Mainebiz

W W W. M A I N E B I Z . B I Z 13 A U G U S T 5 , 2 0 2 4 MB: You co-founded the Women's Leadership Conference of your in- dustry's trade group. What inspired you to help create the conference, and what is your goal for it? JAL: During my tenure on the board of [Promotional Products Association International], there were few women CEOs, board members or leaders. When my term finished, I felt the need to create a forum to mentor, educate and provide networking opportunities for women in the pro- motional industry. With Geiger's support and with four amazing other women, we created the Women's Leadership Conference. is past year we celebrated our 20 th anniversary, in Nashville, with well over 200 women leaders attending the multi-day event. My vision is to create an International Women's Leadership Council and to expand our reach. MB: Geiger has grown, in the U.S. and internationally, by joining with other companies. What is your strategy for acquisition? JAL: We have a well-thought-out, strategic plan for growth, both organi- cally and through acquisition. We search for specific acquisitions that fit a profile. We consider companies we come across or that approach us, and we work with firms to help find com- panies fitting the profile. Geiger's international acquisition strategy and joint ventures are driven by demand from our clients. Global organizations have very specific brand requirements, and need local firms to actively consult on the best ways to apply their brand in promotions. As the world becomes less and less personal, our industry of branded merchandise — for example, recogni- tion items, awards, logoed apparel — is a way to be hyper-personal. MB: What would you say is your greatest strength as a leader, and where would you like to be stronger? JAL: My greatest strength is being an empathetic, authentic leader who can build a very strong, cohesive team. e Geiger leadership and I all can become stronger by striving to expand our knowledge base, to con- tinuously improve, and to speak the same language. MB: How will Geiger be different five years from now, and how do you think you will be different as a businessperson? JAL: Geiger will continue to be a privately held, family-owned business with a culture of respect. Respect for our employees, for people, for the planet and for society at large. at culture of respect will not change. We want qualities like that to con- tinue to be top of mind with our clients and potential clients. What will change is our evolution into an enterprise that is both global and local. Our business platforms and digital commerce systems will sup- port our organization and our clients, wherever they may be. My desire as a leader is to continue to learn, to evolve as a person and as a businessperson, and to mentor others toward their personal career goals. My goal is to learn and to try something new, every day. Wi l l i a m H a l l , M a n a g i n g E d i t o r / D i g i ta l O pe ra t i o n s f o r M a i n e b i z , c a n b e r e a c h e d a t w ha l l @ m a i n e b i z . b i z Find a credit union near you at mainecreditunions.org Grow Your Business Dreams. Whether you're starting out, expanding, or optimizing your operations, you need a dedicated team that wants to help you succeed. At Maine credit unions, we understand the unique challenges and opportunities you face. That's why we offer tailored financial solutions designed to support your business at every stage of growth. Join the community that puts your business first. My desire as a leader is to continue to learn, to evolve as a person and as a businessperson, and to mentor others toward their personal career goals. My goal is to learn and to try something new, every day. — Jo-an Lantz

• Cover