In the fast-paced world of IT operations and cybersecurity, leadership isn’t just about managing systems; it’s about empowering teams and fostering growth. Jeff Reed, IT operations manager at Hobart Service, embodies this philosophy through his journey and insights.
To fully appreciate Jeff’s valuable perspectives, be sure to watch the full interview shown here at the beginning of the post and linked at the end of this post.
Early Life Influences on Leadership and Problem Solving
Jeff Reed attributes much of his leadership style to his upbringing, shaped by the values instilled by his parents. “My parents taught me the value of hard work and integrity,” Jeff recalls fondly. These foundational lessons were further reinforced by teachers and coaches who saw his potential. “I once considered becoming a teacher,” Jeff shares, reflecting on his passion for helping others find solutions rather than simply fixing problems — a principle that guides his leadership approach today.
Empowerment as a Key Leadership Strategy
Empowerment is central to Jeff’s leadership philosophy. Drawing from his experience in the food service industry early in his career, Jeff learned the power of responsibility and decision-making under pressure. “Empowering others to make decisions and take ownership is crucial,” Jeff emphasizes. He believes in guiding team members to discover solutions independently while providing necessary support: It’s a strategy that cultivates personal growth and drives collective success. “It’s about letting others find their way to the answer and providing guidance even when you know the solution.
“We want to be the fixers of things, right? One of the biggest challenges is not always being the one to fix it. Sometimes someone else can fix it, and it’s about teaching or encouraging them and giving them guidance.”
Challenges in IT Operations Management
Managing an IT operations team involves navigating various challenges, from technical infrastructure issues to coordinating service desk operations. Jeff knows the importance of transparency and ensuring that his team has the necessary tools and information. “It’s an ongoing effort,” he admits. “I don’t have all the answers, but my focus is on enabling my team to perform at their best.”
Talent Acquisition and Internal Growth
Hobart Service faces unique challenges in hiring due to its preference for on-site work. Jeff knows much of their success has come from nurturing and promoting internal talent. “We had a service desk employee passionate about cybersecurity, so we promoted him to enhance our cybersecurity efforts,” he shares. This internal mobility, coupled with initiatives like internships from local universities, helps them cultivate talent within the organization.
Fostering an Inclusive Culture
Inclusivity is at the heart of Hobart Service’s culture. Jeff describes it as a place where team members freely collaborate and solve problems together. “We often ‘swarm’ issues where multiple team members come together to tackle a problem,” he says. Combining different experiences, expertise and backgrounds can help bring creative solutions to the table. This collaborative approach ensures that no one is left to struggle alone and fosters a supportive environment and out-of-the-box thinking.
Evolving Cybersecurity Landscape
Cybersecurity is a dynamic and critical aspect of Jeff’s role. He underscores the need for continuous education and adaptation. “It’s not if, but when you get attacked,” Jeff asserts. He is an advocate for the importance of proactive measures and having a robust incident response plan. “Exercises and simulations help prepare us for real-world scenarios, improving our ability to respond effectively.”
Trends in Technology: The Role of Artificial Intelligence
Artificial intelligence (AI) is a hot topic in the tech industry. Jeff views AI as a transformative tool rather than a threat. “AI enhances our capabilities by providing data-driven insights and new perspectives,” Jeff explains optimistically. He likens AI’s role to using Google for problem-solving, enabling more efficient and informed decision-making across IT operations.
Learning from Jeff Reed: Empowering Teams and Embracing AI in IT Operations
Jeff Reed’s insights into leadership, team dynamics and cybersecurity reflect a profound understanding of the industry’s demands and opportunities. His emphasis on empowerment, inclusivity and continuous learning provides valuable lessons for IT professionals and leaders alike. For more profound insights from Jeff and other industry leaders, watch the full interview above.
To learn more about cybersecurity and how you can keep your organization safe from known and unknown threats, contact us today.
Stay tuned for more insights from industry leaders in our IT Trends With IT People series!
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