Quint’s Column: Best Boss Winners 2017


  • December 29, 2017
  • /   Quint Studer
  • /   quint-studer
Quint Studer at the public input sessions for the future Studer Community Institute building.

First, I wanted to give a big thank you to all the people who took time to send me names of bosses they loved working for and working with across our area. Both the number of emails and the depth of those stories were fascinating.

One person, Lindsey Cannon, was named the best boss and received the $500 prize. Cannon is the Director of Program Operations for the Children’s Home Society of Florida. Thank you to Diana Born for nominating Lindsey. Diana also received $500 for taking the time to recognize.

What this contest reinforces is that there are some very common themes with great bosses. When describing Lindsey, Diana wrote about how Lindsey took time to get to know her goals. She held Diana accountable to those goals and spent time in professional development so Diana became a better leader. Lindsey focused on Diana’s strengths, while addressing opportunities for growth in a constructive manner. Examples were given on how Lindsey pitches in and does not ask anyone to do something she will not do.

Examples of bosses “walking the talk” were evident in many of the nominations. Emily Holden described how her boss, Dorothy Kaufmann at the Wildlife Sanctuary of Northwest Florida, works right alongside everyone. This was especially needed after the major floods of 2012 and 2014. Dorothy has created a special culture for all including the volunteers that are vital to the Sanctuary’s operations.

Homer and Linda Biggers, of the Another Broken Egg on Gregory St. were nominate by Brent Hooper. Brent shared that the Biggers do amazing things for the staff on a personal level. From baby showers, helping employees get their cars repaired to providing people with that second chance. The Biggers make a difference in the lives of their staff.  Taking time to train and guide staff is also a major part of the Biggers’ success in being great people to work for.

Scottie Cole wrote about Michael Murdoch, CEO of AppRiver. Scottie has been part of AppRiver’s growth for the last 13 years. He wrote about how the core principles of providing phenomenal service never waver. He also described Mr. Murdoch’s true open-door policy. He wrote that Mr. Murdoch treats every employee like a member of his own family. If someone needs something he’s the first one to help. He knows his team well enough to know that they need and when they need it. That takes genuine concern and compassion.

Jordan Yee of DAG Architects bulleted many attributes on his immediate supervisor Dave Luttrell. Jordan wrote that Dave communicates difficult messages effectively, whether it be a new office initiative or just constructive feedback. Most leaders can communicate what people want to hear, but it takes a special talent to communicate what a person needs to hear.

Sara Herr of Navy Federal Credit Union sent a wonderful detailed letter about her supervisor, Todd Protinsky. Among his many fine attributes – being available, treating everyone with dignity and respect, pushing excellence and a good sense of humor – what stood out is that he takes away ambiguity. He is direct. He gives instruction clearly and in terms that every level of staff can understand. He does not sugar coat the responsibilities of our job. Our department has high visibility and he makes sure that our purpose is defined, and we understand each step and action we take within our roles. The best leaders explain the why behind directions and Todd does that.

Shae Bunn of Baskerville-Donovan wrote about Michelle Boehm. In addition to many other positive points about Michelle, Shae noted what happens when an error is made. Yes, every company has them. Here is what she wrote: “When an error is made, we discuss it and she makes sure I know what and how it was made and the procedure to correct it. She has never belittled her staff (or anyone in the company) and treats everyone with the same professionalism and kindness.”

You will see more examples in 2018. We are so fortunate to have these role models. I am sure if you would like a mentor these people would love to be helpful to you.  What stood out with the many letters was beyond being approachable, available, working side by side, feedback, etc. It was that the bosses mentioned all seem to make those they work with feel valued and showed a sincere and personal interest in the employee’s well-being.

Your items have been added to the shopping cart. The shopping cart modal has opened and here you can review items in your cart before going to checkout