Jan 23 2009
Nice guys can finish 1st
This week we promoted Philip Gallagher to serve as global president for Avnet Technology Solutions, one of two global operating groups within Avnet. He is really one of those guys who has few if any folks rooting aganist him.
Gallagher’s appointment will be effective March 2nd and he will report directly to Avnet Chief Operating Officer Rick Hamada, With $7.6 billion in revenue in FY 2008, Avnet Technology Solutions operates in 35 countries covering Asia Pacific, the Americas, and Europe. Avnet Technology Solutions delivers enterprise computing and embedded technology products and solutions from the world’s premier computer manufacturers and software suppliers.
Gallagher is a 26-year veteran with Avnet and currently serves as president of Avnet Electronics Marketing, Americas, a position he assumed in 2004. The rest of the press release is on the front of avnet.com.
He is just another example of our folks moving from one operating group to another…which I (we) think is a good thing to make us stronger. He is a a superb communicator, engages people and a team leader…my bet is dont bet aganist him. The TS folks already a solid organization will become a VERY solid team and even more formidable competitor with Phil at the helm.
He was at the top of our succession plan, but most companies have that, and the janitor knew Phil was keeper. What is impressive is our global leadership training we have been doing under Roy’s leadership and Steve Church’s direction. Phil is another by-product and journalists are noticing our efforts. By the way we are not cutting training in the these tough times.
I was going to try not to say anything about the Cardinals…but Phil had some bad vibes this week…he is from Philly and yes he was rooting for the Eagles. He was booed by 100 PHX people when he showed up last week at a staff meeting waering a green Eagle’s jersey…gotta love it. I know he is big Cardinal fan too…so he won either way. The Cards and Phil, a good week for me.
Super Bowl 43…
GO CARDS
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Posts
I just want to say that I’ve met Mr Gallagher a few times, and you are correct. He’s one of the nicest guy’s I’ve ever met. I mean a man in his position is not normally approachable, and he was always more than happy to answer any question I or any of my co-workers had. I worked for Avnet for over 10 years. I started at Avnet when I was 16 yrs old working during my summer breaks while in High School in Peabody, MA. Then I turned that into a 10+ yr career, and I’m still in the business. I was a commodities buyer at Avnet for most of my tenure, and every time Phil came up to MA and talked to us he was such a nice guy. I remember one meeting we had and he talked for a couple of hours and then took questions. He stayed there and answered everyone’s question. It may sound silly, but I found that very refreshing for a man that high up willing to stay and talk to anyone of us.
I miss working at Avnet. When I had to leave Avnet it was bitter sweet. My wife and I decided to move to Florida so unfortunately I had to leave my job as the 1,200 mile commute everyday would have killed me in gas money.
Anyway, I don’t know who reads this if anyone, but I just always wanted to take a minute and thank someone for my time at Avnet. I’m 34 yrs old and Avnet really shaped my life as I’m still in the business today. The training and knowledge I gained durring my time at Avnet really changed my life, and I’ll never forget what a great company I started my career with.
Thank you very much,
Bryan Doucette
Hi Bryan,
You might be surprised how many people read this (I was!). Anyway, thanks for the comments about Phil. I think the qualities you describe are very much part of his success and why he was chosen for this position. Sorry to hear you had to leave Avnet — but it sounds as though your time with the company was a positive experience, so I’m glad for that!
Michelle