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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?
What are the qualities of a good leader?
- Put the needs of your team above your own.
- Have a compelling vision for the successful future of the organization and clearly communicate that vision to every member of the team at every opportunity.
- Lead by example and always act with honesty, fairness, and transparency.
- Consistently demonstrate compassion, foster strong relationships, and create a supportive work environment.
- Listen actively, speak clearly, and provide feedback in a constructive and meaningful way.
- Hold yourself and your team accountable and take responsibility for all of your actions.
How do you practice leadership at your job?
I work with team members spread out across the United States and collaborate with a wide variety of partners all over Europe, so clear communication is one of the most important skills I practice to tamp down the inherent friction in working across multiple time zones, languages, and cultures. Also, in the chaotic environment of executing projects in a war-affected region, I exercise a healthy dose of adaptability and resilience in order not to get derailed by the constant obstacles that can upend even the simplest plans. Additionally, I exert extra effort on maintaining the highest standards of accountability by ensuring that our team squeezes every bit of value out of our donor’s contributions and can clearly demonstrate how we are meeting the objectives we set out to accomplish.
What makes a team or group successful?
A successful team must have a compelling and worthwhile goal that inspires every member to put forward their best effort. Additionally, every good team thrives in an environment of trust built on a strong foundation of effective communication, clear lines of responsibility, and mutual respect. Toxic work cultures destroy teamwork. In successful groups, individuals are matched with the types of work that unleash their fullest potential, and everyone gets the necessary resources and support to accomplish their tasks. Good teams also share an inherent spirit of camaraderie along with a strongly held desire to pull more than their share of the load in order to not let down their colleagues.
How can leaders in your industry help their organizations adapt to change?
Leaders in my industry can help their organizations navigate the constantly shifting non-profit environment by: 1) ensuring their vision and purpose remain relevant; 2) having an effective strategic plan that postures the organization for risks and opportunities; 3) seeking a diversity of funding streams; 4) establishing measures of effectiveness that clearly demonstrate the organization’s value to donors; and 5) protecting the reputation of the organization with uncompromising adherence to transparency and financial accountability.
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