LBM Advantage holds second annual management leadership conference in Montgomery, New York; two days of networking and workshop training were centered on 'How to Build a High-Performance Team'

LBM Advantage, the nation’s fastest growing lumber and building materials cooperative, held its second management leadership conference at Winding Hills Golf Course in Montgomery, N.Y. on September 12th and 13th. Managers from all departments throughout the company participated in two days of networking and workshop training on “How to Build a High-Performance Team” led by executive coach and author, Regina Clark, CSP.

The event kicked off with an internal meeting where managers participated in an interactive session that covered current hiring laws and practices, reviewed the company’s sales and financials, and had an opportunity to discuss company culture. Sessions were led by LBM Advantage CEO, Steve Sallah, CFO, Dave DeJoy, and Human Resources Director, Kellianne Lundgren. The day’s events culminated in a festive management team dinner at Vesuvio’s in Newburgh, N.Y.

Day two’s sessions with Regina Clark included identifying characteristics of high-performance teams and best practices used, recognizing disfunctions and the solutions to correct them, improving communication, and methods for resolving conflict. The group was broken up into teams to participate in the challenge of building the highest structure using limited materials. The spirited session was enjoyed by all, and the winning group received a copy of Admiral William H. McRaven’s inspirational book, Make Your Bed.

Managers polled after the meeting confirmed its success and especially appreciated the opportunity to connect with managers who work in other office locations. Executive Vice President of Building Products, Tom Molloy remarked, “Growth happens when leaders join together. I am so pleased that LBM Advantage is investing in our management team by bringing them together to help them take charge of their careers and bring better results. Coach, Regina Clark commented, “It’s clear that LBM Advantage managers like each other and are committed to each other’s success.”

As a follow up, managers will participate in an exercise in Emotional Intelligence (EQ) and will incorporate program objectives into their management styles. Plans are underway for the third annual conference next September.

LBM Advantage is a member-owned forest products and building materials cooperative comprised of the industry’s premier independent LBM retailers. Its mission is to provide a competitive advantage for its members by leveraging their collective power. Advantage operates four locations in New Windsor, NY, Grand Rapids, MI, Smithfield, NC, and Conroe, TX, offering national programs with regional expertise.