CHAPTER 4 · RESILIENCE & EXECUTION
The Bonn Turnaround Story
18 months to turn the tide
An overnight negotiation, a family’s support and the work of rebuilding a business.
The Bonn crisis and turnaround at DHL
During my time at DHL in Bonn, a difficult customer relationship reached a crisis point. An extended negotiation ended with an agreement to terminate the business relationship. I then invested time in understanding the operational issues and working through the changes needed to rebuild the business. Over the following 18 months, the business returned to growth and improved profitability. The experience shaped how I approach a turnaround: understand the operation, rebuild trust and follow through consistently.
Watch the short video on YouTubePersonal recollections, illustrated.
Explore Randy’s approach to leadership