Chapter 458 The Office Showdown with Victor
Victor saw Ashley sitting in Damian's office reading documents. He was undoubtedly surprised, but he quickly gathered his thoughts and smiled calmly, "Damian, even if there's a lawsuit to handle, you need to rest. Isn't your eyes tired from all these documents?"
Ashley straightened her back and smiled faintly, "Mr. Victor Hearst and Mr. Damian Hearst are indeed brothers, calling each other by their first names even in the company?"
She was subtly reminding Victor that they were in the company, and using such familiar names was inappropriate.
Victor's face turned slightly pale for a moment, and he joked, "Does this mean the three of us have to be involved in the next matter?"
Otherwise, why would Damian call him here?
Ashley thought that she had suggested teaming up with Damian yesterday, and today he specifically brought Victor. Was he testing her qualifications?
With different thoughts in mind, Damian walked over to the large desk and sat down calmly, "What do you think about the proposal at today's board meeting?"
This question was directed at Victor but did not exclude Ashley.
Allowing an outsider to listen in on internal company matters puzzled Victor, but he didn't object on the spot, "Currently, we can't ignore the overall economic characteristics of the region. Shifting development strategies might not be a bad idea, especially with the high demand for infrastructure domestically. Participating in the development of third and fourth-tier cities might allow the company to make breakthroughs."
In just a few words, Ashley understood the key point of this conversation.
KM wanted to develop new business.
Damian said coldly, "I'm not referring to that matter."
Ashley was stunned.
Was she thinking wrong?
Victor reacted quickly, almost without pausing, "Are you referring to the camera development business? After KM acquired the Fields Group, the technical department quickly formed a project team, but cameras are a new field for us. We lack technical support, and hiring talent temporarily has slowed down the process."
Ashley looked up at Damian, who was calm and held a high position.
Did he value this business so much?
Later, she heard from Amelia that after the company's business was acquired, KM planned to upgrade the entire company, seemingly preparing to develop cameras that could rival brands like Leica and Zeiss.
Both of them were not very involved in their family businesses, so Amelia didn't provide more details.
Damian still had a calm expression, "The Fields Group's technical personnel and equipment are in place, and the team is not bad. What we lack is management reform. What are your thoughts?"
The board only discussed major policies, and the specific implementation was left to various levels of cooperation after the meeting. Damian specifically brought Victor to show Ashley and to start working on this matter.
Seeing that Damian was seriously discussing work, Victor didn't hold back, "Firstly, the Fields Group faced financial difficulties due to poor management and competitive disadvantages. I suggest replacing the original management team and having KM directly send people to take over. Secondly, although Daryl Fields is the owner of the Fields Group, his ideas and KM's are not on the same level. I suggest having him step back from the company. Thirdly, major camera brands worldwide are monopolized, indicating that technical challenges are tough. To truly disrupt the traditional market, it's best to bring in experts, though this will be costly."
Victor's points were valid, and his ability to "improvise" in such a short time showed his competence.
Ashley kept a close eye on the situation, observing quietly.
At this moment, Damian's gaze suddenly shifted to her, and he asked calmly, "You're good friends with Daryl's daughter. I'd like to hear your thoughts on this matter."
Because she was friends with Amelia, she had the right to speak?
Damian, you never cease to amaze me with your far-fetched reasons.
Victor opened his mouth to say something but ended up smiling politely, "Don't be nervous, Ashley. We're just chatting casually. Besides, you're KM's lawyer for multiple collaborations. We actually need legal opinions on this matter."
What a smooth talker, what a diplomat. If she didn't already know his ambitious nature, Ashley might have been moved.
After a moment of contemplation, she began, "I'm not very knowledgeable about corporate management. Although I'm good friends with Amelia, I don't get involved in the company's affairs. So if I say something wrong or offend anyone, I hope you both won't mind."
This was a good way to cover herself, avoiding any backlash later.
Damian nodded, "It's fine, we're just brainstorming."
Victor squinted slightly, not quite understanding Damian's intentions.
Ashley continued, "Victor mentioned that the Fields Group was forced to sell the company due to management and competition issues and suggested replacing the management team. This idea isn't bad, but if we replace the leadership entirely in a short time, it will inevitably shake the staff's morale and sense of security. As the saying goes, 'When the rabbit dies, the fox grieves.' If all the leaders are dismissed, what will the staff think? Moreover, dismissing executives requires paying substantial severance, which would be a significant expense."
"Secondly, Mr. Fields, as the head and founder of the Fields Group, treats the company like his own child. I've heard Amelia complain that her dad practically lives at the company, working overtime every day and not taking a vacation for years, trying to handle everything personally. While his work style may not be perfect, his dedication to the company is evident. I don't think anyone is more suitable to lead the Fields Group's development than him."
Victor's face didn't look good, but he restrained himself and smiled slightly.
Ashley looked at Damian, who showed no expression, and continued, "It's often said that outsiders have a clearer perspective. Sometimes I think so too, especially in advanced technology. Developed countries are indeed a step ahead. However, I heard that KM acquired the Fields Group because they have a patent that is almost ready for production. If that's the case, why hire new talent? Of course, if we want to upgrade, research talent is essential."
After some thought, she added, "I'm not part of KM and have no right to interfere in corporate management and business expansion. As an outsider, I have a small suggestion. Since the Fields Group's camera development is mainly for mobile phone components, partnering with mobile phone brands for development might be a good idea. Both sides can invest in technology, funds, and talent, sharing risks and benefits."
After speaking, she humbly nodded to the two leaders, showing a slightly embarrassed smile, "I hope I didn't make a fool of myself. As a non-professional, I dared to show off in front of two extremely smart people. If I said anything wrong, just ignore it."
Unnoticed, Damian's usually stoic face showed a hint of warmth.
As a non-professional, her insights were already commendable. Although somewhat naive and idealistic, the general direction was correct.
Moreover, she targeted Victor at every turn, which Damian particularly appreciated.
As she said, was this her way of helping him?
"Victor, what do you think?"
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