Cover Story
The Ridge file
Smart Business San Diego | September 2006
Born: Sydney, Australia
Education:
Diploma in retail/wholesale distribution, Sidney-Technical College, Sydney, Australia; master of science degree, Executive Leadership University of San Diego
What is the biggest challenge you have faced?
Learning to say, ‘I don’t know.’ Moving to the U.S. and a new culture — things are not the same here.
I had to become consciously incompetent. It gave me the opportunity to say, ‘I don’t know.’ It became a habit, and it is one of the best habits I’ve acquired. Like why is a bullpen called a bullpen? I don’t know.
What is the most important business lesson you have learned?
There are no mistakes, only learning moments. Creating an environment of continuous learning is where all of the success lies in business.
Ridge on his leadership style:
I’m a strong believer in servant leadership with an edge. I think there are four qualities that are important: care for people, be candid with people, hold people accountable and responsible.
