Author: KMF Infotech

Bonchul Koo is the president of LG Energy Solution Michigan, Inc. He started his tenure at LG Energy Solution, Michigan, Inc. in September 2019. He has been dedicating his professional life to the advancement of the Lithium-ion battery business as an engineer and a leader since he joined LG Chem in 2005. (LG Energy Solution was part of LG Chem until it was completely spun off from it in December 2020). He received his bachelor’s degree in Automation Engineering from Inha University, South Korea, and an MBA from the State University of New York at Buffalo. He is married with one son, who moved back to Korea after living in Michigan for two years.

 

 

You have years of Senior Executive leadership experience. Who are the people who have had a profound influence on you and your leadership style?

There are so many great people I have encountered in my life, who helped shape and build my character, philosophy, work ethic, and leadership style. But only a handful of people made the most profound impact on how I communicate with my team members and employees. I met Joon Ho Kim, the former Vice President of LG Chem when I worked as Sr. Manager at LG Chem, South Korea. I was lucky to have a chance to talk to him about an issue I was struggling with. I was impressed by his humility and sincerity when he was advising me on my issue. I later observed that his demeanor was exactly the same whomever he talked to, regardless of their ranking or position. He was willing to listen to what people had to say and try to resolve any issues collaboratively whether small or big. I am indebted to him for my patience and my listening skills when communicating with my employees.

Talk to us about company culture. What are some values that you and your team live by? 

When it comes to company culture and core values, we have the “LG Way.” This is the foundation for every LG member’s thoughts and actions to observe and implement. The “LG Way” is composed of the company’s vision, behavioral mode, and management principle. First, our vision is to become the market leader in business performance and management practices. Second, our behavioral model is predetermined by “Jeong-Do Management.”; it expresses our company’s ethical management and code of conduct for members’ capability development and fair competition. Lastly, our management principles stress customer-value creation and people-oriented management.

Talk to us about your employee benefits program? What are some unique programs your company provides to your employees?

Our company has recently revamped our employee welfare program. We want our company to be the best place to work in Michigan and beyond. This year, we are working on multiple initiatives to create a great work culture where the employee can truly enjoy their work and feel that they are cared for. The new initiatives include offering subsidies for employees’ children, elderly care, setting up a 2-day dental clinic for simple treatments, and the “Joyful Activities Program,” which is in the planning stage currently. I look forward to seeing our company’s work culture change to be more positive, and more joyful.

You recently celebrated a transformational expansion. Talk to us about why you chose our area as a place to continue growing.

LG Energy Solution is at the forefront of green business, promoting sustainability, electrification, and innovation. We have already become a contributor to the State of Michigan’s “championship economy.” Michigan was a natural choice to our commitment of building an impactful global business because of its rich pool of talent, being close to the geographic epicenter of the automotive industry and its strong support.

What is a book that you’ve read or an influencer that you watch that has made you a better leader?

The Essential Drucker by Peter Drucker teaches the basics of management to innovation and marketing. Drucker stresses the importance of managing people, which determines the success of a business. He talks about recognizing imperfection but pursuing perfection, which is a perspective I apply when directing new initiatives and managing people. The core concept of this attitude acknowledges that we are not perfect. If we expect things to be perfect, we will always be disappointed rather than get a sense of satisfaction or achievement. On the contrary, if we accept the nature of our imperfection, we will experience satisfaction more quickly and be more motivated while making improvements. This way of thinking will help us cope with challenging tasks and situations. Instead of being frustrated, we would be able to accept the current situation and move forward to resolving problems.

Can you share why it is a priority for you to invest in economic development?

As we are expanding and partnering with a number of large automotive companies with an ESG vision, we are in a critical position. Investing in economic development is essential to building a successful company, furthermore, a successful global economy. Our investment would enable us to maximize what we can offer the community and the people around us.

About LG Energy Solution

LG Energy Solution Michigan is a subsidiary of LG Energy Solution, headquartered in South Korea. We manufacture large lithium-ion battery cells and packs for electric vehicles (EVs) and other energy storage applications. Our Michigan locations manufacture and research electric vehicle battery technologies for some of the most recognizable car brands in the country.

