Steven Odzer stands at the helm of YBT Industries in Cedarhurst, New York, as its CEO. With a rich background spanning over three decades in distribution and shipping, he is a seasoned leader in the industry. His leadership philosophy centers around strategic efficiency, fostering a culture of continuous learning, and mentoring to enhance both company performance and profitability.
His life is deeply rooted in family values, being a father to seven and a grandfather to nine. His understanding of patience and compassion is not just confined to his personal life but also permeates his professional ethos. He is committed to societal contribution and inclusivity, particularly advocating for the employment of individuals with disabilities to empower them toward independence and self-confidence.
In discussing business strategy, Odzer emphasizes the necessity of a robust approach to corporate sustainability. He acknowledges the challenges faced by first-time CEOs, guiding them to balance leadership responsibilities and team development. His advice for strategic development involves clarity in objectives, alignment of resources with goals, and a strategic approach to propel the company forward.
He proposes six fundamental strategy tips for new CEOs:
- Defining a clear vision
- Understanding competitive advantages
- Setting production targets
- Focusing on simple and systematic growth
- Maintaining a broad outlook
- Ensuring team satisfaction and engagement
He likens the CEO's role to that of an orchestra conductor, focusing on overarching direction rather than micromanaging.
Mentoring, according to Odzer, is a crucial aspect of effective leadership. He encourages CEOs to devote significant time to team mentoring. His mentoring philosophy includes fostering transparent relationships, aligning team efforts with company objectives, and encouraging open communication. Recognizing and rewarding excellent performance is critical, as is providing a platform for team members to share ideas and concerns.
Steven Odzer places high importance on the structure and conduct of meetings, advocating for clear agendas and mutual respect, leading to actionable conclusions. His holistic approach to leadership combines strategic insight, mentoring understanding, and a deep adherence to personal and family values, making him a distinctive figure in the business world.
Portfolio: https://stevenodzer.com/