The most important problem facing the Wallace Group is that the Chairman and President of the Wallace Group, Mr. Hal Wallace lacks a strong sense of vision or maybe a vision at all. "Top management as well as CEOs must have a strong sense of vision. As a leader, he should set an example in terms of behavior and actions. Mr. Wallace's attitudes and values concerning the corporation's purpose and activities should clear cut and constantly communicated in words and deeds" (Text,p49). With the help of others, meeting corporate objectives and goals is top management's primary responsibility (Wheelen and Hunger, p.48).
Hal Wallace seems lethargic in his position and has failed to set any corporate goals or assist or even guide the other divisions. The only direction he gave as asking the Plastics division to continue to make a profit (Wheelen and Hunger, Case Study 2-5).
Also, the divisions do not interact with each other nor do they have any direction or goals to keep them motivated and moving forward. If they are to have responsibility for their profitability, they need budgets, growth goals and control over hiring, firing, advertising, and training (Contractor Magazine, 1999).
2. What recommendations would you make to Mr. Wallace, and in what order of priorities?
First and foremost, the Wallace Group's Mission, Vision, and Goals need to be defined. Currently, the divisions are not working together even though each division is dependent
on the other. Mr. Wallace and the division heads must be unified in this effort and work toward a common goal.
Secondly, a Management Development program must be implemented and practiced. Most of the managers have been promoted from technical positions and have ha ...