Founder Story
Empowering The Next Generation: The Condere Legacy
Greg Barnard was introduced to the Condere business at an early age. With an insatiable thirst for learning, he quickly began to understand the intricate operations and machinery that defined his family’s business. His father, a practical businessman, saw something extraordinary in Greg beyond just another heir. He envisioned a future leader who could transform the business into a generational powerhouse within the steel industry.
Greg started at the very bottom, working in all departments to learn about the machines, tools, and processes. He earned the respect of artisans and workers alike. Each menial task wasn’t seen as a punishment by Greg; it was an opportunity to understand the inner workings of Condere, the pulse that ran through every department.
Greg’s father, secretly impressed, expected teenage boredom or rebellion against the seemingly pointless chores. Instead, Greg surprised him. He approached each task with the insatiable curiosity of a scholar. He saw not just the what, but also the why. He identified areas where processes could be improved and inefficiencies eliminated.
Greg says,
“For me, the true measure of success is the positive impact I can make on the lives of others, and I encourage everyone to strive for the same.”
The day Greg finally ascended to the helm of Condere wasn’t just a changing of the guard; it was a culmination of his experiences. He wasn’t just taking the reins; he was taking the knowledge and lessons he’d learned from the ground up. He transformed Condere, not by chance, but by wielding the wisdom he’d earned.
Under Greg’s leadership, Condere soared, a testament to the power of hard work, humility, and a deep understanding of every aspect of the business, especially its people. Greg never forgot his roots or the family values that were the foundation of Condere. He created a company that valued not just profits, but also its people, customers, and suppliers. He built a legacy that transcended the bottom line.
Condere’s story is an inspiration, a testament to the transformative power of seeing the big picture from every angle. It’s a cycle, a beautiful loop – from student to master. As Condere continues to innovate and face future challenges, one thing remains certain: Greg has continued to inspire, motivate, and educate young employees. Greg fully understood that building a generational business is all about people. He creates an environment for employees to innovate, actively encourages his staff to challenge established norms and paradigms, and embraces the potential for positive change that can result from fresh perspectives and bold ideas, which he knows will undoubtedly grow Condere to new heights.
Greg firmly believes that fear and self-judgment can hold people back from success. He therefore encourages his staff to persevere through setbacks and not let others negatively interfere with their mental, physical, and spiritual well-being.
Greg actively seeks to lead and inspire his people in every facet of life. A true leader, who also inspires his staff to be great human beings and make a positive impact on the world. He encourages his staff to enjoy the journey and believes that success is not only about achieving personal goals, but also about helping others and leaving a legacy.