Richard L. Hayslett
Jack Welch Management Institute
Dr. Dennis Tocci
February 15, 2015
Chattanooga Ice Cream Case Analysis
Team work is something that most of us take part in at early stages in life which continue on throughout our adult lives. These interactions early in life help us develop personal interaction skills that continuously enhance our ability to get along with others. Whether it is cleaning up our messes in the classrooms, playing sports, or serving on an executive team we will always work with others. Working in groups; conflicts are bound to happen as you have people with different opinions, personalities, and backgrounds.
This case study is about a dysfunctional team that lacks leadership they need to solve a difficult problem. For this assignment I will give my perspective of the case, discuss what the employees can do to better understand the perspectives of each other and their boss, and make a few recommendations about what their leader can do to help them work together. This is just my opinion on things that are wrong and what I feel will help them reach the desired outcome.
The Chattanooga Food Corporation (CFC), is a family owned operation that was founded in 1936. In 1996, CFC formed three divisions which consisted of grocery products, specialty foods, and ice cream. Chattanooga’s Ice Cream Division was one of the largest in the nation. In the case study, we learned that the Ice Cream Division has just lost Stay & Shop which was their third largest customer at $6.5 million in annual sales. Charlie Moore, the leading executive has gathered his team of managers together, to let them know the bad news. During the meeting he sees his team unfold right before his very eyes. He has been aware of issues between staff, but has always just overlooked them in hopes that it would go away. In this situation, he needs their help in coming up with a solution to a game changing problem for them.
References: O’Toole, J., & Bennis, W. (2009). What’s Needed Next: A Culture of Candor. Harvard Business Review, 87(6), 54-61. Unknown. (2015). The Power of Emotional Intelligence. Lecture assessed January 22, 2015. Welch, J., & Welch, S. (2005). Winning. New York, NY: HarperCollins Publishers. Wiley, J., & Sons. (2013). Management Profile. Everything DiSC Management, Assessment completed January 05, 2015.