This week’s “Leadership Unplugged” features Gene Tipps. Gene joined Plexus in 2018 as its Chief Operating Officer. He has been the company’s Chief Executive Officer since 2022.
Could you tell us about your education?
I earned a Bachelor of Business degree from California State University in 1995 and studied for a Master of Management at Australian Catholic University.
What was your childhood dream?
My childhood dream was always to be CEO of a multinational corporation, although I never thought that I would become CEO of a direct selling company.
My best friend and I would write letters to each other about our aspirations during the summer months of my childhood and luckily my mom saved several of these. It’s interesting to look back and read them now and see that I had told him I was going to be a CEO someday.
What were your past experiences before your current role?
I’ve been very fortunate to have some great mentors that gave me opportunities early on in my career. I’m coming up on 26 years in this amazing industry and have lived in Australia, New Zealand, Philippines, and the United Kingdom – all for direct selling opportunities. Some key positions include Director of European Operations, Director of Global Logistics and Distribution, VP of Operations, Chief Operating Officer, and President of Operations & International.
What do you consider the main factor behind your career success?
I’m willing to dig in and learn something new every day, which has proved to be the key to my accomplishments. None of us have everything figured out, not only in business but life in general and you have to get out of your comfort zone in order to grow.
For example, I took a chance and moved overseas for a great opportunity. I found myself in a foreign country and a very different business environment. That opportunity was the springboard to launching my career as an international direct selling executive. I could have decided not to take the opportunity, however; I decided to take full advantage even though I was apprehensive. I leaned in and learned as much as I could. I wasn’t afraid to ask questions. Not too many years later I was opening new markets around the globe. This led me to where I am today with Plexus, the most amazing company, leading out front as the CEO.
What has been your most inspiring moment?
Plexus’ global convention in 2023 – at this point I had been CEO for just over nine months, and to walk the convention floor as CEO and have so many people give thanks for all the hard work and dedication that myself and the team had put into the Plexus was so inspiring!
So many lives have changed for the better because of Plexus and our industry, and to see people’s health transformations or to hear their stories of being able to provide just a little bit more for their families all because of the work that we do every single day was impactful. This is what drives and fuels my passion for this business – to be able to wake up every day and be able to say that I’m helping to transform people’s lives through the work that we do. How amazing is that!
Your hobbies?
I love rebuilding classic cars and playing golf.
How would you describe being a direct selling executive to an outsider?
As a corporate direct selling executive, you play a pivotal role in bridging the gap between the company and the salesforce, driving collective success while fostering a supportive environment for individual sellers.
Sometimes this can be challenging as you navigate for what’s best for the greater good and your independent consultants. There can be many opinions to navigate through but in the end, you must always do what’s best for your independent salesforce.
And your biggest challenge in a direct selling company executive role?
One of the biggest challenges is navigating the ever-changing regulatory environment and being able to take a step back and see the bigger picture. The day-to-day environment within direct sales, especially today, changes rapidly. Sometimes we get so caught up in the weeds we don’t spend enough time working on our long-term strategies, which is extremely important when building a legacy business.
What would be your best advice to those who are thinking of joining a direct sales company in a corporate position?
Seek to understand! This business model is very different from most. Take your time and do your due diligence to understand what this industry is all about and what drives its growth. There are many who join direct sales companies with very little to no direct sales experience, so taking time to understand the business is key.
Also, one thing I always say is, “If you’re not having fun, then you’re doing it wrong.” This business is fast-paced and operates within an ever-changing environment. Be ready to pivot.
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Very interesting insights Gene! Thanks for all you do for our sales team!