What woman inspired you, and why?
No one has inspired me more than my mom. I could fill a book with the reasons why. She had tremendous strength, courage and grace. She fought cancer 5 times. She “worked from home” before that was a thing, helping run the business my father started while still raising a family. To his credit, my father always said “she was the brains behind the business,” so I heard early and often that there was nothing I couldn’t do.
What was the first thing you bought with your own money?
I remember buying my sister a bottle of nail polish with my allowance money LOL. I started babysitting when I was 12, and I remember buying an Earth, Wind and Fire album.
What are you most proud of in your personal or professional life, or both?
Personally, I’m most proud of my family. There were days when raising 4 kids was quite the challenge, but watching them all as adults is amazing. Professionally, I’m proud of the fact that I have learned, and continue to learn from each role I’ve had. I’ve been lucky to work with so many amazing people over the years, and I still keep in touch with them. For me, it’s always about the people, which is why I love eMoney. 😊
Tell us about a time you felt empowered as a woman in the workplace.
Right after I started at Deloitte, my CMO resigned. I met with the CEO and he said, “I don’t want you to worry, we’re going to find someone awesome as his replacement.” I was petrified, but I asked him to give me the opportunity. I still remember the look on his face. There had never been a female CMO at Deloitte. He said he would make me “interim” CMO, but I pushed back and asked him to let me sink or swim. It was a pivotal moment in my career – I’m grateful I took the chance, and incredibly grateful that he agreed.
What qualities make a great leader?
Listening, empathy and sense of humor. A Forbes article from many years ago cited that great leaders know how to balance strategy and execution – that makes a lot of sense to me, too.
Women empowerment! love all the stories, thanks for sharing!