The Ideal Team Player

Lencioni introduces Jeff Shanley, who at one time worked in Silicon Valley and developed a start-up company at the age of 38. Although he cofounded the company, he was eventually demoted from his position as CEO, which Lencioni describes as a fortunate development for Jeff. He was replaced by Kathryn Petersen, a CEO from whom Jeff learned a great deal, specifically regarding leadership and teamwork. After Petersen retired, Jeff left the company altogether and worked at a consulting firm. He had grown tired of the fast-paced, bustling lifestyle of Silicon Valley and desired change.

Lencioni moves on to introduce Bob Shanley, Jeff’s uncle. Bob was an established building contractor in Napa Valley. As Bob faced an urgent health crisis and prepared to retire, he realized that none of his own children were interested in taking over his company, Valley Builders. When Bob calls Jeff to see if his nephew knows of anyone who could take the role, Jeff mentions that he would fill the role, and Bob offers him the position. Jeff points out that he has no experience in the building industry, and over the course of eight weeks, he learns some of the essentials of managing a contracting business.