Escolar Documentos
Profissional Documentos
Cultura Documentos
www.diversityjournal.com
Rise to new
heights.
Congratulations to Deb Oler for being named a Woman Worth Watching. That’s getting the job done. FreddieMacDiversity.jobs
Lyn Beaty
Halliburton
Amparo Bared
Ryder System, Inc.
Stacy Brown-Philpot
Google
Anne Marie Agnelli
CA, Inc.
Tammy L. Butts
AXA Advisors, LLC
DeAnna Allen
Dickstein Shapiro LLP
[ BANK OF THE WEST ]
www.bankofthewest.com
Bank of the West and its subsidiaries are equal opportunity/affirmative action employers. M/F/D/V © 2007 Bank of the West. Member FDIC.
Also Featuring an Introduction by Ilene H. Lang, President & CEO of Catalyst • A Celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month
Terri Dial
Shirley Cunningham Ann D. Davidson
$
25.00 U.S.
Monsanto Company ITT Teresa Carroll
Citigroup Kelly Services Laree Daniel
Aflac
Nancy Calderon
KPMG LLP
Patricia S. Cain
Cynthia (Cindy) Davis Neal, Gerber &
Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. Eisenberg LLP
Jo Ann Feindt
U.S. Postal Service
Lynn A. Dugle
Raytheon Company
www.kodak.com/go/diversity
Sharon L. Hays
CSC
Catherine
Marcy S. Klevorn Langlais
Ford Motor Company NYSE Euronext
Joyce P. Haag
Eastman Kodak Company Chizuru Kiyomura
Pfizer Inc
Also Featuring an Introduction by Ilene H. Lang, President & CEO of Catalyst • A Celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month
Julie L. Moore
Ecolab Nan Mattai
Rockwell Collins Denise E.
Tricia J. McClung
McEachern
Freddie Mac
Bausch & Lomb
Susan Morisato
Ovations
Insurance
Solutions
Also Featuring an Introduction by Ilene H. Lang, President & CEO of Catalyst • A Celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month
Nancy Reagan
Campbell Soup
Company
Teri
Plummer McClure
UPS
Sandy Swider
Patricia B. Starwood Hotels Deborah M. Soon
Catalyst
(Pat) Shrader
Janet L. Robinson BD
The New York Times Mary Stoddart
Company Best Buy
Also Featuring an Introduction by Ilene H. Lang, President & CEO of Catalyst • A Celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month
Sharon C. Taylor
Prudential Financial
Barbara S. Wood
KBR
Susan A. Thrope
New York Life
Ellie Yieh
Applied Materials
Stephanie
Gaillard White
MWV
Mary D. Van de Kamp
Tina Waters Kindred Healthcare
Comcast Corporation
notebook
from the publisher
editors notebook
T
James R. Rector
PUBLISHER
at all the companies and their executive women in this 8th Annual Damian Johnson
MARKETING DIRECTOR
WomenWorthWatching® issue!
Laurel L. Fumic
CONTRIBUTING EDITOR
With all the challenges facing the U.S. and world economies, these
companies chose to honor one of their senior women executives, and Kenneth J. Kovach
CONTRIBUTING EDITOR
make it a priority. Many of them have continually participated during
Alina Dunaeva
the past 8 years, which again demonstrates their support for women in O verseas C orrespondent
leadership. And that’s what makes them and this annual Women’s Issue Jason Bice
WEB MASTER
very special.
C ontributing W riters
Since 1999, beginning with our first Glass Ceiling issue, we have David Casey
invited companies to select one of their senior women leaders to Melanie Harrington
Eric C. Peterson
prepare a personal mentoring essay and share some of their personal Marie Philippe, Ph.D.
details. (See pages 24 to 143.) These extraordinary women, with busy Craig Storti
schedules, took time out to “give back” to other women in the ranks LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
who also aspire to business and personal leadership. It’s not often you Commentaries or questions should be
addressed to: Profiles in Diversity Journal,
can find so much wisdom and advice from senior managers in one
P.O. Box 45605, Cleveland, OH 44145-0605.
place. (Our Mentorings™ book, just released this summer, includes one All correspondence should include author’s
or more quotes from all the women profiled since 1999—over 1,500 full name, address, e-mail and phone number.
quotes in total.)
DISPLAY ADVERTISING
We are grateful to one of our partners, Catalyst, who prepared this Profiles in Diversity Journal
year’s introduction to the WomenWorthWatching® feature. Catalyst Gemini Towers #1
1991 Crocker Road, Suite 320
President and CEO Ilene Lang and her organization are keenly aware
Westlake, OH 44145
of the opportunities for women in leadership. Through its annual Tel: 440.892.0444
research studies, Catalyst monitors the current status of how women Fax: 440.892.0737
are faring in their quest for leadership positions in the marketplace. profiles@diversityjournal.com
Heritage feature. We wish to thank all who participated in this issue, U.S. $49.95 one year / $89.95 two years;
in Canada, add $15 per year for postage.
and also our staff, who continue to produce one of the most company- Other foreign orders add $20 per year.
and people-focused magazines in the industry. U.S. funds only. Subscriptions can be ordered
at: www.diversityjournal.com or call
James R. Rector customer service at 800.573.2867 from
8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. EST.
Publisher
SUBMISSIONS
Reprints:
profiles@diversityjournal.com
Editorial:
edit@diversityjournal.com
Photos & Artwork:
art@diversityjournal.com
25
On the Cover /
WomenWorthWatching® in 2010
Take a look at this year’s class of influential
women. A corporate profile and personal profile
accompany each woman’s mentoring essay.
25
144 Special Feature /
Hispanic Heritage Month
The rich culture, shared values, and strong
work ethic of Hispanic people should be
Celebrating
celebrated with great appreciation throughout
Hispanic Heritage
the country. The individuals profiled in this
Month
section provide an interesting perspective.
144
departments
20 Momentum Diversity Who, What, Where and When
in 2010
®
C:MI
A:K:A
Turn your potential into performance by
submitting your resume to bmocm.com/recruiting.
in 2010
®
Empowered by us.
KPMG LLP values the powerful contributions of
women. There are no limits to where insight,
innovation, and leadership can take you.
kpmgcareers.com
KPMG.
A great place to build a career.
momentum
momentum who…what…where…when
Kelli Valade Named Chief Stutz is a restaurant industry vet- Robinson joins Anthem from
Operating Officer for Chili’s and eran with a wide range of experience Health Net in Shelton, Connecticut,
On The Border the Brinker Global team is eager to where he worked for ten years in a num-
DALLAS—Brinker utilize. Stutz served, most recently, ber of leadership roles, most recently
International, Inc. as the Executive Vice President of as Regional Director of Underwriting.
has named Kelli Operations of the mostly franchise- At Health Net, he oversaw all aspects
Valade Chief Op- owned Applebee’s International, Inc. of underwriting for three states and
erating Officer In her new role, she will oversee op- served as a critical member of the com-
for Chili’s Grill & erations for the global team, working pany’s strategy team.
Bar® and On The closely with franchisees as well as the
Valade
Border Mexican
®
Brinker global leadership team. Stutz Cook Associates Recruits Vice
Grill & Cantina . In this role, Valade will also help with business review for President of Human Resources
will oversee operations for more than strategy planning, as well as developing for AmerisourceBergen
1,400 Chili’s and On The Border res- the operations team for Brinker and Chicago—
taurants nationwide. its franchisees. Cook Associates
Valade has been with Brinker Executive Search
International for 13 years, holding recently completed
Anthem Blue Cross and Blue
various positions, including Director the placement for
Shield in New Hampshire
of HR for On The Border, VP for Vice President of
Names Sherwin Robinson
Emerging Brands & Corporate HR, and Human Resources
as Regional Vice President WESLEY
her most recent role as SVP of Chili’s at Amerisource-
of Underwriting
and On The Border PeopleWorks and Bergen Packaging Group/Anderson
MANCHESTER,
Brinker Shared Services. Packaging, Inc., a division of
N.H.—Citing his
Active in several industry organi- broad experience AmerisourceBergen Corporation.
zations, Valade holds a seat on the in the health insur- Rosalyn Wesley was selected as the
founders board of the Multi-Cultural ance environment, Vice President of Human Resources.
Food Service Hospitality Alliance. She Anthem Blue Cross In her previous position as
is also a member of the Society for and Blue Shield in Corporate Director of HR at Fortune
Human Resource Management and Robinson
New Hampshire is Brands, Wesley led and directed
Women’s Foodservice Forum. pleased to announce the appointment innovative, business-focused strat-
of Sherwin Robinson as Regional egies in performance management,
Carin Stutz Named SVP of Vice President of Underwriting. talent acquisition and retention, lead-
Brinker and COO of Global ership development, team building,
“We are excited to have someone of
Business Development workforce diversity and inclusion,
Sherwin’s experience and skills joining
DALLAS—Brinker International, Inc. wellness, benefits administration,
has named Carin our leadership team,” said Douglas J.
Wenners, president and general man- reward and recognition.
Stutz as Senior
Vice President ager, Anthem Blue Cross and Blue In her new position, Wesley will
of Brinker and Shield in New Hampshire. “He has a be responsible for ensuring HR align-
Chief Operating proven track record of success in this ment of all policies, practices, pro-
Officer of its field and we are thrilled to welcome cedures and initiatives to create an
Global Business him aboard.” environment of fairness, objectivity
Stutz
Development team. and high performance.
T
By Catalyst
The retention, development, and advancement of moved). However, women of color are by no means a monolithic
women and minorities is a pressing issue for law firms today as the group: for example, black women lawyers reported feeling a greater
talent pool increasingly comprises women and people of color. In the degree of exclusion than Asian women and Latinas.
past 20 years, the percentage of women entering U.S. law schools
has never been lower than 40 percent. While women of color repre- Best Practices
sented nearly one-quarter of all women associates in 2008, only 1.84
Almost all first- and second-tier law firms in the United States
percent were partners.
have diversity and inclusion (D&I) programs that target women law-
In the final installment of a four-part research series investigat- yers. Law firms have made some progress in addressing gender-based
ing the experiences of women of color in professional services firms, disadvantages in the workplace. However, managing partners and
Catalyst benchmarked the experiences of women of color at law firms practice group leaders must realize that programs that help retain
against those of their colleagues. The study was conducted through and develop white women lawyers may not be as effective for women
interviews with senior partners, as well as focus groups with Asian of color.
women, black women, and Latinas in a subsample of participating
To reduce the disadvantages faced by women of color, firms
firms. To collect quantitative data, a web survey was distributed to
should take the following steps:
lawyers working at the top 25 (by revenue) law firms in the United
States. The survey was sent to 2,939 individuals, of which 1,242, or Develop authentic relationships—For women of color to
42.3 percent, responded. feel more connected within the workplace, they need to feel more
comfortable interacting with managers (e.g., with their supervising
Women of Color Face Unique Disadvantages attorneys).
Findings showed that women of color shared certain gender- Create a mentoring culture—While law firms may offer junior
based disadvantages with white women. These included perceived lawyers the chance to connect with formal mentors, many firms have
sexist comments, dissatisfaction with access to training opportunities not yet successfully achieved a culture of mentoring. To accelerate
for business development, and lack of support for balancing work the careers of those from traditionally marginalized groups, law firms
and personal responsibilities. Findings also suggested that lawyers of need to work aggressively on instilling mentoring as a core value.
color—both women and men—experienced racial/ethnic stereotyp- Monitor career development and advancement—Many wom-
ing, overall exclusion from the workplace, dissatisfaction with equity en of color reported missing out on important assignments and de-
and opportunity, dissatisfaction with supervising attorney support, velopmental opportunities that could advance their careers. Firms
and a lack of influential mentors. need to be systematic in ensuring that women of color receive the
In general, women of color said they were affected to a greater opportunities necessary for advancement, including those that come
degree by barriers commonly encountered by other women, and about through networking with others at the firm.
that they experienced additional barriers unique to their own group. Increase work-life effectiveness—To avoid imperfect execution
Such barriers pose severe challenges to women of color trying to fit of diversity programs and practices, law firms must raise awareness
into their organizations and forge positive relationships with influ- about the unique work-life challenges faced by women of color and
ential others. As a result, their development and advancement in the develop programs that meet their needs. Firms also need to redefine
relationship-based, client-service environment of law firms is often how work gets done and institute programs that emphasize flexibility
compromised. as a business imperative. This will help create a culture where all law-
Of all groups surveyed, women of color were most likely to per- yers feel more comfortable using firm resources intended to support
ceive negative stereotyping; they were also most likely to say they work-life effectiveness. PDJ
found it challenging to fit into their firm’s environment. They felt
stymied by lack of access to business development opportunities and
important client engagements. Women of color also felt that their
supervising attorneys had low expectations of their performance. Founded in 1962, Catalyst is the leading nonprofit membership organization
working globally with businesses and the professions to build inclusive
What emerged is a picture of women-of-color lawyers who feel workplaces and expand opportunities for women and business. Visit www.
disadvantaged in the workplace compared to white women (with catalyst.org to learn more about our work and download Catalyst reports.
whom they share gender), to men of color (with whom they share Visit www.catalyst.org/page/82/catalyst-e-newsletters to begin receiving
race/ethnicity), and to white men (from whom they are twice re- Catalyst C-News, our monthly e-newsletter.
From everyday collection to environmental protection. Think Green. Think Waste Management. www.thinkgreen.com
viewpoint Women Worth Watching
87th Annual
in 2010
2009
®
Women in Leadership:
Why Not?
A
By Ilene H. Lang
President & CEO of Catalyst
R
CA, Inc.
Reflecting back on my career path reminds me of all the peaks, valleys, and
curves I have experienced over the years which have led to where I am today in
the world of IT. Much of my career has been spent in heavily male-populated
industries, which includes IT. I discovered early on, however not early enough,
that building a community of colleagues who would provide guidance, support, TITLE: Vice President, Communications
and Community Relations
and laughs was very important.
EDUCATION: BS, Communication Arts,
Throughout my career, there have been many people who have helped me St. John’s University, Jamaica, New York
get to where I am today and still help me as my career continues. I selectively
FIRST JOB: Salesperson at Bonwit Teller,
cultivate relationships with other professionals, both men and women, and together New York City
we serve as trusted advisors and confidants for each other. In addition to being my WHAT I’M READING: House of Cards,
friends and treasured colleagues, they have been, and still are, my mentors. by William D. Cohan
“…mentoring does not need to be formal, every day, whether we mean to or not,
that direct and focus our lives. We must
Challenges and opportunities come in many forms. In our careers, as in life, WEB SITE: www.ca.com
there will be roadblocks, but I have learned that through strong support from BUSINESS: IT software management
the networks you create, you can achieve success. and solutions.
I feel fortunate to be working at a company like CA that has many females ANNUAL REVENUES: $4.271 billion FY09
serving in top leadership positions. There is truly a strong sense of camaraderie EMPLOYEES: 13,700
among the women at CA and I know I can count on my colleagues when I
need them most. Additionally, CA has an established partnership with the Anita
Borg Institute for Women in Technology, a preeminent organization dedicated
to positively impacting women in IT. This organization serves as an excellent
source for best-practices and provides valuable resources. It is through all of
this that I can lead by example and be a role model to others. Hopefully I can
inspire and influence future leaders within CA and beyond.
DeAnna Allen
A
Dickstein Shapiro LLP
As a law school student, all of the female law firm partners I knew had well-
planned careers in which they first focused on becoming good lawyers (while
routinely indulging in good shopping and occasionally in great vacations) before
deciding whether to have children. I imagined myself following the same
TITLE: Partner cosmopolitan and ordered path. True to plan, I joined one of Chicago’s largest
EDUCATION: BSEE from University of law firms right out of law school, but my well-laid strategy had already begun to
Maryland (College Park); JD from go astray: I found myself with an eight-month-old baby, a 6PM daycare pick-up
University of Miami (Coral Gables)
that my husband and I juggled (with no extended family support), and a 2,000-
FIRST JOB: Design Engineer for Florida
hour billable requirement.
Power & Light
W
SunGard
When I graduated from college, I remember thinking that I would take my newly
earned Spanish and Psychology degrees and be a translator or maybe a bilingual
secretary. Little did I expect my early skills to help put me on the path I eventu-
ally took. Today, I am the chief human resources officer of SunGard—a global
TITLE: Chief Human Resources Officer Fortune 500 software and IT services company with over 20,000 employees.
EDUCATION: BA Hood College; MILR Rising to an executive level was not a straight career path. I made several turns
Cornell University; JD Pace University along the way that helped me build a strong foundation of knowledge and skills.
FIRST JOB: Counselor, Girl Scout Camp Over the years, I’ve had stops in several different industries—government, financial
WHAT I’M READING: Way too many services, consulting and law—and have even owned my own business. Each
novels to list and the Harvard experience gave me the preparation and new skills for the next opportunity.
Business Review
Careers rarely have a single trajectory. What you do at each step of the way
MY PHILOSOPHY: Read the playbook,
memorize it, then rip it up and make your
impacts the opportunities that may come your way. I stood out early in my
own rules. career because of my linguistic and translation skills. These skills made me valu-
FAMILY: Husband Sony from Greece;
able and sought-after, and gave me access to opportunities and people I would
David (18) Derrick (16); two dogs and otherwise not have had.
two horses—we do everything by twos
(except the husband).
Amparo Bared
A
Ryder System, Inc.