At LG Energy Solution, we know that what we make impacts our employees, communities, and the planet. We do our best to improve continually and to care for our employees through benefits and pay, to care for the community through partnerships and commerce as we grow, to care for our environment in the way we operate our landfill-free facilities and continue to create sustainable solutions for energy storage.

Mark Custer is a second-generation co-owner and CRO (Chief Revenue Officer) of Custer, Inc. (interior solutions and workplace design), CS Erickson (electrical and integrated technology), Century Flooring (flooring and professional cleaning), and owner with his wife Kellie of Worklab, Inc. (coworking). Mark spends most of his time helping each business hit its revenue targets with strategic planning, consulting, and business development help. Mark is often out in the community either serving on boards, helping capital campaigns, or connecting with peers within business organizations.

 

Mark lived in Colorado while working at a Steelcase Dealership prior to moving back home in 2004 and beginning in the family business.  He’s actively involved in Family Business Alliance, Vistage, Economic Club, Talent 2025, Forest Hills Schools, Kent County Literacy Council, Van Andel Institute & several other community organizations.

 

He is committed to building a culture of diversity, inclusion & equality for all the Custer-owned businesses. He loves to work with and mentor young leaders and encourages entrepreneurship within all businesses. His vision is to successfully transition the companies to the next generation—whenever they are ready to take it on!

 

You have years of Senior Executive leadership experience. Who are the people who have had a profound influence on you and your leadership style?

Throughout my career, I have had so many people influence me along the way at the exact right times.  It started in college with my major in Hospitality Business at Michigan State University.  They taught me how to serve people and that the customer was the most important part of each day. Early in my career, my dad had a huge influence on how I lead people by teaching me how to treat people fairly and how people hate surprises.  I have had various mentors, coaches, and peer groups throughout my career who have helped with strategies and perspectives.  There is so much value in a coach/mentor or peer group as they can help hold you accountable to change and to try new approaches to leadership.

 

Talk to us about company culture. What are some values that you and your team live by?
We are really big on setting core values in our companies and living by them.  Each company comes up with their own core values and use these to maintain culture.  If we can hire and fire using these core values, it helps to build the culture by having the right people in the company.  Being a family business, it is also important to treat everyone like they are our extended family.  We like to try to stay positive, be better every day, put family first, take the extra step, and build trust as some examples of our core values.

 

We know you are someone who gives back to the community in many meaningful ways. Tell us about an initiative that is near to your heart.
Our parents taught us how important it is to give back to the communities that we live and work in.  My dad always gave back 10-15% of our profits to important organizations that my parents felt close to.  My brothers and I have continued to make sure that all our companies not only give back a portion of our profits, but also be involved with local organizations to help with volunteering, getting on campaign boards, or helping with projects for these organizations by donating products and services.  We have tried to help so many different non-profits, but one that is close to my heart right now is an organization that helps with mental health awareness – Be Nice in Grand Rapids is one we are very close with.

 

What is a book that you’ve read or an influencer that you watch that has made you a better leader?
There are so many different books that I have read that fall into the business strategic class.  Any Jim Collins books have always helped, especially ‘Good to Great’.  I really like Tim Ferris’ books also to help you think differently about how you work – ‘4-Hour Work Week’ is one that is really good.  For work/life spiritual balance I really like ‘Conversations with God’ by Neil Walsch.

 

Can you share why it is a priority for you to invest in economic development?
We support Economic Development Organizations because they each serve such an important part in helping to grow and retain talent and jobs in each of the regions they serve.  They are the “glue” of the business community and can help bring companies together to help make each region in W. MI more attractive to new companies looking to relocate and to employees looking to work and live in our area.

About the Custer Family of Companies

CS Erikson is a partner for insights and design-build services that powerfully connect customers to the world beyond their walls. From electrical engineering and data integration to collaborative and integrated technology, CSE creatively offers solutions of tomorrow that seamlessly interact with your space and meet organization needs today.

 

Century is a trusted resource in creating, caring, and restoring the appearance of space. We strive to enrich the lives of our clients and community through our full-service approach – ultimately helping people do what they do better! Services include design, installation, and maintenance of flooring, tile, and countertops for commercial and residential projects.

