06/19/07

Dear Andy,

I wish to inform you of my intention to leave Loch Lomond Market.

Due to the nature of my position and my desire to ensure as smooth a transition as possible, I am willing to remain as long as necessary, up to the point that the transfer from Vasu to you is finalized.

I feel that it is important to illustrate to you the reasons for my decision, so that they may help you in your future endeavors.

Since your arrival there have been a great many changes implemented and almost exclusively, they have come as surprises. From basic things like repainting and resurfacing to major issues of policy and hiring, you have not felt it important to consult with, or even inform me of your plans. The position of store manager requires knowledge of all facets of store operations, and lacking that knowledge belittles the status and undermines credibility.

It is my assumption, based on this trend, that you have no respect for me and my thirty one-plus years in this industry and that you feel comfortable assuming the role of store manager yourself. On this point I must caution you. On the surface it may seem a breeze, but as you enter the realm of daily operations, you will find it vastly more involved than it seems to appear to you now. For my part, I am in contact with the store every single day. This degree of commitment is essential. A relationship with employees and managers is as well of utmost importance. Knowing what is going on in the personal lives of those who work for you, not only gives you insight into their behavior, it shows them that you care about them as people.

I would hope that you will evaluate the managers who are responsible for holding the fabric of the store together with fairness and an open mind. Without them, I would be nothing. They should be evaluated on their merits and successes, not on whether or not you like them. It is very easy to find people who will tell you what you want to hear. These are not the people who will lead you to success, these are the people who will tear you down, as their flattery is based on self interest.

I encourage you to take the remaining time to learn what I can teach you about the particulars of the operations at Loch Lomond Market. I have great respect and admiration for my staff, the customers who have supported us so faithfully, and the vendors who stuck with us through good times and bad. I stand by ready to help, if this is your desire.

Regards,

Richard Williams

Richard Williams

2007-06-18T12:34:25

Richard Williams