After buying old, run$-$down refineries, former Valero CEO Bill Greehey$$s first steps were to assure people their jobs were secure$,$ bring in new safety equipment, and promise employees that if they worked hard he would put them first$$before shareholders and customers. Putting employees first has engendered amazing loyalty and dedication. It has given Valero a distinctive edge during an era of cutthroat global competition in the oil industry. Corporate Culture Type