0015

The meeting was supposed to have hold two hours earlier but due to the little scenario that happened, Lisa had the meeting adjourned and let the fuss die down for a while.

Lisa walked into the conference room, taking her seat at the head of the table. As the new chairwoman and owner of Dela Cruz groups, she was determined to lead the company back to the top of the market. The board members sat around the table, waiting for her to begin.

"Good afternoon, everyone." Lisa began, her voice calm but firm. "I want to thank you all for being here today to discuss how we can restore Dela Cruz groups from collapsing finally and bring it back to the top where it belongs."

She looked around the room, meeting each person's eyes. The reaction on their faces were just the same as she heard expected, she nodded slowly then started at a slide presentation.

"As you all know..." She continued, maintaining the same fame tone. "We need to rebuild our reputation, and I have come up with a plan of action. Firstly, we need to analyze our product line and we must come into line with our offerings with the demands of our customers. This means investing in research and development, exploring sustainable practices, and staying ahead of market trends."

Lisa emphasized the importance of introducing something new and the readiness to make certain changes where necessary.

"Secondly, we need to improve customer relations." She uttered, leaning forward in her chair. "We need to rebuild trust and strengthen our connection with our valued clients. This involves actively seeking their feedback, being transparent about any shortcomings, and providing exceptional customer service."

She paused, looking around the room again.

"Lastly..." She enounced, firmly. "We need to enhance our internal processes. We need to streamline our operations, function more efficiently and encourage collaboration across all departments. In short, we need to be more effective and productive."

The board members leaned forward when they realized Lisa's attitude. It brought a sense of stability and purpose they have been missing —if only she had been the chairwoman all along, with her perfect ideas, the groups were sure to have exceeds expectations.

"In conclusion." Lisa enunciated, wrapping up her speech. "We have a long way to go but I am confident that by working together and being strict with our goals, we can restore Dela Cruz groups to its former glory and even surpass it."

Lisa leaned back in her chair, surveying the room; she watched the board member's expressions as they took in her every word. Even if the rules depends on her, Lisa thought it wouldn't be nice if one or two persons did not contribute to her speech.

The group seemed enthusiastic and Lisa knew that with their help, they could do it but their ideas and intelligence is also needed.

"Does anyone else has a better suggestion that can be added to what I've said?" She requested, hoping for a positive answer, at least.

"There isn't much to added, so I believe." The oldest amongst the executives, Mr. Brandon, said as he adjusts his eyeglasses. "We all know that Dela Cruz groups have faced turbulent times recently but I believe that adversity can be the way out for change. And today, we have an opportunity to reinvent ourselves and rebuild our brand."

Another executive cleared his throat before speaking. "Just as you've said, our relationship with our clients matters. Together, we will forge lasting relationships and restore faith in the Dela Cruz brand." He leans forward, demonstrating his commitment.

"I firmly believe that we have the talent, the resources, and the determination to turn this company around. Each and every one of us brings invaluable expertise to the table,all we need is to be bold, take risks, and think outside the box..." came another suggestion.

The room went silent for a while but the facial expressions of other executives shows they are in support of the said ideas and strategies without any opposition whatsoever.

Lisa seeing the replies and reaction, she concluded the meeting finally. "Let's remember why we chose to be a part of Dela Cruz groups in the first place —because we believe in its potential. Together, we will transform this potential into reality and restore Dela Cruz to its rightful place as an industry leader."

She made to leave the meeting and the board members also rise from their seats, applauding Lisa's impassioned speech. With newfound inspiration, the team sets forth on their mission to revive Dela Cruz groups.

***

Andy's smile was wide enough to reach his eyes as he walked beside Lisa. "You did well back there, Lisa." He commended her, the smile still yet to leave his eyes. "Your first board meeting was a success and I'm proud of you."

Andy was tempted to pat her on her head as he raised his right hand towards her head but he quickly recalled that they are in public and had his hand withdrawed, feeling quite disappointed.

"Not only my first meeting, it's expected for every other meetings as well." Lisa told him, her voice was plain and void but Andy could sense the worry hidden under the guise of being strong.

"You don't need to worry about other things anymore because you are stronger than you think you are, Lisa." He encouraged her, smiling softly but contagiously. "You just have to do as your heart tells you to and see how things turn out beautifully well."

"I hope so, Andy, I'm afraid of disappointing and letting everyone down, most especially my parents... "I She muttered slowly as they entered her newly prepared office. "I don't want to let them down once again after the last time I did."

"You won't, girl. Quit the negative feelings you are having, it's the least expected of you as a chairwoman." He told her. "Keep your head high always and see how you ace this position better than anyone else."

Lisa saw herself smiling as he encouraged her but felt a little guilt overwhelmed her. Andy had to look away from his family misery just to be by her side; Lisa could only hope it doesn't alter his relationship with them...