Lee Iacocco exemplifies moral purpose in the way he led his organizations. He continuously had a goal in mind and contributed to the positive morale of every one of his employees and clients. He built and maintained relationships with his candidness and honesty. This was particularly evident when he needed Chrysler to aid him in his quest to raise money for Diabetes research. They stepped up by allowing an man in his 80's to take control of their commercials, along with artist Snoop Dog (SilkeCarty, 2005).
Iacocca did not give up easily even when all odds were against him. He reinvented himself and the companies he worked for by changing to meet the customer's needs. In 1980, he delivered to the needs of the baby boomers with his introduction of the mini van (Cummings, 2005).
Iacocca was consistent in his sales practices and although he studied engineering at Lehigh University, he much preferred the sales end of the car business. He tried to pass a good deal on to his customers and the community. Lee knew what it was like growing up in the depression and always knew the value of the dollar. He was taught to work hard and to respect all people. Those values that he learned early in life were exactly what he needed to become a successful leader in business.
Even after retirement, Lee continues to raise money for Diabetes research. So far he has raised over 10 million dollars. During his years in the auto industry Iacocca was recognized with many awards. He was the first recipient of the 'Automotive Industry of the Year Award'. He won the award in 1982 as the very first recipient. In 1984 he was awarded with the 'Ralph Coats Roe Medal. This medal was awarded because of his "exceptional contribution of an engineer towards better public understanding and improving the standard of society" (Cummings, 2005). Finally in 1984 he was inducted into the 'Automotive Hall of Fame'.
Cummings, K. (2005).Chapter one- the early years. Lee Iacocca. p 1-1.
SilkeCarty, S. (2005). Iacocco does ad to aid battle against diabetes. USA Today.
Donna,
ReplyDeleteI can really respect a leader who can reinvent themselves when need be. It takes a lot of self confidence and a strong sense of self worth for one to pick up the pieces of thier lives and careers and start anew. Iacocca is a self made leader or engaged in self transformation and evaluation regularly. This is why I think he was able to be such a successful business man and industry guru.
Hi Donna!
ReplyDeleteIsn't the ability to reinvent yourself, one of the attributes that Bennis cites in a leader? He states "Too many people are mere products of their contexts, lacking the will to change, to develop their potential". I guess that Chrysler was Iacocco's crucible. He did emerge stronger and was not broken!
Donna,
ReplyDeleteI admire a person who can focuses on building a positive morale among their staff. Too many times, those who rise to the top allow the power to go to their heads. It appears as though Iococco never forgot his roots, and in that always strived to empower others. That is a true leader.