Most Influential Leader to Watch in 2024 (2)

3. Leadership is not about titles, positions, or owcharts. It is about one life inuencing another. J O H N C . M A X W E L L www.insightssuccess.com

5. Editor’s VIEW The Alchemy of Leadership n the fast-paced world of business, leadership is the compass that guides organizations through rough waters. John Maxwell’s wisdom I resonates deeply: “The pessimist complains about the wind. The optimist expects it to change. The leader adjusts the sails.” This simple yet profound statement encapsulates the transformative power of effective leadership. True leaders don’t merely react to challenges; they proactively shape their environment, turning obstacles into stepping stones for growth. They create a nurturing ecosystem where future leaders can flourish, ensuring the longevity and adaptability of their organizations. In our latest edition, ‘Most Influential Leaders to Watch in 2024,’ we’re honored to feature Kevin Closky, a prime example of this leadership philosophy. As CEO and President of MPC Plating Inc., Closky brings over three decades of senior executive experience to the table. His com- pany, specializing in chrome and satin finishing for the automotive, trucking, and appliance industries, stands as an example of his leadership acumen. Closky’s career is marked by a consistent ability to accelerate revenue growth, enhance profitability, and drive operational excellence. His leadership style is characterized by a rare combination of persuasive communication, strategic thinking, and a knack for translating ideas into actionable plans. Perhaps most importantly, Closky excels in identifying talent, developing executives at all levels and building high-performing teams. Through these pages, you will explore the story of Closky, who embodies the spirit of adaptability, innovation, and mentorship. His journey offers valuable insights into navigating the complex world of modern business, serving as a source of inspiration for both aspiring leaders and seasoned executives. Turn the page for an enlightening read.

6. Creds Editor-in-Chief Merry D'Souza Managing Editor Preston Bannister Executive Editor Eva Miller Visualizer Michael Warner Art & Design Head Donna Claus Co-designer Yasmin Nasser Business Development Manager Sherin Rodricks Marketing Manager Jenny Jordan Business Development Executives Reem Almasoud, Sheldon Miller Digital Marketing Manager Isabel Barnes Technical Head Phil Simon Research Analyst Helena Smith Circulation Manager Finn Wilson sales@insightssuccess.com July, 2024 Corporate Ofce Insights Success Media Tech LLC 555 Metro Place North, Suite 100, Dublin, OH 43017, United States Phone - (614)-859-2600 Email: info@insightssuccess.com For Subscription: www.insightssuccess.com www.twitter.com/insightssuccess Follow us on : www.facebook.com/insightssuccess/ We are also available on : RNI No.: MAHENG/2018/75953 Copyright © 2024 Insights Success Media and Technology Pvt. Ltd., All rights reserved. The content and images used in this magazine should not be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without prior permission from Insights Success. Reprint rights remain solely with Insights Success.

7. Success is not how high you have climbed, but how you make a positive difference to the world. - Roy T. Bennett www.insightssuccess.com

8. Cover Story

10. Most Influen?al Leader to Watch in 2024 hat drives the right guided by a sincere desire to uplift and In his quest to drive meaningful behaviors at the lower mentor others on their journey to change, Kevin is firm in his W levels is the company's personal and professional growth. His commitment to fostering a culture of culture, the disconnects/issues being own transformation, both in terms of continuous improvement and learning. solved make everyone successful. lifestyle and income, has instilled in He understands that true success is not Catching this nerve of connecting with him a deep conviction in the power of measured solely by financial the people, Kevin Closky worked education and mentorship to effect achievements but by the legacy we 12–16 hours a day so he could spend positive change. For Kevin, success is leave behind and the lives we touch time at the lowest level and see barriers not merely about achieving individual along the way. Through his dedication, that kept MPC Plating from being milestones but about empowering humility, and focus on developing successful while also coaching the others to reach their full potential and others, he exemplifies how success, front-line leaders. Kevin's best quality leave a lasting legacy of knowledge though serious in its pursuit, can be a is being able to walk away and let and impact. source of profound fulfillment and others take over and be successful so purpose. that he can go on to the next challenge. Kevin always said to himself that he would not be one of those who just liked income, and that is what fueled his passion for mentoring. Eventually, he brought millions to companies, all while reducing costs and improving quality and service. Let's catch up with him to learn more about his challenges and achievements. Kevin's Journey to Cultivating Excellence Kevin is a seasoned professional who has had the privilege of immersing himself in the operations of numerous companies, witnessing firsthand the diverse array of leadership styles and organizational cultures that drive them. His journey has been one of continuous learning, with a keen focus on unraveling the intricate dynamics that shape company cultures and influence behavior at all levels. Through his extensive experience evaluating over 200 companies, he developed a keen eye for identifying the root causes of underperformance and dissecting the processes, training gaps, and leadership deficiencies that hinder success. Despite his remarkable success and expertise, Kevin remains humble,

