Seventh Generation was founded in 1988.  The company develops high-quality, natural household products that can be used without risking the health of individuals or the future of the planet.  The Seventh Generation line is the leading brand of natural household products.  The company is a leader in the socially responsible business community.

 

Mr. Hollender addressed the concept of establishing and maintaining socially responsible business ethics within a company.  The key specifics include instituting a mission which is not only preached but practiced, respecting conflict within the workplace, and encouraging all employees to create a healthy balance between work and life.  Remaining socially responsible today can be a challenging in a world of externalized costs, but Mr. Hollender insists that the close monitoring of company activities can ensure that a company will continue to achieve its mission.  Mr. Hollender also spoke to the importance of cooperating and communicating with competitors.

 

A lively question/answer session followed the presentation with ideas broached by the faculty, staff, and students in attendance.  Mr. Hollender answered multiple questions about the structure of his own company.  In particular, he discussed Seventh Generation's hiring principles (the company has an interview process which allows them to determine if the interviewee's beliefs are aligned with the company's beliefs) and the overall goals of the company (which include a significant growth objective as well as a desire to provide an enjoyable work experience for all employees).

 

Dr. William Averyt, MBA Director, arranged for this presentation by Mr. Jeffrey Hollender.  The next MBA Open Forum presentation will be given by K. Scottie Ginn, entitled "Competitive Challenges in a Global Marketplace," on October 14 at 6:00 p.m.