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PROFILE
Uncharted territory: Rod Zubella President and CEO of Vierbicher (Reedsburg, WI), a community planning and engineering firm that is a proven partner for thriving Wisconsin communities.
By LIISA ANDREASSEN Correspondent
I n 2024, Vierbicher was once again name a Best Firm To Work For by Zweig Group and Zubella most attributes this to being a firm that inspires its team to perform at a high level. As a whole, the company has created an environment where staff feel valued and like they can make a difference. “We’re a very open book here,” Zubella says. “We share financial data and always ask staff for input. I surround myself with smart people.” ASSESS AND ANALYZE. When Zubella reflects on the firm’s history, he’s reminded of how important it is to learn from mistakes, correct them and move on. For instance, prior to the Great Recession, he says the company had far too many corporate initiatives; not many were getting accomplished. “Our financial performance was subpar,” he says. “So, in 2011, we deliberately stepped back and examined our entire operation and stopped doing things that weren’t producing value.” They went through the 80/20 program with a consultant
and analyzed their complete client list. They took steps that allowed them to place focus on their best clients and to simplify their business practices. For example, Zubella asked his accounting manager to come up with a list of how she was spending her time. They learned that a surprising amount was spent on invoicing. As a result, they eliminated non-productive
activities and overall, streamlined the system. Zubella says the results have been amazing.
“Business simplification and a focus on clients and priorities that move the needle have been guiding principles for us ever since,” he shares. “We constantly remind ourselves that our current and future success is due to a clear focus on priorities. And, while we have a great client list, a large range of experience, and a well-rounded and talented staff, we don’t plan to be everything to everybody.” Since then, the company has seen its highest profitability.
See UNCHARTED TERRITORY , page 12
THE ZWEIG LETTER AUGUST 19, 2024, ISSUE 1550
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