Andy Young is a Global Product Manager, Ricoh WorkFlow Software and Solutions. In this Ricoh Production Software “In the Spotlight” interview, we got a chance to get to know him a little bit better. Read on for his thoughts on work, life, a little bit of fun and what’s next for him in 2021.
Work
What brought you to Ricoh and when?
Technically I was a re-hire when I started at Ricoh in 2016 and I have recently passed my 16-year mark with the company. Previously I had been part of IKON Office Solutions marketing team in Malvern, PA which had acquired my own PDF service business, one of the last acquired by IKON during it’s “roll-up” phase. Most people do not realize that what we know now as Ricoh USA evolved from a vast network of copier and document service companies that were acquired over the course of just a few years. It was a crazy and amazing time!
What aspect of your role do you enjoy the most? I really enjoy connecting with Ricoh teams from all over the world. It is amazing to be in a far away place and find the same Ricoh, the same passion, the same customer focus and know that I am part of the fabric that holds it all together.
What does true leadership mean to you? Yes. Listening with respect, sharing a common vision and acting with integrity. Ricoh is full of great leaders.
What is the best career lesson you’ve learned so far? Learning how to fail. It can a very bitter pill to swallow but can also be a tremendous source of wisdom if you can accept the results and learn from them.
What advice would you give to new hires?Ask a lot of questions! There is a lot of tribal knowledge to absorb. Fortunately, we now have the tools to share this information more easily, but we still have a long way to go.
What are your hopes for the industry? I am very excited about the future of print, which is everywhere, but the nature, value and velocity of print is changing rapidly. Digital communications will continue to have a profound impact on print, but at the same time ink jet technology has far reaching potential. As an example, I am waiting for the day when someone will come to my house and print directly on the walls rather than hanging wallpaper.
Life
What are 3 words your kids and spouse use to describe you? Authentic. Creative. Problem-solver.
Do you have a personal philosophy? Do not ever judge others, which is really a lot harder than it sounds. We need to all understand that everyone has their own story that has shaped their life. Show grace, not judgement.
What would you tell your 13-year old self? Take advantage of your education and use it as a vehicle to achieve your dreams. However, given my experience having this talk with my own children, I am not sure it would have made much of a difference. I believe how you act is much more important long-term than what you say.
When are you happiest? Running the single-track trails in the foothills above Boulder, Colorado on a crisp blue sky morning.
What would you like to be known for? As a serial entrepreneur I am supposed say that I want to change the world, but I have come to realize that being a good father, husband and friend is all that really truly matters.
Fun
What have you been watching recently? A lot of travel shows lately. I can do a pretty good impression of Rick Steeves which really annoys my wife.
What is a superpower you wish you had?To not have to sleep, but I would settle for staying awake past 10:30 pm.
If you weren’t working at Ricoh you would be…. Well, I love to cook, especially lighter, veggie-based meals with a lot of flavor. Lately been exploring Thai and Indian flavors.
What is the first concert you ever attended? I was 6 years old and Crystal Gayle pulled me up to stage, sat me on a stool and sang a song to me. Pretty cool since she is Loretta Lynn’s baby sister.
Sweet or savory? Team savory for sure! Hard cheeses, olives, pretzels yum!
What’s Next?
Where do you see yourself in 26 months (5 years is boring)? 10% leaner, 20% smarter and with no more hair on the top of my head.
Be sure to connect with Andy on LinkedIn.
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