Beyond the Bottom Line: Leading with Humility, Service, and Grace

In a world often driven by profit and personal gain, Chris Hintz, founder and president of Pinnacle Productions, Inc., offers a refreshing perspective on leadership. For Hintz, leading a faith-based business isn't about rigid dogma or public displays of piety; it's about embodying humility, service, and grace in every interaction, from the smallest community initiative to global events.

Hintz along with his partners have built, Pinnacle Productions as a dynamic force in the entertainment and hospitality industries. They handle everything from weddings and corporate galas to nonprofit fundraisers and large-scale productions for touring musicians, with a reach that spans continents. Despite the demanding nature of this work, Hintz emphasizes that faith isn't a separate compartment of life but an integrated force that shapes daily decisions and interactions.

Faith in Action: A Daily Practice

For Hintz, intentionality in faith isn't about adhering to strict religious practices but about seeking daily guidance. "I ask for guidance daily on subjects that range from being a better person to being a better husband, to being a better leader, to being a better member of the community as a whole," he explains. This daily seeking of wisdom translates into a commitment to service, whether it's solving the problems of a small municipality or orchestrating a massive event.

He highlights the importance of humility, service, and grace in navigating challenges and finding common ground. In a world often characterized by division, Hintz believes in the power of understanding different perspectives. "We're all hypocrites to a certain extent," he admits, emphasizing the grace we should extend to ourselves and others. He laments the loss of humanity when we prioritize emboldening our own positions over seeking to understand and connect with others.

Navigating Crisis: A Test of Faith and Stewardship

The COVID-19 pandemic served as a profound test of Hintz's leadership and faith. His team was faced with the sudden halt of the industry, now confronted the stark reality that despite best intentions, some things are beyond our control. This experience underscored the importance of responsible stewardship of resources, contrasting it with the carelessness that can arise when things are going well.

Hintz draws a parallel to the financial crisis of 2008, noting how people often underestimate risk, driven by optimism rather than realism. While faith provides hope during difficult times, he cautions against being "overly optimistic and not realistic." He candidly shares that his faith isn't always unwavering, and he, like many, questions and struggles. However, these moments of introspection are healthy, leading to a deeper understanding of oneself and one's purpose.

Giving Back: Beyond the Bottom Line

When it comes to charitable contributions, Hintz's approach is rooted in practicality and purpose. He first assesses the company's capacity, recognizing the need to be strong internally to effectively serve others. Then, he considers whether the cause aligns with the team's values and passions. "If this is something that you feel strongly about and you want to help, then, you know, put your money where your mouth is, volunteer your time, and we can volunteer some of our efforts," he states.

Pinnacle Productions offers a blanket discount for nonprofit organizations, acknowledging their unique needs. Hintz estimates that over two decades, the company has contributed more than a million dollars in in-kind donations, a testament to their commitment to community. He emphasizes that their role is not to judge the worthiness of a cause but to be a partner in facilitating the goals of others. "Our job is to serve the community as a whole and not, you know, what I think is the best use of that money," he asserts.

The World According to Chris: Leadership as Service

Hintz's ultimate leadership advice is simple yet profound: Leadership is about taking care of the people underneath your tutelage. He believes that true leadership is not about perfection but about continuous improvement and a commitment to making those around you better. "Leadership is not self-serving. If you help other people get what they want, you in turn get what you want," he explains, highlighting the reciprocal nature of effective leadership.

He acknowledges that not everyone will always be rowing in the same direction, and sometimes, difficult decisions must be made for the greater good. However, the core principle remains: leadership is about being the best person you can be, fostering growth in your organization, and empowering those you lead. As Hintz wisely concludes, "Nothing changes if you're not better."

Chris Hintz's journey with Pinnacle Productions exemplifies a leadership philosophy that transcends mere business acumen. It's a testament to the transformative power of humility, service, and grace, proving that true success is measured not just in profits, but in the positive impact we have on the lives of others.