A key part of being successful is loving what you do. I am passionate about my
work, and I have a strong drive to do what is right and do it well. My work in
talent management is about helping people reach their potential. I lead a
proactive team that works on corporate initiatives to identify, develop, and
deploy all levels of talent, including diverse employees, to help them perform TITLE: Vice President of Human Resources
and Talent Management
to their highest capacity.
EDUCATION: MBA, University of Miami;
I began working in human resources at a medical device manufacturer Bachelor’s in Human Resources Manage-
right out of college. I was fortunate to have a mentor who instilled in me the fun- ment, Florida International University
damental values of being a good human resources professional. She taught me the
FIRST JOB: Worked in human resources
importance of integrity and being able to inspire trust from colleagues as well as at a medical device manufacturer
having a strong understanding of the business and the internal and external
WHAT I’M READING: I tend to read
customers. She also taught me the importance of standing up for what you believe in. several books at once. I’m currently read-
ing Eat, Pray, Love, by Elizabeth Gilbert;
Raising Cain: Protecting the Emotional
“…even with all the technology used to Life of Boys, by Dan Kindlon and Michael
Thompson; and The Four Seasons of
communicate today, there is no substitute Marriage, by Gary Chapman.
lead exciting projects that have brought new technologies, processes, and INTERESTS: Spending time with my
initiatives to Ryder’s talent management program. My team has also developed a family, traveling, collecting art, and skiing.
diversity and inclusion strategy that closely aligns our goals with the company’s FAVORITE CHARITies: American Heart
business objectives. Association, and CARE
I believe if you pursue your goals with energy, passion, and drive, and always
have faith in yourself, you can be successful. It’s important to have a strong work
ethic and a clear understanding of what you want to achieve. I am fortunate to
work for a company that values hard work and is led by very talented people. I COMPANY: Ryder System, Inc.
have learned from my boss and from our business leaders, and I have worked to
HEADQUARTERS: Miami, Florida
emulate the skills that have made them successful. I have also learned that, even
WEB SITE: www.ryder.com
with all the technology used to communicate today, there is no substitute for face-
to-face communication. That’s what builds strong relationships. BUSINESS: Transportation and logistics
solutions.
One of the biggest lessons I have learned as a woman and as a professional
ANNUAL REVENUES: $6.2 billion
is the importance of being able to handle disagreements without taking them
in 2008
personally. At times, we have to take a tough stand and say things people may
not want to hear. An effective professional should be able handle difficult EMPLOYEES: 28,000 employees
worldwide
communications without damaging relationships.
My best advice to women aspiring to become corporate leaders is to pursue
what you love with energy, and make your own path. Learn from your mistakes
and use them as an opportunity to grow.
Lyn Beaty
I
Halliburton
It is my firm belief that to experience success in your career does not require you
to be special or develop a magic formula; it just requires a personal commitment
to operational excellence and continuous development.
TITLE: Vice President, Internal Audit I have been very fortunate in my career at Halliburton. I have been offered
and Controls many and varied opportunities in the organization, some positions existing,
EDUCATION: University of Texas at but many new. A personal commitment to operational excellence—delivering
Austin, BBA with a specialization
high quality outcomes in whatever you undertake—defines success not only in job
in accounting
satisfaction but also in new opportunities. My experience has taught me not all oppor-
FIRST JOB: Staff Accountant,
tunities will be high profile or glamorous, but each will offer a unique development
Dresser Industries
opportunity, adding or strengthening skill set competencies, which in turn yields a
WHAT I’M READING: Chain of Blame,
by Paul Muolo and Mathew Padilla;
more desired skill set, which results in broader, more challenging opportunities.
City of Thieves, by David Benioff; and
Now, Discover Your Strengths, by Marcus
Buckingham and Donald O. Clifton
“With a commitment to
operational excellence and continuous
MY PHILOSOPHY: “I hope you dance.”
At Halliburton, we’ve found that putting significant trust—and business—in the hands of minority
and woman-owned businesses is a win-win proposition for us all. Vendors win by partnering
with one of the world’s leading companies. Halliburton wins by receiving first-class service from
these quality-driven firms, and our customers win by having the very best and most diverse
suppliers devoted to making Halliburton the best oil and gas services supplier in the world.
For more information, contact us at supplierdiversity@halliburton.com.
HALLIBURTON
H e l p i n g b u i l d s u c c e s s t h r o u g h s u p p l i e r d i v e r s i t y.
Lori Beer
I
WellPoint, Inc.
I’m well aware that sometimes the IT field carries the perception of being
“analytical” versus “strategic” or an “order taker” versus a “consultant to the
business.” Fortunately, my experiences at WellPoint do not fit those stereotypes.
In fact, in my decade at WellPoint, I’ve watched information technology associates
TITLE: Executive Vice President and Chief become business leaders and have personally refocused our IT organization on
Information Officer
collaborating with the business to create value for our customers.
EDUCATION: BS, Computer Science,
University of Dayton During my 10 years at WellPoint and more than 20 years in IT, I’ve learned
two essential lessons: first, the technology itself is much less important than
FIRST JOB: Software Engineer,
Westinghouse Savannah River Site the expertise behind it; and second, take accountability to use technology as a
WHAT I’M READING: My Sister’s
strategic asset to create value for the business. At WellPoint, technology is a key
Keeper, by Jodi Picoult; Execution: The enabler of making health care simpler, improving quality, and reducing cost for
Discipline of Getting Things Done, by our members, and that means we must make information personalized and
Larry Bossidy and Ram Charan
relevant to their needs.
MY PHILOSOPHY: Take
accountability, deliver results, create Growing up on a farm in New York instilled in me the importance of a
value for the business and focus on strong work ethic, including taking accountability and working hard to achieve
continuous improvement.
results. I learned if you do this, success will follow. This has carried into my
FAMILY: Husband, three children (two professional career. From my first professional role to my current position
girls, one boy), dog.
as CIO, I have always focused on ensuring the entire business outcome was
INTERESTS: My kids’ sporting achieved, not just the specific tasks for which I was accountable. Technology is
events; gardening.
a key enabler to improving the productivity of the business and I have always
FAVORITE CHARITies: United Way; looked for innovative ways to use technology to solve problems that improve
Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation
results, which is what ultimately creates value for the business.
JOIN
OUR
TEAM
While many insurance and financial services firms are faltering, New York Life Insurance Company
is still standing strong—in fact, we’re growing. One reason we continue to stand strong is we have
the highest possible ratings for financial strength.* For the past 164 years we’ve protected families and
met all of our obligations. And now more than ever our policyholders are looking for the peace of mind
that products from New York Life Agents can help bring them. If you are looking for a new company
or career, choose one that is strong today, and will be well into the future.
For more information about a career as a New York Life Agent,
please call 866-368-2914 or visit www.newyorklife.com/agent
NEW YORK LIFE. THE COMPANY YOU KEEP.®
*Standard & Poor’s (AAA), A.M. Best (A++), Moody’s (Aaa) and Fitch (AAA) for financial strength. Source: Individual Third-Party Ratings Reports (as of 6/16/09).
© 2009 New York Life Insurance Company, 51 Madison Avenue, New York, NY 10010
EOE M/F/D/V
women worth watching in 2010
Brenda Blisk
A
Blisk Financial Group of Spire Investment Partners
WEB SITE: www.spireip.com I have extended guidance up to and through four generations. Some of our
best success stories involve our ability to communicate effective solutions to a
BUSINESS: Wealth management.
variety of family relationships. Client trust flows from a blend of confident and
ANNUAL REVENUES: $2 million
thoughtful advice, step-by-step guidance, and the efficient implementation of
EMPLOYEES: 4 their decisions. I rely on independent resources; create personalized plans,
information, and education.
Aside from the day-to-day mentoring of our Gen-Y support staff, I am
mentoring through the Women in Technology Mentor-Protégée Program for
professional women. This includes: career path advice, work/life balance tips,
and the development of networking skills. It is essentially the balance of these
that gives young women a real chance to succeed.
www.unileverusa.com
women worth watching in 2010
Kathleen C. Bock
M
Vanguard
My career path is best characterized by a well-known Beatles song, The Long and
Winding Road—definitely a journey with many twists, turns, and lessons.
Throughout my career I have learned valuable lessons including:
Be yourself and encourage others to do the same. My “career” began at age 14,
TITLE: Principal and Director of working in an atypical job for girls my age—I was answering phones, filing, and
Internal Audit
selling refrigeration equipment. Not many other 14-year-old girls studied pressure-
EDUCATION: BBA in Accounting, Temple temperature charts and condensing units! Customers knew this and often asked to
University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
speak to “one of the guys.” With patience and the support of a great boss, I eventu-
FIRST JOB: Secretary and salesperson ally convinced customers to ask for me if they wanted quality service. It’s not always
WHAT I’M READING: The Majesty of
easy being different, but I’ve learned that our differences bring valuable insights and
the Law: Reflections of a Supreme Court perspectives that may not otherwise be considered.
Justice, by Sandra Day O’Connor
Take risks—calculated, of course. Early in my career, my husband accepted
MY PHILOSOPHY: Set your moral and an overseas assignment. Having never been to Europe, we were excited about the
ethical compass right, and everything else
adventure. I was fortunate to find a new position with new responsibilities, while
falls into place.
moving our two girls to new schools to meet new friends. This was a big change
FAMILY: Husband Chris, daughters Rose for our family, yet the perspective I gained, both personally and professionally, was
and Liz, and a huge extended family.
immeasurable and still serves me well today.
INTERESTS: Yoga, history, music, and
involvement with family.
Value adversity and learn from it. One of my most challenging experiences at
Vanguard was responding to the impact the September 11th terrorist attacks had on
FAVORITE CHARITY: The United Way
our company—when our nation was under immense emotional stress. But
of Southeastern Pennsylvania because it
touches so many. challenging circumstances provide incredible opportunities to learn about business,
people, and ourselves.
COMPANY: Vanguard
To learn more
Connect with Vanguard > www.vanguard.com/careers ®
Andrea R. Bortner
H
Harris Corporation
Have you ever been told you couldn’t do something because of your gender?
That you couldn’t be involved in something because of your physical charac-
teristics? That your career was limited because you decided to have children?
Fortunately for me I have been presented with those “opportunities” throughout
TITLE: Vice President, Human Resources, my life. And what I have discovered about a door shutting, or at times slamming
Government Communications Division
(Harris’ largest division—7,000 employees) in my face, is the strength you garner to find a new door, a new path, or a new
opportunity. Each one of us is faced with challenging situations and it is how
EDUCATION: MBA, University of
Southern California; BA, Canisius College we choose to respond to these situations that ultimately steers our direction. If
I had my life to do all over again I wouldn’t change a thing. It has been these
FIRST JOB: Babysitter at age 11
experiences, whether difficult or easy, fun or heartbreaking, that truly shaped
WHAT I’M READING: The Catalyst,
who I have become as an individual, wife, mother, daughter, sister, and executive.
by Jeanne Liedtka, Robert Rosen, and
Robert Wiltbank; Workforce Management
magazine
Stacy Brown-Philpot
H
Google
my passion is mentoring middle school-aged girls. This is because that age was EDUCATION: BS in Economics from
one of the most significant periods of change I experienced in my life. When I the Wharton School at the University of
Pennsylvania; MBA from the Stanford
started fifth grade, I was sent off to a middle school that was not my neighbor- Graduate School of Business
hood school. This meant that I had to make new friends and couldn’t carry
FIRST JOB: Pharmacy Assistant at my
my friendships from elementary school with me. This also meant that I was uncle’s pharmacy in Detroit, Michigan
isolated from the friends in my neighborhood because they were going to the
WHAT I’M READING: In Spite of the
local school and having different experiences than my own. Being isolated and Gods: The Rise of Modern India, by
“the only one” that was bused to school was lonely at first and I was mad at my Edward Luce
mom for forcing me into this situation. Over the years, I made new friends and MY PHILOSOPHY: Build talented,
received opportunities and experiences that others around me did not. Looking diverse, creative teams that strengthen
your weaknesses. Groups of people will
back, I am thankful for the hard choice that my mother made and grateful for always accomplish much, much more
her foresight in pushing me into new experiences so that I may have access to than any one individual alone. As the
African proverb says: If you want to go
better opportunities.
fast, go alone, but if you want to go far,
go together.
And I haven’t looked back. My “dream job” is always one where I find myself HEADQUARTERS: Mountain View,
California
faced with a big challenge and a high enough likelihood of failure that I have
butterflies in my stomach almost all the time—but if I am successful, then the WEB SITE: www.google.com
result is a huge impact on the business. The mentors in my life have pushed BUSINESS: Google’s mission is to
me into these situations when I was sometimes afraid to go on my own. They organize the world’s information and
make it universally accessible and useful.
have also helped me learn from my mistakes, pick myself up, and keep moving
ahead. My life and career have taken a variety of twists and turns, but at every ANNUAL REVENUES: $21,795.55
(millions of USD) in 2008
intersection I’ve found a guiding hand to help make what turned out to be the
right decisions. Surround yourself with people who will push the boundaries of EMPLOYEES: 20,164 as of March 2009
Tammy L. Butts
I
AXA Advisors, LLC
The road back to employment was not without its challenges. I had been out
COMPANY: AXA Advisors, LLC of the workforce and I was in a new city where I had very few business contacts.
HEADQUARTERS: New York City
This forced me to build my financial services practice from scratch.
WEB SITE: www.axaonline.com After years of hard work and the good fortune to have multiple mentors at
AXA Advisors—seasoned professionals who were generous with their knowledge
BUSINESS: Life insurance, annuity, and
investment products and services. and experience—I achieved a certain level of success and was promoted to district
manager in 2005. In that role, I was responsible for recruiting, training, and
ANNUAL REVENUES: $18.58 billion U.S.
dollars for 2008* developing other financial professionals, building a district of 19 professionals,
50 percent of them women.
EMPLOYEES: Approximately 11, 000
employees and sales personnel** In January 2009, I was promoted to divisional executive vice president of the
Chicago branch. I now find myself in the role of leader and mentor, working
with an excellent team of professionals, some who were mentors to me and
crucial to my own success in the industry.
My journey has taken a couple of unexpected turns, but has led to a very
rewarding career. I have worked with hundreds of people to help develop strate-
gies to protect their financial futures, and I have helped others enter, grow, and
succeed in this business. There is no greater reward than giving back what was
*This is the revenue number for affiliate AXA Equitable.
**Includes employee figures from affiliate AXA Equitable Life
Insurance Company.
freely given to me—mentoring others to achieve their goals.
Patricia S. Cain
I
Neal, Gerber & Eisenberg LLP
I have had many mentors throughout my life, starting with my father, who
worked in the Pittsburgh steel mills. His chance to attend college was short-
circuited by the Great Depression, but he did understand the value of education.
My love of reading started early when he paid me a dime for each day that I
read the newspaper. Although my three older sisters did not go to college, my TITLE: Partner; Chair of Employee
Benefits & Executive Compensation
father supported my college aspirations and I became the first college, and law Practice Group
school, graduate in my family.
EDUCATION: Georgetown University, AB;
After law school, adapting to the male-dominated environment of a Chicago Northwestern University School of Law, JD
law firm initially did not seem easy. Fortunately, a small group of women lawyers FIRST JOB: Working at Gimbels Department
at the firm became a strong support group. We worked closely to establish Store selling men’s shirts
the firm’s first maternity policy, and to end the firm’s patronage of social clubs WHAT I’M READING: Renegade: The
that discriminated against women. Several male colleagues were also highly Making of a President, by Richard Wolffe;
Belong to Me, by Marisa de los Santos
supportive, and arranged for me to become the firm’s first telecommuting
attorney, which allowed me to relocate to Syracuse, New York to join my MY PHILOSOPHY: To whom much has
been given, much is required.
husband, while still remaining a partner.
FAMILY: Husband, Grant Krafft; children,
While my children were still at home, my volunteering focused on activities that Catherine, 24, and Nicholas, 22.
allowed me to fulfill both my passion for volunteering with my desire to spend INTERESTS: Cooking, weight training,
time with my children. One memorable example was a trip with my son to reading.
Mississippi to work on rebuilding homes in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. FAVORITE CHARITY: Lutheran Social
Services of Illinois
advice to a new mother about balancing family and work life, or listening to the EMPLOYEES: 400+
perspectives of other attorneys on ways to improve the firm’s diversity efforts,
I have learned that being a leader means more than just being a successful lawyer.
In fact, my ability to care about people, by listening and seeing the world
through their eyes, has proven valuable in my role as the first woman on my
firm’s executive committee.
My advice for young professionals is to first determine and prioritize your
professional and personal goals and aspirations, looking both at what you want
and what is possible. There is no “right” answer—it depends upon what you are
seeking out of your life. Take time to volunteer, spend time with your friends,
and strengthen your family relationships. As my father taught me, it is your
integrity and work ethic that will take you through life’s biggest challenges—
even when your intellect and inspiration wear thin.
Nancy Calderon
W
KPMG LLP
When I look back over my 23-year career, I know there has been one overriding
theme to my success: Make each day count because you never know what the next day
will bring. I learned this lesson early on, first when my first husband died at 21, and
again when I lost one of my twins, and the other was born two months prematurely.
TITLE: National Partner in Charge,
Operations In business, as in life, there are unexpected surprises. The trick is to do the
EDUCATION: BS, Business Administration, best you can each day. Deal with problems as they come along but be open to
University of California at Berkeley; new opportunities, and let your values, including a dedication to ethics, open
MS, Taxation, Golden Gate University
and honest communication, and respect for others, guide your decisions.