13. Revitalizing Legacy eager to leverage its expertise across tireless dedication to cultivating talent diverse industries. and breaking down barriers has not MPC Plating boasts a rich history only revitalized the company but also spanning six decades. It was initially Central to MPC Plating's journey of laid the foundation for sustained founded as a family-owned enterprise growth and adaptation has been the success for years to come. before transitioning ownership establishment of a robust multiple times. For the past nine years, organizational structure designed to Navigating Organizational it has been under the stewardship of a maximize efficiency and drive results. Turnarounds small private equity firm, which has Recognizing the critical importance of guided it through various aligning talent with strategic Navigating turnarounds in transformations, evolving to meet the objectives, the leadership, under the organizations often proves to be a demands of an ever-changing market guidance of Kevin, meticulously daunting task, especially when landscape. evaluated personnel to discern those leadership fails to grasp the depth of with the requisite commitment and the challenges or reacts defensively to The hallmark of MPC Plating's success drive to propel the company forward. proposed solutions. Kevin encountered lies in its steadfast commitment to such resistance firsthand during a innovation and service excellence. Kevin's hands-on approach, project in the UK, where local leaders characterized by long hours and direct From its humble beginnings, the initially dismissed the notion that they engagement at all levels of the needed outside assistance. However, company's reputation for superior organization, proved instrumental in once they witnessed the tangible processes and unparalleled capabilities identifying barriers to success and results of his interventions—such as has attracted attention, leading to nurturing a culture of continuous the remarkable 20+% productivity acquisitions by larger corporations improvement. By coaching front-line improvements and cost reductions at leaders and providing personalized BAE Industries—they quickly changed guidance, he fostered a sense of their tune. This success paved the way ownership and accountability for him to spearhead similar projects throughout the company, ensuring that across multiple sites, demonstrating the every team member was equipped with universal applicability of his approach. the tools and support needed to excel in their roles. Another notable example of Kevin's transformative impact occurred during The results of Kevin's efforts were a high-stakes project in Africa, where nothing short of remarkable. Through the CEO initially doubted the necessity his strategic leadership and resolute of Kevin's involvement in resolving dedication, MPC Plating experienced a delays in the production of Mine resurgence, surpassing previous Resistant Armor Personnel vehicles. benchmarks and achieving newfound However, his rapid and effective levels of success. The company's interventions led to the prompt renewed focus on commitment, drive, resolution of the delays, proving the and operational excellence not only efficacy of his methods even in the face enhanced its competitive position but of skepticism. also fostered a culture of innovation and collaboration that continues to Kevin's experiences underscore the drive growth and prosperity. critical importance of bridging the gap between top-level leadership and front- As MPC Plating celebrates six decades line execution. He emphasizes the need of achievement, Kevin's legacy looms for mid-level managers to be focused large, a testament to the transformative and accountable for results while power of effective leadership and a advocating for higher-level leaders to relentless pursuit of excellence. His adopt a mindset of trust but

