I’ve been following the fortunes of Avnet (NYSE:AVT) for quite a while now, watching them build Lean and Continuous Improvement into their corporate culture. How fitting then that Steve Church, Avnet’s top HR guy, should be elevated to the position of Chief Operational Excellence Officer.
As we’ve all heard over and over again, and as I’ve written here in the past, Operational Excellence is NOT just about the tools and techniques, or even the processes. It’s about the people: engaged, focused, enthusiastic and yes, even HAPPY! Is that so hard to understand and deliver in today’s business environment? Why are there not lots and lots of companies who GET it?
How Avnet COO Rick Hamada describes this move says volumes about their unique corporate culture:
“Avnet’s pursuit of operational excellence remains vital to our long-term success,” said Hamada. “Steve’s business experience and acumen combined with his proven ability to engage employees is a distinctly valuable combination. In his new role, Steve will further foster Avnet’s culture of excellence to consistently strive for continuous improvement in our execution and process innovation.”
Vital indeed. And one of the reasons Avnet is tops in their market sector on this year’s Fortune Magazine’s list of “Most Admired Companies.” Kudos to Hamada and his team for recognizing and delivering. Adam Zak
