Managing Sticky Situations at Work

124 Managing Sticky Situations at WorkSTICKY SITUATION # 15:ABOSS WHO FLIRTSRoberta is the owner and manager of a large global company,Suretel, that produces a small computer chip for buyers likeMicrosoft and Intel. She launched the company in the 1990sand went public during the dot-com era. Her timing has alwaysbeen impeccable. She senses when it’s right to make certain boldmoves, and she never hesitates nor looks back. When Robertawants something, she goes for it. She’s an energetic leader whohas always won the respect of her staff and her board. The companyis headquartered in San Diego but has offices around theglobe. In recent years, Roberta has worked primarily out of theSanDiegoofficesidebysidewiththeadministrativeteamofSuretel.Two years earlier Roberta hired Dave as the CFO for the company.She trusts him implicitly. Dave came to Suretel with highrecommendations. He’d worked previously for a large computercompany, and he is a CPA. Everything Dave does, he doesmethodically. Roberta trusts his judgment and relies on him tokeep her on course and never steer her astray. Even though hehas only been with the company a couple of years, she has confidedin others that she has a warm spot for Dave, and she sees him asher partner. She often discusses non-financial matters with himthat do not directly affect him, just to get his take on things. Roberta,who never had time for deep romantic relationships,remains single. Dave is married and has two children. Robertalikes Dave’s wife and has met his children. Nonetheless, she seesDave as her ‘‘spouse’’ at work.Today, while Dave pores over the financial reports at his desk,Roberta comes up behind him and covers his eyes with her hands.Her long hair hangs over his head, ‘‘Guess who?’’ she says. Davenearly jumps out of his chair. ‘‘Roberta, what in the world areyou playing at?’’She laughs. ‘‘Chill out, Dave. I’m just kidding around.’’ Sheplops down in the chair across from him. ‘‘What are your lunchplans? I’d like to discuss that deal we’ve been talking aboutregarding the new branch office.’’