Tommy Lawler, managing partner and CEO, Weaver
Here’s how you know when you have the full attention of the managing partner and CEO of the largest independent accounting firm in the Southwest: he leans back in his chair, and one after another, slowly plops his feet on his desk, crossing them. Time to talk with Tommy Lawler, the laid back accountant who doesn’t necessarily exemplify the stereotypical CPA. There’s more on the desk than those Justin boots. Check out what else we found on Tommy Lawler’s desk:
General items: Think Like a Freak. A book that teaches how to think more productively, creatively and rationally. “It’s really talking about the different way of thinking about problems.”
Philosophy reminders. Two items that never leave. A passage from The Man in the Arena (Theodore Roosevelt), describing where credit truly belongs, and “Lessons in Leadership: From a Janitor,” an article that describes 10 important leadership lessons, from an issue of Wharton Leadership Digest. “It really explains how people ought to be treated.”
Teachings of Jesus: Founder Lloyd Weaver gave this book to Lawler when Lawler took over as managing partner in 2009. In a personal note, Weaver explained how he used it in his Bible class at TCU in 1939 and how it influenced the general atmosphere and culture of the firm in its formative years.
A Rubik’s Cube. “I’ve never been able to complete it, either.”
1. Victor desk adding machine. Still works, in more ways than one. “This is what was given to me when I started here in 1979. Helps keep me grounded that I’m still the same guy even though I’m managing partner.”
2. Desktop computer monitors: Two of them. The Company Core Values acronym “ACTION” appears on both every time he or an employee logs on – a reminder of the firm’s work philosophy of integrity, teamwork and commitment to client service.
3. Family photos: Wife, son, daughter and grandchildren beaming at him. “Even on the bad days, they are reminders that there’s still somebody out there who loves you.”
4. Water tumbler. An item given to every Weaver employee that exhibits the Weaver logo. Ice cold water keeps him alert. “I’m not much of a coffee drinker.”
5. Justin Roper boots. When they’re up on the desk, and he’s leaning back in his chair, you know you’ve got his attention. “I’m a laid back person. I have an open door policy of people coming in here. I try to stay comfortable. I like for my people to be comfortable.”
Quote: “What’s on your desk are either things you’re working on or something that reminds you what needs to be done. They also remind you of the important things in your life.”