Running with Purpose: How Brooks Outpaced Goliath Competitors to Lead the Pack

In the highly competitive global running market, Brooks Running Company CEO Jim Weber turned a struggling business into a billion-dollar brand. His leadership memoir, Running with Purpose, shares insights and inspirational stories for current and aspiring leaders, entrepreneurs, and runners worldwide. It outlines a one-page strategy that saved the company and laid the foundation for Brooks to become a leading brand. The book highlights Brooks' bold strategy, customer obsession, and leadership lessons, as well as the support of Berkshire Hathaway.

Format: Hardback
Length: 304 pages
Publication date: 09 June 2022
Publisher: HarperCollins Focus

Running with Purpose is a remarkable leadership memoir that delves into the captivating journey of Brooks Running Company CEO Jim Weber, who transformed a struggling business into a billion-dollar brand in the highly competitive global running market. This book offers a wealth of insights, inspiring stories, and practical takeaways for current and aspiring leaders, entrepreneurs, and the vibrant community of over 150 million runners worldwide, as well as those in the broader running community who are dedicated to continuous self-improvement.

The memoir begins with Jim Weber's childhood dream of running a successful company that would deliver something truly valuable to people. Fast forward to 2001, when Jim assumed the role of CEO at Brooks, a struggling brand that had gone through four CEOs in just two years. Faced with strong headwinds, Jim approached the challenge with a lifelong competitor's mindset and devised a one-page strategy that he believed had the potential to not only save the company but also propel it to become a dominant brand in the athletic, fitness, and outdoor categories.

To achieve this remarkable transformation, Jim had to inspire his team to believe in the possibility and embrace the conviction, fortitude, and unwavering purpose required to outperform larger brands. Brooks' success was further validated when Warren Buffett made it a standalone Berkshire Hathaway subsidiary in 2012.

In the pages of Running with Purpose, readers are invited to explore Brooks' bold strategy and unique brand positioning that played a pivotal role in its remarkable journey from the back of the pack to the forefront of the running industry. Jim shares the key principles that have guided Brooks in building a purpose-driven brand that is centered around customer obsession, trust-building, competitive spirit, and enjoyment.

Throughout his journey, Jim has learned six clear leadership lessons that he applies at Brooks to develop his staff into authentic leaders. These lessons encompass everything from fostering a culture of innovation and collaboration to creating a positive work environment that values diversity and inclusivity.

Moreover, the book provides an insightful look at how Berkshire Hathaway's support and influence have been a driving force behind Brooks' business and brand surge. Jim shares the valuable lessons he has learned from his interactions with Warren Buffett and the Berkshire Hathaway team, highlighting the importance of aligning values, maintaining a long-term perspective, and staying true to one's mission and vision.

Running with Purpose is not just a memoir; it is a roadmap for success that resonates with leaders and entrepreneurs across various industries. Whether you are a seasoned executive seeking to inspire your team or an aspiring entrepreneur embarking on your own journey, this book offers valuable insights and practical strategies to help you achieve your goals and make a meaningful impact.

In conclusion, Running with Purpose is a must-read for anyone who is passionate about leadership, entrepreneurship, and the world of running. Jim Weber's story is a testament to the power of vision, determination, and a commitment to purpose. This book provides valuable insights, inspiration, and practical takeaways that will empower readers to achieve their own remarkable successes and make a positive difference in the world.

Weight: 448g
Dimension: 236 x 160 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781400231683