FIRST JOB: Cashier at
Teresa Carroll
L
Kelly Services
Leadership assessments from peers and bosses tell me that I’m good at building
relationships. That’s what it’s all about—right? After all, a company is, at its
core, an organization of people. And how do people productively work together?
By building positive relationships. More importantly, for those of us in the ser-
TITLE: Senior Vice President,
vice industry, relationships with customers and employees oftentimes equate to Global Service
profit and growth. The term that is often used now is “engagement.” Are my
EDUCATION: MBA, University of
customers engaged? Are my employees engaged? Am I engaged? Michigan; BS, Industrial Engineering, GMI
Engineering & Management Institute
As a leader, I approach my career with fervor. I believe anything you spend
most of your life doing should be done with heart and passion. My own success FIRST JOB: Babysitter, cook, waitress (all
at the same time)
is largely due to the great teams I’ve built over the years and the people I have
spent time with, as a coach or mentor. I take my job as a leader seriously and WHAT I’M READING: Midlife Orphan, by
Jane Brooks
commit to provide honest feedback to help others succeed. My proudest accom-
plishments involve the success of others who have listened to my advice, and MY PHILOSOPHY: Work hard, play hard.
Also, three data points make a trend.
either changed destructive behavior, and/or removed career obstacles within
their control. Many of these individuals are now future leaders of our company. FAMILY: Husband, Paul; two children,
Alyssa and Jason.
Aside from building positive relationships and approaching things with heart HEADQUARTERS: Troy, Michigan
and passion, my success can be attributed to a great work ethic and a continuous WEB SITE: www.kellyservices.com
pursuit toward results. Blame it on my engineering degree, or blame it on my BUSINESS: Human resources solutions.
hard working roots, but I haven’t found a problem I don’t want to solve. In
ANNUAL REVENUES: $5.5 billion
business, a leader is faced with problems every day, and finding a way to solve
them is paramount to success. Ensuring execution and solving problems are two EMPLOYEES: 8,600 worldwide
skills future leaders need to hone and perfect throughout their career.
My advice to anyone reading this essay is to ask yourself, are you engaged
in your career and your work? Are you building positive relationships and
approaching your career with heart and passion? Are you working hard and
relentlessly pursuing results? If the answer is yes, then pay it forward. Pass on
that passion to somebody who can’t say yes and watch what happens.
I
Northwestern Mutual
I didn’t wake up one day and decide, “I’m going to be a leader!” Rather, it was a
series of experiences and mentors along the way that led me down this path. It
wasn’t precisely mapped out; I just worked hard at being prepared and ready to
take advantage of opportunities that came my way.
TITLE: Vice President, Communications &
Corporate Affairs; President, Northwestern My career officially began in the ninth grade when I enrolled in an Introduction
Mutual Foundation
to Journalism class to fill an empty spot on my schedule. This class sparked my
EDUCATION: BS, Journalism, passion for storytelling—using the power of words and pictures to express ideas
Northwestern University
and other perspectives. I was also fortunate to meet a very special teacher who
FIRST JOB: Grocery store cashier emphasized the spoken word. Since then, I have found that effectively expressing
in high school
ideas, voicing opinions, and asking questions are absolutely critical to success,
WHAT I’M READING: The No. 1 regardless of your profession.
Ladies’ Detective Agency, by Alexander
McCall Smith
As one of the world’s foremost technology leaders, Raytheon takes on some of the most difficult challenges
imaginable. Meeting those challenges requires a diversity of talent, ideas, backgrounds, opinions and beliefs.
Diversity helps our teams make better decisions, build stronger customer relationships and feel more inspired,
supported and empowered. It is both a catalyst and an essential advantage to everything we do.
www.rayjobs.com
© 2009 Raytheon Company. All rights reserved.
“Customer Success Is Our Mission” is a registered trademark of Raytheon Company.
Raytheon is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer and welcomes a wide
diversity of applicants. U.S. citizenship and security clearance may be required.
women worth watching in 2010
Shirley Cunningham
T
Monsanto Company
Throughout my career, I’ve been lucky to have been surrounded by great people
—people who possess the skills I’ve always aspired to have. Building this great
network of leaders allowed me to tap into a deeper knowledge and resource
base, and has helped me significantly in becoming the leader I am today.
TITLE: Chief Information Officer
In 1998, I was asked to move from my home in Scotland, to Brussels,
EDUCATION: MBA, Belgium, to run information technology services for Monsanto’s Information
Washington University
Technology group, covering our three key business units. In this role, I went
FIRST JOB: Waitress from managing 30-40 people to managing 300-400 people. My mentor and
WHAT I’M READING: The Emotional respected leaders offered me the best advice I could imagine—take roles that
Intelligence Quick Book, by Travis make you uncomfortable, because you don’t learn as much from roles you are
Bradberry and Jean Greaves; Cannery
comfortable with. I learned quickly that being uncomfortable in a role is a
Row, by John Steinbeck
catalyst for change not only in your career, but also in you as a person.
MY PHILOSOPHY: Be the best you can
be with integrity. Even in my role, I’m always pursuing life-long learning. There is so much to
learn from the people around you, as long as you keep an open mind to
FAMILY: Husband, Mike; son, Michael.
learning from different sources. It is important for every person within an
INTERESTS: Reading, cooking and hiking organization to understand the business, and challenges facing the business. If
in Scotland.
you do this, you can provide different and better solutions to help further the
FAVORITE CHARITY: United Way entire organization.
EMPLOYEES: 26,400 I’ve been very fortunate to work for a company that empowers all of its
employees to explore career options and do things outside of traditional work
functions. The company’s leadership has recognized the skills and value I can
bring to a position, and I’ve had job opportunities that have gone beyond my
traditional role. I think when you are choosing where to begin, or continue,
your career, it is imperative to work for a company that has the values and ethics
that you admire.
As a leader, I know that the business isn’t about me; it’s about the function
and people I’m managing. The biggest accomplishment for me is to have my
business function and people recognized for doing an outstanding job. I’m
motivated by seeing people within my function succeeding, and at the end of
the day, I want my team to provide outstanding value for our business. I’m
always encouraging my people to take chances and learn outside of the box. My
legacy would be to leave behind people that do an even better job than I did.
Laree Daniel
M
Aflac
Mentoring is widely accepted in the business world; however, its roots have
evolved. I believe people often serve as a mentor without ever knowing it. A
mentor is essentially a teacher or coach.
The most impactful mentors in my life are my parents. They guided me and
TITLE: Senior Vice President of the
have been a tremendous influence. The phrases—”The only failure is to fail to Customer Assurance Organization
try,” “Nothing to it, but to do it,” and “Big girls don’t cry.”—are imprinted in
EDUCATION: BS, Business and
my mind. I learned how to lead and how to be a team player as my dad worked Psychology, Nebraska Wesleyan University;
countless hours managing his business and my mom filled in the gaps. MS, Organizational Psychology,
University of Nebraska.
While my career has taken many turns, from a cashier to the assembly line—
deboning chicken and packing boxes of cereal—I accepted a service representative FIRST JOB: I was a cashier at our family
grocery store
position at an insurance company to take advantage of its tuition reimburse-
ment program. I truly believed that I would leave once I attained my master’s WHAT I’M READING: Outliers,
by Malcolm Gladwell
degree. Eighteen years later, having reached the executive suite, it’s clear that
decision was pivotal for my career. MY PHILOSOPHY: If you can make
a difference in the life of at least one
I enjoy applying my mentoring philosophy to help others realize and achieve person, then your life will not have been
their goals. As a coach to fellow associates, I’m honored to guide future leaders in vain. At the end of the day, it’s really
not about you; it’s about the relationships
to advance in their careers. Also, at church, I mentor youth in spiritual values, that you build or don’t build. Live life as
life style choices and skills. if “Failure is not an option.” This means
that you never fail because you learn and
grow from what others may call failure.
Ann D. Davidson
A
ITT Corporation
A mentor is a trusted guide, and mentoring is one of the most effective ways to
pass on learning from one person to another. Throughout my life, I have had
many wonderful, informal mentors to whom I am grateful. Some do not know
that I consider them my mentors. All took the time to teach, to coach, and to
TITLE: Vice President, share their wisdom and experience with me. They also expected that the gratitude
Corporate Responsibility
that I felt not be expressed to them directly, but rather expressed through me
EDUCATION: BA, cum laude, Ohio acting as a mentor to others.
University; JD, cum laude, University of
Dayton School of Law Any discussion of mentoring should start with our parents. Parenting is the
FIRST JOB: Babysitting, Summer Camp most influential form of mentoring and my parents are my best mentors. They
Counselor, Lifeguard instilled in me, and each of my seven siblings, the importance of a goal-driven,
WHAT I’M READING: One Hundred purposeful life—balanced with having fun, and love, in our lives. We were given
Years of Solitude, by Gabriel much responsibility at an early age, learned negotiation and compromise, decision-
Garcia Márquez
making and accountability, the need for effective teamwork, and leadership skills.
MY PHILOSOPHY: Know yourself, be
your best self, be purposeful with your
life, and sometimes, just breathe and—
with gratitude—appreciate all that is “People in successful organizations
good around you.
www.itt.com/careers The “ITT Engineered Blocks” symbol and “Engineered for life”
We are an equal opportunity employer m/f/d/v. are registered trademarks of the ITT Corporation. © 2006
women worth watching in 2010
W
Wal-Mart Stores, Inc.
When trying to carve out a successful career path, I feel it is vital to surround your-
self, not only with people who act as your champions, but also those who are willing
to challenge you.
Champions are mentors who are your advocates. They provide encouragement,
TITLE: Executive Vice President,
Membership, Marketing & eCommerce
and help open doors to new opportunities and promotions. Challengers shoot
for Sam’s Club straight with you, coach you when you need it most, push you out of your comfort
zone, and help you develop your weaknesses. Most of us gravitate toward champions.
EDUCATION: BA, College of William &
Mary; Master’s, Thunderbird School of But I have found the people who ask the tough questions and force you to see different
Global Management perspectives have the greatest impact. If you have challengers on your personal board
FIRST JOB: Assistant Account Executive,
of directors, you will broaden your horizons and accelerate your development.
Ad Agency (BBDO/Tracy-Locke) on
SM
women worth watching in 2010
Terri Dial
T
Citigroup Inc.
The happiest and most successful people I know see their careers not as a ladder
or a mountain to be climbed, but as a river to be traveled. Rivers take unexpected
turns, get caught in bends, and sometimes loop back upon themselves. They
start small and the further they flow, the larger and more connected they
TITLE: Chief Executive Officer, Consumer become. The mouth of the river, just like the peak of a career, is usually the
Banking, North America; Global Head,
Consumer Strategy most connected place you could be—where cities and people, commerce and
trade all come together. I hate the mountain as a metaphor for a career. The
EDUCATION: BA in Political Science,
Northwestern University top of the mountain is cold, windy, and lonely! When I started my career as a
teller at Wells Fargo Bank in 1973, I never expected nor aspired to lead a major
FIRST JOB: Bank teller
business like Citi’s Consumer Bank—nor did I know I was beginning such a
WHAT I’M READING: The Guernsey
dynamic and rewarding journey. And now I truly do feel like I’m living at the
Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society, by
Mary Ann Shaffer and Annie Barrows mouth of the river, the most connected place of all.
MY PHILOSOPHY: My greatest learning Early on I was fortunate to have challenging roles, which required creativity,
is that happiness or misery depends a lot judgment, and decision-making. I got to practice on small problems and
more on attitude than circumstance—and
you can change your attitude. opportunities. I had early, sharp, leadership experiences. I am grateful I had the
opportunity to lead small groups early in my career—I made loads of mistakes,
FAMILY: Married.
but my audience wasn’t too big!
INTERESTS: Pleasure travel to over 100
countries, with special interest in places Throughout my career, I’ve been fortunate to have wonderful mentors who
that are off the beaten path. fostered my professional development. My most powerful mentoring relation-
FAVORITE CHARITIES: March of Dimes; ships didn’t result from structured programs. Instead, my mentors were leaders
Citymeals-on-Wheels who took a personal interest and found it natural to be an active part of my
Lorna Donatone
T
Sodexo, Inc.
completely self-aware of your strengths and weaknesses as you raise your hand EDUCATION: BS, Management, Tulane
for various opportunities. Having this self-awareness will help you to best position University; MBA, Accounting,
Texas Christian University
and leverage your strengths in a way that will help to mitigate any skill gaps
FIRST JOB: Auditor, Deloitte and Touche;
or weaknesses.
Summers throughout college:
Secretarial work
and pursue the jobs, not just the titles, MY PHILOSOPHY: Try to make a
Carol A. Dudley
Y
The Dow Chemical Company
You don’t get far in business these days without creating strong relationships
with colleagues. Over the years, I have experienced a number of long-term
mentoring relationships and I’ve gained much—both from having a mentor
and from being one. When I asked some of my colleagues recently about what
TITLE: Senior Vice President, they valued most about our mentoring relationship, four words arose again and
Basic Chemicals Division
again—trust, openness, consistency, and honesty.
EDUCATION: BS, Chemical Engineering,
Carnegie Mellon University; Executive Trust. This is the foundation that every strong relationship starts with—trust
MBA, Indiana University that confidences will be maintained, trust that advice will be compassionate but
FIRST JOB: Engineer realistic, and trust that you will “be there” for each other. It is not something
WHAT I’M READING: Breaking Into
that is bestowed due to position or power—but rather it is earned over time.
the Boys’ Club, by Molly Shepard, Jane Trust can be risky at times, but is necessary to build strong relationships.
Stimmler, and Peter Dean
Openness. Getting others to open up starts with being transparent about
MY PHILOSOPHY: To deliver results,
your own experiences. You must be willing to talk about your successes and
communicate, and recognize your people.
your failures. It’s not always easy, but this kind of sharing often provides the
FAMILY: Two children: Erin 25, and
most valuable lessons.
Shannon, 21.
COMPANY: The Dow Chemical Company “You don’t get far in business
HEADQUARTERS: Midland, Michigan these days without creating strong
WEB SITE: www.dow.com
6i=^\]bVg`!lZjcYZghiVcYi]ZWZcZÒid[kVg^djha^[ZZmeZg^ZcXZh#6cYlZlZaXdbZ
bjai^eaZed^cihd[k^Zl#LZVgZVahdfj^X`idVeeaVjYdjg^cY^k^YjVaY^[[ZgZcXZh#NdjhZZ^i
^ci]ZZbeadnZZhlZ]^gZ#I]ZeZdeaZlZ^chjgZ#I]ZeVgicZghlZYdWjh^cZhhl^i]#
9^kZgh^in#>iÉhcdidcan\ddY[dgdjgXdbeVcnÉh]ZVai]#>iÉh\ddY[dgdjgXdbbjc^inÉh]ZVai]#
women worth watching in 2010
Lynn Dugle
I
Raytheon Company
I am often asked to share my plan for climbing up the corporate ladder. I suppose
you could say I’ve done that, but in reality my climb has been sideways as much
as it has been up. Throughout my career, I’ve taken more lateral moves than
promotions, and I’m a better and more well-rounded leader as a result. By making
TITLE: Vice President, Raytheon Company, these moves, I’ve supported many different parts of companies, including
and President, Raytheon Intelligence and
Information Systems Engineering, Finance, Quality and Business Development. Each move provided
me with new skill sets, a fresh perspective, and a larger network. They’ve given
EDUCATION: BS, Technical Management,
and BA, Spanish, Purdue University; me the breadth of experience to be able to run a large enterprise with confidence.
MBA, Business Administration, University
of Texas at Dallas
Kim Feil
L
Walgreens Co.
Let’s start by getting to know me. One of my passions is renovating houses; I like
taking great finds and making them stronger or giving them fresh direction.
This love has emerged as a strong theme in my career.
Being the first chief marketing officer at Walgreens excites me because I’m
TITLE: Chief Marketing Officer
charged with re-inventing how consumers feel about our brand—one of the
EDUCATION: MBA, BFA, Journalism;
nation’s most iconic, trusted brands. After spending 26 years in consumer packaged
and BA, English; all from Southern
goods working for Frito Lay and Sara Lee (to name two), I wanted to take on a Methodist University.
new challenge—health and wellness. For me, it’s very rewarding to see legendary
FIRST JOB: Assistant Brand Manager on
brands evolve through changing times. Doritos for Frito-Lay
I didn’t get to where I am today without overcoming obstacles. Everyone in MY PHILOSOPHY: I believe that while
business will encounter challenges. That’s why I believe mentoring is key. While many characteristics result in business
success, the ones to be most proud of are
women and minorities still struggle with advancing in the corporate world, times hard work and integrity.
are changing. We’re seeing more diverse executives than ever before.
INTERESTS: Cooking, gardening, and being
When it comes to mentors, my role model and cheerleader has to be my outside with my two Golden Retrievers.
father. He worked his entire life at Procter & Gamble, and was a big supporter FAVORITE CHARITies: Network of
of diversity efforts. He recruited and helped develop women and people of Executive Women; Salvation Army
color. I’ve had the pleasure of meeting women my father helped early in their
careers. They tell me he was instrumental in coaching them through difficult
times and helping them believe they could lead, and make a difference. It’s
amazing to hear how much influence my father had on many talented leaders COMPANY: Walgreens Co.
today. This validates the importance of mentoring and networking.
HEADQUARTERS: Deerfield, Illinois
BUSINESS: Pharmacy.
