Executive Insights: Jeff Stone

The following is sponsored content from ProTeam.

Jeff has been associated with ProTeam since its beginning in 1987. For the first 25 years he was ProTeam's Manufacturer's Rep in Southern California and Southern Nevada. He joined ProTeam as an employee in 2012 and serves as National Sales Manager, Service Provider Segment. He has over 30 years of experience working with Building Service Contractors helping them be successful by increasing productively and efficiency with innovation and Cleaning for Health® practices.

Stone served on the ISSA Board of Directors as Manufacturer Reps Director. He was elected as a delegate to the White House Conference on Small Business during two presidential administrations. He lives in Mill Valley, Cali., with his wife Marianne, two daughters and two dogs.

BSCAI sat down with Stone to discuss how the industry is changing and how he leads his team to success.

BSCAI: What are some trends you see developing in the building service contracting industry?

Jeff Stone: A major trend developing in the building service contracting industry is utilizing cordless cleaning equipment. Non-corded equipment allows workers to go anywhere with increase productivity, increased safety by eliminating tripping hazards and reduction to property damage caused by cords.

BSCAI:How would you describe your leadership style?

JS: Transformational leadership style to positively influence others to gain their commitment to our organizational vision and objectives. Encourage self-leadership and teamwork. Strive to be an inspiring role model.

BSCAI: What is one challenge you’ve experienced in your career, and how did you handle it?

JS: Several years ago, a customer indicated they would never use our product again when a shipment failed to meet their deadline need.
While meeting with their second generation family owner I indicated that my father taught me when we fail to meet a commitment. 1) Apologize; 2) Take responsibility; 3) Acknowledge their inconvenience; 4) Institute immediate measures so that this situation won’t happened again. Our supplier partnership with this customer has remained strong ever since.

BSCAI: Any advice for new BSCs coming into the industry?

JS: I would tell a new BSC that they don’t have to do it alone. Even though it’s a highly competitive industry, by joining BSCAI they will have exposure to a tight knit community filled with experience people willing and able to help.

BSCAI: What is the best piece of advice you’ve received in your career?

JS: Never burn a relationship bridge.