Navigating the Manufacturing and Industrial World: Insights from a Sales and Marketing VP
Doug shared his career journey, explaining that he initially worked for the government as an engineer for 3 years before joining his current company in 1994. He progressed through various roles over the years, including product management, business development, marketing, and sales leadership. He had the opportunity to work in Europe for about 6 years, helping build out the European team, before relocating back to the US to lead North American sales.
From Engineer to Sales Leader: Doug Sherman’s 30-Year Career Journey
In 2018, Doug decided to leave the large company he had been with and joined his current smaller company, HB Controls, where he is now the VP of Sales and Marketing. He explained that he enjoys the more family-oriented, community feel of working for a smaller business, where everyone has accountability and takes ownership of the company’s success.
The Pros and Cons of Working for Large Corporations vs. Small Businesses
Comparing large vs. small companies, Doug shared that a major challenge with large corporations is the tendency to prioritize short-term gains over long-term potential, driven by the pressure to meet quarterly earnings targets for shareholders. This can lead to myopic decision-making and companies not reaching their full potential. In contrast, at the smaller HB Controls, Doug finds more flexibility, autonomy, and a greater sense of impact on the company’s growth.
Adapting to Remote Work: How Doug Sherman Increased Productivity During the Pandemic
Doug also discussed the shift to remote work during the COVID-19 pandemic. Initially, he struggled with the change, feeling unproductive. However, he soon realized that working from home increased his effectiveness, as he could be more productive by connecting virtually with more customers and colleagues in a day, versus the time spent traveling for in-person meetings when he was constantly on the road.
Lessons Learned from 30 Years in the Industrial Electronics Industry
In terms of lessons learned over his 30-year career, Doug emphasized the importance of always keeping the customer’s best interests in mind, continuously learning, and as a leader, prioritizing the well-being and empowerment of your team. He advised aspiring professionals to question the status quo, challenge processes, and strive to improve, while also maintaining diplomacy and being a team player.
Insights on Leadership and Teamwork from a Seasoned Sales and Marketing VP
Overall, Doug’s insights provide valuable perspectives on navigating the manufacturing and industrial world, the differences between large and small companies, the benefits and challenges of remote work, and the key lessons he has gained throughout his extensive career experience.
Links:
https://www.hbcontrols.com
https://www.linkedin.com/in/doug-sherman-30a8aa16
Recap of the topics discussed:
- Navigating the Manufacturing and Industrial World: Insights from a Sales and Marketing VP
- From Engineer to Sales Leader: Doug Sherman’s 30-Year Career Journey
- The Pros and Cons of Working for Large Corporations vs. Small Businesses
- Prioritizing Long-Term Potential over Short-Term Gains: Challenges in Large Companies
- Finding Flexibility and Autonomy in a Smaller Business: Doug Sherman’s Experience
- Adapting to Remote Work: How Doug Sherman Increased Productivity During the Pandemic
- Lessons Learned from 30 Years in the Industrial Electronics Industry
- Putting Customers First: Doug Sherman’s Approach to Success
- Questioning the Status Quo: Empowering Aspiring Professionals in the Manufacturing Sector
- Insights on Leadership and Teamwork from a Seasoned Sales and Marketing VP