Jeff Simmons, CEO of Elanco Animal Health, credits his upbringing on a grape farm in upstate New York for shaping his leadership philosophy. At age 7, a devastating hailstorm wiped out his family’s crop, leaving his father in tears. When Simmons’ brother asked if they were in trouble, his father pointed to the barn where employees were working and said, “This isn’t about us.
It’s about them.” That moment taught Simmons the importance of prioritizing people over personal loss. The experience instilled in him a deep sense of responsibility and empathy, values he now applies in leading Elanco, a global animal health company. Simmons often reflects on how agricultural challenges taught him resilience, community, and servant leadership—principles that continue to guide his corporate decisions and company culture.
Source: Wall Street Journal US Business · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing