These continue to be extraordinary times, as businesses navigate the challenges brought on by COVID-19. Some have shifted products/services or entire business models; some have slowed production (or completely closed in hopes of reopening soon); some are using their unexpected excess capacity to improve processes and innovate/prepare for the future. But all have been impacted.
In place of what would be a normal PEN breakfast forum (so bring your own coffee!), the Performance Excellence Network — in partnership with the St. Paul Area Chamber of Commerce — is pleased to host a special online webinar discussion on Wednesday, May 13: “Sustaining Today; Succeeding Tomorrow.” The event is also part of the Chamber’s Business Education Series.
The discussion will feature three small business “case studies,” each sharing how they have reacted to the current crisis — both in an effort to sustain current operations as well as position their businesses for future success.
Each will share their insights in 10-12 minute “vignettes,” highlighting specific actions they have taken to stabilize their business, shift their business, and/or reposition their business for a different future. They have each been asked to share specific approaches, tools, actions that other businesses could replicate, making this useful for many types of businesses.
We will hear from:
* Susan Cary-Hanson, CEO/owner of PGC (formerly Precision Gasket Company) on how they have handled the competing priorities of legacy business and quickly shifting to respond to customer requests for component parts to support the COVID-19 crisis. Their shift has involved manufacturing parts for PPE shields, but the insights Susan will share in terms of how to manage manufacturing and company needs in the face of uncertainty and daily economic and environmental changes while managing financial pressures that apply to any type of business. She will also share PGC’s “4D” Process, which includes Discover, Diagnosis, Develop, and Deliver. As a result of PGC’s efforts, they have seen growth and a backlog through this crisis.
* Jim Nelson, director of continuous improvement & quality at Standard Iron & Wire Works on how they are shifting resources to focus on process improvement efforts. During a period of excess capacity, Standard Iron is focusing on positioning for the future, eliminating waste, redesigning key production and non-production processes to increase value. The changes are essential during times of crisis, but will also be useful when the market emerges and Standard Iron needs to be positioned for growth.
* Ying Sa, CEO and Managing Partner at Community CPA, on specific financial strategies to manage cash flow and protect business’s balance sheets during these unprecedented times.
While the discussion is featuring three small businesses, the insights could be used by larger businesses and other organizations of all types and sizes. After each mini-presentation, we will invite participants to ask questions and engage with the speaker to learn more and offer their own insights. We hope that this format will feel like three consecutive “Ted Talks,” each focusing on different insights on how to navigate through these tough times.
Don’t miss this opportunity to explore (and hopefully incorporate!) how other businesses are working their way through this crisis. The discussion will be a live Zoom Webinar Wednesday, May 13 from 8:00-9:00 CT. Grab your coffee and breakfast, and join us for a rich discussion. Free for PEN members; $20 for non-members.
Biographies
Susan Cary-Hanson is CEO/co-owner of PGC (Precision Gasket), first joining the company in 1997. She’s a native of Minnesota and originally an RN. She has a Masters of Health and Human Administration from St. Mary’s and a BS in Allied Health from University of St. Francis. She’s passionate about safety, risk management and lifelong learning.
Jim Nelson is director of Continuous Improvement and Quality at Standard Iron & Wire Works in Monticello, where he is responsible for implementing Lean and continuous improvement in all elements of the business and facilities. Jim has expertise in ISO 9001, Lean, Baldrige. Jim also serves as an adjunct faculty at the University of St. Thomas and U of M College of Continuing Education. He has an MBA in Finance from Cardinal Stritch University and Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering and Mathematics from Minnesota State University Mankato.
Ying Sa is the CEO/Managing Partner at Community CPA. The firm provides tax, audit, accounting, business re-structuring and business IT solutions to businesses and individuals across the United States, Canada, and around the world. A native of China and former resident of Canada, Ying served five years as Vice President of Controllers for Wells Fargo Financial Inc. in Des Moines, Iowa, and six years as the Chief Financial Officer for the Iowa Manufacturing Extension Partnership at Iowa State University.