 

Established in 1981, Custer Inc. serves territories across West Michigan and Northern Indiana as a premier dealership of Steelcase furniture. Custer designs and builds environments that maximize productivity and a sense of purpose, drawing on extensive research and established expertise. Full-service capabilities including workplace strategy, change management, design, furniture specification, and installation to deliver spaces that support a better way of working.

William (Bill) Brown has been the Superintendent of Allegan Area ESA since 2016 and is celebrating 30 years in public education.   Previous school administration experience includes middle school assistant principal, middle school principal, director of student services, and assistant superintendent.  Bill possesses a bachelor’s degree in Social Science, a master’s degree in Educational Administration, and an education specialist in Educational Administration.  Bill and his wife, Shelly, have two children and reside in Allegan, Michigan.

 

Bill, you have years of Senior Executive leadership experience. Who are the people who have had a profound influence on you and your leadership style?

My current district leadership team has had a tremendous influence on my leadership style.  We support, challenge, and help each other grow; both personally and professionally.

 

Talk to us about company culture. What are some values that you and your team live by?

Culture is the center of everything we do.  My board and education and leadership team have identified values that we follow to implement our strategic plan.  These values are integrity, accountability, family, balance, passion, and humor.

 

We know you are someone who gives back to the community in many meaningful ways. Tell us about an initiative that is near to your heart.

The center of everything we do at Allegan Area Educational Service Agency is centered in the Whole Child Model.  We strive to make sure that our students, staff, and community are challenged, safe, healthy, engaged, and supported.

 

What is a book that you’ve read or an influencer that you watch that has made you a better leader?

Brene Brown and Simon Sinek are great contemporaries who have influenced my leadership.  Understanding my “Why” and using strategies to be a courageous and daring leader has made me a more effective leader in my organization.

 

Can you share why it is a priority for you to invest in economic development?

It is crucial that we support economic development.  As an educational service agency, we need to meet the needs of our community and the labor force.  A strong local economy supports education, supports healthy communities, and supports the whole child. The Allegan Area ESA plays a vital role in this area.

 

About AAESA
The Allegan Area Educational Service Agency may be summed up quite simply, we are about helping students of Allegan County and improving the quality of life in this beautiful western Michigan county.  We offer many services and programs the local districts sometimes cannot or should not duplicate.

 

At the Allegan Area ESA, our commitment to the students and community of Allegan County is unwavering.  Our services constantly evolve and improve with the ever-changing needs of our local districts, and the community formed by the eight districts we serve.

 

 

While predicting the future is difficult and risky, Allegan Area ESA strives to be ready to meet each and every challenge that tomorrow may bring.  Developing collaborative partnerships now is more necessary than ever in this time of dwindling resources.

 

 

Our vision states: Ensure every learner, school, and community thrives.

 

 

Our Mission states:  To support and engage in partnership with our districts and communities to serve all families and create and drive educational innovations

Menaka Abel serves as the Chief Financial Officer for Request Foods. She has earned experience in International Finance, Sales, and Strategy across the consumer goods and furniture industry through roles of increasing responsibility at respected global companies such as Price Waterhouse, Steelcase, and Amway.

 

Throughout her career, Menaka has been recognized across organizations for driving transformational results through strong leadership skills, business acumen, and cross-functional collaboration. Providing financial and strategic leadership at Request Foods Inc., her most recent accomplishment has been securing significant State incentives to fund the Company’s growth plans.

Menaka operates under the principle that everyone deserves the opportunity to be successful and achieve their career goals. She was previously active in Amway’s Women’s Inclusion Network, mentors many young professionals, and is an active advocate for women in leadership.  Additionally, Menaka serves on the Board of the West Coast Chamber and Kids Food Basket and is passionate about causes that combat childhood hunger and promote health and development in children.

 

Menaka is originally from Sri Lanka and came over to the US during a time of civil war, earned a bachelor’s degree in Accounting from Hillsdale College, Michigan, and holds a CPA license.
Menaka enjoys traveling, running/hiking, and watching football with her husband and their son who are avid Pittsburgh Steeler fans.

