47 - Culture as a Competitive Edge: The Power of People in Business Success
Lessons in Leadership and Growth: Insights from George Contos of World Wide Metric
In this episode of Growing Up B2B Podcast, host Ed Delia sits down with George Contos, CEO of World Wide Metric, to explore the challenges and strategies of leading a multi-generational family business. George shares his experience transforming a family-founded company into a modern B2B powerhouse, covering leadership, succession, operational excellence, and leveraging innovation to remain competitive. This conversation offers actionable guidance for family business leaders, aspiring executives, and anyone navigating growth and legacy in a B2B environment.
Strategies for Leading and Scaling a Multi-Generational Family Business
George emphasizes the importance of earning your place through external experience. Family members are encouraged to work outside the business before joining, gaining perspective, credibility, and diverse skills that strengthen the company upon their return. This approach fosters meritocracy and ensures the next generation brings real value to the business.
He also highlights transformative leadership during transitions. George’s journey included setbacks and opportunities, such as working externally before returning as CEO with autonomy to implement new strategies. Clear decision-making authority and a willingness to modernize the company were critical to scaling operations and achieving sustainable growth.
Finally, George underscores cash flow mastery and strategic expansion as foundations of long-term success. Formalizing collections, tightening credit policies, and diversifying markets allowed World Wide Metric to navigate economic challenges while investing in facilities, technology, and new customer segments. Leveraging family strengths, defining clear roles, and cultivating culture and people ensure resilience in both daily operations and future growth initiatives.
About George Contos
George Contos is the CEO of World Wide Metric and a seasoned leader in multi-generational family businesses. With experience guiding his company through growth, operational transformation, and strategic succession, George now shares his expertise with family business owners and executives, helping them navigate the complexities of leadership, innovation, and legacy. Connect with him on LinkedIn.
About World Wide Metric
World Wide Metric is a family-owned B2B company specializing in precision industrial components and OEM services. Serving diverse markets with high-quality products and exceptional customer service, the company combines decades of experience with innovative approaches, including AI and digital tools, to deliver scalable solutions for global clients.
Links Mentioned in This Episode
Key Episode Highlights
Importance of gaining external experience before joining a family business.
Navigating leadership transitions with clarity and autonomy.
Cash flow management as a critical factor for sustainable growth.
Leveraging family strengths through role clarity and accountability.
Using innovation and AI tools to enhance operational efficiency and competitiveness.
Conclusion
George Contos’ insights reveal how deliberate planning, merit-based leadership, and a focus on people and culture enable family businesses to thrive across generations. By combining respect for legacy with a commitment to innovation and financial discipline, family-run companies can achieve sustainable growth while preserving the relationships and values that define them.
Ready to take your family business to the next level? Visit Delianet to learn more about how we can help.
Think you’d be a great fit for Growing Up B2B? Apply to be a guest and share your story with a business audience that values leadership, growth, and legacy. Apply here: Podcast Guest Application.
