PPB October 2017

Aaron Gunderson Senior Vice President of Sales The Magnet Group Washington, Missouri Number of direct reports: 6 N ominator Cathy Cummings, director of strategic development, has known Aaron Gunderson for more than 12 years as both a customer and now her supervisor. She’s been reporting to him for almost two years. “Aaron is one of the hardest working individuals I’ve met,” she says. “Even though he was promoted last year and now oversees the daily activity of all sales efforts, he is selfless with his time.” She appreciates the way he leads by example. “He is part of the team and continues to be very involved in select key accounts, despite his new title and responsibilities.” Gunderson joined The Magnet Group in 2015 after 15 years at Pro Towels, which was formerly owned by The Magnet Group. For the past year, Jessica Hiner, vice president of key accounts, has also called him boss, friend and most importantly, she says, family. “He leads by example and provides examples you can learn from,” she says, explaining that when she’s made a mistake, he listens. “For example, a decision to handle a situation with a customer that he may not agree with, he listens to my reasoning behind my decision and asks questions. And if he doesn’t understand the reason behind the answer, he may ask another question. From there, he gives direction and guidance at a level he knows I will relate to. He never talks down to you, or at you— that is not his style.” Cummings and Hiner both admire Gunderson’s depth of character and generosity. “He would rather see each one of us succeed over himself and absolutely loves to celebrate our successes,” says Cummings. Hiner adds, “Aaron will reduce his earnings to give others a raise. He has done just that because he feels the success and acknowledgement of others is much more important than his own success.” Aaron Gunderson with his nominators Cathy Cummings (top) and Jessica Hiner. Aaron’s cool factor He’s a compassionate, hardworking guy; truly a man of the people. His best boss I have two—Bill Korowitz, my boss and owner/CEO of The Magnet Group, and Bob Tidwell, a former executive with The Magnet Group. Bill is more of a coach than a boss, coaching in business and the balance of family and business. Every phone conversation or meeting is a learning opportunity, if you pay attention. His charisma, experience and passion for greatness are invaluable. Bob helped me throughout my career with many business and life lessons that I still apply to this day. Both have been mentor leaders for me. What managing others has taught him about himself I have been fortunate to work with a lot of different types of people over the past 25-plus years. Over time you identify characteristics and traits that you admire and others you don’t. Simply, I know what type of person I don’t want to be. I am not perfect, and people and situations are not perfect; however, you can still find success where there is a lack of perfection. His best advice for other bosses Although I do not see myself as great— far from it—here are a few pieces of advice I feel passionate about. Lead by example and with direction. If you want people to follow you, they need something worth following. You can be a leader without being a “boss.” Teamwork, although an old cliché, [is important]. It truly does take a village. Celebrate your successes with compliments and accolades to your team. Lastly, have fun! Best Bosses | FEATURE | OCTOBER 2017 | 29