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About the Episode:
Bob and Maria Kingery, co-founders of Southern Energy Management, unpack their two-decade journey running a pioneering solar energy company. Starting in 2001, they have navigated the fledgling solar landscape, scaling their business while steadfastly adhering to their values. They delve into the challenges of growth without external investment, the importance of a values-driven mission, and strategies for fostering a resilient and adaptable business. The Kingerys have mastered the art of distributed decision-making, and embrace the significance of inclusive leadership. This discussion provides valuable lessons on building a sustainable, values-driven enterprise in the renewable energy industry.
Listeners can expect to learn:
The importance of maintaining a values-driven mission in the face of industry pressures and opportunities;
Strategies for building a resilient and adaptable business
The impact of distributed decision-making and inclusive leadership on employee empowerment and company culture;
Lessons from riding and surviving the solar coaster and a near-extinction event
Through their candid conversation, Bob and Maria Kingery offer insights into the power of principled management over short-term gains, showcasing how Southern Energy Management's approach to business and sustainability has not only stood the test of time but also paved the way for hundreds of team members and thousands of families to leave a generational impact on our planet.
Key Takeaways:
Core Values and Culture as a Foundation for Success: The importance of establishing strong core values and a culture centered around purpose, people, and planet is critical. This foundation not only drives long-term success but also helps in navigating the challenges of growth and industry changes.
Scaling with Integrity Through Operational Frameworks: Implementing operational frameworks like the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS) allows a values-driven business to scale effectively. This ensures that as the company grows, its core culture and mission remain intact and continue to guide decision-making processes.
Development of Soft Skills through Internal Training: Internal training programs like their own SEM University, that focus on developing soft skills are essential for reinforcing the company's mission and values. These programs ensure that employees not only excel in their technical roles but also embody the company's core values in their interactions and decision-making.
NOTEWORTHY QUOTE:
“Our stated purpose is to improve the way people make and use energy. We work both with builders and developers and planners to help develop more sustainable energy, like on the front end, the energy efficiency side.”
“But the reality of it is now that the energy prices for renewables have dropped so much that it’s really about personal rights, and it’s becoming about choice. And that is not that it crosses all political boundaries.”
Thanks again to this week's sponsor, helping keep the podcast FREE to you!
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ABOUT THE HOST OF SUNCAST:
Nico Johnson is the creator and host of SunCast, consistently rated a top solar podcast in the clean energy sector. The content of the show is geared towards listeners looking for insights on where the markets are headed, how to position themselves or their companies, and what today's market leaders do to stay ahead of the pack.
Nico is an Investor, Executive Coach, and 16-year veteran of the solar industry, having led development in the US and Latin America for global companies like Trina Solar and Conergy.
You can connect with Nico Johnson on Twitter, LinkedIn or email.
If you’ve been second-guessing your work decisions or maybe trying to reconsider how you "fit" in the renewable energy industry -> grab 20 minutes on Nico's calendar and discuss whether having him as Your personal coach might be the right next step.