Page 72 - The Way to the Top

John M. DERRICK, Jr.

Chairman and CEO of Pepco Holdings, Inc.

My career has been spent in the energy and utility business, where
knowing and serving your customers well is critical. It was in the Navy,
however, where I learned a crucial piece of business advice. I was a Civil

Engineering Corps officer specializing in base public works operations.
Staff officers in the Corps had oak leaves on their sleeves and the line
officers we supported had stars on their sleeves. When I paid my initial
call on the Commanding Officer, he asked if I knew what my job was. I

responded, “I think so, but perhaps the Captain should elaborate.” He said,
“Your job is to serve the people with the stars on their sleeves.” In other
words, know your customers and devote yourself to their well-being—a
simple and direct piece of advice that has guided me for more than forty

years.

Serve the ultimate boss, your customers