This company had spent months and worked with several outside consultants trying to support a struggling general manager. Despite ongoing efforts to strengthen the relationship and improve performance, the situation continued to decline. Culture was strained, leadership was stalled, and progress felt impossible.

We were asked to assess the situation. After a focused and honest review, we named what others had not: it was not a fit. The issue was not a lack of support or resources. It was a fundamental misalignment that no amount of coaching could resolve.

With leadership’s agreement, we guided the respectful release of the general manager, protecting both the individual’s dignity and the company’s reputation. From there, we helped recruit and onboard the right leader; one who aligned with the company’s values, goals, and culture.

The change was immediate.

Culture improved. Teams re-engaged. Operations stabilized. With the right leadership in place, the business not only began performing at a higher level, it became a place where people enjoyed coming to work.

This project serves as a clear reminder: sometimes progress requires making the hard, honest decision. In this case, addressing a leadership misfit directly opened the door to sustainable growth and renewed team energy.