The Bugatti Story

A post based on a recent read, "The Bugatti Story" a memoir by his daughter L’Ebe Bugatti. The book provides an intimate look into the life and work of her father, covering both his personal life and his professional achievements. Many simliarities rang true with the Schimpf family.

Ettore was not just a father to his children but also a mentor to many of his employees and colleagues.  He took a personal interest in developing the skills of his workers, particularly those who showed promise in engineering or design. His mentorship was demanding, as he expected nothing less than excellence, but it was also deeply influential. Many of those who worked under him went on to have successful careers in the automotive industry, carrying forward the principles they learned from Ettore.

Ettore Bugatti's unwavering commitment to perfection was evident in his meticulous attention to every aspect of his automobiles. He firmly believed that each component, regardless of its apparent significance, contributed vitally to the vehicle's overall performance and aesthetic appeal.

Bugatti's detailed nature led him to personally scrutinize and approve the design of even the most minor elements, such as bolts and screws. This approach extended to the opulent interiors of his cars, where he insisted on utilizing only the most exquisite materials and demanding the highest level of craftsmanship.

While many perceive this level of involvement as excessive micromanagement, visionaries like Carlo Bugatti who came before him, and Steve Jobs, and Steve Wozniak of Apple, who came after, all understood that an unwavering focus on detail is essential to achieving true greatness. These leaders recognized how a hands-on approach and direct collaboration with their teams were crucial to see their visions become reality.

Bugatti's demanding leadership style meant high standards and delegation was nothing casual; instead, he actively participated in the development process, frequently working alongside his engineers and designers. Leading by example, he dedicated countless hours at the factory, personally overseeing the creation of each new model. In the end, his leadership style fostered a culture of excellence and today the Bugatti name commands the highest price in automobiles. Who expected the market acceptance of $1M, $2M, and even $3M vehicles?

It is important to note, however, this level of involvement is more feasible for a company founder than those in other leadership positions within an organization.