Daniel Cherry III on Trust over Transactions

What I’ve Learned

Daniel Cherry III has led in some of the most complex, matrixed environments — from sports to entertainment to global brands. He has come to realize that even the best strategies can stall if people don’t trust the leader presenting them.

"Your network is your net worth — not because of politics, but because people trust you to show up and deliver in service of the greater good.”

It wasn’t about working the system or being political. It was about earning personal trust, so that when tough moments came, people knew he had their back.

How I’ve Sharpened

Daniel developed simple, human practices to build authentic trust:

• Relationship mapping with heart. He identifies key stakeholders, but his focus is on knowing them as people — their passions, values, and pressures. “If I don’t know who someone is beyond their title, I haven’t earned real trust yet.”
• Prepare together. Before high-stakes meetings, he and his team align on roles and responsibilities, ensuring everyone feels supported.
• The Four Ps. People, Priorities, Process, Performance. He uses this framework to align teams around clarity, not control.
• Share openly. He makes information flow widely and transparently, avoiding the traps of secrecy or manipulation.

Why It Matters

Bridges built on transactions crumble. Bridges built on trust endure. Daniel’s story is a reminder that leadership influence doesn’t come from maneuvering or ego — it comes from authentic relationships, consistency, and credibility.

“People follow you when they trust you. That’s the only bridge that lasts.”

About Daniel Cherry III

Daniel “DC” Cherry III is Global CMO at Dickies (a VF Corporation brand) and former SVP, General Manager of adidas Originals. He has also held executive roles at Activision Blizzard, DC Comics, and Diageo to name a few. He is recognized for blending cultural fluency with humility, building bridges through authentic trust that unites people and strengthens organizations.