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Jayhawks in leadership positions are everywhere you look, including through the Jayhawk Career Network. KU Alumni, in partnership with SumnerOne, is highlighting Jayhawk leaders who are models for others in their industries with our “Copy the Leader” program.
What do you do in your work?
I am the Senior Director, Partner Strategy for Elevate Marketplace, an industry-leading pricing, analytics, and ticket distribution technology company providing data-driven solutions to teams, venues, and organizations across the collegiate and professional sports, and live entertainment landscape. In my role, I focus on delivering exceptional service and strategic guidance to our clients, with a key emphasis on driving revenue growth.
What are the qualities of a good leader?
In my opinion, the most effective leaders lead by example, maintain a positive attitude through both smooth and challenging times, and remain humble and genuinely caring toward everyone they work with, both internally and externally. True leadership goes beyond setting the foundation and guiding a team; it also involves actively participating as a member—coaching, practicing, and engaging alongside that team.
How do you practice leadership at your job?
Every day, I aim to lead with energy and by example, holding myself to the standard of never asking others to undertake tasks or projects that I wouldn’t be willing to do myself. I believe in demonstrating empathy and I have a real, genuine interest in building and growing relationships on both a professional and interpersonal level with those within and outside of my organization. I think it is also very important to have fun as much as possible and foster an environment that rewards and celebrates victories and accomplishments.
What makes a team or group successful?
Mutual respect for one another, in both a professional and personal sense. Also, recognizing and appreciating that all tasks and roles, whether or not they are client-facing or appear to be “glamorous,” are equally important. Just as a box-out can be as crucial as a rebound and a rebound as vital as scoring a basket, every contribution matters.
How can leaders in your industry help their organizations adapt to change?
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Fully understanding the landscape and ecosystem of your industry is crucial when navigating change. Additionally, explaining why there is a need for adaptation and change, rather than simply asking for or implementing it, can go a long way.