Of course I need to use a sports metaphor! Working with Tom was like having the league’s best quarterback on your team. Calm, confident, always looking downfield, steadily marching us to the end-zone. We won every time.
Tom has worked with Nike for over 20 years. His strategic thinking and ability to get the most talent from his team helped us reach our objectives and more. After a promotion was over and we were all celebrating, Tom was always looking ahead wondering what we could do differently next time.
Chuck Eichten
Design Director
Nike
I am fortunate to be able to call Tom Havens a boss, partner, friend, and mentor. Tom has been one of the most consistent and influential forces in my career. I worked with Tom at Catalyst Marketing for over 13 years as his VP of sales. Tom’s ability to clearly define, communicate and execute his vision allowed Catalyst to thrive year after year. His humility, care for his team, focus on individual employee success, infectious positive attitude, and clear purpose created a unique and special culture that very few people get to experience. As a result, we had very little turnover and attracted high caliber people who would do anything for their teammates and the company. As a smart owner, founder, and CEO, he was able to identify and take advantage of gaps in the marketplace, clearly define our unique sales proposition, and build a strategic roadmap to deliver on that proposition. As a Consultant, Tom brings lots of positive energy, tons of experience, smart insights, and a strategic process that works. His approach to sales, leadership, and entrepreneurship has provided me the guidance I’ve needed in my own journey. Honestly, I wouldn't be where I am today if I hadn't crossed paths with Tom Havens.
Brennan Townley
CEO
Collaboration.ai
I had the pleasure of working with Tom in which he led a strategic planning session for Bold Echo. Tom helped us create a clear and realistic roadmap helping us focus on what’s most important and placing certain initiatives “in the parking lot”. Tom’s deep-dive approach into Bold Echo made him an expert on our company and industry. He is a great listener, super positive and wonderful to work with. I continue to utilize Tom’s expertise in which he provides me with great insights, forces me to review all sides of issues, and keeps me focused on what’s most important.
Kristin Tedford
Founder and CEO
Bold Echo, Inc.
I worked with Tom for over 6 years as his Sr. VP of finance. Tom was a coach, mentor, leader, colleague, and most of all a friend. It’s rare to find those qualities in your boss. I watched Tom navigate the roller coaster ride of business ownership. From the highs of landing the big wins to the lows of dealing with epic challenges. Tom consistently walked in the office with amazing confidence, high energy, and determination.
I learned, and continue to learn, so much from Tom. One of the top learnings is the impact of a clear vision, a united purpose, and a strong strategic plan has on culture. We were all aligned and achieved great success. Our journey wasn’t all champagne and butterflies. We made many mistakes, just like any other business. At the end of the day though, we all had trust in Tom. I know that I am a better person and a better leader in my own organization because of Tom.
Jason Freilinger
Managing Director
Supporting Strategies
I’ve had the pleasure of working directly for Tom for over 13 years, eventually becoming the company’s Creative Director. Tom is an amazing leader – always asking for feedback, treating everyone, no matter their position, as an important member of the company, motivating employees, and clearly articulating where we were going and how we were going to get there. He understands at the heart of a business are the people. Tom has great optimism, compassion, and confidence. I am grateful to have gained valuable business and leadership skills under his guidance and direction. As a consultant, Tom will bring real-world experience to the table and help create a clear path for your business.
Jessie Orvidas
Sr. Creative Director
HALO Branded Solutions
I have known Tom for over 30 years. He is an experienced founder having built and sold a successful business, and now he is helping other entrepreneurs reach the same success. Tom helps small business owners elevate their business by identifying and focusing on key initiatives and creating an actionable roadmap that is easy to implement.
Tom’s true talent is his ability to translate his success to other entrepreneurs. His communication style is genuine and supportive, and he has helped our clients develop a clear vision for achieving their goals. Tom is also an expert in leadership and creating a world-class company culture.
If you’re a small business owner looking to scale your business, I’d highly recommend talking to Tom Havens.
Don Loewel
Director, Pasadena
Small Business Development Centers