45 Years and Counting!

She is the stuff legends are made of.  She is one of the most highly respected leaders within our business and  industry.  She is hard working, results oriented and driven to succeed while also maintaining the perfect balance of kindness, compassion and generosity.  Yesterday afternoon we celebrated 45 years of her incredible service to Lansing Building Products and during the celebration she proudly declared, “sign me up for another 45 years”!  I would be foolish to bet against her.

Glenda started with Ted Lansing Corporation in 1972. She began her career as my grandfather Ted Lansing’s secretary. The company quickly realized her capabilities, and in 1973 she was promoted to Office Manager of Windjammer Manufacturing. This was our plant manufacturing storm windows, doors and awnings. In fact, upon my father’s graduation from college his first assignment with the company was as Plant Manager for Windjammer.

In 1977, Glenda came back to the Richmond office as the Richmond Credit Manager and also acted as Ted Lansing’s executive assistant through his illness and passing.  She was promoted to VP Marketing in 1985 and given overall Credit Responsibilities for the company.   In 1995, Glenda became the VP of Chesapeake Window Products and VP Credit.  She was promoted to Executive VP of Chesapeake Window Products in 1996.

The value of her knowledge and experience was evidenced when the decision was made to sell Chesapeake Window Products. CertainTeed Corporation would only agree to the purchase if Glenda went with the plant – they recognized she was one of its most valuable assets. She therefore officially left Lansing for about 3 years as a condition of the sale. Generally, this time is referred to as her ‘furlough’ — since in our hearts Glenda was always ‘one of us’.

In 2001 we welcomed Glenda back in the capacity of Corporate Credit Manager. She continues in that position today.

Throughout the years Glenda has played a key role in many facets of LBP’s development. She has served in so many positions and assignments — and in each demonstrated outstanding ability and dedication. Her likeable nature and friendliness is what all of us are drawn to. Her smile is infectious.

LBP was founded on the 3 core values of RESPECT, SERVICE, and EXCELLENCE. I can think of no person who more clearly exemplifies and represents the true meaning of those words than Glenda. Undoubtedly, without her the company would not be where it is today. For most people, 45 years of service would mean retirement but legends are not  “most people” and our legend continues her amazing career at Lansing Building Products.

Click here to watch a slideshow of Glenda’s 45 year history with LBP.