PPB October 2015

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OCTOBER 2015 • PPB • 39
“I’ve worked with several bosses in my career (both in and out of the industry) and
Paul is one of the best,” says Sharon Zarter, CAS, senior IT analyst at AIA. “He
manages both the IT department and what the business needs from IT with courtesy
and respect. He bridges any gaps with clean communication. He is willing to roll up
his sleeves to help all of us achieve our goals.” Tim Brunner, network engineer,
admires Weller’s customer service and leadership skills. “I regularly find myself think-
ing ‘What would Paul do?’ I feel very lucky to have such a knowledgeable leader who
empowers us to be independent, hardworking teams and encourages greatness.” IT
Support Technician James Wolff calls his boss humble, reasonable and fair. “I can
always trust that Paul has my back which helps me focus on doing the right things.”
Paul Weller
Director of IT, AIA Corporation
Neenah, Wisconsin
Number of direct reports: 10
Cool factor: He finds time to join the team’s quarterly dinner/happy hour,
and spends time with employees outside of work.
Nominators: Tim Brunner, James Wolff, Sharon Zarter, CAS
What is your philosophy
for successfully managing people?
Weller: I personally try to follow the ser-
vant leadership principle for
leading/managing my team. I always
look to turn the tables and I ask myself
and my staff what I can do for them to
help them be successful. I also believe
you need to be transparent, open and
approachable by your entire team.
How do you create a
positive culture with your team and
those who report to you?
Weller: Listen more than talk with your
team, ask for feedback, and always work
to improve how you serve your team. By
removing project/task obstacles and get-
ting my staff the right tools to do their
jobs, they are able to better able to
serve our diverse group of customers. If
my team feels successful and their
actions lead to better service, then my
success comes from their actions.
What advice can you share with other
managers to improve their people-
management skills?
Weller: I believe everyone should be a
lifelong learner. I have found there are
always better ways to lead and manage
as we mature and the workforce
changes. By listening and better under-
standing each team member and what
drives them at work and at home, I have
built a better personal connection and I
can work to help each team member
grow personally and professionally.
Paul Weller (second from right), believes he’s fortunate to lead such a hardworking team, includ-
ing (from left) Sharon Zarter, CAS, James Wolff and Tim Brunner.
Who’s Your Bestie?
Tell PPB about the best boss you’ve
ever reported to and why that person
holds the distinction. We’ll run your
comments in an upcoming issue.
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