Some entrepreneurs are born; others are made. And for a select few, quick adaptation is key when a functioning business is suddenly in their hands.
David Ahl, president of full-service flooring dealer Gary Leimer, Inc., has steadily grown the business since taking the reins from former owner Debbie Leimer-Medina. She had noticed Ahl’s leadership potential almost immediately after he signed on, eventually making him a project manager in 1996.
When Leimer-Medina retired in 2004, she might have liquidated the company. Instead, she looked for a dependable team member to carry on the business. Suddenly, Ahl was promoted from project manager to president. “When we took over, we didn’t know what we were doing,” he said. “During that first year, we lost a lot; our careers were on the line. We knew how to run a job, not a business.”
Instead of allowing the company to fold, Ahl sought help. “A consultant came in and drilled us like a sergeant. We established accountability, and started keeping much better track of sales and profits, setting sales goals and having weekly staff meetings.” The plan worked. “2007 was the beginning of a great year,” said Ahl. “In 2010 we grew by 15 percent. In 2011 we hired a marketing director.”
Ahl is proud of the company’s gradual improvements over the years, and has big plans for the company’s future. “We provide materials and installation for 90 percent of our products. And we’ve added ceramic tile, floor demolition, and moisture mitigation—not everyone does those things. People rely on Gary Leimer, Inc.,” said Ahl. “We’re cautiously optimistic.”
www.garyleimer.com
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