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Sustaining Success: Tom Hutchison on Leading Through Generational Change
Episode 425
In this episode, Trace Blackmore welcomes back Tom Hutchison, Chairman of the Board, HOH Water Technology, to reflect on what it really takes to step out of day-to-day leadership—and do it well. As a multi-decade leader in water treatment, Tom shares the personal, professional, and organizational insights that shaped his transition from CEO to chairman and what it means to lead a business into its next generation.
From early succession conversations to the unspoken anxieties of staff, Hutch offers a rare look behind the curtain of legacy-building in industrial water treatment. And as private equity plays a growing role in the industry, Tom unpacks the very real choices facing owners and teams alike—with clarity and compassion.
Navigating Leadership Through Change
Tom begins by describing the decision to shift from day-to-day leadership to a board-level role. He reflects on the emotional weight of that process and the internal work required to detach his identity from his title. Rather than clinging to authority, he outlines the importance of trust and letting emerging leaders find their voice—even when it means they'll make different decisions.
He also highlights the human cost of poor planning. "Death," as Tom puts it bluntly, "is not a strategy." Waiting too long or failing to mentor successors doesn't just disrupt the business—it risks unraveling everything you've built.
Succession Planning and Cultural Continuity
Trace and Tom dive into the mechanics of succession planning—not just from an ownership perspective, but a cultural one. Tom explains how HOH built an internal environment where values weren't just posted on the wall but deeply lived. This foundation allowed the company to navigate major transitions, including its eventual move into private equity, without losing its identity.
He also warns about the consequences of delayed planning. Waiting too long, he says, puts the business, its people, and its principles at risk.
Preparing for Private Equity—Without Losing Yourself
One of the most practical parts of the conversation centers on HOH's private equity journey. Tom shares how they vetted buyers not just for financial capacity, but for cultural alignment. He outlines how his team clarified their mission and values before the deal, which ultimately helped preserve their vision after the transition.
Rather than resist change, HOH treated the shift as an opportunity to reinforce their core—while expanding their reach.
The Long Arc of Legacy
Tom closes with a powerful meditation on leadership legacy. He explains that real legacy isn't about being remembered—it's about ensuring the business can thrive without you. He challenges listeners to think beyond titles, financial outcomes, or even strategy, and focus on the enduring impact of culture, mentorship, and examples.
Trace echoes this with a reminder that great leaders not only lead—they leave well. If you're leading a team, planning your exit, or preparing the next generation of leadership, this episode is a must-listen.
To take this conversation further, download the Discussion Guide located in the Connect with the Guest section of the show notes.
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Timestamps
02:46 – Opening the episode, Trace reflects on the concept of the "butterfly line"—that uncomfortable but powerful moment right before growth happens
07:10 – Water You Know with James McDonald
09:08 – Upcoming Events for Water Treatment Professionals
11:49– Guest Intro: Tom "Hutch" Hutchison Returns
12:
Published on 6 months ago