The Greatest Boss Contest Honorable Mention
Don Haggstrom
Chief Operating Officer
Russ Reid
Pasadena, CA
For-Profit Organizations Category
Nomination Essay
My boss is patient above all else. He listens and carefully leads me through my rants and ramblings to refocus on what's important. He has a sense of humor. He will point out the "broccoli in my teeth" -- which usually materializes as an open zipper. He saw potential in me and offered me an I.T. position when I knew NOTHING about I.T. (I was in purchasing), but he knew I could develop people and communicate. He is careful not to use too many sports analogies when describes the latest business challenge.
He is one of the smartest businessmen I know and very good with money....which also makes him the brunt of some jokes. Taking the ribbing in stride, he is both a tough as nails negotiator and a carefully strategic shoulder.