EMPLOYEES: 231,710
I always try to learn as much as I hope to teach. I’m the national secretary
for the Network of Executive Women, an organization created to help women
maximize their career opportunities. Networking is essential. No matter how
smart you are or how hard you’re willing to work, you cannot live up to your
full potential operating in total isolation. Through this organization, I’ve
networked with people who demonstrate such passion for their career goals that
you can’t walk away without being inspired.
The best advice I can offer to aspiring business leaders is be yourself. Try to
approach a task with your own style and use your strengths as stepping stones.
Also, don’t think you have to solve all challenges at once. One personal motto
that I live by is, “Lead, follow, or get out of the way!”
Jo Ann Feindt
S
United States Postal Service
Lisa Ferrero
I
Corning Incorporated
It’s a timeless question, whether leaders are born or made. I certainly didn’t
begin my career with the ambition of leading a business—I viewed myself as a
member of a team, a “doer,” working hard to accomplish whatever needed to be
done. But as I grew in my career and was coached by my supervisors, I learned
how to tap into my innate desire to “control” and turn that into the ability to TITLE: Vice President and General
Manager, Corning Display Technologies
set direction, motivate, and lead teams to get things done. In my case, the rise
to leadership was a gradual slope without a clear end goal. EDUCATION: Bachelor’s in Mathematics
and Statistics, State University of
The defining step in my career was relocating to Japan, because it required New York, Oneonta; MBA, University of
San Diego
such a leap of faith. At the time, there were no manufacturing or engineering
roles in Tokyo, so my only option was marketing, an area in which I had no FIRST JOB: Cashier at a grocery store
experience beyond my college coursework. Leaving my home country and a WHAT I’M READING: My favorite book
discipline I knew very well for entirely new territory forced me to embrace the is Stephen King’s The Stand
unknown. The gamble paid off, and I’ve stayed on the commercial career path MY PHILOSOPHY: Work hard, play hard.
ever since. I’ve now spent a third of my career in Asia. FAMILY: Husband and two sons, ages
16 and 19.
Like many leaders, I am performance and rigor focused, and need to be able
to add value while leading. However, when I try to characterize my leadership INTERESTS: Boating, waterskiing,
beach vacations. Currently training for a
style, the main concepts that come to mind are fun and freedom. 10K race.
“In the face of high pressure Food Bank, United Way, Girl Scouts, and
Boy Scouts.
product is all the stronger. This belief in diversity is endemic at Corning with EMPLOYEES: Approximately 23,000
our deep belief in valuing the individual. worldwide
Dawn Fitzpatrick
H
Pitney Bowes Inc.
How do you create the right recipe for career growth and development? Do you
improvise, or follow a step-by-step process?
Creating a delicious concoction is similar to an individual’s evolution along
her career trajectory. Understanding key ingredients, without compromising the
TITLE: Vice President, Marketing and
Business Management, Pitney Bowes seemingly small ones, can enhance its flavor in many different ways.
Document Messaging Technologies
Reflecting on my own career, I have been fortunate to have had a variety of
EDUCATION: BA, State University of opportunities, experiences, and influential role models to shape the person I am
New York, Cortland
today. I have found that taking risks, flexibility, and optimism are some of the
FIRST JOB: Elementary school teacher most important ingredients for a successful career.
WHAT I’M READING: Blink, by
Malcom Gladwell
Susan B. Garcia
M
American Airlines
My personal philosophy is that you should find something you have a passion
for—but don’t let it get in the way of putting your family first. Balancing work
and family has been my single greatest challenge—knowing my priorities, and
checking my actions and decisions against those priorities, helps me keep my
life on track, both professionally and personally. This philosophy is paralleled by TITLE: Vice President of Real-Time and
Analytical Systems
my management belief, which is to invest in people. I am committed to developing
others and building a deep bench of talent. My steadfast focus on these correlating EDUCATION: BS, Computer Science and
Spanish, Marquette University;
philosophies has brought me a real sense of fulfillment. MBA in Finance and Management,
Southern Methodist University
In terms of critical decisions in my professional growth, my decision to move
to Mexico to study Spanish at the age of 18 was a defining moment in my FIRST JOB: Worked in state parks cutting
down trees, building dams, building
career. That decision piqued my curiosity in people and other cultures and start- fences, and painting at a logging camp
ed me on the path to exploring the travel industry. Many doors have opened operated by the State of Wisconsin
both professionally and personally for me as a result of being bilingual. Today, WHAT I’M READING: The Shack,
my family and I are involved in Medical Ministry International, where I have by William P. Young
the opportunity to use these skills to impact the lives of others in need, primarily MY PHILOSOPHY: Always put your
in South American countries where medical needs go largely unmet. family first.
“Do the things you have a passion for, INTERESTS: Traveling and spending time
with my family.
As a mentor, I have this advice to offer: Do the things you have a passion EMPLOYEES: 89,000
for, and you will always do well. If you find yourself in a role you do not enjoy,
or that you feel is not a good fit for you, learn as much as you can in the process,
and find ways to focus on the aspects of your work that have value and that do
bring a sense of accomplishment. Remember any role is what you make of it.
Most of all, keep your priorities in order so that you are spending your time on
the things that matter most to you and your family.
G
Royal Dutch Shell
Growing up, the third girl in a poor Asian family of five other siblings, I learned
to take each day as an opportunity to seek new frontiers. This could be challenging
a status quo or finding new ways to get things done with what you have.
Avoiding the path of least resistance is oftentimes an uphill struggle, but the
TITLE: Vice President, Global Lubricants rewards are well worth it.
EDUCATION: BS, Victoria University of I have not always had a successful career. I recalled one of my early jobs in a
Wellington (New Zealand);
MBA, University of Chicago Fortune Top 10 company. During the first year, I naively assumed that securing the
job was the achievement, and I failed to contribute to my full capabilities. I had an
FIRST JOB: Wrapping wafer biscuits for
$1 a day atrocious year-end performance review. I concluded that I was the “victim” of an
incompetent line manager. It took me a week to realize that I was responsible for the
WHAT I’M READING: Forgotten
Kingdom, by Peter Goullart; outcome—I own the first action to ensure that I have a successful career. Now, I go
The Audacity of Hope, by Barack Obama into each job aiming to leave the organization and business in a better place than
MY PHILOSOPHY: Live life with purpose when I first joined.
and optimism. Happiness would be
reflecting 20 years from now, and I have been able to stretch my capabilities and knowledge through a variety of
knowing that I have lived my life with assignments in Shell. When I was offered the role of VP, Global IT Services, I thought
no regrets.
I would surely be promoted to my level of incompetence and the likelihood of failure
FAMILY: Husband of 20 years; and could be high. I accepted the challenge and the assignment became one of the high-
children aged 16,14, and 11.
lights of my career. It was here I learned that a successful leader needs to have a keen
INTERESTS: Home renovations, cooking nose to sniff out the business opportunities, a strong stomach to make the tough
with family and friends.
decisions, and the tenacity to see through what you started, despite obstacles.
FAVORITE CHARITY: None.
I contribute where the need is greatest.
Right now, it is basic needs for
underprivileged children.
“…go into each job aiming to
leave the organization and business
COMPANY: Royal Dutch Shell
in a better place…”
HEADQUARTERS: The Hague,
the Netherlands The word “I” is used numerous times here. This is done deliberately. I believe that
WEB SITE: www.shell.com a successful individual takes charge of his/her life and takes personal accountability
for his/her actions. A successful individual also recognizes that “I” is one of many—
BUSINESS: Global group of energy and
petrochemical companies. inclusion of others and their perspectives will almost always lead to better outcomes.
ANNUAL REVENUES: $458.4 billion
(2008)
EMPLOYEES: 102,000
Lorrinda Gray-Davis
A
Perini Building Company
Experiencing a difficult childhood, having people believe in me, and hard work have
all fueled my ambition and desire to empower others to progress in their profession.
COMPANY: Perini Building Company
Everyone has the ability to succeed; often all people need is an opportunity. It’s
HEADQUARTERS: Las Vegas, Nevada
amazing what one person can do when given a chance. I am fortunate to work at a
company that shares my vision and is willing to step out of what’s comfortable, and WEB SITE: www.tutorperini.com
offer opportunities to minority- and women-owned businesses. BUSINESS: National general contractor.
What I am most proud of is being able to work with aspiring women- and ANNUAL REVENUES: $5 billion
minority-owned companies. It’s inspirational to hear how people have thrived in
EMPLOYEES: 724
their endeavors in spite of insurmountable odds. It’s gratifying and invigorating
to work with individuals who are willing to help others in their journey to build a
more prosperous life.
It’s a rewarding time to work in diversity development. I have seen attitudes
change and stereotypes dissipate. We all know it’s a slow process. But with persis-
tence, we will achieve our collective effort of creating a more diverse, dynamic, and
talented workforce.
Sandra Guy
I
BDO Seidman, LLP
I truly believe that three little things can help anyone live a happy and meaningful
life, both personally and professionally: passion, simplicity, and humor.
This philosophy has enabled me to experience and accomplish a great deal in
my 19-year career, and to have a great time doing it! I can vividly remember the
TITLE: Human Capital Partner
first day of my Human Resources Management class in college. It was like being
EDUCATION: BS, Business and hit by lightning. I knew it was exactly what I wanted to do, and my passion has
Commerce, University of Alabama
never wavered. To this day, I cannot imagine doing anything else! I am certain
FIRST JOB: Babysitter that my enthusiasm for all areas of Human Capital has sustained the energy and
WHAT I’M READING: Liberty and credibility I needed over the years to pull together the projects and groups of
Tyranny: A Conservative Manifesto, by
individuals that have ultimately achieved great things.
Mark R. Levin
MY PHILOSOPHY: Be passionate
After college, as my career progressed, I noticed that the challenges I came
about what you do, always keep it simple across tended to appear more and more complicated. A disagreement couldn’t
and, above all else, never take yourself just be a disagreement; it became a “situation.” Then I realized that, in their
too seriously!
need to understand and justify, many people overcomplicated what were really
FAMILY: Married with two dogs. very basic issues. I also figured out that if I helped them cut through the com-
INTERESTS: Golf, travel, and anything plexities they had created, many people became open to simple solutions.
involving water (except in golf).
Without my belief in, and practice of, keeping it simple, I could not have
FAVORITE CHARITies: The Avon accomplished the things I have achieved in my past, nor would I be able to
Foundation; Paws For People
attain the goals I have set for myself in the future. If you don’t believe me, consider
that there’s a reason why Real Simple is such a successful publication!
We recognize that through the diverse ideas and strong focus and commitment of our women executives,
we are able to accomplish much and strengthen our position in the energy marketplace.
constellation.com
women worth watching in 2010
Joyce P. Haag
W
Eastman Kodak Company
When I think of the role of mentoring, I recall the time I pursued a high-level
legal position in Eastman Kodak Company’s Europe, Africa, and Middle East
Region (EAMER). Our general counsel at the time thanked me for taking the
initiative, but told me I “wasn’t a good fit.”
TITLE: General Counsel and
Senior Vice President
Four years later, the position opened again. While my self-perception had
not changed much, our current Assistant General Counsel, Dale Skivington,
EDUCATION: BA, Mathematics, Phi Beta
Kappa, Mt. Holyoke College; JD, cum
encouraged me to again apply for the job. This time, I was appointed General
laude, Cornell Law School Counsel for Kodak in that region. The lesson I learned: circumstances change.
Whether or not you are in a true mentor relationship, it’s important to listen to
FIRST JOB: Associate at Boylan, Brown,
Code, Vigdor & Wilson, a Rochester law firm colleagues who see special attributes in you.
WHAT I’M READING: Roadside
Crosses, by Jeffery Deaver; Outliers,
by Malcolm Gladwell “Mentoring relationships need honesty
MY PHILOSOPHY: Work hard.
INTERESTS: Reading, golf. Formal mentorship roles can be difficult or even daunting for many profes-
sionals. If you manage a far-flung virtual team with no face-to-face interactions,
FAVORITE CHARITies: Mary Cariola
Childrens’ Center; Susan B. Anthony it’s even harder. But we should listen to the suggestions of colleagues and
House; Rochester General Hospital coaches. In my career—first, in a private practice firm, and later, in Kodak’s
(All in Rochester) legal department—I’ve benefited from informal mentors and colleagues whose
insights and encouragement helped shape my career. They were eager sounding
boards, genuinely interested in my career; they were honest; and, like Dale, they
challenged or pushed me to take risks.
COMPANY: Eastman Kodak Company Mentoring relationships need honesty as their cornerstone. We need to share
HEADQUARTERS: Rochester, New York both positive and negative feedback with a mentee. A good mentor will help a
mentee identify ways to fine-tune and develop his or her professional strengths.
WEB SITE: www.kodak.com
And a good mentee will be willing to ask for guidance.
BUSINESS: Digital and traditional
imaging and printing systems. When I entered the legal profession, I viewed my law degree as a strategic
route to a business management career. However, by remaining open to new
ANNUAL REVENUES: $9.4 billion
(YE 2008) opportunities in the legal organization, I was able to establish my credibility and
stay close to the strategic aspects of the business.
EMPLOYEES: 24,400 worldwide
(YE 2008) There were obstacles, of course. Early in my career, when gender discrimination
influenced law firms, I was told that “women were incapable of practicing in
certain areas of the law.” Another interviewer shared that “we hired a woman
attorney once. It didn’t work out.”
Again, circumstances change. Times and attitudes change. Today, law firms
and corporations increasingly value the different perspectives and expertise at
their tables. Whether you identify the strengths you bring to that table, or a
mentor identifies them for you, it’s important to take risks and seize the initiative.
Sharon L. Hays
H
CSC
How does a scientist end up in the corporate world? It’s a question I’m often
asked and the answer involves a journey that passes through the halls of
Congress and the offices of the White House.
My interest in science started early. My mother, aided by a book entitled,
TITLE: Vice President, Office of Science
“Science Experiments You Can Eat,” oversaw countless kitchen-based projects and Engineering
that further stoked my curiosity, and were—on occasion—actually edible.
EDUCATION: PhD, Biochemistry,
Because she worked in a laboratory, my mother often brought home leftover Stanford University; BA, Molecular Biology,
or borrowed projects for us to work on. So for me, helping my mom dissect a University of California, Berkeley
frog was a perfectly normal after-school activity. I also had a number of good FIRST JOB: Scooping ice cream at
teachers, and a few truly great ones, who helped prepare me for the rigors of my Baskin-Robbins
COMPANY: CSC
Melanie Healey
I
Procter & Gamble
I actively look for connections that enable me to seek common ground and
connect with people of a different background, race, religion, or lifestyle. I also
strive to understand the different perspectives and experiences, as well as the
COMPANY: Procter & Gamble unique strengths, of our people in order to make better business decisions and
HEADQUARTERS: Cincinnati, Ohio better organizational choices. In a global role, which includes employees from
many different cultures, our team’s mission is to improve the lives of consumers
WEB SITE: www.pg.com
in many different parts of the world.
BUSINESS: Consumer products.
L
Unilever
Leadership and success in business today are often narrowly defined by job status,
remuneration, power, and awards. However, I believe true leadership and success
is as much about personal development as it is personal achievement. It is about
relationships, creativity, learning, growing, and making a difference every day. Real
success must ring true with who you are—it is not a destination, but a journey. TITLE: Director, U.S. and Canada
Business Integration
There are many good academic theories that suggest what leadership skills
EDUCATION: Chemical Engineering;
we should employ to succeed today, but the advice I would like to pass on to Chartered Institute of Management
future business leaders comes from personal life experiences with family, friends, Accounting, U.K.
and colleagues, and from the opportunity to work in several different countries FIRST JOB: Flower and gift shop manager
with Unilever. throughout high school
Approach everything you do with Passion and Purpose. My father always WHAT I’M READING: Eat, Pray, Love, by
Elizabeth Gilbert
insisted, if you are going to take part—compete to win! Know what you want
MY PHILOSOPHY: Attitude is a little
to do, and give it your all. Many understand purpose knowledge, but what is
thing that makes a BIG difference.
needed to connect and engage others in our purpose comes through passion—
FAMILY: Married to a wonderful man,
the heart. Balancing head and heart as a leader is critical to success.
supportive siblings, and extended family.
Understand the shadow you cast—Self Awareness. Being mindful of INTERESTS: Travel, scuba diving,
your impact on others is key to understanding how to approach, motivate, and underwater photography, sports.
inspire the company’s most valuable asset—its people. Likewise, invest the time FAVORITE CHARITY: Cancer research
to get to know your team, the struggles they face, and how you can encourage
and support them to achieve their goals.
Kathleen T. Hogan
I
Microsoft Corporation
I always had a plan, but as John Lennon so eloquently said, “Life is what happens
to you while you’re busy making other plans.”
While I was at Harvard, I set my designs on becoming a Rhodes Scholar and
then returning to teach mathematics or economics at a university. I was realizing
TITLE: Corporate Vice President,
Worldwide Microsoft Services my vision when I graduated from Harvard, but then my plans changed. When I
wasn’t selected as a Rhodes Scholar I was offered a job at Oracle, and I thought
EDUCATION: Bachelor’s degree, Applied
Mathematics and Economics, magna cum that would be a good way to learn about the business world before I started off
laude, Harvard University; MBA, Stanford on my real career as a professor. Life as I know it today started happening.
University Graduate School of Business
So much for my career as a professor; Oracle, Stanford University MBA
FIRST JOB: Factory worker
program, & McKinsey came next and I was really enjoying what I was doing,
WHAT I’M READING: The Middle Place, so that plan to be a professor was set aside. Then Microsoft came along. At
by Kelly Corrigan
Microsoft, I had a great mentor who believed in me and my abilities, and
MY PHILOSOPHY: Control what you can pushed me to do things I never knew I was capable of.
control; let the rest go.
