In Wednesday's speech given before members and sponsors at AWB's Policy Summit, UPS CEO Scott Davis talked about the founding of UPS. Company founder Jim Casey borrowed a $100 from a friend more than a hundred years ago to start the company that became UPS. Davis used the visual of a $100 bill to remind attendees that despite economic challenges and setbacks, companies can still excel. The same is true for our country.
"I think that this country that I love is at a crossroads," said Davis. "I want our elected officials in Washington DC to start running this country the way we run our companies -- with real leadership, courage, discipline, and foresight."
Davis talked about the impending fiscal cliff and tax cuts that are set to expire in January 2013 unless Congress takes action. Davis is afraid that if Congress fails to come to an agreement, it will send the economy back into recession. He also talked about the trade imbalance and how trade can be a big driver of growth.
Davis highlighted some similarities among successful businesses about how they create new jobs and drive the economy. The companies:
- Constantly evolve
- Ask tough questions
- Are disciplined
- Have the courage to act even when the decision may not be popular
Davis said it would be interesting to see officials in DC start running the country the way successful business owners run their companies. After all, if $100 helps to tell a great story of the founding of UPS, what story can come out of DC if officials can compromise and take action on the problems facing our country?
