Bloodstream of a successful company – the Company Culture

Dear Friends and Colleagues,

Now that I have completed my tenure as the CEO of Amber Beverage Group, I get a privilege to look back and discern what was special about our success story - what made it work? There are successful companies, that lose their trajectory and fail and then there are those that strive for years and years.

Let me start with the very bloodstream of a successful company – the Company Culture.

 It is exactly this that sets apart the success stories from failures. At its essence, company culture embodies our shared values, beliefs, and behaviors. It's about fostering an environment where every individual feels empowered, valued, and aligned with the overarching mission and vision. What was special about the Company Culture that I tried to instill?

 Create Your Own Future

 “The future belongs to those that invent it”. This was the one quote and the one rule that I always tried to lead by. It is my fundamental belief in proactive innovation and the transformative power it holds. It is not just a personal mantra but a guiding principle I have strived to embed within the ethos of Amber Beverage Group. At its core, it emphasizes the pivotal role of creativity, innovation, and forward-thinking in shaping our destiny.

It is about nurturing a culture of relentless improvement and pushing the boundaries of what's possible. When every member of an organization is committed to constant evolution, it creates an environment where innovation thrives, and breakthroughs become commonplace. It's not merely about accepting the status quo but about questioning it and challenging it.

This mindset is about action, forward thinking, taking decisions and not waiting for someone else to do the job.

Work Is Not Just Work

When you're genuinely passionate about your work, it transcends mere occupation; it becomes a calling, a source of inspiration that propels you forward even in the face of challenges and adversity.

We are all surrounded by people looking for purpose in what they do and a critical piece of corporate culture is the constant drive to see meaning in what we do – how do we translate our own values in what we do, how do we grow as people in the workplace, what am I proud of in the business? Try reflecting on these issues every day and you can find – and help others find – real purpose in every occupation.

Humor and Kindness

In my view, maintaining a positive and supportive atmosphere isn't just a luxury but a strategic imperative for fostering creativity, collaboration, and ultimately, achieving our goals.

 Humor serves as a powerful antidote to stress and tension, allowing team members to navigate challenges with resilience and perspective. It creates an environment where individuals feel comfortable expressing themselves, sharing ideas, and engaging in productive discourse.

Equally important is kindness. In a world that often prioritizes outcomes over people, demonstrating empathy and compassion can make all the difference. By treating each other with respect, appreciation, and understanding, we not only cultivate a sense of belonging but also inspire loyalty and commitment among team members.

 I am sure there are many other aspects to great company culture. But to me this was the key.

Let me know your thoughts and feedback – or maybe I am wrong? I would love to hear about that too. Thank you!