As a testament to his leadership skills, Scott Graf used his experience in the industry to become president of BCD Meetings & Incentives in 2006 following two mergers of meeting and incentive providers. He gained the trust of the combined management team by making sure that all voices and perspectives would be heard and given consideration.
Many employees say he is the reason they work for the company. They respect him, trust him and enjoy working with him as they manage meetings and events for customers across the world. Graf demands and emphasizes diversity, tenacity and accountability in all employees.
His role as global president exemplifies the term entrepreneur. Under his leadership, BCD M&I has become one of the leading meetings and management providers in the world. It has been recognized by Corporate Meetings & Incentives magazine since 2007 as one of the top 25 providers in the industry.
During the recent economic downturn, he kept the company on track, adapting to meet revenue targets, making a strategic West Coast acquisition, and investing in new client-facing technology.
As a global leader based in the United States, Graf does not impose American business models on other countries ― rather, he believes that each country must be allowed to operate in an environment that favors its culture and business model. He encourages collaboration across country boundaries instead of direct reporting lines into the United States.
In addition, Graf has helped shape company culture through several initiatives including assistance to local-level children’s charities, corporate level Focus 5 (people, customer, innovation, quality and growth) initiatives as goals for employees, an employee recognition program called the Platinum Circle, educational initiatives supporting graduate and undergraduate programs as well as college internships and association initiatives. These include serving on industry boards and at events and acting as faculty in certification programs.
How to reach: BCD Meetings & Incentives, (312) 705-2126 or www.bcdmi.com
