Humans at the Helm: Building Teams-A Proven Playbook for Success Then, Now, and in the Future In a world racing toward artificial intelligence and digital transformation, Humans at the Helm offers a powerful reminder: true leadership is still human at its core. Drawing on decades of experience in business, entrepreneurship, and championship-level sports, Mark Perlo delivers a practical, proven playbook for building high-performing teams-anchored in purpose, values, and disciplined execution. Blending timeless leadership principles with insights on AI's emerging role in the workplace, this book equips today's leaders to navigate complexity without losing their humanity. With real-world stories, reflection questions, and actionable strategies, Humans at the Helm is an essential guide for anyone committed to leading with integrity, building strong cultures, and staying ahead in the digital age.
I was never a Fortune 500 CEO, nor was I the most technologically advanced leader. But I listened, learned, and adapted to become highly functional in an ever-evolving world. So why write a book on leadership, artificial intelligence, and its impact on leaders and humanity in this new digital age? Throughout my career, I've worked alongside, learned from, and advised some of the most recognized leaders in corporate America. As a senior manager at Xerox, I had a front-row seat to leadership at the highest levels. Later, when I built, scaled, and ultimately sold my own business, I experienced firsthand what it takes to lead, grow, and sustain success in a rapidly changing landscape. That journey was an incredible education in every facet of business-from customer acquisition and retention to team building, employee satisfaction, and navigating economic challenges. More importantly, I learned that leadership isn't about titles. It's about vision, discipline, and the ability to inspire and empower people. This book isn't built on theories. It's built on real experiences, hard-earned lessons, and the practical insights that helped me-and the leaders I've worked with-succeed. Mark Perlo brings a 360-degree view of leadership-spanning small business, corporate America, entrepreneurship, and championship-level sports. •Corporate and Fortune 500 Leadership - Early in his career, he worked for a Fortune 500 company, gaining firsthand experience in structured corporate leadership, strategic execution, and high-level decision-making. •Entrepreneurial Success - He later founded, grew, and successfully sold his own company to a Fortune 500 firm, demonstrating his ability to scale a business, build winning teams, and execute a successful exit strategy. •Small Business and Team Building - From working in his family's florist business at age 8 to leading teams in small and mid-sized companies, he understands the hands-on, people-driven nature of leadership at every level. •High-Level Sports Leadership - As both a player and coach of championship baseball teams, he mastered the art of building trust, fostering resilience, and developing high-performance teams. His experience in elite-level competition has shaped his understanding of mental toughness, accountability, and leadership under pressure. •Learning from Great Leaders - Throughout his career, he has sought out mentors and top leaders across industries, learning both what to do-and what not to do. Awards and Recognitions •40 Under 40 Winner - Recognized for outstanding leadership and business achievement. •Guest lecturer at Fortune 500 events and respected MBA programs, including the University of Rochester •2-Time Finalist for Small Business Council's Business Person of the Year Award •Monroe Community College Hall of Fame Inductee - Honored for excellence in athletics and leadership. •Numerous Xerox Presidents Awards •Stewarded Xerographic Solutions Inc. to Rochester, NY Top 100 (8 times) •Coached a Junior. College baseball team to the Jr. College World Series •Coached two high school baseball teams to NYS championships With decades of experience leading in different environments, Mark Perlo has developed a unique perspective on leadership-one that blends purpose, values, adaptability, and strategic execution.