Contact us at diversityrecruiting@wellpoint.com
EOE ®Registered Trademark, WellPoint, Inc. ©2009 WellPoint, Inc. All Rights Reserved
®Registered Trademark, WomenWorthWatching
®2009 Profiles in Diversity Journal, All Rights Reserved
women worth watching in 2010
Kathleen Hyle
C
Constellation Energy
Colin Powell is quoted as saying, “There are no secrets to success. It is the result
of preparation, hard work, and learning from failure.” I came across this quote a
few weeks ago, and it really resonated with me. I think it reflects a core belief of
mine and describes key drivers of my business success.
TITLE: Senior Vice President, Constel-
lation Energy; Chief Operating Officer,
I was the first member of my family, including extended family, to attend
Constellation Energy Resources college. I am the oldest child, with a single mom who was going to school at
EDUCATION: BA, Accounting, night to better her opportunities, as she worked hard to support her family. She
Loyola College received her college degree at age 50, well after I had graduated and started my
FIRST JOB: 19th hole concession stand at career and family. Watching her showed me the significant value of education
municipal golf course not only in making me a more well rounded individual, but in providing financial
WHAT I’M READING: I recently completed independence. My mom was always upbeat and positive, even in trying situations.
the Twilight series with my daughter. I She instilled in me a strong work ethic and the value of perseverance—both
found it to be quite enjoyable and a great
way to prompt discussions of issues that
have served me well throughout life. As I think about my own children who
may not be encountered in day-to-day have worked tirelessly to be accepted into the schools of their choice, I marvel
life. Currently, I am reading War Child, by at my own naiveté in applying to a single school, without any consideration for
Emmanuel Jal, that my son gave me for
Mother’s Day, to broaden my exposure to how I would pay for my education, or what would happen if I was not accepted.
African literature. Once I decided, I was intensely focused on this goal by working hard and
MY PHILOSOPHY: Hard work creates luck. remaining committed to my success.
FAMILY: Widowed; three children: Tim,
Laura K. Ipsen
I
Cisco Systems, Inc.
I first became alert to the political process in junior high school when I lost my campaign
for Treasurer. I was stunned—I had canvassed the entire school with stylish neon posters,
and I was a whiz at math. But I had missed a critical ingredient—building a strong base
and leveraging all my potential supporters, from my fellow gymnasts to members of the
orchestra (I played violin) to, yes, even the Latin Club. As the daughter of an artist, I
TITLE: Senior Vice President, Global Policy
had not yet learned the actual “art” of politics. and Government Affairs
Deborah James
I
Science Applications International Corporation (SAIC)
Chizuru Kiyomura
I
Pfizer Inc
I believe that, in this complex, challenging, and exciting world, there are many
opportunities where I can make a real difference. I look to actively tackle the
challenges that come my way, and I have confidence in my ability to find a
path forward, even when I am doing new things or entering unfamiliar territory.
There have been times in my past when I was offered a promotion and hesi- TITLE: Vice President, Marketing,
Pfizer Japan Inc
tated, not knowing if I was the right person for the job. Now, I want new chal-
lenges, and I’ve found that by being more confident in my overall ability, and EDUCATION: Bachelor of Pharmacy,
Tokyo University of Science
being stronger mentally, I can jump any hurdles in front of me.
FIRST JOB: Pharmaceutical Sales
Representative, Pfizer Japan
engage team members in ways to motivate them to execute on that strategy. I BUSINESS: Healthcare.
also learned that achievements gained as a team bring more satisfaction than ANNUAL REVENUES: $48.3 billion
those gained individually.
EMPLOYEES: Approximately 82,000
Good communication is difficult but essential; it sets leaders apart. Some
people have high-level skills, but do not emerge as leaders, because they fall
short in communicating with others. A leader has to listen to, and encourage, ideas;
be firm when necessary; be generous in conveying gratitude and acknowledging
contributions; and be open to revealing one’s true thoughts without hiding behind
the armor we often take to work.
I have learned something from just about everyone I’ve worked with. I am
thankful to those who have taken the time to teach me, and I demonstrate my
gratitude by teaching others and giving them my support.
Marcy S. Klevorn
A
Ford Motor Company
After spending the past 25 years working at Ford, I have moved from being
an analyst to my current executive position, managing employees around the
world. The journey has had several defining moments—challenges I could not
have imagined—but most importantly, personal and professional growth that I
TITLE: Director, Global IT Operations do not take for granted. Through the years, communication and relationships
EDUCATION: BBA, Stephen Ross School have been essential to my success.
of Business, University of Michigan
Starting as an individual contributor working through, and with, others, to
FIRST JOB: Marketing representative for
leading an organization of 3500+, I have learned the value of honest commu-
Ameritech on the Ford Motor Account
nication. Communicating is the hardest and most important thing we do. An
WHAT I’M READING: Murder Inside the
Beltway, by Margaret Truman; Grown Up
honest answer is the best response, even if that answer is “I don’t know”. Tough
Digital, by Don Tapscott times in the automotive industry have tested us, and open communication has
MY PHILOSOPHY: Most people can do
been key in moving forward with deliberation and respect. Often there are hard
most anything; people always exceed choices, stretch deadlines, and difficult trade-offs—as leaders, we can act decisively
your expectations. and swiftly, utilizing open communications. Whether news is good, bad, or
FAMILY: Husband, Scott; son, Joe, 20. indifferent, people want to know what is happening—and that eliminates the
INTERESTS: Running, bikram yoga, fear of the unknown.
reading, travel, boating.
Being part of a global team has highlighted the importance of communication.
FAVORITE CHARITies: Michigan Council By traveling and listening, I have recognized cultural differences and seen things
for Women in Technology Foundation;
The American Lung Association
from perspectives I would have never imagined. I continue to learn more each day.
BUSINESS: Automotive. For me, relationship building is the most productive and personally satisfying
ANNUAL REVENUES: $139.3 billion
aspect of success. I have found that entering relationships without preconceived
ideas works best. Over time, people show you their capabilities, motivations,
EMPLOYEES: 213,000
and who they really are. People never cease to amaze me with their dedication
and abilities. Picturing yourself in the other person’s role is the start of building
a strong relationship. There is nothing more satisfying than working to achieve
common goals.
Success has not been a one-woman feat; in fact, just the opposite. I often tell
my team that “an assist is as good as a goal.” This is very true in my own life. I
would not have gotten where I am today without the support of my professional
team of employees, peers, bosses, and mentors, and my personal team of family and
friends. The saying that “it takes a village” has certainly been true for me—a
professional village at work; and a village of family, friends, and neighbors that
help me make the complex fabric of “work-life integration” work.
Catherine Langlais
F
NYSE Euronext
A
Deloitte Consulting LLP
www.youatmicrosoft.com
Prof iles in Div er s it y Jou r na l September/October 2009 81
women worth watching in 2010
Michelle Y. Lee
A
Wells Fargo & Company
EMPLOYEES: 286,000
Michelle Lee
Northeast Regional President,
Community Banking
Theresa K. Lee
W
Eastman Chemical Company
When I graduated from law school in 1977, I never dreamed my professional life
would be so varied and so rewarding. I began my career as a legal aid attorney for
Legal Services of Upper East Tennessee, working to provide legal services to those
who need help but cannot afford it. My next job opportunity—working as a
TITLE: Senior Vice President, law clerk for Judge H. Emory Widener, Jr., United States Court of Appeals for
Chief Legal Officer & Corporate Secretary the Fourth Circuit—opened the door for where I am today. Judge Widener was
EDUCATION: BS, Political Science and a mentor who taught and practiced standing firm in support of your values and
History, East Tennessee State University; beliefs, doing the right thing, and always looking at the big picture. He suggested
JD, University of Tennessee, Knoxville; I consider working in the legal department of Eastman Chemical Company
completed the Advanced Management
Program at Harvard Business School
because he liked the people who worked there. I applied and have been happily
employed at Eastman for the last 22 years.
FIRST JOB: Waiting tables at Pizza Hut
FAMILY: Husband, Tony; two children: When asked what I have learned throughout my career in both the public and
Patrick and Katherine. private sector that I share when mentoring to others, I provide the following:
INTERESTS: Swimming, boating, • Do the right thing because it’s the right thing to do, not because someone
reading, yoga.
is watching.
FAVORITE CHARITY: United Way
• Like what you do at work and like the people you work with. At Eastman,
I’ve been very fortunate to be part of a team of extraordinarily talented and
caring people working together toward a common goal. Judge Widener had
it right years ago when he said he liked the people who worked at Eastman.
COMPANY: Eastman Chemical Company • Know yourself and be yourself. Be genuine. Decide who you are and what
HEADQUARTERS: Kingsport, Tennessee you need, desire, and dream of, rather than what others expect you to need
or desire. Know what you do well and what you don’t do well; take advan-
WEB SITE: www.eastman.com
tage of the former and find help for the latter.
BUSINESS: Manufacturer of chemicals,
fibers, and plastics.
• Be proactive—don’t wait for opportunity to knock. Seek it out—volunteer
for assignments. Broaden your horizons.
ANNUAL REVENUES: $6.7 billion in
2008 • Be patient and learn from opportunities that do not come your way. Figure
out what you were lacking and focus on filling the gap.
EMPLOYEES: 10,000 worldwide
• Actively seek and value the feedback you get. Hear what someone is saying,
and receive it as a gift that was very hard for the other person to give.
• Remember it’s not about you—it’s about us!
• Enjoy today—tomorrow will take care of itself.
It all comes down to enjoying what you do at work, and helping others do
the same.
B
Terex Corporation
Being where I am today was not part of a well-thought-out plan. My career choice
was the result of happenstance, but much of the success I have had results from
great mentoring relationships that encouraged me to stretch professionally.
I went to a high school that focused on steering minorities to careers in science
TITLE: Vice President,
Deputy General Counsel
and engineering. I was encouraged to become an engineer because of my aptitude
for math. My high school counselor (one of my first mentors) could not have
EDUCATION: BS, Electrical Engineering,
University of Maryland; been more thrilled that I chose to major in electrical engineering.
JD, George Washington University
As a college junior, I had some reservations about an engineering career. At
FIRST JOB: Cashier at McDonald’s the encouragement of some graduating classmates (i.e., between class chatter
WHAT I’M READING: Color Me Butterfly, in the student lounge), I decided to forego the traditional list of engineering
by L.Y. Marlow; Basic Black: The Essential recruiters and instead took a job as a Patent Examiner with the U.S. Patent and
Guide for Getting Ahead at Work (and in
Life), by Cathie Black
Trademark Office. The Patent Office was a great place for a freshly minted engi-
neering graduate to work. I teamed with a senior examiner who was assigned to
MY PHILOSOPHY: Get involved! You
learn so much by taking on new tasks in show me the ropes. Not only did he teach me the job, but he also helped me to
your professional and personal life. understand the value of the mentoring relationship and its importance to job
FAMILY: Husband, Howard; son H.B., 6. success. For a junior employee, I was good at my job.
INTERESTS: Reading, walking, traveling I realized that the Patent Office was the breeding ground for patent lawyers, and
with my family. I decided, “I can do that.” I left the Patent Office after a little more than a year to
FAVORITE CHARITY: Alpha Kappa Alpha attend law school full-time to pursue a career as an intellectual property lawyer.
Educational Advancement Foundation
Nan Mattai
A
Rockwell Collins
7jHeYam[bb9ebb_di"Wbbekh[cfbeo[[ii^Wh[Wi_d]kbWhl_i_ed0jeX[j^[ceijjhkij[ZiekhY[e\Yecckd_YWj_ed
WdZWl_Wj_ed[b[Yjhed_Yiiebkj_edi$M[cWa[j^_il_i_edWh[Wb_joXoXk_bZ_d]WZ_l[hi[]beXWbYkbjkh[j^Wj
[cXhWY[ij[Wcmeha"_ddelWj_edWdZb[WZ[hi^_f$Je][j^[h"m[Z[b_l[hicWhjiebkj_edi\ehekhYkijec[hi$
?\oeki[[j^_d]ij^[iWc[mWo"l_i_jekhM[Xi_j[je\_dZekjceh[$mmm$heYam[bbYebb_di$Yec%YWh[[hi
women worth watching in 2010
Candace Matthews
U
Amway
Candace Matthews
Chief Marketing Officer
YOUR BUSINESS
BEAUT Y
HOME
NUTRITION
women worth watching in 2010
Kathleen M. Mazzarella
I
Graybar Electric Co., Inc.
I have been incredibly fortunate to work for a great company where I have
built a very successful career. At the age of 19, I started as a customer service
representative at Graybar, and 29 years later, I am a senior vice president and a
member of the company’s Board of Directors. That kind of career path really
TITLE: Senior Vice President, Sales & speaks to Graybar’s culture, and more importantly, to its core values of integrity,
Marketing, Comm/Data
employee ownership, long-term view, and customer focus.
EDUCATION: AA, Telecommunications
Engineering; Bachelor’s degree, Applied My career path has also allowed me to learn Graybar’s business from the
Behavioral Sciences; Master’s degree, bottom up, and has given me the opportunity to benefit from the wisdom and
Business Administration
experience of others. Most of this mentoring has been informal; however, it has
FIRST JOB: Customer Service been an essential part of my career growth.
Representative
EMPLOYEES: 8,000
Tricia J. McClung
I
Freddie Mac
INTERESTS: Reading,
When I began my career, I didn’t necessarily set out to be an officer of a Fortune community outreach.
500 company, but through setting personal goals, not being afraid to take on risks,
FAVORITE CHARITY: HomeStretch;
and constantly challenging myself, my career soared. Today, I lead Freddie Mac’s local women’s homeless shelters
Relief RefinanceSM Mortgage Initiative, a critical part of President Obama’s new
Making Home Affordable plan that will help millions of families across the country
keep their homes. I can honestly say I love what I do, because I feel that I am
making a real difference in the lives of others.
COMPANY: Freddie Mac
Having spent more than 20 years at Freddie Mac, and several more honing my
HEADQUARTERS: McLean, Virginia
business and project management skills, I offer others looking to achieve professional
(and personal) success these five key strategies: WEB SITE: www.freddiemac.com
Denise McEachern
G
Bausch & Lomb, Incorporated
FAMILY: Steve, husband for 24 years; “To grow and become successful,
we must understand what works and
daughter, Michelle; son, Chris.
In life’s classroom, we learn the most from our failures and near-failures. To
grow and become successful, we must understand what works and what does
not work. I’ve learned from my mistakes and realized that sometimes you just
COMPANY: Bausch & Lomb, have to get off the bus and go in a different direction. Albert Einstein said it
Incorporated best: “Insanity is doing the same thing over and over again, and expecting
HEADQUARTERS: Rochester, New York different results.”
WEB SITE: www.bausch.com I’ve learned that good relationships truly matter. The partners I work with
BUSINESS: Ophthalmic. are people—not a company, not a letter, not a voice over the phone. What makes
me happy and proud is knowing that I have succeeded honestly, positively, and
EMPLOYEES: Approximately 10,000
with integrity. I’ve learned to grow through my relationships, and give back by
sharing skills and knowledge with the next generation of leaders. Indira Gandhi
observed, “I suppose that leadership at one time meant muscles; but today it
means getting along with people.”
Career-wise, I dreamed of curing cancer, healing children, and traveling
into space, which is not exactly where I have landed. However, with no regrets,
I know that I’ve made a positive difference in people’s lives, as a scientist, as
a mentor, and as a leader. The Bausch & Lomb vision, perfecting vision and
enhancing life, resonates with me and my career in health care. Elbert Hubbard
summed it up: “all success consists in this: you are doing something for some-
body—benefitting humanity—and the feeling of success comes from the
consciousness of this.”
Julie Moore
H
Ecolab Inc.
they all have one thing in common—these opportunities allowed me to play to my EMPLOYEES: 26,000 employees in more
strengths and passion. In each role, I was able to evaluate complex business chal- than 160 countries
Susan Morisato
A
Ovations Insurance Solutions
At the time I went to college, it was not very common for women to enter more
technically oriented fields, which was a closer match to my academic skills and
interests. I was very fortunate to have unwavering support from my parents,
who believed and encouraged me to become anything I wanted to be, instead of
TITLE: President what might have been viewed by others as more traditional or expected. I was
EDUCATION: BS, Mathematics and lucky to have found the actuarial profession, which allowed me to utilize my
Education; MS, Mathematics, University technical and analytic skills, but broadly apply them to real business issues. The
of Illinois (Urbana-Champaign)
rigor to become certified gave me a foundation of recognized achievement. At the
FIRST JOB: Actuarial student—Aetna Life time there were very few female actuaries and even fewer involved in health care.
and Casualty; aside from overall helper in
a family diner during my teen years
MY PHILOSOPHY: I am ultimately
accountable for my actions and believe
I can create my own path for success
and fulfillment. In dealing with people
those around me.”
day-to-day or in business, I believe in
building relationships and teams, because
My early career was performing more technical work in an insurance company.
it is through embracing the diversity
of thought that one gets to the I quickly realized that drawing on some of my other skills would be necessary to
best solutions. wield real influence and become a leader. What took a while longer to learn was
FAMILY: Married, with two very that my style of being a leader would be different than many of the role models
pampered cats. around me. Developing a variety of relationships and building teams of people
INTERESTS: Cooking and traveling. with diverse training, education, and work experiences was critical for me in
FAVORITE CHARITies: Alzheimer’s
developing and executing a vision and strategy around my passion. Having
Association; Tree House Humane Society; worked in health insurance for most of my career, I became passionate about
Minnesota Zoo
overcoming the challenges in providing access and choice to quality, affordable
health care for older Americans, and creating solutions that are understandable
and sustainable.
