HOF 05 Groomed for Success -- Thomas Engdahl

"I like to have people involved in the decision making and in building effective teams," Engdahl says. "I make it clear to them what the objectives are, but cut them loose to make it happen. I don't micromanage people; I give them the resources they need, any encouragement and applaud them when they're successful. I let them figure out ways to accomplish results without being prescriptive about it."

Popular With Publishers

Engdahl's versatility has made him an attractive asset to publisher Crain Communications, notes Bob Adams, group vice president of technology, manufacturing and circulation at Crain. His relationship with the publisher dates back 10 years.

"Tom is one of those unique individuals in our industry who is a knowledgeable manufacturing guy, with an understanding and talent for marketing and sales," Adams remarks. "Tom is a very forward strategic thinker, with a sound pulse on all aspects of the industry. His appointment to CEO is a valued asset not only to Brown Printing, but also to its customer base and the broader printing and publishing industries."

Barry Meinerth, senior vice president, production and fulfillment for Time Inc., calls Engdahl a "solid leader" for Brown Printing, someone who has excelled at not only investing in new equipment, but is an effective case builder when it comes to justifying financial outlays to the parent company.

"With Tom, there's no ego. He's very down to earth," Meinerth states. "He's very much the gentleman, a real pleasure to do business with."

Away from the office, Engdahl enjoys spending time with Cindy, his wife of 21 years, and their daughter, Claire, 14. A boxer canine named Rosie rounds out the household.

When he finds leisure time, Engdahl and his family spend summers at their cottage on Lower Herring Lake, near Trevor City, MI. But Engdahl considers himself "too antsy" to spend all day fishing, so he likes to work in a little sailing and water skiing. On land, golf and tennis are his favorite pastimes.