14. verification. Drawing on insights from standard rates by a significant margin. even in the face of resistance and influential books like "Execution" and By identifying and addressing both skepticism. As organizations continue "Confronting Reality" by Larry internal and external barriers to to navigate complex challenges and Bossidy, he highlights the necessity of productivity, he empowers front-line strive for excellence, his insights and personal engagement from leadership leaders to drive meaningful methodologies offer a guiding light to drive meaningful change. improvements and achieve sustainable towards achieving sustainable success success. and unlocking untapped potential. Furthermore, Kevin challenges conventional budgeting practices, In essence, Kevin's approach to Empowering Success advocating for a shift towards turnaround management is grounded in understanding and leveraging a deep understanding of organizational Kevin's approach to leadership is organizational capabilities rather than dynamics and a relentless focus on characterized by transparency, settling for incremental gains. He driving results. His track record of openness, and a relentless focus on emphasizes the importance of success serves as a testament to the empowering others to achieve their full measuring performance against true transformative power of effective potential. He believes in sharing capability, which often exceeds leadership and strategic intervention, organizational goals and metrics openly, providing teams with clear visibility into what success looks like and how it will be measured. By aligning everyone around common objectives, he fosters a sense of purpose and accountability throughout the organization. However, Kevin goes beyond merely sharing goals and metrics; he teaches his teams how to critically evaluate opportunities through the lens of capability versus standards. By challenging conventional thinking and encouraging teams to push beyond perceived limitations, he inspires innovation and continuous improvement. He leads by example, often working alongside his teams to demonstrate that ambitious goals can indeed be achieved with the right mindset and approach. Communication is key to Kevin's leadership philosophy. He holds regular meetings to engage with teams, asking probing questions to stimulate critical thinking and foster a culture of continuous learning. Even when he already knows the answers, he encourages teams to explore the metrics themselves, empowering them to take ownership of their performance and outcomes.

16. When faced with excuses or resistance, organizational growth, he navigates where instant gratification often takes Kevin remains steadfast in his sensitive territory with finesse. precedence. Kevin recognizes the need commitment to facts and data. He for patience and understanding when guides teams through a process of One of Kevin's key strategies is to working with younger individuals who understanding the root causes of introduce relevant metrics and may not yet fully grasp the realities of challenges, helping them see beyond performance indicators that provide the professional world. surface-level issues to identify visibility into the health and opportunities for improvement. effectiveness of various aspects of the Drawing from his own wealth of life Through coaching and mentoring, he business. Metrics such as units per experiences, Kevin takes a mentorship empowers individuals to overcome labor hour, total costs per unit finished, approach, weaving stories and obstacles and drive growth, ultimately scrap rates, on-time delivery anecdotes into his teachings to impart leading to the success of the company. performance, purchase price variances, valuable lessons about the importance and customer complaint metrics serve of perseverance, hard work, and Kevin understands the importance of as objective benchmarks for assessing personal responsibility. He understands striking the right balance between performance and accountability. that true wisdom often comes with age coaching and leading. While coaching and experience, and he seeks to guide involves providing guidance and Through open dialogue and data-driven the next generation along their journey insights, Kevin guides top leaders support to individuals who may be of growth and self-discovery. towards a deeper understanding of the unsure of their tasks, leading entails root causes behind organizational guiding the entire team towards Kevin emphasizes the concept of challenges. He helps them recognize achieving shared goals. By discerning "Human Engineering," recognizing the importance of consistency, focus, when each approach is needed, he that individual behaviors are shaped by and alignment in driving sustainable ensures that the company progresses at a complex interplay of internal success. By demonstrating the tangible the right pace, with individuals motivations, external influences, and benefits of implementing strategic empowered to excel in their roles and environmental factors. Like training a changes and fostering a culture of contribute to collective success. pet or raising children, he believes in continuous improvement, he empowers the power of positive reinforcement top leaders to steer the ship back on Diplomacy with Big Company and consequences to drive desired course. Leaders behaviors and outcomes. Ultimately, Kevin's goal is to instill a When collaborating with larger sense of shared responsibility and corporations, Kevin recognizes the accountability among top leaders, delicate balance of addressing systemic encouraging them to proactively issues without bruising egos or address issues and drive positive triggering defensiveness among top change throughout the organization. By leaders. He understands that many facilitating constructive discussions, organizational challenges stem from providing actionable insights, and leadership behaviors such as misplaced championing a results-oriented trust, shifting priorities, or inadequate mindset, he helps pave the way for accountability measures. enhanced performance, efficiency, and Kevin employs a nuanced approach success across the board. when engaging with top-level leaders, emphasizing that identifying and Patience, Stories, and Human addressing these issues is not a Engineering personal attack but rather a collective effort to drive improvement and Navigating the expectations and success. By framing discussions in a aspirations of the next generation constructive manner and highlighting presents its own unique set of the potential for personal and challenges, particularly in a world

