BI : As you consider your own career , what have been the biggest challenges you ’ ve faced … and how did you address , resolve or overcome these setbacks or issues ? PK : Navigating through Covid was for sure a big challenge . We made the decision to consolidate some of our operations in Orlando , and then all of the sudden , the marine industry took off . It was a big challenge to manage the growth that our dealers were asking for , while starting up new assembly lines and integrating models into existing lines , all while navigating significant parts challenges . We were able to navigate by being present ( on the floor where the action really happens ), reacting quickly , making decisions , owning those decisions and course-correcting when things didn ’ t work .
Earlier in my career when I was leading PD & E and marketing , we had a big push to introduce a lot of new products to move the brand forward . It was a very meaningful time for the business and did really propel us forward , but it also was one of those moments where your ideas outpace your ability to execute them . It took an incredible effort to turn those ideas into a reality .
What I learned most from this experience was that big goals do create energy and give everyone the opportunity to perform at their best , but in order to see it through , you must have the personal resolve ( like working 12 + hour days , 6-days a week for months ) and commitment to get to the finish line . I , and other members of our team , all look back on this as one of the most challenging times we ’ ve ever had to navigate , but also as one of the most rewarding times , as we all got to see big dreams come true .
BI : How do you stay on top of your game ? PK : I am naturally wired to be competitive and have a ‘ get better everyday ’ mindset , so at this point , it has been ingrained into my daily routine .
From a professional standpoint , I ’ m part of a Christian CEO Peer Group called C12 . I ’ ve found it to be extremely helpful to keep me focused on working on the business , not just in the business , and prioritizing what God wants for the business , not just what I think is important .
Paul Kuck with wife Shannon , sons Kaleb and Klay , spending time on the water .
Paul Kuck leading product discussions at recent Regal Sales School .
BI : As a young professional , what advice do you have for other young professionals who desire to launch a career in the boating business , or who may be in the industry and have leadership aspirations ? PK : For those with an interest in launching a career , start by finding a company that you really want to work at ; the role / position is less important . Build your competency , as this will become incredibly important if you want growth opportunities down the road and want to be respected . Don ’ t be in a hurry ; it ’ s easy to get caught up in wanting to do more or to have a bigger title . If you take your time , stay humble and do it right , you will be rewarded and given opportunities .
For those in the industry now with leadership aspirations , put God first . Lead your family well before trying to lead at work well . Focus on getting better every day . Use the time that you have been blessed with wisely , focusing on things that only you can do and things that you are talented at . Do hard things . Leading isn ’ t just doing the things you want to do or the things that are easy .
BI : What leadership traits do you feel are most needed by those working in the marine industry today , and why ? PK : Be a servant leader ; take care of your team and have their back . Nothing can be accomplished without them . Work smart and hard – both are critical to success . Character starts with integrity and humility . Develop competency - you will quickly be realized a fool without it . Finally , ‘ relational connection ’ … at the end of the day , we are all people who want to be loved by other people . Genuine connection with others will make life so much more meaningful over time .
www . boatingindustry . com March 2023
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