Health care can be incredibly complex. Being successful means understanding
COMPANY: Ovations Insurance Solutions all of the dependencies and interactions. This process of cultivating relationships
(UnitedHealth Group)
and embracing diverse ways of thinking across various disciplines and stakeholders
HEADQUARTERS: Minnetonka,
is a key component for a successful leader. The environment is ever-changing;
Minnesota
expectations change and bars are constantly raised; therefore, one must continu-
WEB SITE: www.ovationshealth.com
ally evolve and anticipate those changes to meet those demands.
BUSINESS: Health & well-being.
I truly acknowledge that my success is a reflection of the quality and strength
ANNUAL REVENUES: $6 billion of my team and those around me. By championing diversity in yourself and those
EMPLOYEES: 775 around you, you can significantly expand your circle of knowledge and influence.
Nina J. Mullins
B
Salt River Project (SRP)
Being a pioneer can be challenging, but I wouldn’t have it any other way. My first
job at Salt River Project, the largest provider of power and water in the Phoenix
metropolitan area, was reading meters. I soon moved up to relay technician, installing
protective systems for substations, transformers, and distribution lines. As only the
TITLE: Manager, second woman to enter this field, and working outdoors in the 100-plus degree
Water Business Management
heat, all eyes were on me to drop out of the program. I proved them wrong and
EDUCATION: Bachelor’s degree, stayed for 10 years.
Northern Arizona University; MBA,
Western International University
K
Verizon Communications
Keep your head down, work hard and success will find you. That’s the rock-
solid philosophy that has anchored my career at Verizon. From my very first job
as an outside plant engineer, to now serving as the Chief Network Officer for
Verizon’s global landline network, the “no excuses” focus on results is something
TITLE: Senior Vice President & Chief
that continually drives me.
Network Officer, Network Services Group
Deb Oler
I
W. W. Grainger, Inc.
I was fortunate to start my career in sales, because I learned one thing very clearly
from the beginning—everything revolves around the customer.
Positioning your product or service is essential to earning your customers’
loyalty. If you don’t have a compelling value story, you better get one quickly or
TITLE: Vice President, Grainger Industrial
your competition will pounce.
Supply Brand
That same sense of urgency applies to women looking for a successful career in
EDUCATION: Bachelor’s degree, Education,
University of Maryland business, no matter what your field. Your primary focus should be on being excellent at
the job you’re doing right now. By focusing your energy on being excellent, flexible,
FIRST JOB: Inside sales coordinator,
I. Feldman and Co.
and displaying a willingness to take on additional challenges, you set the stage for
career progression, often in positive ways you wouldn’t have anticipated.
WHAT I’M READING: Building the
Brand-Driven Business, by Scott M. Davis;
The Heart of Change: Real-Life Stories of
How People Change Their Organizations, “To me, excelling includes being
willing to adapt to change…”
by John P. Kotter
Joan O’Shaughnessy
M
ARAMARK Ireland
driver, and it was a good grounding for me so early on in my career. EDUCATION: BA, Hotel & Catering
Management, DIT Dublin, Ireland
I moved into the contract catering side of the industry at a time when
FIRST JOB: Assistant housekeeper at the
Ireland was chosen by many firms as a successful location for Foreign Direct
five-star Hibernian Hotel, Dublin, Ireland
Investment. Global companies were beginning to outsource their employee cater-
WHAT I’M READING: Stepping Stones, by
ing, and I had stepped into a growth area in the industry. I enjoyed the challenges Seamus Heaney
and innovation that came with delivering an outstanding solution to the varied
MY PHILOSOPHY: There is no shortcut
clients in these companies. to any place worth going.
“Be open to change and embrace it…” children, Donal & Kate.
ongoing issue for many couples. There were times when it was overwhelming, but WEB SITE: www.aramark.ie
the positive support I received, and my passion for the business, ensured that BUSINESS: Contract catering and
I was able to keep moving forward. Winning my first major contracts was facilities management.
a turning point for me. I soon transferred to the U.K., and experienced EMPLOYEES: 4,100
the integration of four Campbell Catering companies into the ARAMARK
Organisation. I then returned home and was appointed Managing Director
of their Ireland operation.
My advice is that, no matter what position you fill, you need to understand
the financial drivers of the business and be uncompromising in maintaining
standards and good ethics. Be prepared to challenge yourself to broaden your
knowledge and experience. Be open to change and embrace it—“If you do what
you’ve always done, you’ll get what you’ve always gotten!” Seek out a mentor,
someone who will give you feedback on your performance and management
style, as this will also help you to understand the organisation and its structures.
W
National Grid
We came to the U.S. from Cuba when I was very young. We were dirt poor, so
my Christmas gifts came from the Salvation Army or the thrift store. (To this
day, I still have my first doll from the thrift store.) My mom worked two jobs
almost all of my life. There was a time when we were on food stamps because
TITLE: Vice President, Inclusion & Diversity she could barely make ends meet to take care of two kids. I know it was very
EDUCATION: Master’s, Human Resources
hard on her, because she did not write or speak English. I learned it watching
& International Business, Nova Southeastern “Sesame Street” and going to the adult English classes at Columbus Hospital in
University, Ft. Lauderdale, Florida Chicago (my grandfather was the janitor, and would take me to work with him
FIRST JOB: Elementary School Teaching after school. The teacher let me sit in her class until my aunt was finished with
Assistant, was 16 her cleaning shift; she would pick me up, and we would walk home).
WHAT I’M READING: The Medici Effect,
by Frans Johansson; Infidel, by Ayaan
Hirsi Ali
“…short of death, there is no obstacle
in life that you can’t overcome.”
MY PHILOSOPHY: “What lies behind us
are small matters to what lies within us”—
RW Emerson
T
Georgia Power
The most significant influences on my life were my parents. They ingrained confidence,
optimism, and family values into my core. Because of their influence, I value
authenticity. I believe that you must define success for yourself; don’t let others
define it. With authenticity, you can be grounded in personal values that align with
professional success. TITLE: Region Vice President
I began my career as an engineer, and moved through many different manage- EDUCATION: Bachelor of Electrical
ment positions including electric transmission planning, distribution operations, Engineering, Georgia Tech; MBA, Georgia
State University; Executive Management
fleet operations, and customer operations. I was often the first woman or minority
Program, Harvard Business School
to be given these leadership responsibilities. My mentors for these positions were
usually white male executives. FIRST JOB: (Ages 12 – 16) Yard work
and errands for elderly neighbors;
While these men were genuinely interested in my success, they often didn’t realize (Age 16) McDonald’s Restaurant;
the personal and professional challenges that I faced. Nevertheless, one early mentor (Age 19) Georgia Power
strongly influenced my approach to mentoring. He counseled me regarding the WHAT I’M READING: Them, by Nathan
tremendous responsibility that I had self-imposed because of being “the first— McCall; Hot, Flat, and Crowded, by
Thomas L. Friedman
again.” He could not fully understand what I was experiencing; however, he
shared a perspective that reinforced the importance of outstanding performance MY PHILOSOPHY: “Lead, Lift, and
and authenticity. Grow:”
remember, do not let others define you.” · Grow: Learning and challenging are
needed to contribute and develop to
your highest potential.
areas. You should be clear on what you need to accomplish in your current position, WEB SITE: www.georgiapower.com
and have in mind thoughts for the “next” position and how your background, skills,
BUSINESS: Electric utility.
and talents can help the company. This is not to be mistaken as manipulative self-
interest; your professional growth and accomplishments serve the company and ANNUAL REVENUES: $8.4 billion (2008)
strengthen the team around you. Your own career development and the interests EMPLOYEES: 8,552
of the company are not mutually exclusive. Rather, in a healthy organization, an
advance in one should help the other.
M
UPS
My first mentor was probably my grandfather, the first lawyer in our family.
Unable to support his family in private practice during the years of segregation,
he worked for over 30 years for the U.S. Postal Service. After his retirement, he
opened a law practice.
TITLE: Senior Vice President, Legal,
Compliance and Public Affairs, General Growing up, I spent many evenings in my grandfather’s sitting room, debating
Counsel and Corporate Secretary a wide range of issues from sports and entertainment to politics and local affairs.
EDUCATION: BS, Marketing and He taught me the value of being able to articulate a well-reasoned opinion and
Economics, Washington University (St. Louis); to never back down when my position is challenged. I learned to speak up for
JD, Emory University (Atlanta)
the things that are important to me.
FIRST JOB: Marketing intern,
Hallmark Cards
COMPANY: UPS
During the course of my career, I’ve had many wonderful experiences that
contributed to my professional growth and development—the best of which
HEADQUARTERS: Atlanta, Georgia
involved committed, hard working, courageous, and caring people—but I’ve
WEB SITE: www.ups.com also had challenging situations, which became stepping stones. Early in my
BUSINESS: Transportation and logistics. career, I had to learn to be comfortable and thrive in work environments where
ANNUAL REVENUES: $51.5 billion
I was often the first or only female, or the first or only minority. Later, tran-
sitioning from a law firm environment to a corporate environment, I had to
EMPLOYEES: 415,000
learn how to adopt and embrace a strong corporate culture. And now, as a wife,
a mother of teen-aged daughters, and a senior vice president at a Fortune 500
company, I face the constant challenge of balancing family, work, and community
involvement. I’ve learned to let obstacles become tools for success.
I realize today that I am very fortunate to work for a company that shares
many of my core values, including a commitment to people. UPS is dedicated to
developing leaders through initiatives and formal programs that offer tremendous
opportunities for employees to grow professionally and personally.
My final words of advice: Be open to new opportunities and don’t be afraid
to push beyond your comfort zone. You will find a new world of possibilities
and will be rewarded by your efforts and accomplishments.
• You seek an inclusive work environment that will empower you, a place
where diverse perspectives, experiences and capabilities are highly
valued.
• We embrace change, encourage new ideas and seek input from
coworkers.
• You seek fellow professionals who care about our customers, each other
and the environment.
• We are committed to your professional development
and financial achievement.
• You want to succeed and drive your career, and you can.
• Our leaders inspire and mentor, while making sound business decisions
with a high degree of professionalism and effectiveness.
Because of the strength of our people, people like you, Ryder has evolved
from humble beginnings as a one-truck operation to a $6 billion industry
leader. More than 26,000 professionals worldwide have decided to succeed
here at Ryder. Join others like you. We’re driven by dreams, driven by
opportunities and driven by you. Drive your career upward and…
GET ALL YOU NEED TO SUCCEED
VALUES
VALUED
Elizabeth W. Powers
P
Dewey & LeBoeuf LLP
1AshleyHall is a girls’ school in Charleston, South Carolina, founded in 1909, and now celebrating its
centennial year. “Possunt quae volunt” is the school’s motto. I received the Crandall Close Bowles ’65
Award for Professional Achievement in the law from Ashley Hall in April 2009.
Anne R. Pramaggiore
D
ComEd
Despite being nicknamed the “Second City,” Chicago is a city of many firsts—
from the nation’s first skyscraper, to the first controlled nuclear reaction, to the first
elevated railway system. And while an event that occurred in Chicago on May 11,
2009, likely won’t make it into history books, ComEd made history of its own that
day, with the appointment of the first female president and chief operating officer in TITLE: President, Chief Operating Officer
assets for any business. Fortunately, this ideal is shared by the senior leadership of HEADQUARTERS: Chicago, Illinois
ComEd and our parent company, Exelon Corporation. WEB SITE: www.comed.com
For the past 11 years, I’ve had the pleasure of working alongside John W. Rowe, BUSINESS: Electric utility.
chairman and CEO of Exelon, and Frank M. Clark, chairman and CEO of ComEd.
ANNUAL REVENUES: $6.1 billion
Both John and Frank welcomed me into the fold from the start—non-traditional
career track and all. EMPLOYEES: 6,000
Lori Raya
M
Safeway Inc.
Much has changed in the 22 years since I joined the corporate world. Not so
long ago, a woman executive was the stuff of headlines. Today, one expects large
companies to have women in their upper ranks. However, some things are still
constant and need to evolve as we take our rightful places as leaders in corporate
TITLE: Group Vice President,
America. I hope women will become more confident to take credit for their
Strategic Initiatives
hard work and successes. If you don’t sell yourself and your work, no one will.
EDUCATION: Attended Mesa State
And, now, more than ever, we should reach out to other women who need the
University in Grand Junction, Colorado
benefit of our counsel and experience on this step, and other important steps/
FIRST JOB: Courtesy clerk at Safeway
skills that attribute to one’s success.
WHAT I’M READING: The Adversity
Advantage: Turning Everyday Struggles
into Everyday Greatness, by Paul G. Stoltz,
Erik Weihenmayer; The Shack, by “…by mentoring, we’re not just paying it
William P. Young
Nancy Reagan
I
Campbell Soup Company
training class I’ve ever taken.” FAMILY: A close family, I’m one of eight
kids. I enjoy spending time with my nieces
and nephews.
I recognized the need to seek out people who could help me establish a comfort INTERESTS: Most outdoor activities,
level, navigate the waters of the corporate world, and chart a course for my future. including biking and gardening; reading.
Early on, most of my mentors were informal mentors. I would bounce ideas FAVORITE CHARITies: Sports 4 Kids;
The Humane Society
off them, or ask for advice on how to handle a specific situation. I would also
watch these mentors, observe how they handled themselves in various situations,
and learn by example. There was a special bond and a support system that developed
from these mentoring relationships. These relationships opened doors, widened my
networking circle, and increased my confidence, helping me expand my comfort zone. COMPANY: Campbell Soup Company
Later on in my career, I had access to formal mentoring relationships. But HEADQUARTERS: Camden, New Jersey
whether formal or informal, my mentors have been more helpful to my develop-
WEB SITE: www.campbellsoup.com
ment than any training class I’ve ever taken.
BUSINESS: Global manufacturer and
Because of the benefits I have realized through my mentors, I felt it was marketer of high-quality foods and simple
important to “give back” and mentor others. Throughout my career, I have shared meals, including soup, baked snacks, and
healthy beverages.
my knowledge and experiences to help guide the development and growth of
those I’ve mentored. I’ve witnessed remarkable growth and development in these ANNUAL REVENUES: $7.9 billion
individuals, and take great satisfaction in knowing that I have helped influence EMPLOYEES: 19,000
and shape another’s career path.
Moreover, I am a firm believer that mentoring is a two-way street. I have
learned a lot from those that I have mentored—and I hope I’ve offered the same
to my mentors.
I look forward to continuing my mentoring relationships—both as a mentee
and a mentor—and I urge others to seek out mentees and mentors of their own.
Mentoring relationships are immensely gratifying and, in my opinion, necessary for
maintaining a well rounded view and an informed approach to work, life, and
everything in between.
Ann P. Reeves
W
Waste Management, Inc.
We all face personal and professional challenges as we maneuver our way through
life’s twists and turns. It’s how we handle those challenges that’s important.
I guess you could say that I’m a “pull yourself up by the bootstraps” kind
of gal. Life doesn’t always work out exactly like you had planned, and when
TITLE: Vice President,
Collection Operations Support that happens, you have choices to make. After working for years as a successful
EDUCATION: BA, Southern Methodist
elementary school teacher, an unexpected, but pivotal change in my personal life
University; ME, Lamar University led me to a career-changing choice to enter the business world. It was risky, but
FIRST JOB: While in high school,
now I realize that a leap of faith, coupled with determination, hard work, and a
started my own business teaching private willingness to learn and grow, is what success is all about.
swimming lessons
EMPLOYEES: 45,000
Deborah L. Rice
T
Highmark Inc.
Through more than 25 years with Highmark, I’ve learned to focus on the
importance of working with people. My advice to women who want to advance
their careers is to carefully develop “people skills,” including interpersonal,
leadership, and self-evaluation skills.
TITLE: Executive Vice President,
For example, be inclusive. I believe in the power of many perspectives and Health Services
contributors. As a leader, I embrace the opportunity to bring people together who
EDUCATION: BS, Business Management,
have ideas different from mine. This way we can look well beyond our own view- Carlow University
points and incorporate the best ideas. With the collaboration of others, there can
FIRST JOB: Blue Cross of Western
be bigger, more exciting accomplishments. Pennsylvania in prescription
drug administration
valuable insights about how you’re perceived, you’ll open empathetic ears to your HEADQUARTERS: Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
ambitions, and you’ll build advocates. In addition, when you’re in a leadership WEB SITE: www.highmark.com
role, turn around and make sure that those you want to be following you are. If
BUSINESS: Largest health insurance
not, gain their buy-in. company in Pennsylvania, based
on membership.
And finally, always look for new opportunities. I’ve found that corporate leaders are
constantly on the lookout for talent; you should be on the lookout for opportunity. ANNUAL REVENUES: $13 billion
I’ve been proactive in my career about seeking new challenges, and I’ve been EMPLOYEES: 19,000
receptive when asked to accept new assignments. Look ahead and form mutually
beneficial relationships that will move you in the direction that fuels your passions.
Also, don’t be afraid to try new, unexpected challenges that are perhaps outside of
the box from where you thought you’d be going next.
