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Overview of Interview
Peach State Truck Centers’ President Rick Reynolds was recently interviewed for Trux magazine, a publication distributed by the Georgia Motor Trucking Association. In the article, Reynolds is asked about his history with the company, his leadership responsibilities, his management philosophy and his plans for adapting to the changes in the trucking industry. Reynolds’ responses highlight his focus on investing in Peach State’s employees, creating the best possible customer experience and making a positive difference in the lives of others.
About Rick Reynolds
After graduating from Auburn University in 1979 with a degree in accounting, Reynolds worked for 16 years in the accounting sector. In 1995, his father Tom Reynolds started making his succession plan and asked if he would be interested in coming into the business. Since then, Reynolds has grown Peach State from a one dealership Ford store to one of the largest dealer groups in the Southeast with 13 parts, service and sales locations.
Peach State Truck Centers Company Culture
“I’ve got a great executive team that executes our business plans and strategic plans,” said Reynolds during the Trux interview. “And while data is important in running a business, the most important thing to us is the health and heart of our employees. So, I look at how I can connect with our people and create opportunities that make a positive difference in their lives, either financially or by providing benefits and programs that help them feel secure.”
Emphasis on Peach State Employees
He goes on to discuss the importance of talent acquisition and Peach State’s goal to create a diverse workforce comprised of minorities and young people. Employee training is another main point that Rick drives home, stating that over the next five years, the company would be investing in creating very comprehensive, systematic technical training systems. Peach State plans to do all this while maintaining a family business atmosphere that doesn’t forget the core values that put them where they are today.
Company Leadership
Throughout the interview, Reynolds makes it clear that he’s proud of the leadership team he’s put in place and that he trusts them and can depend on them. He wants to pay attention to the economy and serve the customers and employees the best that he can. A book that’s helped him recently is Everybody Matters by Bob Chapman. “It’s a great book about caring for your employees,” he said.