Manager not boss

Who do we serve and whose interest do we have in mind?

After the unexpected resignation of Bertie Lim as DOT Secretary, everyone wondered who would be the next Secretary of the Department of Tourism.

There was even news that the President chose a veteran advertising because of his successes in branding and imaging work. As if to down play any suspicions on a “done deal”, Malacanang sent word the next day, that PNoy was still considering other options or candidates.

As it stands, the selection or search for the next DOT secretary has once again turned into a head hunting process for a “Marketing Man”, an Image consultant” or a “Traveling salesman” who can sell the Philippines to the world.

Not to be out-done, those with vested interests and ego trips were pushing for the selection of an industry practitioner, an industry leader, etc.

Between the DOT and the Tourism Industry, we have enough qualified individuals for the title of “Boss”. But that is not what we need. We need a “solutions” manager who can put common goals and common solutions on track.

The Industry is well able to promote them selves here and abroad, so a promotion specialists is not the only requirement for this job. The industry and stakeholders consistently sell themselves and their product, which is why we have an industry to speak of.

What we need is a government plan of action that recognizes the concerns and ideas of industry members and an actual schedule of implementation. The plan must be realistic enough to base one’s business operations upon, but flexible enough not to cause losses and disruptions if changes need to be made.

Lastly we need a manager who will manage that process into reality without fear of favor because no less than President Noynoy has given the directions.

As ex-Secretary, Bertie Lim was accused of incompetence and being the agent for the imposition of the “Open Skies” policy that would allow foreign airlines to directly compete with local airlines.

The truth of the matter is, Bertie Lim was not welcomed by the industry because the industry is full of individuals, corporations and associations who all have motives and interests to protect, aside from the fact that they all think they have the best solution or vision for Philippine Tourism.

Unfortunately, most if not all of these private sector entities see government as a necessary evil or a “usable resource” that could further their agenda or increase their profit margins. At the end of the day, while they may all sound like patriots and nationalists, they are largely driven by profit and personal fame.

I do not take that against them. Profit is good and fame expectedly comes thereafter.

However, let us not be misled about the work at hand as well as the needs of ALL, particularly the millions of Filipinos who stand to find jobs, earn a living and learn a new trade if we successfully move forward in developing Tourism in the Philippines.

But what exactly are the President and his administration expecting on this matter?

What is their business model? Is the next DOT Secretary suppose to work on a development plan made by NEDA or does the PNoy Administration have a short list of priorities for the DOT? 

I would guess that the President would expect movement in the area of Public-Private-Partnerships, a settlement or compromise on the “Open Skies” Policy such as a trial run, and of course a respectable increase in tourist arrivals.

Given all the vested interests and bad publicity being generated against Tourism directions, it may be best if the President immediately states what the country’s priorities are and what the PNoy Administration will focus on year to year.

By doing this, the President will quickly manage expectations and perhaps even serve to guide the private sector in realigning their businesses with the inevitable direction of tourism.

If the President and the next DOT Secretary were on the same page concerning priorities, it would be a lot easier for the new guy to set his aim and not have to defend himself from snipers.

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While everyone is talking about the impact of the US credit downgrade, I’ve observed that most companies and leaders have done more worrying than preparing for what they say is inevitable.

The bad thing about it all is that most of them have been contributing to the hysteria and the probable scenario than taking counter-measures.

It won’t surprise me if these “Chicken Little” characters end up starting cut backs in operations, productions, inventory, sales targets or down grade their levels of quality or service. Every time someone shouts the “Economy is falling” everybody cuts back on people, advertising, promotions and productivity.

On the other hand, I have spent the last three weeks with resilient companies who have stayed on track, refocusing on their strengths, determining areas of opportunities and focusing on higher goals instead of worrying about things to come.

I was greatly impressed with the commitment of Suzuki Philippines to continue participating in the Asian Road Race Championship for the rest of 2011, despite losing their ace rider Maico Buncio who recently died in a freak accident. In spite of early disappointments, they learn from every race and move up carrying the Philippine Flag with them. 

Hewlett Packard is taking bold steps by launching a campaign that not only promotes their products but also their commitment to Corporate Social Responsibility by providing lap tops to a foundations or a charitable organization that is supported by their campaign partners.

ACER on the other focused on reigniting confidence in Filipino consumers and business requirements while promoting a work-life balance theme during their annual convention. As part of the R&R, all 120 participants were brought on a discovery trip of the Palawan Underground River.

Last weekend, I was impressed at the intensity and effort that senior executives of THE PENNINSULA – Manila put in as they reviewed their SWOTs or strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats.

After two grueling days of being locked down, I saw them look at the mirror, warts and all. I saw them struggle out of their comfort zones like butterflies breaking out of the cocoon, and now I look forward to seeing them bring life and color to the business landscape along with all the members of the Manila Peninsula family.

Only by doing the job can we get the job done!

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