Rhett Hintze was the Chief Operating Officer at Bravo Group, a widely respected strategic communications firm in Pennsylvania. His new venture, StateSource, provides state-level procurement strategies to companies seeking to enter or grow their state government business. Growing up in Wisconsin, Rhett was influenced early by his father, an electrical engineer, and his mother, a dedicated homemaker. He honed his public administration and finance skills, earning a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Brigham Young University and a Master of Public Administration from Syracuse University.
At Bravo, Rhett played a pivotal role in scaling operations, reducing costs, and driving innovative strategies to enhance efficiency and profitability. His leadership is characterized by a commitment to integrity, speed, and a low-ego approach underpinned by values of forgiveness, compassion, and empathy. Outside of his professional life, Rhett enjoys road trips, horticulture, running, hiking, and skiing, and is a fan of F1 motorsports and college football. He actively contributes to his community through volunteer work with his church and local food banks and supports educational initiatives at the Daraja Academy in Kenya. Rhett’s approach to life and work is profoundly shaped by his mentor, former state CIO Charlie Gerhards, emphasizing the importance of strategic foresight and resilience.
Can you describe the trajectory that led you to your role as COO?
My path was built on a foundation of finance and public administration as well as my experience working for the state government Chief Information Officer. After earning my degrees from Brigham Young and Syracuse University, I was keen on applying my knowledge in a practical, impactful way. After working in state government, helping implement technology projects, and developing cutting-edge technology solutions that streamlined our operational processes, significantly reducing our overhead costs while boosting profitability. It is satisfying to see how these changes improved the bottom line and enhanced our service delivery policy. Bravo Group offered the perfect platform to leverage my skills in scaling operations and enhancing efficiency, which was a key focus as COO.
What innovations are you most proud of?
One of the initiatives I’m proudest of is the implementation of cutting-edge technology solutions that streamlined our operational processes, significantly reducing our overhead costs while boosting profitability. Seeing how these changes improved the bottom line and enhanced our service delivery is satisfying. .
What was your typical day like?
Every day is different, but it generally starts with reviewing our key operational metrics and touching base with team members, focusing on long-term goals, and often, troubleshooting any immediate challenges we face.
How do you maintain a balance between your professional and personal life, especially with such a demanding job?
I firmly believe in the importance of a balanced life. I make time for personal interests, spending time with my wife and family, working on outdoor projects, and connecting with nature, which help me recharge. Additionally, I volunteer, which not only fulfills a personal commitment to giving back but also provides a refreshing perspective away from work.
What strategies do you find most effective for leading a large team?
Leading with integrity and empathy has always been my approach. I strive to foster an environment where team members feel valued and understood. This involves regular communication, recognizing individual contributions, and encouraging professional growth.
Could you share an example of a challenge you’ve faced and how you overcame it?
One significant challenge was aligning our team during a major project shift that involved changing our marketing strategy. It required careful negotiation and reassurance to get everyone on board. We held several alignment sessions where we openly discussed concerns and how this shift would benefit us in the long term, which eventually led to a successful transition.
What are the key characteristics you believe every COO should possess?
A COO should be adaptable, foresighted, and decisive. These characteristics are crucial for handling the dynamism and pressures of the role. Also, a deep understanding of both the operational and strategic facets of the business is essential.
Who has been your greatest mentor, and what have you learned from them?
Charlie Gerhards, the former Pennsylvania state CIO, has been a tremendous mentor to me. From him, I learned the importance of resilience and strategic foresight. His ability to navigate complex challenges involving many members of different organizations with grace and determination profoundly influenced my approach to leadership and problem-solving.
What future goals do you have?
Looking ahead, I am helping start up a new business with a friend, providing some consultative expertise, and evaluating opportunities that may involve a business acquisition. I’ve also started a new business, StateSource, focused on helping companies enter or grow their business within state government procurement opportunities. All I get involved with will involve helping others overcome challenges through innovative means.
Lastly, what advice would you give someone aspiring to a COO position?
I suggest embracing every learning opportunity and not shying away from challenges, as they are your greatest learning opportunities. Developing relationships of trust with those you work with while exemplifying kindness and integrity as you work through concerns helps provide an internal network of support when change needs to happen. Building a solid foundation in understanding how each facet of your organization operates can significantly prepare you for the complexities of a COO role.