Janet L. Robinson
M
The New York Times Company
Moments of reflection are essential. When I look back on my life there emerge patterns,
themes, and an underlying logic, and it becomes apparent that much of what I have
done is rooted in my desire to embrace risk, listen to a wide diversity of opinion, make
important decisions, and align personal and institutional values.
TITLE: President and
Chief Executive Officer
This long process of discovery began when I graduated from college near the end of the
Vietnam War. It was the early 70s: the economy was in the midst of a recession, jobs were
EDUCATION: BA, Salve Regina University;
Executive Education: Tuck School of Business
scarce, and there was anxiety in the air—all very reminiscent of where we are today.
Yet, guided by ambition and curiosity, I decided that my ongoing venture into the
FIRST JOB: Hospital Aide
future was going to be the beginning of an extraordinary journey.
WHAT I’M READING: Three Cups of
Tea, by Greg Mortenson; Outliers, by
Lauventria Robinson
M
The Coca-Cola Company
My career has spanned numerous industries, roles, and companies, and along
this path I have encountered both positive and challenging experiences that have
shaped and developed my professional (and personal) growth. I base my career
choices on a philosophy to honor my ethical standards, integrity, and values. I
TITLE: Vice President,
also strongly believe in adhering to a personal pact to stay true to myself—to
Diversity Business Development
who I am—while understanding and maintaining the needs of the company, my
EDUCATION: BS, Applied Economics and
position, and my responsibilities and commitments outside of the workplace.
Business Management, Cornell University;
MBA, The Wharton School Working for Coca-Cola, a company with ubiquitous brands, has allowed me
FIRST JOB: Cashier at Everyone’s the opportunity to have a variety of experiences across many geographies and
Discount Store in the Bronx, New York functions. I have not followed the “traditional” path to my current role in diversity,
WHAT I’M READING: The Breakthrough, but I have always been passionate about the importance of multiculturalism as a
by Gwen Ifill
tool for growth in the evolving North American marketplace and workplace. I am
MY PHILOSOPHY: Be true to yourself. fortunate to work for a company that recognized my passion and was open to giving
You will face many challenges personally
me an opportunity to act upon it.
and professionally, but if you know who
you are and what you stand for, you will
ultimately make the right decisions. At
times these decisions may be difficult and
unpopular, but if you are clear about what’s
“…be proactive, learn all you can
most important to you, you will be at peace
with your choices. and be flexible.”
FAMILY: Son: Cameron, 10, and
daughter: Kennedee, 5.
Congratulates
Lauventria Robinson
on being named a
“Woman Worth Watching”
in 2010
©2009 The Coca-Cola Company. “Coca-Cola,” the Red Disk Icon and the Contour Bottle design
are registered trademarks of The Coca-Cola Company.
women worth watching in 2010
Donna Sams
M
CVS Caremark
09505MIM09
women worth watching in 2010
D
Textron Defense Systems
During the last 20 years, I have had opportunities to work across a handful of
industries in positions spanning a broad range of disciplines, including procurement,
finance, training and development, marketing, and continuous improvement. As
vice president of business operations for Textron Defense Systems, I have drawn
TITLE: Vice President, Business Operations
on all of these experiences to gain perspective, strategize, and develop multidis-
EDUCATION: BBA, University of Oklahoma; ciplinary solutions that help drive business success.
MBA, University of St. Thomas
(Houston, Texas) Looking back, my career path makes a lot of sense—but that wasn’t always
FIRST JOB: Associate Analyst, Conoco Inc.
the case. In my first job after college, I was an analyst in a management develop-
ment program at Conoco Inc., then DuPont’s energy subsidiary. I struggled dur-
WHAT I’M READING: The Forgotten
Man: A New History of the Great
ing that first year. I just didn’t understand how to be successful. Mercifully, two
Depression, by Amity Shlaes of my peers in the program helped to show me the way.
MY PHILOSOPHY: Keep it simple—the As with so many experiences during my career, the challenges of that first
simplest solutions are more likely to sustain
over time.
role taught me valuable lessons. Chief among these is the importance of asking
questions, listening to others, and involving people in what you’re trying to
FAMILY: Brother and sister; two nieces
and four nephews.
accomplish. I simply wouldn’t have survived my first job without the help of my
colleagues. Consequently, I continue to solicit ideas and input from others to
INTERESTS: Windsurfing, reading,
and walking.
achieve business goals. The success of a business is not dependent solely on any
individual, but on a team working together toward collective goals.
FAVORITE CHARITies: Providence
Animal Rescue League; Rhode Island
T
BD
There are a number of people who taught me some important lessons that have
helped shape my life and my career. The first was my father, who always said,
“Work hard, tell the truth, and don’t borrow or lend money”—values I have
always tried to incorporate in work and in life. He also said the three best careers
for women were secretary, nurse, or teacher; he had a slight preference for teaching, TITLE: Senior Vice President, Corporate
Regulatory and External Affairs
because it provided child-friendly hours and summers free. Although I tried out
all three roles at various points in my early career, I discovered that my father FIRST JOB: 10th grade biology teacher
was dead wrong about careers, at least in my case. Coincidentally, four of my WHAT I’M READING: Life Sentences, by
Laura Lippman
five daughters are teachers.
MY PHILOSOPHY: Depends on the day
years later was that he had an incredible passion for his subject—a passion he BUSINESS: Medical technology.
wanted to instill in others. Although I had applied to colleges intending to major in ANNUAL REVENUES: $7.2 billion
English or languages, I ended up changing my major to biology. Ultimately, the
EMPLOYEES: 28,000
college science background gave me a real advantage in the highly competitive
market of Washington, D.C. law firms.
Another noteworthy mentor was the head of the practice group at the law firm
where I spent eight years, prior to joining BD. He was, and is, a brilliant man
who not only taught me a great deal about the law, but also forced me into public
speaking, which I had expertly avoided until that time. He also taught me the
value of motivating a team to achieve outstanding results, as well as the
importance of political savvy.
Even when you work hard and do well, unless you understand the politics of
an organization, career goals may elude you. I also learned the value of being able
to make difficult decisions and take responsibility for seeing them implemented.
While science has been an underlying theme throughout my career, the variety of
jobs I’ve held have led me through several different fields of work, and I’ve learned
something valuable from each of these experiences.
Deborah M. Soon
M
Catalyst
Mentors have made a huge difference in my career. I still remember the words
of my first manager and mentor: “Deb, you’re great at what you do, but it takes
more than just being good to advance. You need to make your influence felt!”
That advice has stayed with me, helping me maneuver successfully through the
TITLE: Vice President, Marketing &
corporate world.
Executive Leadership Initiatives
FAVORITE CHARITy: The 1990 Institute I started working with my second mentor, the director of internal audit for
Spring Bud Program
a multibillion-dollar paper company, when I helped develop the organization’s
first processes for auditing financial software. This mentor became my champion
and helped me move into a core business unit. When I was accepted by the Harvard
Business School, but lacked the money to attend, he persuaded the company to
COMPANY: Catalyst provide me with a full scholarship. It was a major turning point in my career.
HEADQUARTERS: New York City After obtaining my MBA, I decided that I wanted to run a company, so that
WEB SITE: www.catalyst.org I could have significant impact on a business. To do so, I needed other skills
BUSINESS: Nonprofit focused on advancing
and experiences, especially in sales and marketing. Again, I was fortunate to find
women in the workplace. Catalyst has a mentor who was willing to guide me, and who ultimately recommended me
received the highest rating from the to the board as his successor to the CEO position. In this way, I got my shot at
American Institute of Philanthropy for
maximizing the effectiveness of every running a company, and I eventually took it public.
dollar contributed.
I am forever in debt to these wonderful people who invested in me. I truly
ANNUAL REVENUES: $10.15 million believe that great leaders are selfless, as were these gentlemen. I only hope that I
EMPLOYEES: 74 can do for others as they did for me—look for the best in people; seize opportunities
to coach, facilitate, and develop them; and remove any barriers that might prevent
them from reaching their potential.
Mary Stoddart
I
Best Buy Co., Inc.
I have always felt a calling to develop deep connections with others, recognizing
every relationship as an individual thread in the tapestry of my life. This focus
on leveraging supportive networks, building relationships, and engaging others
has been greatly beneficial to my success.
TITLE: Vice President and
From an early age, my parents instilled in me the belief that the opportunities Territory General Manager
for my life were boundless and that anything was possible. Their belief in me gave
EDUCATION: Mount Holyoke College
me great confidence and made me realize the importance of having a strong support and IMD school of Business in Switzerland
system of advocates on your behalf. Taking on leadership positions in school and
FIRST JOB: Hotel housekeeper, Marriott,
athletics, I began to live out that mindset, acting as a role model to peers, and Newton, Massachusetts
paying forward the vote of confidence that was so inherently passed on to me. WHAT I’M READING: To Kill a
Mockingbird, by Harper Lee
a strong support system of advocates FAMILY: Married for 23 years with four
on your behalf.”
children: Will, Haley, John, and Carly.
Early in my career, I recognized that same connectedness as being an essential FAVORITE CHARITies: American
Cancer Society
element of success in the business world as well. I began participating in the
Menttium Program, a mentorship organization dedicated to advancing professional
development by creating personal connections across networks. My mentor was
a retired SVP of Sears, deeply passionate about empowering women to break the
glass ceilings existing in business life. The program facilitated a one-year mentoring COMPANY: Best Buy Co., Inc.
relationship, but the connection I fostered with my mentor lasted much longer HEADQUARTERS: Richfield, Minnesota
and made a significant impression on my personal and professional development.
WEB SITE: www.bestbuy.com
My climb up the corporate ladder was enhanced by supportive relationships
BUSINESS: Consumer electronics retailer.
like this, and as a leader, I believe it is essential for me to pass along to others a
ANNUAL REVENUES: $45 billion (2009)
positive experience, similar to what I received when someone took a chance on
me. I continued my involvement with Menttium, only this time as mentor to EMPLOYEES: 155,000 worldwide
a young woman from Texas, working in the corporate field across the border in
Mexico. The significance of mentorships became even more evident as I saw
the lack of development opportunities available to my mentee, and I realized
the immense importance of ensuring advocacy for women in all stages of
professional development.
Now, as newly appointed co-leader of the Women’s Leadership Forum (WoLF)
at Best Buy, I believe the vitality of mentorship will come to fruition even more,
with WoLF acting as the catalyst for engaging and inspiring individuals through
a network of strong supporters. And it is through a solid foundation like this that
individuals can relate to one another, help each other succeed, and become better
leaders in the process.
Cathy Suever
F
Parker Hannifin
For each of us, there are many different experiences and events we can point to
when defining what drives success. Terms such as good mentors, having passion,
building trust, and solid ethics, often come to mind. These could be considered
pre-requisites for success. For me, the whole package of what drives success
TITLE: Group Vice President, Controller
comes down to people.
EDUCATION: BS, Accounting,
University of Dayton
I believe success is strongly influenced by respecting the people around us,
whether they are customers, superiors, peers, the team working for us, or even
FIRST JOB: Working a 4-ton press to
assemble fittings
people not directly involved. I grew up with seven siblings, so there were ten of
us in a one-bathroom home. Respecting each other wasn’t an option, but rather
WHAT I’M READING: Any mystery I can
escape into.
a matter of survival. I learned at an early age that respecting the knowledge others
have, and understanding how I could use that knowledge, would help me
MY PHILOSOPHY: Do the best you can
with what you have. accomplish things faster and better, and could provide me great rewards.
Sandy Swider
A
Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc.
far from the frontline of our business, and that there is always time to say thank you. EMPLOYEES: 145,000
Sharon C. Taylor
E
Prudential Financial, Inc.
Everyone’s career path is different. But you can count on one thing—there will be
challenges along the way. That’s why it’s important to have a support system in place,
one you can look to for guidance and direction. No one can succeed alone. I
certainly didn’t, which is why I believe so passionately in the power of mentoring.
TITLE: Senior Vice President,
Human Resources Early in my career, I developed a network of people who helped me learn
about Prudential’s businesses, about people, and about myself. No one called it
EDUCATION: BA, Foreign Languages,
Temple University mentoring at the time, but that’s what it was. They shared insights on how to
navigate the organization and learn the unwritten rules of the corporate world.
FIRST JOB: Short-order cook
They provided constructive feedback and delivered hard messages that were
WHAT I’M READING: Outliers, by
Malcolm Gladwell; Stormy Weather, by
sometimes difficult to hear. When I felt stalled, they helped me identify strategies to
James Gavin grow and encouraged me to take on difficult but developmental assignments. Without
MY PHILOSOPHY: “Service to
my mentors, I may not have made those key decisions that helped me advance.
others is the rent we pay for living.”
Having experienced the power of mentoring first-hand, I try to do the same
–Marion Wright Edelman
for others in my professional and personal life. I mentor several emerging lead-
FAMILY: Married with one child
ers within Prudential and work closely with our business resource groups to help
INTERESTS: Reading, traveling, reinforce the importance and impact of professional development and building
and cooking.
supportive networks. I am also active in external organizations like the Executive
FAVORITE CHARITY: EUPC Leadership Council’s NextGen Network, which seeks to support high-potential
Scholarship Fund
African American professionals at critical stages in their careers.
One story particularly close to my heart is that of Kory and Kia Saunders,
twin sisters and scholarship recipients from a not-for-profit organization I chair
outside of work that provides financial assistance and guidance to students of
COMPANY: Prudential Financial, Inc.
color. Kory, one of my mentees, graduated summa cum laude from Hampton
HEADQUARTERS: Newark, New Jersey University and is now a marketing professional with Newsweek. Kia is an attorney
WEB SITE: www.prudential.com who recently passed both the New York and New Jersey bar exams.
BUSINESS: Financial services.
ANNUAL REVENUES: $29 billion in 2008 “No one can succeed alone.”
EMPLOYEES: 41,000
These accomplished sisters are now sharing their gifts with young high school
and college students. To me that’s what it’s all about—helping others overcome
obstacles to achieve their own success so that they can become part of the next
generation to give back.
There’s an African proverb that says, “He who learns, teaches.” I believe this
is both a responsibility and a gift. We all have the ability to leave a unique and
lasting legacy within our families, professions, and communities—a legacy that
will benefit those who follow us. This is the virtuous cycle of leadership.
Jamie K. Thorsen
I
BMO Capital Markets
I was fortunate to enter the foreign exchange (FX) business in the late ‘70s.
Even though FX trading is one of the world’s oldest professions, it suddenly
became very meaningful to international investors and multi-national corporations
when President Nixon floated the dollar by removing it from the gold standard.
TITLE: Executive Managing Director
FX lacked the defined “old boy” structure, so promotions and opportunities were
& Head, FX Products and
China Capital Markets based on performance first. Working in a meritocracy has allowed me to grow
professionally and personally—doing what I enjoy. I try to create that environ-
EDUCATION: BS, Psychology, Denison
University; MBA, Benedictine University; ment for my team. I have found that if you are consistent in your behavior,
working on graduate Gemology degree clear in your expectations, and have integrity regarding your interactions with
FIRST JOB: Trading food for money people, getting results becomes an easier task. In addition, having a passion for
(grocery store cashier) your work, an ability to continue learning, and a sense of fun, will keep every-
WHAT I’M READING: The Ascent of thing new and exciting. Most importantly I have found that looking for ways to
Money: A Financial History of the World, re-invent yourself and your career keeps you from getting tired or complacent.
by Niall Ferguson. Always read anything
by Janet Evanovich. Her Stephanie Plum
character is beyond funny.
MY PHILOSOPHY: Always trade money “…taking risks and ‘being in the game’
is the only way to encounter
for time. You can always figure out how
to get more money, but there is no way to
expand your defined time on earth.
Susan Thrope
T
New York Life Insurance Company
The road I traveled to reach my goals started in my parents’ kitchen, where I was
consistently taught that I would achieve my dreams if I trusted in myself, worked
hard, and made informed decisions, even if they might not always be well received.
This is the foundation of my success: “To thine own self be true.”
TITLE: Senior Vice President,
The basic tenet of my philosophy is that you are responsible for your career path. Deputy General Counsel & Secretary
There is rarely a prescribed and direct path to success. Here are some guiding principles
EDUCATION: BA, Economics, Boston
I’ve learned and applied:
University; JD, Brooklyn Law School; LLM,
Be completely engaged. Remain focused on your current assignment and job New York University School of Law; MBA,
Columbia University School of Business
responsibilities, rather than looking ahead to the next opportunity or promotion.
FIRST JOB: Beachbrook Day Camp
Be prepared for any opportunity. Educate yourself both formally, with advanced counselor, for children with special needs
degrees and certifications, and informally, by joining industry groups or attending
WHAT I’M READING: The Tipping Point,
industry-related seminars and functions. by Malcolm Gladwell
Be flexible—say yes. Be open to assignments that may be outside your expertise. MY PHILOSOPHY: To thine own self
Opportunities that have been most helpful for my growth have been those outside of be true.
my comfort zone. They broadened my skills and reinforced my self-confidence. FAMILY: Husband, Michael; children,
Brandon and Rebecca.
Be clear about setting expectations. When you assume a new assignment outside
your area of expertise, fully understand what the expectations are, and don’t pretend to INTERESTS: Music (Bruce Springsteen),
know more than you do. Request coaching, staff support, or other reasonable assistance dance (tap, ballroom, jazz), Girl Scouts
(Brownie Leader for my daughter’s troop),
to help you acclimate to the new role. sports (Jets, Mets and my son’s teams).