19. By patiently coaching and mentoring themselves with the new system at a just about achieving personal the next generation, Kevin instills in comfortable pace. milestones but also about creating a them a sense of accountability and legacy of mentorship and resilience, preparing them to navigate Moreover, PLEX recognized the empowerment that extends far beyond the challenges and opportunities that importance of defining clear objectives his own contributions. lie ahead. He encourages them to and expectations from the outset. embrace the journey of self- Rather than adopting a one-size-fits-all Despite his extensive experience and improvement, reminding them that approach, PLEX engaged in a expertise, Kevin remains humble and success is not handed out freely but collaborative process of blueprinting, grounded, always eager to tackle the earned through dedication and effort. working closely with the software next challenge and mentor the next company to tailor the system to its generation of leaders. He refuses to Through his guidance and support, specific needs and requirements. This become complacent, recognizing that Kevin empowers the next generation to meticulous planning phase enabled true fulfillment lies in pushing the chart their own paths to success, PLEX to identify potential pitfalls and boundaries of what is possible and equipping them with the skills, address them proactively, minimizing empowering others to do the same. knowledge, and mindset needed to the risk of costly errors and delays thrive in an ever-changing world. He down the line. Kevin's decision to walk away from serves as a beacon of wisdom and consulting and later retire from his last inspiration, reminding them that, while Prior to the official installation, PLEX company speaks volumes about his the road may be challenging, the conducted thorough dry runs to integrity and commitment to his rewards of perseverance and self- simulate real-world scenarios and principles. He refused to become the discovery are immeasurable. identify any remaining issues or type of leader who clings to positions challenges. This iterative process of of power for the sake of personal gain, testing and refinement allowed PLEX instead prioritizing the development Lessons Learned from the Y2K Era to fine-tune the system and ensure that and success of those around him. it would seamlessly integrate into its The gratitude shown by the owners of PLEX, after learning valuable lessons operations. his last company, who continued to from the Y2K era, recognized the support him even after his retirement, critical importance of thorough A Leader's Journey of Mentorship is a testament to the impact Kevin has planning and preparation in the and Legacy had on the organizations he has been a implementation of new systems. Reflecting on past experiences where part of. His ability to drive growth, companies faced significant delays and Kevin's journey is a testament to his reduce costs, and improve quality and budget overruns due to a lack of clarity commitment to growth, both service speaks to his strategic vision and foresight, PLEX embarked on a personally and professionally. Over the and leadership acumen. journey to revolutionize its approach to span of nearly three decades, he has software implementation. not only navigated complex projects In the end, Kevin's story serves as an across different continents but also inspiration to all who aspire to lead At the heart of PLEX's transformation embraced the role of mentor and with integrity, humility, and a relentless was a commitment to proactive leader, empowering others to step into dedication to empowering others. His planning and comprehensive training. positions of responsibility and succeed. legacy will endure not only in the Understanding that the success of any organizations he has helped to grow system implementation hinges on the One of Kevin's greatest satisfactions but also in the countless individuals readiness and capability of its users, comes from watching others step up whose lives he has touched and PLEX prioritized extensive training for and start developing their own transformed along the way. its team members well in advance of leadership skills. He understands the the actual installation. Leveraging importance of fostering a culture of modern communication platforms like growth and development where Microsoft Teams, PLEX facilitated six individuals are encouraged to take on months of intensive training sessions, new challenges and expand their allowing employees to familiarize capabilities. For Kevin, success is not

