2/4/2010
2nd Recipient of the George Hayward CPMR Champion Trophy George Hayward. Who was he? Well…the question really is: who is George Hayward? He was an exceptional person whose spirit/influence continues to live large in the professional and educational activities of at least 14 trade associations world wide. That also includes the Manufacturers Representatives Educational Research Foundation (MRERF). We – MRERF -- could not have custom designed a more enthusiastic cheerleader-supporter.
I have been asked to “talk about George” as a background for awarding the George Hayward Championship trophy and designation. That’s a daunting assignment. I have tried to distill my comments to a few highlights but bear in mind this is only a summary of who he was and is.
Some attributes of George are: He had a passion for raising the standards of practice for manufacturers representatives both in the field and in the office. He was persistent and never gave up when he made a commitment. He paid attention to details. Above all, he cared about people and truly wanted each individual to attain their highest potential.
What did George do? Briefly…if that is possible…He started the United Sales Associates agency nearly 28 years ago after being engaged in various facets of the safety industry. Now USA has 30 employees serving in 8 states representing manufacturers in that industry very effectively.
My first point was that George was an accomplished influencer – as well as an instigator of increased educational opportunities in many industry groups including Manufacturers Agents National Association (MANA), who appointed him as their International Development point man. He went on to become a board member of the International Union of Commercial Agents and Brokers which provides the professional development umbrella for 450,000 agencies in Greater Europe with links to South America and Asia. He was the first non-European board member for IUCAB and, I suspect, his level of intensity and commitment was somewhat unique in their experience.
Personally, I counted on George as a mentor and a valuable sounding board with down-to-earth advice and telling insight that was very helpful when working with volunteers and staff members in various organizations. I always certain that George was being just as thoughtfully helpful to many other people as he was for me.
George was soon to become the Board Chairman for MANA after serving on their Board for many years. He was also a guest speaker in the College of Business, Ohio State University. The list of his activities and accomplishments as well as awards, is long.
Throughout all his activities, George lived his convictions with a high degree of integrity. He set – and maintained – a standard that all representatives firms would do well to emulate. He was truly a Champion for the profession of Manufacturers Representative and the designation of Certified Professional Manufacturers Representative.
Marilyn Friesen, Ed.D., CSP
Comments at the Jan. 2010 CPMR noon luncheon, Arizona State University
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Arvada, Colorado 80005 
