Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in business development but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Kevin Harry, Managing Partner of The BCJ Group, located in St. Petersburg, FL, USA.
What’s your business, and who are your customers?
The BCJ Group utilizes Disney principles to ‘Think Differently’ and ‘Evolve’ your customer experience and employee engagement. We utilize an extensive network of former Disney executives and leaders to craft a tailored solution to your unique opportunity. Our proven collaborative approach has resulted in organizations around the globe architecting, sustaining, and growing cultures that allow them to rise above the competition. Our firm specializes in all types of organizations, from Professional Sports, University Athletic Departments, start-ups, and Fortune 500 companies.
Tell us about yourself
I had a tremendous 30+ year career with the Disney Corporation, serving as a leader in operations, services, and sales in Theme Parks, Hotels, and Cruise Lines globally for the company. My most recent role was as a leader within the Disney Institute, focusing on Culture, Customer, and Employee Experience initiatives. I truly enjoy assisting organizations to measurably evolve and improve elements of their organization to operationalize their culture. The strategy that goes with accomplishing that is the exciting part of what we get to do every day.
What’s your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Moving from a large institution such as Disney to starting our firm, along with our other Managing Partner, BC Johnson, was quite the undertaking; however, we wanted to be able to provide a deeper solution to our client’s needs and become part of their team. Our greatest accomplishment has been an amazing group of clients that continue to grow year after year and watching the change that occurs in each organization. Every client is unique with the solution and improvement that is needed. Being a part of that is the most satisfying aspect of our job.
What’s one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
The day-to-day intentionality that goes into managing the firm, managing the projects, scheduling travel, content development, etc., and making sure we are being consistent and on point every day. It’s not just about making money and getting contracts signed; it’s about giving 100% every day to every client and our team. It’s exhilarating, frustrating, and, in the end, gratifying when that consistency brings results.
What are the top tips you’d give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Be as intentional about every detail in your business as you can be.
- Don’t give up. Every day won’t be your best at times, but keep on track and on point and continue to explore opportunities.
- Have an ongoing strategy, short and long-term, stick to it, change it if needed, and most importantly, have fun.
