Shadow Robot: Leading with values
At Shadow Robot, we believe that scaling culture is a challenge, but clear values, consistently practiced, pave the way to success. As Rich Walker, our director, puts it, “It’s hard to scale culture, but clear values consistently put into practice are a means of achieving that.”
Walker emphasises the significance of values throughout a business’s journey, including at the end-game. He critiques the traditional model of founders cashing out without sharing success with those who contributed. “I want to be involved in a business where everyone benefits from the payoff, reflecting a true measure of integrity,” he says.
Authenticity and integrity
Walker shares an example of integrity: a private equity firm where partners demonstrated fairness by distributing profits equitably, regardless of individual office contributions. This kind of authentic, values-driven approach is central to our philosophy.
Cultural Fit and leadership
Shadow Robot’s origin story, from making robots in an attic to becoming a leader in tele-operation technology, highlights the importance of maintaining a company’s culture. Walker’s transition to CEO and involvement in the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses programme reshaped the company’s growth strategy, focusing on long-term value beyond immediate profits.
Values-driven decision making
Our values guide us in making decisions that align with both ethical standards and long-term goals. For instance, our commitment to supporting the Woodland Trust aligns with our values, ensuring that our actions contribute positively to the environment.
Maintaining trust and addressing challenges
Values are crucial for building trust and navigating challenges. Walker acknowledges that while values can help support team members, they must also prevent detrimental situations from persisting too long.
Guiding principles over processes
Walker asserts that values, unlike rigid processes, should guide behavior and decision-making. Our ‘play - support - fun’ brand promise reflects this approach, encouraging creativity, problem-solving, and enjoyment in the workplace.
Preserving culture amidst growth
Shadow Robot has chosen not to seek outside investment, allowing us to focus on what interests us and align with our values without external pressures. We view success not just in financial terms but through our commitment to our values and the impact they have on our work.
Embracing new perspectives
Values are not static; they evolve with new insights and changing environments. The rise of ESG considerations and B-Corp accreditation reflects our commitment to continuously refining our values and perspectives.
- Extract from a DECISION Magazine interview commissioned by CapEQ
