Two weeks ago, he had been tapped to accompany the CEO on an important business trip to New York City. The company was in the midst of negotiating a new contract with one of its biggest clients. He and the CEO would be staying in the most expensive suite at one of the city's finest hotels. There they would wine and dine their clients while making their case for a higher retainer fee. Peter, the CEO, was unhappy with the track the prenegotiation process was taking.
Conference calls with the firm's president had yielded nothing but frustration.
That's when he decided to hold a weeklong series of meetings with the CEO and his executive staff. Peter needed a polished professional with a diplomatic bent to accompany him and help twist some arms. He needed someone who could play by the rules, but who was approachable and down to earth. Larry fit the description. He was a country boy who had worked hard to put himself through school.