Sam Mansfield is an accomplished Business Architect with deep expertise in technology and strategic innovation.
A Georgia native, Sam’s career journey has taken him from founding startups to his current leadership role at Mansfield Energy, a family-run enterprise. With advanced certifications in technology product management, process management, and continuous improvement, Sam consistently drives operational efficiency and business growth.
His professional approach is strongly influenced by his passions for fitness and music, which he believes are essential to effective leadership. These interests help him maintain mental clarity and resilience, particularly in high-pressure situations. Beyond his professional pursuits, Sam is dedicated to humanitarian work, especially in La Gonave, Haiti, where he actively supports infrastructure, medical, social, and educational projects. As a husband and father, Sam seamlessly integrates his personal values with his professional life, embodying a holistic approach to success.
How does your background in startups influence your current work at Mansfield Energy?
My experience in startups has been incredibly valuable in my current role at Mansfield Energy. Startups teach you to be scrappy, innovative, and adaptable—qualities that are essential when you’re working in a larger, more established company. In a startup, you’re often wearing multiple hats, which means you develop a deep understanding of various aspects of business, from product development to marketing to operations. This has helped me bring a more holistic perspective to my work at Mansfield Energy. I approach challenges with the mindset of finding creative solutions that can drive growth and efficiency. My background also makes me comfortable with taking calculated risks, which is crucial in pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in a family-owned business.
What does innovation mean to you, and how do you foster it within your team?
Innovation, to me, is about challenging the status quo and constantly seeking better ways to achieve our goals. It’s not just about new technology or groundbreaking products—it’s also about incremental improvements in everyday processes. To foster innovation within my team, I encourage a culture of openness and experimentation. I want my team to feel comfortable sharing their ideas, no matter how unconventional they may seem. We regularly hold brainstorming sessions where no idea is off the table. I also believe in giving my team the autonomy to explore these ideas, even if it means occasionally failing. Failure is part of the innovation process, and it often leads to unexpected breakthroughs. By creating an environment where my team feels supported and empowered, I believe we can continuously innovate and stay ahead in the industry.
How do you integrate your passion for fitness into your professional life?
Fitness is a cornerstone of my life, and I’ve found that it naturally integrates into my professional routine. The discipline and consistency required in powerlifting and Muay Thai translate directly to how I approach my work. For example, just as I set specific fitness goals, I set clear objectives in my business projects. The same mental toughness I develop in the gym helps me push through challenging situations at work. Additionally, I’ve found that fitness gives me the energy and mental clarity I need to tackle complex problems and make strategic decisions. I encourage my team to prioritize their health as well, because I’ve seen firsthand how physical well-being positively impacts performance and productivity. On a practical level, I often schedule my most demanding tasks after a workout when I’m at my peak mental sharpness.
What’s your approach to managing risk in both your personal and professional life?
Risk management is a crucial aspect of both business and life. In my professional life, I approach risk by being thoroughly informed and prepared. I believe in doing extensive research, understanding all possible outcomes, and having contingency plans in place. That said, I’m also a firm believer that taking calculated risks is essential for growth. Whether it’s entering a new market or investing in a new technology, I weigh the potential rewards against the risks and make informed decisions that align with long-term goals.
In my personal life, I take a similar approach. For example, in fitness, I push my limits but always with an understanding of my body’s capabilities and with safety measures in place. Whether it’s deciding on a rigorous training regimen or planning a family adventure, I assess the risks and benefits carefully. This balanced approach allows me to pursue ambitious goals while minimizing unnecessary risks.
How do you balance being a leader at work with being a leader at home?
Leadership at work and at home both require empathy, patience, and a clear vision, but they manifest differently. At work, leadership often means guiding a team toward a common business goal, making tough decisions, and being the person who sets the tone for the company culture. At home, leadership is about being present, supportive, and setting a strong example for my children. I balance these roles by prioritizing quality over quantity. When I’m at work, I’m fully dedicated to my responsibilities there, and when I’m at home, my focus is entirely on my family. This means being mindful of my time and energy, ensuring that I’m not spreading myself too thin. I also believe that leadership in both realms involves continuous learning and adaptation. Just as I’m constantly improving as a leader in business, I’m always striving to be a better husband and father.
What motivates you to continue evolving in your career?
My motivation comes from a desire to leave a lasting impact—both within my industry and within my community. I’ve always been driven by the idea that there’s always room for improvement, both personally and professionally. In my career, this means constantly seeking out new challenges, learning from others, and staying ahead of trends. The energy sector is evolving rapidly, and I want to be at the forefront of that change, helping to drive innovation and sustainability. On a personal level, I’m motivated by my family and the legacy I want to leave for my children. I want to show them that with hard work, discipline, and a willingness to take risks, they can achieve great things. This keeps me pushing forward, even when the path is uncertain.
How has your approach to business changed over the years?
My approach to business has evolved significantly over the years, largely due to the experiences and challenges I’ve faced. Early in my career, I was more focused on rapid growth and the excitement of new ventures. While that energy is still a part of who I am, I’ve learned the importance of sustainability and long-term planning. Now, I take a more measured approach, balancing innovation with stability. I’m more focused on building systems and processes that can withstand market fluctuations and support sustained growth over time. I’ve also become more people-focused, understanding that the success of any business lies in its ability to attract, develop, and retain great talent. This has led me to invest more in leadership development and company culture, ensuring that my team has the tools and support they need to thrive.
What’s one piece of advice you would give to aspiring business leaders?
One piece of advice I’d give is to embrace adaptability. The business world is constantly changing, and the ability to pivot when necessary is a crucial skill. This doesn’t mean abandoning your long-term goals, but rather being open to new ideas and willing to adjust your strategies as circumstances evolve. Adaptability requires a mindset of continuous learning and resilience. Don’t be afraid to step outside of your comfort zone, take risks, and learn from failure. Every experience, whether successful or not, is an opportunity to grow and become a better leader. And most importantly, stay true to your values. In the end, your integrity and the relationships you build will be what defines your career.