20. Teams to Achieve eams are the backbone of any organization. A group Foster a Culture of Trust and Psychological Safety: of talented individuals working in perfect harmony T can achieve remarkable feats, pushing boundaries Trust is the bedrock of any successful team. Leaders who and exceeding expectations. Yet, simply assembling skilled create a safe space where team members feel comfortable people doesn't guarantee success. The key lies in inspiring taking risks, sharing ideas, and admitting mistakes create an them and igniting a collective passion that drives them to environment where innovation and collaboration flourish. achieve excellence. Encourage open communication, actively listen to concerns, and demonstrate transparency in decision-making. By So, how do leaders cultivate this environment where teams fostering psychological safety, you empower your team to not only perform well but strive to be the best? Here are reach their full potential. some key strategies to inspire your team and unlock their full potential: Empower Your Team and Delegate Effectively: Define a Compelling Vision and Mission: Micromanagement is the antithesis of inspiration. Trust your team members to take ownership of their tasks and People are drawn to purpose. Leaders who can articulate a projects. Delegate effectively, ensuring individuals have the clear vision and mission statement—one that goes beyond resources and support they need to succeed. Provide profit margins and speaks to a higher cause—can effectively opportunities for growth and development, allowing them inspire their teams. This vision should be ambitious yet to learn new skills and broaden their horizons. achievable, painting a picture of the impact the team can Empowerment fosters a sense of responsibility and have. A clear mission statement, outlining the "how" of ownership, leading to increased motivation and higher- achieving the vision, provides direction and a sense of quality work. shared purpose.

22. Celebrate Achievements, Big and Small: fosters camaraderie, builds stronger bonds, and ultimately leads to a more productive and motivated team. Recognition is a powerful motivator. Don't wait for monumental achievements to celebrate your team's success. Focus on Well-being and Work-life Balance: Acknowledge milestones, both big and small. Celebrate individual contributions and team wins publicly. A simple Burned-out employees are not productive employees. "thank you" or a public shout-out can go a long way in Prioritize team members' well-being by encouraging a boosting morale and keeping the team motivated. healthy work-life balance. Promote flexible work arrangements, provide support for personal commitments, Invest in Continuous Learning and Development: and encourage breaks and time off. A well-rested, healthy team is a more productive and resilient team, ultimately People crave growth. Leaders who invest in the leading to greater success. development of their team members demonstrate a commitment to their success. Provide opportunities for Remember, inspiring teams is an ongoing process, not a training, workshops, conferences, and mentorship one-time event. By consistently demonstrating these programs. Encourage skill development, both within and behaviors and fostering a positive work environment, you outside their current roles. Investing in continuous learning can create a team that thrives on challenge, embraces shows your team you value their growth and keeps them excellence, and consistently achieves remarkable results. engaged in the long run. Embrace Diversity and Encourage Collaboration: Diversity of thought and experience is a recipe for innovation. Build a team with diverse backgrounds, skills, and perspectives. Encourage healthy debate and foster an environment where collaboration is valued. By leveraging the unique strengths of each team member, you create a dynamic problem-solving machine capable of generating creative solutions and achieving remarkable results. Lead by Example: Actions speak louder than words. As a leader, your behavior sets the tone for the entire team. Demonstrate the work ethic, passion, and dedication you expect from your team. Be open to feedback, be willing to learn and adapt, and show your team you are constantly striving to improve. Foster a Culture of Recognition and Appreciation: A simple act of gratitude can go a long way. Recognize and appreciate individual and team contributions. Publicly acknowledge achievements, offer words of encouragement, and let your team know their hard work is valued. This fosters a sense of belonging and motivates individuals to go the extra mile. Create a Fun and Engaging Work Environment: Work doesn't have to be drudgery. Find ways to inject fun and humor into the workday. Organize team-building activities, celebrate special occasions, and encourage social interaction. A positive and engaging work environment

