“Leadership in the 417” Presents
Matt Gifford of the Springfield Cardinals

Leadership by Example

It is apparent in talking with Matt Gifford that there are more players on the Springfield Cardinals team than what we obviously recognize. From the grounds keepers, to ticket takers, to ushers, to the pitcher on the mound, the Springfield Cardinals and support staff are a high performance precision machine. They are also a "great family and cohesive group" as Gifford states. When commenting on the accomplishments that Gifford and the franchise have attained, he humbly and consistently refers back to his team. "They are what make people like me look good."

Gifford emphasizes that leadership is not a dictatorship but teams should be directed by example. Gifford does exactly that. His first job with the Cardinals was as a 5$ an hour ticket season seller. He worked various positions through out the franchise and has never forgotten the path that has led him to where he is now. "You are never too big to do little things" he states. Driving past Hammons Field you can see Gifford doing jobs such as picking up trash, to painting a fence simply "because it needed to be painted" 30 minutes before the gates opened. He doesn't believe in asking employees to do things that he wouldn't do himself. He has performed almost every job that needs to be accomplished. This experience places Gifford in a uniquely insightful position. He is a firm proponent of empowering employees and equipping employees with what they need to solve problems. "Having solutions to problems is important as opposed to always having questions". With the proper resources and trust, employees have the ability and are dignified with the tools that they need to be successful in their assigned tasks. Gifford acknowledges that at times, letting go is difficult, but it becomes easier with an open door form of management that facilitates trust.

On receiving the award for Executive of the Year Gifford states "It is not about me. It is a great honor for everyone on the team and I've asked all of them to share with me because someone's name has to go on the ballot; "We won something as a team because it's not what I do, it's what we all do". Demonstrating and communicating appreciation for his team and exhibiting leadership by example are outstanding features that make Matt Gifford of the Springfield Cardinals a Leader in the 417.

Leadership Action Plan
Make it a goal to...
• Practice effective leadership by being a good example.
• Delegate and empower employees with the necessary resources to solve problems and accomplish tasks
• Show appreciation for your team