Robert Hessel, Source 1 Solutions Inc CEO: ‘Our Mission is to Partner with Truly Great Companies to Expand Technical Capabilities and Geographical Reach’

Security is one of the fastest-growing industries of the 21st century, given the rampant increase in threats to businesses globally. All major and minor companies need to protect their data from fraudulent activities in order to ensure privacy of sensitive information. Global security companies are on the rise, coming up with new ways of tackling security problems and providing their clients with a sense of safety and security.

Source 1 Solutions is one such global services company that provides IT solutions to its clients all over the world. Founded by Robert Hessel in 2011, the company has been providing high-tech solutions to businesses worldwide. Source 1 currently provide sits services to over 500 hospitals, major retailers, global shipping companies, and four global banks in 96 countries. Major companies like Orange Business Services, Verizon Wireless, Vodafone, and several other global service providers

Source 1 Solutions was founded in 2011 and is headquartered in Clearwater FL.

In Conversation with Robert Hessel, Source 1 Solutions CEO

What was the idea behind the setup of Source 1 Solutions?

It was created with the vision of a services-only firm specializing in expanding clients’ technical capabilities and geographical reach.

Can you brief us about the history of your company?

We established Source 1 Solutions in 2011 focused on IT, Security and International parts delivery. We expanded our operations in 2012 by opening European locations, with an increased focus on expanding globally. By 2016, we had standardized internal operations utilizing International standards for business delivery. From 2017-2018, we focused on moving all global technology system operations to Clearwater, Florida. Currently, we are opening a new office in Ireland to serve as the European Headquarter.

What were the biggest initial hurdles to building your business and how did you overcome them?

The biggest hurdle for any privately funded company is cash flow. To overcome this challenge without any outside investment is imperative to focus on the core strengths and profitability of the company.

What is your greatest fear, and how do you manage to overcome the same?

My greatest fear is in balancing; being present in the day to day but not getting pulled back into the routine operation. It is key for a CEO to focus on vital tasks of the company in order to see into the future to adjust strategy as the global market and economy shifts.

‘It is difficult to start a venture, but far more difficult to maintain it’. How would you and your team interpret this saying?

The challenges that a company faces in the start-up days are similar as the company grows. What makes a great small business is its culture and ability to service its clients. As an organization grows, it becomes more difficult to maintain a culture and keep a larger number of people in communication with the collective strategy.

What would you say was the single most influential factor in your business’ success?

The most influential factor in Source 1’s success was having a strong advisory board and a very clear understanding of what our strengths were and perhaps more importantly what they were not.

What other CEOs do you look up to?

I think all CEOs admire and look up to some of the big brand CEOs like Richard Branson, Mark Cuban, and Warren Buffet. However, I especially admire a couple of CEOs that built companies from scratch to be very successful SMB businesses today, such as John Campau of Comtronics and Ross Teague of ITEC; both of them have been mentors and friends to me through the years.

“There is nothing more important for a successful small business than a well-defined mission and vision statements.” Can you explain your M&V statements in brief?

Our vision is to keep cities safe so that people thrive.

Our mission is to partner with truly great companies to expand technical capabilities and geographical reach.

What would you say are the top three skills needed to be a successful CEO?

The top three skills of a CEO, in my opinion, are the ability to build strong relationships, sound understanding of finance, and a clear vision for the future.

If you had one piece of advice to someone just starting out, what would it be?

Just start. Everyone waits for the perfect conditions or the perfect plan and this does not exist. You just have to go for it and be willing to work your face off for at least five years before you become the overnight success.

What are your three biggest accomplishments?

Growing Source 1 into one of the fastest-growing companies in Florida and North America, becoming a published author, and watching the team members of Source 1 grow professionally and personally.

What do you think has been the most memorable moment in your career?

I honestly would have a difficult time picking one but opening our first office internationally is pretty high on the list.

If not a business leader/CEO, what would you want to be?

An NFL Quarterback.

Robert Hessel: The Leader behind the Success of Source 1 Solutions

Robert Hessel serves as the CEO of Source 1 Solutions. He has over 20 years of experience in business management and has developed a worldwide business network by traveling extensively. Mr. Hessel has also served the US Navy. In addition to his success in the business world, he also holds board seats on several charities and advisory boards and is a best-selling published author.

“Our vision is to keep cities safe so that people thrive.”