Introduction for Doug Lipp

Consider the following four questions:

• Creating service magic: Is your team prepared?
• The globe is shrinking, is your business expanding?
• You might be "The Leader" but are your customers and employees following?
• Failure can lead to success.  Have you “failed successfully?”

What was your answer?

So, who is Doug Lipp? By age 29, Doug was the head of training for Disney’s world famous Disney University at their Corporate Headquarters, the Disney Studios. Doug provided the famous Disney University "Traditions" program and developed many leadership courses for Disney executives. Pivotal in Doug’s career with Disney was his experience in the mid-80’s when the corporate culture changed from the arrogant: "We’re the best; why change?" to the progressive: "Don’t rest on your laurels" powerhouse corporation that Disney remains today. Doug found that even the strongest organizations must constantly embrace change and be willing to innovate. What is their secret to success? How have they dealt with the questions we asked you?

Doug is an internationally acclaimed expert on customer service, leadership, change management and global competitiveness. He has inspired and challenged hundreds of thousands of audiences in his career as a keynote speaker, business consultant and author, and will do the same for us today! His thought-provoking messages, combined with his high energy and entertaining style is contagious, motivating people around the world—from the front lines to boardrooms— to maximize both personal and professional success.

Fluent in Japanese, and as part of Disney’s Imagineering group, Doug was on the start-up team for Tokyo Disneyland, Disney’s first international theme park. After Disney, Doug teamed with a Stanford University professor to develop the Intercultural Relations Institute. Based upon his rich career at Disney, plus his work as an international consultant for some of the world’s most admired corporations and business leaders, Doug explores the strategic necessity of why all companies must now think globally, and act locally. Learn how companies such as AT&T, Coca-Cola, Toshiba, Marriott, Kaiser Healthcare, Procter & Gamble, BMW and Wells Fargo have benefited from those lessons. Doug can now add us to this list!

He is the author of numerous articles and five books on leadership, customer service and international business, including his most recent: "The Changing Face" addresses how businesses can thrive in this era of cultural diversity and global competitiveness. Doug’s other most popular title is "Even Monkeys Fall from Trees: The Art and Science of Outstanding Customer Service” which focuses on a balanced approach to service, leadership and teamwork.

Please join me in welcoming Doug Lipp!