Faith at Work: How Todd Thurston Built Cultures that Thrive
Todd Thurston
Head of Community and Workforce Development at Panasonic Energy of North America
Todd Thurston, married for 37 years and the father of seven, has lived a life marked by faith, perseverance, and leadership. A visionary Learning, Talent, and Workforce Development leader with more than three decades of international experience, Todd has consistently driven organizational growth through strategic talent initiatives. His work has reduced employee attrition, built thriving cultures, and transformed leadership development for Fortune 500 companies. Yet, behind the awards and executive achievements lies a man of steadfast faith who has walked through trials, clung to Christ, and led with servant-hearted conviction. Todd’s story is not just about business—it’s about living out God’s calling to impact lives through leadership, family, and resilience.
Building Cultures that Reflect God’s Values
Todd believes leadership begins with recognizing the God-given value in every person. At one of his companies, he implemented a culture program that reduced attrition by nearly 60% in just nine months. The secret wasn’t a corporate gimmick—it was treating people with dignity, sincerity, and respect.
Jesus said, “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you” (Luke 6:31). Todd took this principle into the workplace, showing leaders how valuing employees leads to loyalty, productivity, and lasting success. For Todd, business growth isn’t just about numbers—it’s about honoring the people God places in our care.
Faith Through Trials
Todd’s leadership journey wasn’t free of hardship. Early in his entrepreneurial venture, he and his wife discovered their sixth child had a heart defect. Their daughter’s passing was a devastating loss. Yet, in that season, Todd experienced God’s tender mercies—unexpected financial provision, community support, and the sustaining peace of Christ.
Romans 5:3–4 reminds us: “We glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience; and patience, experience; and experience, hope.” Todd’s testimony shows how faith in Christ transforms tragedy into empathy and equips leaders to comfort others in their struggles.
Servant Leadership at Home and Work
With seven children and a marriage of nearly four decades, Todd’s leadership extends far beyond boardrooms and training centers. He and his wife have modeled resilience, unity, and Christ-centered parenting—teaching their kids the value of hard work, education, and self-reliance.
In business, Todd applied the same principles—mentoring, lifting others, and giving employees a foundation for growth. True leadership, he says, isn’t about control; it’s about stewardship. Like Jesus washing His disciples’ feet, Todd believes leaders are most effective when they serve.
Faith as the Anchor in Leadership
Todd’s relationship with Christ has been the constant in every season—whether as a young missionary in Florida, a corporate executive, or a consultant building new ventures. Prayer has been his lifeline, shaping his decisions and sustaining him through challenges.
He testifies that leadership rooted in Scripture—loving God, loving people, and treating others with grace—creates impact that outlasts any quarterly results. As Todd puts it, “Every person on earth has value, and when leaders recognize that, people will take care of the business and the business will grow.”
Hope for the Future
When asked what message he would put on a billboard for the world to see, Todd’s answer was simple yet profound: “He knows you. He knows you individually. He will not forget you. He will not let you down.”
That’s the essence of his life’s work and testimony. Leadership, business, and family are all anchored in the unshakable truth that God is faithful. For Todd, success is not measured only in reduced attrition rates or awards, but in the eternal impact of pointing others to Christ through his leadership and example.
Takeaway: Todd’s story reminds us that leadership anchored in Christ can transform not only organizations but lives. Through trials, faithfulness, and servant leadership, he demonstrates that the greatest success is found in glorifying God and serving others.
Written by Jovilyn Dela Cruz
“He knows you. He knows you individually. He will not forget you. He will not let you down.”
