us, we would be there for them and in the worst case scenario, make sure no one in our community would ever go hungry. This resulted in long-term trust and respect.
As the expression goes "what doesn't kill you makes you stronger".... well certainly wiser in my experience.
For more information:
Mount Elgon Orchards
www.mtelgon.com
