In 1982, Rick Palo set out to start a business with one truck and one furniture delivery customer. He quickly transformed the business into one of the Midwest’s largest and most successful transportation companies. As the president of the company, Palo appreciates these modest beginnings and still leads his team by expecting management to “walk the talk.”
In fact, he has always been a hands-on leader with an open-door policy. “Guiding others through example inspires the team so everyone is working toward a common goal,” said Palo. “When employees see you are willing to go the extra mile to achieve goals as a team, they respond positively and do the same.”
Rapid Response is a full-service transportation provider specializing in full truckloads, in-home deliveries and in-home service installation throughout 48 states. The company’s mission has always been a simple 5-point plan that prioritizes commitment, family focus, integrity, goals and respect.
Palo said it’s important to remain influential and an industry leader. “We will keep finding ways to promote growth in the industry with new market locations and service offerings, thereby growing the customer base and adding job opportunities,” he said. “This is how we have achieved our success so far in the transportation industry over the last 20 years.”
This success has led to tremendous growth with an expected $50 million in revenue within the next five years. The success of the company is only as strong as its employees, said Palo. “We will continue to give back to the local community and set an example of what a transportation company should look like, valuing its employees and helping them to balance their work and home life,” he said.
These efforts have led Palo to adapt to the ever-changing needs of the transportation industry, tailoring software and reporting programs to ensure customers receive the information they ask for and assembling a team that shares his professional objectives. This is also what contributes to the long-standing tenure of many of his employees.
“While growth and revenue are very important factors to an organization, Rick is also dedicated to giving back to the local community,” said his staff. “Of his many accomplishments, supporting others is at the top of the list of what he is most proud of. Faith, family and the community are the utmost of importance to Rick.”
For his hands-on leadership style and success, Palo has been named a Titan.
