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“The learning that goes on [during a PEG] when your topics are being addressed and those of others is extensive. It has helped me understand the value of learning from others’ experiences, successes and mistakes.”

John Maffey, President, CEO and Sr. Account Executive, M3T Corporation (PSA Owner Company)

PEG3 Group Leader

Peer Exchange Groups (PEGs) are noncompetitive, peer mentorship groups led by a certified facilitator to cultivate the personal and professional development of its members within the PSA Network.

While PEGs are completely confidential, PSA’s Learning Program Manager James Gallagher, who oversees the groups, received confirmation from PEG3 members to share an interview with John Maffey, a PEG3 member.

John emphasizes the value of participating in a PEG for business leaders, highlighting the importance of trust, open dialogue and learning from others' experiences while stressing that success in a PEG requires openness, honesty and a genuine interest in learning. Continue reading as James captures a high-level look into one of PSA’s most exclusive peer groups.

James: You’ve been involved with PSA for many years and now lead PEG3. What has kept you connected to PSA over time, and what inspired you to take on a leadership role in our newest PEG?

John: The leadership role I have in the PEG3 group is one that I value greatly. We do have a facilitator who manages our group meetings; however, as group leader, my role is to ensure the group’s goals and desires are achieved through the Facilitator. I am honored that my fellow PEG team members selected me for this role.

James: While the topics discussed in PEG meetings are confidential, what can you share about the overall value of participating in a peer exchange group? How has it helped you as a business leader?

John: Once the PEG team reaches the level of trust needed for free and open sharing, the learning that goes on when your topics are being addressed and those of others is extensive. It has helped me understand the value of learning from others’ experiences, successes and mistakes.

James: As someone leading a company focused entirely on security solutions, how has the PEG experience influenced your thinking around strategy, operations or leadership in this specialized space?

John: Probably the single greatest impact has been around the importance of valuing people in your organization. It seems like many of the situations reviewed in some way or manner tend to harken back to an over or undervaluing of people. If you are seeking the determination to make a tough decision in your company, one you likely know is correct but tough to execute, bringing such a topic to your PEG team can be very comforting and likely better prepares you for ramifications. Almost always, someone else has experience with that topic.

James: PEGs are designed to foster trust and open dialogue among leaders. What aspects of the PEG environment make those conversations so valuable and so different from typical industry networking?

John: I don't think it's appropriate to compare a PEG to a typical industry networking group. A more appropriate comparison would look like talking with your business partner, but the best news is they're not in your business. They're your friend who is seeking to assist you, but over time, that friend begins to know your business very well. There is no judgement, just experiences.

James: What advice would you offer to PSA integrators who are thinking about joining a PEG for the first time? How can they make the most of the opportunity?

John: First, they should consider if they are prepared to listen to their peers speak about their individual situations using experiences and stories that are tangential to the topic, but not advice. Secondly, they should determine if the investment in time and resources will result in sufficient benefit, and the only way to answer that question is whether they are prepared to be 100% open and honest. Lastly, are they genuinely interested in learning from their industry peers? Anything but a strong yes on any of these questions means they are not yet ready for a PEG.

Interested in joining a PSA PEG? Contact James to learn more!

James Gallagher