Leadership lessons for the lockdown and recovery – interview with the chairman and CEO of WD-40, Garry Ridge

“My philosophy on company culture is based on what Aristotle said in 384bc – “Pleasure in the job puts perfection in the work.” Turning that into action, I believe that all leaders can create a workplace where you go to work each day, make a contribution to something bigger than yourself, learn something new, feel safe, are protected, and provided freedom by a set of values and go home happy! WD-40 Company is proof.”

Garry Ridge is Chairman of the Board and chief executive officer of the WD-40 Company (NASDAQ WDFC) headquartered in San Diego, California. WD-40 Company is the maker of the ever-popular WD-40 multi-use product, as well as 3-IN-ONE Oil, Solvol, and Lava heavy-duty hand cleaners and X-14, Carpet Fresh, Spot Shot, 1001 and 2000 Flushes household cleaning products.

“You have to be – more than ever – that compassionate listener. More than ever the compassionate, emphaty driven leader.”

Garry has been with WD-40 Company since 1987 in various management positions, including executive vice president and chief operating officer and vice president of international, and worked directly with WD-40 in 50 countries.

I had the privilege of interviewing Garry during The HR Congress virtual Summit – he will also take the stage at the Leading@Work virtual forum coming up on 31st March, 2022.

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