Leading with Heart and Hustle: A Conversation with Matthew Evans, General Manager of Schindler Houston
Matthew (“Matt”) Evans brings a unique blend of grit, curiosity, and fun to his role as General Manager (“GM”) of Schindler’s Houston office.
We sat down with Matt to learn more about his professional journey, leadership style, and what makes Schindler stand out in the vertical transportation industry.
Getting started in the vertical transportation industry
When asked what inspired him to pursue a career in this field, Matt shared that it was a friend’s recommendation that first pointed him toward the elevator industry. “After college, a friend—whose wife worked for one of our competitors—encouraged me to join because it was strong and recession-proof,” he recalled.
That advice led him to Schindler, where he faced one of his earliest career challenges: entering a technical industry without a technical background. “Familiarizing myself with elevators was the biggest hurdle,” he said. “Those who’ve come up through the field take great pride in their knowledge and skills—rightfully so. I made it a priority to learn everything I could.”
Fostering a people-first culture
Now, as GM, Matt starts each day with a team huddle to align priorities, review customer communications, and coordinate with sales and operations. “We’re always focused on delivering excellent service while keeping a close eye on compliance metrics.”
Matt’s leadership style has evolved over the years into one that blends accountability with approachability. “I want my team to be the best. Every time I meet with them, we focus on how we can improve. If we’re not the best in a particular area, we’re committed to becoming the best. I also try to infuse a sense of fun into everything we do. It’s about building a team that feels like family.”
A sense of connection is something Matt believes sets Schindler apart. “It’s a fun environment where people feel welcome. And while the business itself can be challenging, the people here feel like family. There are generations of employees who have been part of this organization, and personally, I have many friends at Schindler. That sense of connection is what makes it a great place to be.”
Matt also fosters collaboration within his team by empowering them to make decisions within a clear framework. “I truly believe that collaboration dies with micromanagement.”
Sustaining a commitment to service in a growing market
When asked about industry trends that have surprised him, Matt pointed to the sustained construction boom in Texas. “Construction in Texas has really sustained growth. If you look at cities like Dallas, Houston, and Austin, they're all growing because of people moving in from California. That translates into high-rise residential office buildings, medical buildings, and has helped to grow the elevatorindustry in Texas.”
Additionally, for those just starting out at Schindler, he offered this advice:
“We are in a people business, we are not in a laptop business. Your job is to invest in people, customers, and communications...Your success is going to come from being the best person with people and helping to make people's lives better—internally and externally.”
Fast facts about Matt
Outside of work, Matt’s easy-going nature and love for life shine through in unexpected ways.
When asked to share a fun fact most colleagues don’t know, he said, “I danced in a ballet once—The Nutcracker. My daughter was a pre-professional ballerina, and they needed people for the party scene. So, I danced.” It’s a moment that reflects both his willingness to step outside his comfort zone and his deep connection to family.
If he weren’t in the elevator industry, Matt imagined a very different but equally fulfilling path. “I’d probably be a rancher in Colorado,” he says, painting a picture of wide-open spaces and a slower pace of life.
When it comes to dream dinner guests, Matt didn’t hesitate. “Willie Nelson, Woody Harrelson, Matthew McConaughey—because they’re iconic and sound like a fun group to hang out with.”
And how did he sum up his job in three emojis? 🔥 😎 😲
It’s clear that whether he’s leading his team to success or showing up for his loved ones, Matt brings the same energy: grounded, spirited, and ready to tackle anything.