Stephen F. Burns took over Wheaton Van Lines in 1987 and through a number of initiatives — including corporate restructuring, a revised management philosophy and establishing an Employee Stock Ownership Plan — has built Wheaton World Wide Moving into a major player in the moving and storage business.
One of the first changes implemented when Burns took over at Wheaton was the implementation of an ESOP. As part of the changes, Burns adopted an open-book approach to freely share information with associates and to seek their input for key decisions.
This was a dramatic shift for the company and for this industry, particularly for truck drivers and agents, who often had not been treated equitably by their employers throughout the years. Wheaton’s employees came to learn that the people in charge were listening to ideas and suggestions.
Under Burns’ leadership, Wheaton’s military business expanded through additional military companies representing more military installations and bases. This business line has grown more than 100 percent in five years with more growth on the way.
In 2005, Burns instituted mandatory background checks for all relocation service providers. His vision was to provide comfort and security to customers, ensuring that all Wheaton service providers have been subject to a background check.
Through Wheaton World Wide Moving, Burns and his fellow employees have adopted several community causes that have helped bring them closer together as a company. Two of the primary causes are the Children’s Make a Wish Foundation and the Give Kids the World Foundation.
How to reach: Wheaton Van Lines, www.wheatonworldwide.com
