The connecting leader: An interview with Garry Ridge, former CEO of WD-40

Leadership Development

The connecting leader: An interview with Garry Ridge, former CEO of WD-40

Garry Ridge shares how leaders can embrace a culture of learning, purpose, and coaching to drive both personal growth and business success.
March 21, 2025

In today's rapidly evolving landscape, where organizations face unprecedented challenges—from AI disruption and climate change to shifting work attitudes and heightened stakeholder expectations—successful leadership requires a new approach.

In an interview with Dr. Regis Chasse, Garry Ridge shares how to embrace a “learning moments” mindset and cultivating a culture of growth, experimentation, and shared knowledge. He emphasizes the leader's role as a coach, empowering teams to find purpose, drive innovation, and build a strong, values-based culture that fuels both business success and personal fulfillment.

About the interviewer

Dr. Regis Chasse (rchasse@heidrick.com) is a partner in Heidrick & Struggles’ Washington, DC, office and leads leadership development solutions initiatives for Heidrick Consulting.

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