COVER STORY
spaces, gathering spaces, and all the improvements you do to [promote] conversation. They’re gorgeous spaces, and mostly unoccupied now,” Young acknowledges. As a company that relied on in-person interaction before the pandemic, Rod is optimistic that one day the collective business landscape will get back to the vibrant, face-to-face operation of the pre-pandemic world. In the meantime, the team has remained tight as a group. “Interestingly enough, even on Zoom, we’ve been able to maintain connectivity. It’s obviously not the same, but we’ve occasionally taken advantage of being able to get together outside in small groups where possible,” says Young. When asked about the culture of the organization, Rod lights up. “Our culture is the most important asset of the organization,” he reveals. “We are an organization that rallies around common goals and objectives, we work really hard, and we embrace and celebrate success. We get rave reviews from our team members in internal surveys on the culture of the organization,” Young elaborates.
investments throughout the state, including a grant to build the Delta Dental Oral Health Center at Hennepin Health, a contribution to The Sanneh Foundation in East St. Paul to build a community center, and additional investments in the Twin Cities after the unrest following the death of George Floyd. Rod believes that a community focus is a win for everyone. “We have a purpose, and our team members embrace that purpose. It’s good for the community, good for us internally, and good for business,” Young posits. Likewise, in his focus on the Twin Cities, Rod emphasizes the importance of this region becoming a place that is inclusive for all. “I’m not speaking strictly of racial inclusivity, but inclusivity in general,” Young clarifies. As the Chair of the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee for the Minnesota Business Partnership, Rod is at the forefront of partnering with the largest businesses in the state to create an environment that will improve and address disparities. “There are gigantic values and benefits to living in Minnesota and the Twin Cities. We’ve got a way to go to make sure it’s inclusive for all, but there’s some fantastic work going on,” he emphasizes. Between driving the organization’s mission and serving the community, the resiliency of the business and the continued satisfaction of its members comes down to one thing – putting people first. It’s clear that Rod leads with this mindset. Whatever challenges may arise, the Delta Dental of Minnesota team will continue to work together to serve and support their members and the community at large.
We are fortunate our IT team has a seat at the table to ensure our organization’s agility from a technology perspective. “
“Cutting the floss” celebration to open the Delta Dental Oral Health Center.
– ROD YOUNG
One of Delta Dental’s challenges toward improving oral and overall health is employees failing to utilize their employer sponsored dental benefits. “We’re working with our clients to inspire their team members to take advantage of their comprehensive Delta Dental benefits; the more people who regularly visit their dentist, the better,” Young says. Beyond its goal of excellent customer satisfaction, the organization aims to do right by the community. In 2009, Delta Dental of Minnesota’s parent sold a company and used 100 percent of the proceeds to establish and fund the Delta Dental of Minnesota Foundation. This foundation funds organizations and initiatives to expand access to dental care for Minnesota’s underserved populations. “The Delta Dental of Minnesota Foundation is one of the largest – if not the largest – oral health foundations in the country,” explains Young. “We’ve helped thousands of individuals on their journey to improve or sustain their oral health,” he adds. In addition, the foundation made significant
ABOUT DELTA DENTAL OF MINNESOTA Delta Dental of Minnesota is one of the largest providers of dental benefits in the Upper Midwest, serving more than 9,100 Minnesota- and North Dakota-based purchasing groups and 4.3 million members nationwide. Founded in 1969, the company is an independent, nonprofit health service plan corporation.
Delta Dental Office in Bemidji, Minnesota
ADVANCING THE MISSION Delta Dental’s commitment to improving oral and overall health is the common objective that binds the team. They promote the vital connection in many ways. “One of the most notable initiatives we have taken was to employ a medical doctor (MD) physician to join our executive leadership team as the Vice President of Medical Services. One of the key roles of this position is to provide clinical education on the connection between overall and oral health,” Young expresses.
Effective operations contribute to Delta Dental’s ability to fulfill their mission. When asked about the relationship between business and IT, Young replies that they are as tight as fingers in gloves. “Our IT team members contribute in our product development meetings, when we’re creating new programs, and when we’re working with grantees through our Delta Dental of Minnesota Foundation,” elaborates Young. Keeping open communication across the business enables the organization to become more agile. “We are fortunate our IT team has a seat at the table to ensure our organization’s agility from a technology perspective,” states Young.
14 | Culture-Driven Leadership
Culture-Driven Leadership | 15
Powered by FlippingBook