They Just Don't Get It!

About the Authors

Don Robb I’ve spent more than 30 years in manufacturing leadership, and in that time, I’ve learned that the real work isn’t fixing machines or hitting numbers—it’s about building trust, unlocking potential, and creating cultures where people believe they can win. At RR Donnelley, I had the privilege of leading a nationally recognized open-book management initiative. It wasn’t just about teaching people financials—it was about helping teams see how their daily actions moved the business forward. That experience taught me the power of transparency and ownership, and it became a turning point in how I lead. Later, I took on the challenge of revitalizing an underutilized book manufacturing facility and turning around Spectrum Brands’ Blacksburg plant. Those experiences weren’t easy—both involved tough calls and painful changes—but they showed me how much can happen when leadership, data, and culture align.

121