The High Integrity Leader: Q+A with Bob King, CEO of Sage Freight

At Jordan Partners, a highlight of our work is partnering with extraordinary leaders, managers, and people.

Our inspiration and model for leadership is Julian Robertson of Tiger Management, whose uncompromising standards for management teams guided us as investors in the Tiger network and now define our investment philosophy.

Julian's values and his approach to identifying exceptional leaders set the bar for the people we seek as partners. With key attributes further defined by our C-suite advisory network, we've made investing alongside a "High Integrity Leader" a mandatory criterion for all Jordan investments.

Meet Sage Freight's Bob King, a dynamic CEO known for building strong relationships who exemplifies what it means to be a "High Integrity Leader."

In the Q+A below, Bob shares insights from his career in the transportation and logistics industry and reflects on his values-driven approach to building Sage Freight. We are honored to have Bob's bootstrapped company in Brentwood, Tennessee as our first portfolio company and to have Bob as a partner.

And, if Bob's words resonate with you as a fellow High Integrity Leader — a purpose-driven, low-ego CEO who values integrity and relentless learning — we'd love to hear from you.

Q:  Bob, why did you start Sage?

I felt like I had left something incomplete and had a mission to continue. As I spoke with other organizations about managing their teams, I consistently observed challenges in culture and how they impacted profitability. To move forward, I would need to overhaul major parts of the organization. Most companies are content with being merely "good" rather than striving for greatness.

Multiple people told me that if I started another company and it failed, it would tarnish my reputation for what I had built successfully. My view was not focused on what I had done in the past but on what I had learned and could apply to my next venture."

Q: What motivates you in continuing to scale the business?

Scaling the business motivates me because it enables us to empower others, foster innovation, and create a lasting legacy. I am committed to demonstrating that a business can thrive with both a strong culture and profitability, ensuring stability and growth for both our team and the community."

Q: You are now an experienced, long-time CEO. What would you tell anyone starting on their CEO journey today?

After thirty-one years in logistics, I wish I could share many lessons with my younger self. Four key lessons stand out:

• People, Purpose, Process equates to Profitability.
  
  
• Leadership is the core differential between businesses that succeed or fail.
  
  
• Maintaining a strong culture requires continuous development of your team through reading.
  
  
• There is always some truth in criticism; it hurts, but, in the end, if you face it without ego, you will find the lesson.

Q:  How do you keep learning and evolving across your team?

This journey fuels my passion for continuous growth and improvement. I love reading and learning to enhance my management, leadership, and communication skills. There is no pinnacle to development; you never truly arrive."

Q:  You have a strong people focus. What do you see as the key to developing and motivating people within your organization and how has that contributed to Sage's success?

When we inaugurated Sage, over thirty individuals from a prior venture joined our ranks. They were steadfast in their belief in the value-driven leadership philosophy that underpins my vision.

Furthermore, I am committed to ensuring that individuals reap the rewards of their hard work and dedication. I ensured that key leaders and contributors were endowed with shareholding privileges. During my tenure at a pre-IPO business, when we transitioned to a public entity, I observed hundreds of individuals ascend to millionaire status. That lesson was profoundly impactful.

Lastly, my board comprises individuals who are unafraid to provide candid feedback. My rapport with them, coupled with my profound respect for their leadership and personal qualities, has facilitated my growth and learning from some of the most formidable leaders in our industry. Business is all about relationships."

Jordan Partners is proud to be Sage Freight's investment partner. We wanted to work with Sage not only for the high-growth business your special team is building but also because you specifically are one of the Highest-Integrity Leaders we've met in our careers.

Q: You've been approached by many firms over the years. Why did you choose Jordan Partners?

Three Key Reasons:

• Genuine and Approachable: Unlike typical private equity firms that rely on credentials and polished appearances, Jordan Partners stands out for its authenticity and accessibility.
  
  
• Commitment to Real Values: Jordan Partners' focus on sustainable growth and long-term success aligns perfectly with our vision.
  
  
• In-depth Industry Knowledge: Through thorough research and numerous discussions, it became clear that Jordan Partners possesses a profound understanding of our sector and is committed to supporting us in addressing future challenges.

Q:  How would you describe Jordan's approach to working with your team and Sage more broadly?

Jordan encourages Sage and its leadership team to share challenges openly. Moreover, they care about me and my team as individuals, not merely as a means to achieve a 5x return. It's about building something great together. Their financial acumen has refined our growth strategy, enabling us to be more strategic and forward-thinking.

Jordan Partners is not merely a sidecar to our success; they are an integral partner, actively contributing to our journey."

Q:  What impact has your team's relationship with Jordan Partners had on your business?

Sage exemplifies how Jordan Partners' steadfast support and unparalleled expertise drive success. Their guidance extends beyond the provision of capital, offering invaluable strategic insights and an unwavering commitment. How many partnerships exhibit such dedication and genuine concern?

Knowing we have each others' backs provides immense security and fosters a robust foundation for growth. Jordan has been equitable in discussions, even when opinions diverge, and has been a cornerstone of support for our mission. Moreover, Jordan Partners understands the profound impact of short-sighted decisions on Sage's team members and culture."

Q:  One last question: Is there a book or an example of leadership that you can point to as a defining influence on your approach as a leader?

I've been dubbed the "George Bailey of brokerage," a nod to the timeless film It's a Wonderful Life. Unlike some peers, I haven't experienced a lucrative exit from selling a business yet. In my early forties, I grappled with this, much like George Bailey. The values from that 1946 classic remain profoundly relevant today. Your team values your integrity and how it shapes their lives, not your background or material wealth.

My father - my mentor and my hero - passed away ten years ago. His greatest regrets were not taking more risks, not starting a business, and not making a greater impact. I am proud to embody his spirit, just as I strive to be the "George Bailey of brokerage."

Thank you, Bob, for your time and your partnership. We're excited about the path ahead.