Disagree and agree with Eugenean.  The Abrupt collapse of the program, including not only losses but an unparalleled level of dismissals and thuggery, is what led to his abrupt firing.  It became eminently clear to anyone who has managed significant numbers of employees that Helfrich, while a great guy according to all who know him, does not possess necessary leadership qualities--decisiveness, intense focus at times of crisis, personnel recruitment and development and the ability to communicate to the "shareholders" what is going on, why, and what will be done to correct the deficiencies.  "Million little things to correct" and "its on me" do not qualify as communication or real ownership--particularly when they are oft repeated in lieu of true communication.  Helfrich unfortunately is severely deficient in all areas in except his work ethic and genuine decency.