Max de Pree Quotes

A collection of quotes by Max de Pree.

Max De Pree was an American businessman, writer, and mentor, born on October 28, 1924, in Kalamazoo, Michigan. He was best known for his outstanding leadership as the CEO of the furniture company, Herman Miller, where he successfully transformed it into an innovative and customer-centric organization.

De Pree joined Herman Miller in 1947, initially working in the sales department. Over time, he rose through the ranks, becoming the CEO in 1980 and serving in that position until 1987. During his tenure, he implemented a people-centered management philosophy, which emphasized the importance of nurturing and empowering employees to achieve greatness. He believed that leadership was about building strong relationships and creating an environment where people could excel.

De Pree was also an acclaimed author, writing influential books like "Leadership is an Art" and "Leadership Jazz." His writings advocated for a more mindful and inclusive approach to leadership, stressing the significance of ethics, trust, and empathy in the workplace.

Beyond his business endeavors, De Pree was actively involved in various philanthropic and educational initiatives. He served on the boards of several organizations, including Fuller Theological Seminary, the National Trust for Historic Preservation, and the Mayo Clinic.

Max De Pree passed away on August 8, 2017, leaving behind a legacy of inspiring leadership and shaping progressive business practices. His contributions to the fields of management and leadership continue to resonate with individuals and organizations worldwide.

The signs of outstanding leadership appear primarily among t

The signs of outstanding leadership appear primarily among the followers. Are the followers reaching their potential? Are they learning? Serving? Do they achieve the required results? Do they change with grace? Manage conflict?

Max de Pree

Change

A team of giants needs giant pitchers who throw good ideas b

A team of giants needs giant pitchers who throw good ideas but every pitcher needs an outstanding catcher. Without giant catchers, the ideas of the giant pitchers may eventually disappear.

Max de Pree

Baseball

We need to give each other the space to grow, to be ourselve

We need to give each other the space to grow, to be ourselves, to exercise our diversity. We need to give each other space so that we may both give and receive such beautiful things as ideas, openness, dignity, joy, healing, and inclusion.

Max de Pree

Life

We cannot become what we need to be, remaining what we are.

We cannot become what we need to be, remaining what we are.

Max de Pree

Change

In the end, it is important to remember that we cannot becom

In the end, it is important to remember that we cannot become what we need to be by remaining what we are.

Max de Pree

Leadership

Leaders don't inflict pain -- they share pain.

Leaders don't inflict pain -- they share pain.

Max de Pree

Leadership