No matter what industry you’re in, transparency and honesty are the some of the most important values a business can hold. Dave Mathis, national accounts director at GOJO, shares insights on the importance of a strong company culture and encourages building service contractors (BSCs) to overcome challenges with integrity and service excellence.

What are some trends you see developing in the BSC industry?                                

Trends I see are service providers taking credit for the value they bring when retaining, upgrading, adding service and winning new business. They are becoming more transparent and authentic with customers and suppliers. Service providers are also embracing the idea of technology and learning with a more open mind. They are adopting the right level of technology that fits the culture their organization has developed.

How would you describe your leadership style?

Hopefully I am leading by example and being inclusive, while also being team-focused — and doing it with a sense of humor.

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

I have had many challenges in my career; however, the frenzy that COVID-19 created was like nothing else I’ve experienced. So many service providers — who are also friends and partners — asked for supplies of PURELL sanitizer during the peak, and GOJO, despite ramping up significantly, just didn’t have enough. It meant having to disappoint my customers. I was able to get through that challenging time by being honest, not making excuses and advocating for the service channel and service providers. In other words, I did all I could do each day and that had to be enough.

Any advice for new BSCs coming into the industry?

Find your own secret sauce. Culture and purpose play significant roles in what makes your business unique. Embrace chaos and be nimble — you can change and adapt more quickly than larger organizations.

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

Be interested, be positive and listen. I am fortunate to have learned from so many amazing people.

Dave Mathis’s career began in 1994 working in distribution. He transitioned to manufacturing in 1997 with Georgia-Pacific (GP). After GP, Mathis moved to Rubbermaid Commercial Products, where he remained through 2011. In 2012, he joined GOJO Industries to help develop GOJO’s National Account organization. Throughout Mathis’s career, his passion for and connection with service providers has always been part — if not all — of his role and responsibilities. Over the years, he credits his mentors along the way who led by example, didn’t take themselves too seriously, and did what they said they would. Mathis grew up in Colorado, lives in Northern California and enjoys staying active.