 

Menaka, you have years of Senior Executive leadership experience. Who are the people who have had a profound influence on you and your leadership style?

Throughout the years, I continue to grow and refine my leadership style based on learnings, experiences (both local and international), and great coaches. I have been blessed to work with some talented leaders who have had a tremendous impact on me. At Amway, I had the wonderful privilege of observing outstanding leadership in action from 2 great leaders: Rich and Doug DeVos, whose servant leadership tenants are based on faith, family, and freedom, which I deeply admire. While I did not have the honor of meeting Jack DeWitt, Founder of Request Foods, his leadership philosophy – now carried on by his son Steve (President of Request Foods) – reinforce these same principles while honoring God in all we do, with integrity and people at the core. My style seeks to incorporate these learnings while contributing to the growth of the organizations and people I serve.

 

Talk to us about company culture. What are some values that you and your team live by? 

God and Family are at the center of the Request Foods’ culture. As a family-owned and operated company, we believe conservative principles and family values, rooted in the Christian faith, define our culture and how we interact with our customers and team members. We walk the talk here, and it has led to a culture of strong teamwork, collaboration, and trust. Culture is such an important element of recruiting and retention; a true differentiator when competing for talent. Our mission: To honor God in all we do, to help people develop, pursue excellence and grow profitably is our compass as we navigate through daily decisions and longer-term strategic initiatives.

 

We know you are someone who gives back to the community in many meaningful ways. Tell us about a cause that is near to your heart. 

My husband and I like to support organizations that are local – primarily focused on the development of kids, health, and education. One such organization that I am passionate about is Kids Food Basket – a grassroots, community solution to childhood hunger. Healthy food is a right, not a privilege. Through education and providing access to healthy food, KFB seeks to provide food equity and pursue a future where all children have access to the nourishment that fosters lifelong health and limitless potential. My husband and I have been active volunteers and supporters of KFB for many years and I am proud to currently serve on the Board of Directors to further this important cause.

 

What is a book that you’ve read or an influencer that you watch that has made you a better leader?

There are many books that I have garnered nuggets of wisdom based on the situation at hand – “Playing to Win”, “First 90 Days”, “Developing the Leaders Around You” etc. I enjoy John Maxwell and Rich DeVos’s books on leadership and also enjoy listening to various TED talks, but have found that these learnings need to be balanced with the Company culture for successful execution.

 

Can you share why it is a priority for you to invest in economic development?

Private enterprise is the hallmark of our economy and nation, and it begins at the community level. True growth comes from private investment that create jobs and in turn leads to vibrant communities. At Request Foods, we have consistently invested in the Company in multiple expansion activities to fuel our growth. Request Foods roots go back to Bilmar Corp., a Zeeland based Turkey Processor founded in 1938. The DeWitt family who owns Request Foods, are deeply committed to its hometown of Holland, and have continued to invest and expand locally to support the growth of Holland and Ottawa County. In addition to job creation, these investments also entail growth in local suppliers and vendors that are tied to the investment initiatives. While we were presented with many options out of state for our expansion efforts, the deep commitment to Holland and the strong local partnerships that Request values, precipitated our decision to stay local and contribute to the growth of our local economy here in Holland.

 

What do you see as challenges to achieving the desired outcome of these investments and how can Lakeshore Advantage help?

Consistent with the experience of employers nationwide, the labor shortage is significantly impacting our ability to fully optimize our investments. Attracting a sufficient employment base to the State and local community is imperative to realize the development that is required.  Efforts in the areas of housing, taxes, and training are a few that will need legislative change to entice workers to the area and State.

 

Growth at the local level also requires the expansion of infrastructure and services to support the development of existing and new businesses. Our growth has been constrained by limitations in local infrastructure needs and looks to partner with Lakeshore Advantage and the local authorities to promote solutions that will benefit the broader business community as we continue to grow in Holland.

 

About Request Foods

Based in Holland MI for the past 31+ years, Request Foods, Inc. is a leading co-manufacturer of frozen soup, entrees, sides, and skillet meals for national wholesalers and retailers. Consistently ranked as a tier 1 co-packer, Request is privately owned and operated and employs over 1,000 employees.