23. A genuine leader is not a searcher for consensus but a molder of consensus - Martin Luther King Jr. www.insightssuccess.com

24. for in Today's World Navigating Leadership! on industry trends, and actively seek opportunities to expand your knowledge base. This could involve taking uccess, once a concept with a relatively fixed online courses, attending workshops, reading industry definition, has become a moving target. What worked publications, or simply having conversations with experts in S for previous generations might not translate to the your field. realities of today's interconnected, information-driven landscape. So, how do we carve our path and achieve Developing a Growth Mindset success in this ever-evolving environment? Challenges and setbacks are inevitable on the road to The truth is, there's no single roadmap to success. What success. However, the way you approach them can make all fulfills one person might leave another feeling uninspired. the difference. A fixed mindset sees failures as roadblocks, However, some core strategies can equip you with the tools while a growth mindset views them as learning and mindset to navigate the currents and reach your opportunities. By embracing challenges and believing in definition of success. your ability to learn and grow, you can bounce back stronger and more resiliently. Defining Your Success Building Strong Relationships The first step on any successful journey is knowing your destination. Take time to reflect on what truly matters to No man (or woman) is an island. Success often hinges on you. Is it financial security, creative fulfillment, making a the quality of the relationships we cultivate. Invest in positive impact on the world, or a harmonious blend of building strong bonds with mentors, colleagues, friends, these and other factors? There are no right or wrong and family. These connections offer support, answers, but having a clear vision of your goals will guide encouragement, and valuable perspectives. Additionally, your decision-making and keep you motivated. strong interpersonal skills are crucial for effective communication, collaboration, and building trust—all Lifelong Learning essential ingredients for success in any field. The world is constantly evolving, and the skills that were once in high demand might become obsolete in the blink of an eye. Success in today's world hinges on a commitment to lifelong learning. Embrace new technologies, stay current

26. Adaptability and Innovation of purpose, strengthens connections, and can even lead to unexpected opportunities for professional growth. The ability to adapt to change is paramount in today's dynamic world. Be open to new ideas, embrace new Conclusion technologies, and be willing to adjust your strategies as needed. Don't be afraid to step outside your comfort zone The world may be constantly changing, but the core and explore uncharted territories. Innovation thrives in principles of success remain remarkably constant. By environments that encourage experimentation and a embracing lifelong learning, developing a growth mindset, willingness to take calculated risks. fostering strong relationships, and prioritizing well-being, you can equip yourself with the tools and resilience Harnessing the Power of Technology required to navigate the currents of the modern world. Remember, success is a journey, not a destination. Enjoy Technology is no longer an afterthought; it's a powerful tool the process, celebrate your milestones, and stay true to your that can be leveraged to achieve success. From values. With dedication, perseverance, and a willingness to communication and collaboration platforms to automation adapt, you can carve your path and achieve success on your tools and data analysis software, technology can streamline terms. processes, boost efficiency, and open doors to new possibilities. Learn to leverage the latest tools effectively to enhance your skills and propel yourself forward. Prioritizing Well-being Success isn't just about external achievements; it's also about inner well-being. Make time for activities that nourish your mind, body, and spirit. Prioritize sleep, maintain a healthy diet, and engage in physical activity. Practice mindfulness techniques like meditation or deep breathing to manage stress and cultivate a sense of calm. A healthy and balanced individual is better equipped to handle challenges, stay focused, and achieve their goals. Work-life Balance While dedication is important, neglecting your personal life for the sake of work isn't sustainable in the long run. Aim to create a healthy work-life balance. Disconnect from work during your off-hours, schedule time for hobbies and loved ones, and prioritize activities that bring you joy. A refreshed and balanced individual is more productive and creative, leading to greater success in all aspects of life. Giving Back Success isn't just about personal gain; it's also about contributing to something larger than yourself. Find a cause you're passionate about and volunteer your time or resources. Giving back to your community fosters a sense