Suzzanne Uhland
L
O’Melveny & Myers LLP
My mentors have been a varied lot with greater and lesser roles in my develop-
ment—senior partners, the women in leadership in my organization, the judge for
whom I clerked, and, later in my career, my clients who cared enough to provide
COMPANY: O’Melveny & Myers LLP me feedback. To this day I stop and think, “What if I were the supervisor being
handed this work product, the judge ruling on this argument, the client hearing
HEADQUARTERS: Los Angeles,
California this advice?” And now that I am myself the supervisor, I think, “What if I were
the junior lawyer getting these instructions or that feedback?” These reflections
WEB SITE: www.omm.com
have enabled me to reach greater levels of communication, teamwork, and results.
BUSINESS: Law Firm.
To those beginning their careers, look for mentoring in a variety of relationships,
ANNUAL REVENUES: $907.5 million
and allow others to help you see in yourself what might be obscured for you. And
EMPLOYEES: 2,172 (935 attorneys) be aware of other views when confronted with a new or difficult situation—as your
mother would say, stop for a moment and put yourself in the other person’s shoes.
As the global leader in motion and control technologies, we recognize the importance
of a positive culture that promotes diversity, community and ethical behavior. And, we
are proud to support Profiles in Diversity Journal and its eighth annual Women Worth
Watching special issue.
www.parker.com
women worth watching in 2010
M
Kindred Healthcare
Amy E. Wagner
F
Burger King Corp.
every situation. The “bad boss” taught me how to deal effectively with difficult FIRST JOB: Age 12: Papergirl for an
personalities and circumstances, and how to navigate the corporate political afternoon community paper
environment. You can learn just as much from a good boss as you can from a MY PHILOSOPHY: Life is too short not
bad one—even if it is what not to do! to be happy—love what you do, and do
it well!
I also quickly learned that a great attitude is the key to success. Faced with
FAMILY: Married 14 years, with two
difficult odds in succeeding in a predominately male-dominated industry, I boys, ages 10 and 11.
chose to come to work every day with a positive attitude and a desire to succeed.
INTERESTS: Cooking, travel.
Abraham Lincoln said, “Always bear in mind that your own resolution to succeed
FAVORITE CHARITies: HAVE IT YOUR
is more important than any other one thing.” You choose your attitude each WAY® Foundation; American
and every day, and I’ve chosen a positive one—one that fosters great relation- Diabetes Association
ships both in and out of work.
their comfort zones. Being open to new opportunities and taking on new and EMPLOYEES: 27,000 corporate- and
different responsibilities has served me well. I began my career in finance, and company-owned restaurant employees
Tina Waters
T
Comcast Corporation
Throughout my life, my mom has been my number one mentor and role model.
She taught me by example that “to whom much is given, much is expected,”
and to take the blessings of my life and give them to others. I have carried those
lessons with me throughout my personal life and professional endeavors.
TITLE: Senior Vice President of Customer
Care, Comcast Cable In addition to my mother, I’ve had many people in my life that have mentored
me and influenced me to be the person that I am today. From my days as a teen-
EDUCATION: BS in Business Adminis-
tration, Villanova; MS, Organizational ager working at a neighborhood restaurant, to my current position at Comcast,
Dynamics, University of Pennsylvania there have been many people along the way who have served as mentors to me
FIRST JOB: Call Center Assistant and have shown me that being a leader is about more than giving instruction.
Manager at Bell Atlantic
Mentoring is about taking people’s potential and guiding them toward reaching
WHAT I’M READING: Lipstick Jihad, their goals, which ultimately leads to us reaching our collective goals. It is also
by Azadeh Moaveni;
my monthly Vanity Fair magazine about being an advocate for others. Additionally, it is about being a leader versus a
manager. I’ve learned great lessons from family, friends, colleagues, supervisors,
MY PHILOSOPHY: To whom much is
given, much is expected. and even those whom I have supervised.
FAMILY: I live with my husband Thomas,
my stepdaughter Jazmine, and my
mother, Patty; my sister and brother, “…be persistent while leaning on the
wise council of mentors.”
nieces and nephews, and grandmother all
live close by; my father, Voyer, resides in
LA. Family is very important!
W
MWV
When I was a little girl, my mother instilled in me a core value that I have
upheld my entire life. She said, ‘‘No matter what you do, help other people.” Those
words have played a vital role in my personal and professional development.
I began my career at MWV as a computer programmer. I excelled at my role
TITLE: Vice President, Diversity and
Leadership Management and was quite happy with the career path I had chosen. But, as fate would have
it, my career would take a different turn when one of my early mentors said to
EDUCATION: BS in Business Administration,
University of South Carolina me, “Stephanie, you are a star in computer programming, but you have an even
greater gift—developing others. Don’t ever lose that.” Those words resonated
FIRST JOB: Computer Programmer
deeply with me, and I began to look for opportunities that combined my skills
WHAT I’M READING: Mystery novel by
Walter Mosley and the Bible
with my passions.
mwv.com
women worth watching in 2010
Frederica M.Williams
I
Whittier Street Health Center
EMPLOYEES: 165
At ARAMARK, our mission is to be a company where the best people want to work…people
from all backgrounds, perspectives and experiences. That mission is reflected throughout our
organization, from our executive offices to our operations at ballparks, universities, elementary
schools and beyond. We are comprised of a rich mosaic of individuals — who together make us
Since 1998, FORTUNE magazine has consistently recognized ARAMARK as one of the top
three most admired companies in its industry. Headquartered in Philadelphia, ARAMARK has
approximately 260,000 employees serving clients in 22 countries.
Recognized as one of For more information about ARAMARK, professional opportunities available, and application
procedures, please visit www.aramark.com
the “40 Best Companies
for Diversity.”
Black Enterprise magazine, 2008
Consistently listed
since 1998 among
“World’s Most
Admired Companies.” www.aramark.com
Fortune magazine, 2009 An equal opportunity/affirmative action employer committed to workforce diversity.
2`WdS]\S
Empower the driver with technology. Be flawless in every detail. From SYNC,®* the hands-free,
voice-activated communications system, to Multi-Contour front seats with Active Motion™* to the eight
other class-exclusive technologies, it all adds up to the most innovative full-size car in America.**
Smarter, leaner, sexier than ever before.
*Available features. Driving while distracted can result in loss of vehicle control. Only use mobile phones and ©2009 Ford Motor Company
other devices, even with voice commands, when it is safe to do so. **Class is full-size, non-luxury cars.
women worth watching in 2010
Barbara S. Wood
G
KBR
your sphere of influence and apply your energy there. Teamwork and cooperation MY PHILOSOPHY: If you take “good
are vital and need to be deliberately fostered. While people may take a job for a care” of today, tomorrow will take
care of itself. A person must be able to
variety of reasons, I believe they stay because of the people they work with and live, work, and enjoy the daily journey,
their ability to feel like they can make a positive contribution, especially when a treating people with integrity and value,
making the best judgments and choices
business is going through difficult times.
they can at the time. If they do, they will
be able to be proud of the outcome,
whatever it is.
“You have to focus on what is FAMILY: Husband of five years, Jim, and
my three children, ages 26, 24 and 20.
and apply your energy there.” including travel, good food, wine, and
entertainment.
I continue to strive to learn and teach every day. ANNUAL REVENUES: $11.6 billion total
revenue in 2008
A
Applied Materials, Inc.
At age 15, my parents gave me the best gift imaginable—the chance to immigrate
to the United States—with the hope of giving me and my three siblings a future
with more opportunity than the one we had in Taiwan. This event altered the
direction of my life.
TITLE: Corporate Vice President, Division
General Manager, Etch Business Unit Throughout high school, I excelled in math and science, and UC Berkeley’s
College of Chemistry seemed like the perfect fit. At Berkeley, I was exposed to
EDUCATION: BS, Chemical Engineering,
University of California, Berkeley an environment that was predominately male. As an Asian female, I had to adapt
quickly to thrive. After many years of dedication, sacrifice, and hard work, I am
FIRST JOB: Working for Baskin-Robbins
at 16 years old. It was a great opportunity now the first female to hold my current position as corporate vice president and
for me to learn English. division general manager of the Etch business unit for Applied Materials.
WHAT I’M READING: Better: A
Surgeon’s Notes on Performance, by
Atul Gawande “…I’ve learned that it is a must
MY PHILOSOPHY: Never give up; do the
best you can with your job and life, so to establish trust and respect with
that there are no regrets.
INTERESTS: The symphony. This past March, I celebrated my twentieth anniversary with the company.
FAVORITE CHARITY: Doctors
Looking back at my career, I was constantly given the challenges to develop or
Without Borders turn around products. Under my leadership, I consistently grew revenue and market
share with high profitability for several different product groups. Management
recognized my abilities; this resulted in increased scope and responsibilities.
I find it exciting to work in the semiconductor industry, navigating through
COMPANY: Applied Materials, Inc. fast-changing technical challenges, business environments, and customer needs. To
HEADQUARTERS: Santa Clara, California
win each business, one needs to meet not just the technical and cost requirements,
but to understand the competition and customer. I enjoy this big puzzle of working
WEB SITE: www.appliedmaterials.com
with people and fixing problems. These characteristics work well for this industry,
BUSINESS: World’s leading and with a company and customer base as diverse as Applied Materials.
semiconductor, flat panel, and solar
equipment maker. I was initially shy and introverted by nature, so it took many years of growing
ANNUAL REVENUES: $8.13 billion to hone my leadership skills. As I watched leaders I’ve worked with throughout
the years, I’ve learned that it is a must to establish trust and respect with my
EMPLOYEES: Approximately 12,800
worldwide team and colleagues in order to effectively drive the progress or change needed to
achieve success.
There may not always be an answer for any given situation, but if you have an
open mind and think in terms of what is best for the company, customer, or your
family, you will end up on the right path to success.
Ann Ziegler
T
CDW Corporation
The road from Wall Street M&A lawyer to CFO of an $8 billion revenue
company is neither straight nor obvious. From a mentoring perspective, I always
make clear that, in building a career for yourself, you must be willing to take
(calculated) risks, and you must also find roles about which you can be passionate,
and people with whom you enjoy working. TITLE: Senior Vice President and
Chief Financial Officer
If you had told me 15 years ago that I would be sitting in the chair I occupy
EDUCATION: BA, The College of
today, I would have laughed at you! I enjoyed what I was doing, was good at William & Mary; JD, University of Chicago
my job (by then I was in-house counsel at Sara Lee Corporation), and liked the Law School
people with whom I worked. Then opportunity came knocking in the form of FIRST JOB: Bank teller
a much higher profile role on the M&A/Strategy team at Sara Lee. With some WHAT I’M READING: Fat Envelope
trepidation, I leapt, and learned quickly that I enjoyed the business side even more Frenzy, by Joie Jager-hyman (my older
than the legal side—and that with hard work, I could be successful at it as well. daughter is a junior in high school)
That was the last time that I waited for opportunity to “come knocking.” From MY PHILOSOPHY: If you are comfort-
then on, I kept a keen eye out for what I would enjoy doing next and what I able in your role, it is time to find your
next role.
needed to do to put myself in a position for growth.
FAMILY: Daughters Emma, 16; Reba, 13.
EMPLOYEES: 6,400
In your opinion, what are the attributes of a great leader that you have employed in
your career?
Honesty and integrity are critical attributes of a great leader, and necessary to build an environ-
ment of trust and respect. Other leaders have taught me that listening is as important as commu-
nicating, and teams respond to a leader who is approachable. The decisiveness of some great leaders
What I’m reading: The Geography
has inspired me when I am faced with making a tough, risky decision.
of Bliss, by Eric Weiner
My philosophies:
What is your most rewarding professional accomplishment?
Be true to yourself.
Set high standards and live by them. One of the first large projects I managed was the implementation of an electronic banking product
to gain market share and increase revenues. Some of my colleagues were skeptical about the feasi-
Interests: Boating and fishing.
bility of my proposed solution. I was given the opportunity to explain the concept and, ultimately,
senior management agreed to adopt my approach. I worked with a great team and the project was
very successful, exceeded expectations and received a lot of recognition.
What is the best advice you have ever received in your career?
“In business, perceptions are reality.” It sounds a bit harsh, but it taught me that the more
effective we are in communicating with our customers and people we work with, the narrower the
gap between perception and reality.
In your opinion, what are the attributes of a great leader that you have employed in
your career?
To me, a great leader is someone who exceeds expectations, is committed to excellence and is fully
accountable for everything he or she does. In my career, I’ve worked hard to build solid relation-
ships with the company leadership team, my colleagues and my team. I also support my team and
motivate them to perform at their best. Education: Business degree,
Miami Dade Community College
What obstacles have you overcome in your career to date, and how has this made you a What I’m reading:
better leader? Good to Great, by Jim Collins
A long career with one company has many benefits, but can also present some challenges. My philosophy:
When you begin working with a company at a higher level, you are viewed as an experienced Be an example all of the time.
professional and are recognized for your expertise in your particular area. I began my career with Interests:
the BURGER KING® brand as a restaurant team member. I worked hard to obtain the experience Sports, spending time with family.
I needed, so that I could be successful and achieve recognition for my professional development. My
experience over the years has definitely made me a well-rounded leader for my team today.
What is the best advice you have ever received in your career?
To understand and appreciate the importance of a team in your overall success. I am fortunate to
have a team that provides me with a solid foundation, so that I can concentrate on implementing
the strategies that will help move our business forward.
Halliburton
Headquarters: Houston, Texas, and Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Web site: www.halliburton.com
Primary Business: Energy services.
Employees: 50,000 plus
In your opinion, what are the attributes of a great leader that you have employed in
your career?
• Ethics. I am convinced that we must act with integrity, whether in our work or in our personal
life. Nobody should be considered a role model if they don’t act ethically in all aspects of life.
• Dedication. Whatever the activity, it will produce greater results if it is done with dedication. Education:
This involves focusing all your senses, energy, and efforts on the task at hand, whatever it is. Electrical Engineering degree,
University of Chile
• Commitment. Leaders distinguish themselves when they are committed to the values, objectives,
and practices of the company for which they work. If a person is not committed to his or her What I’m reading:
When Markets Collide,
company, that person will hardly achieve the goals set by their employers.
by Mohamed El-Erian
• Ability to adapt. Committed leaders know how to easily adapt to changes, and help others to My philosophy:
feel committed as well. In fact, leaders have the responsibility to produce changes, and to ensure Constancy of Purpose.
those changes are properly managed. Interests:
Music, outdoor sports.
What obstacles have you overcome in your career to date and how has this made you a
better leader?
I don’t see them as obstacles. I visualize my career path as a steeplechase, in which I must not stop
in front of any hurdle, but jump them at the right moment, at the right speed, and at the right
height to overcome each of them. Those “hurdles” have helped me to teach others that anything
is possible. And that is what others expect from me.
IBM Corporation
Headquarters: Armonk, New York
Web site: www.ibm.com
Primary Business: Information technology.
Employees: 398,455 worldwide (2008)
When giving advice or mentoring, what strategies and principles do you communicate?
Mentoring has been critical to my success. I advise my mentees to have a “board” of mentors so
they get multiple perspectives. I also tell them that they need to be proactive and reach out to their
mentors as it is important to keep these relationships active. I provide support by helping them to
network, identify opportunities, offer advice on approaches, and counsel them to watch and learn
Education: BS, Combine Science;
from others.
MBA, Information Systems
What I’m reading: What is your most rewarding professional accomplishment?
Jack: Straight from the Gut, I was asked to take an assignment to lead a critical project that had fallen behind its neces-
by Jack Welch and John A. Byrne
sary schedule. The project involved the development and integration of the software technol-
My philosophy: ogy required to support the Olympic Games in Sydney, Australia. The effort involved a team
Go for it!
from multiple nations, spanning four continents, cutting across both geographical and cultural
Interests: boundaries. Through my experience and expertise in software development, command of the
Spending time with my family. Spanish language and culture, and my diversity training with cultures of different countries,
I, with my team, not only got the project back on track, but we delivered flawless performance of
the technology support for the highly successful Sydney Summer Olympic Games.
What obstacles have you overcome in your career to date, and how has this made you a
better leader?
Realizing that it is okay to ask for help.
ITT Corporation
Headquarters: White Plains, New York
Web site: www.itt.com
Primary Business: High technology engineering and manufacturing.
Employees: 40,000
In your opinion, what are the attributes of a great leader that you have employed in
your career?
When they hear the words “great leader,” most people envision a charismatic, larger-than-life
figure. Although there’s nothing necessarily wrong with charisma, I believe leadership is much
more about humility, respect, and centeredness. People like to follow leaders who are comfortable
Education: BS, Biology, University
in their own skin, who treat them kindly (if firmly), and who don’t inflict their own personal
of Miami; JD, Yale Law School;
MBA, Finance & Strategic problems upon them. Great leaders put the organization ahead of themselves, and run the risk
Management, The Wharton School, of making themselves dispensable by building a team that can function in their absence—a team
University of Pennsylvania; MA, filled with the next generation of leaders. Ironically, there’s no greater way to ensure longevity than
National Security & Strategic Studies,
to be other-minded; the more that leaders try to make themselves indispensable, the more their
U.S. Naval War College
teams will long to see them leave.
What I’m reading: The Bottom
Billion: Why the Poorest Countries
What obstacles have you overcome in your career to date, and how has this made you a
are Failing and What Can Be Done
About It, by Paul Collier; The Wine better leader?
Bible, by Karen MacNeil My obstacles pale in comparison to those of my parents, who came to this country from Cuba
My philosophy: without money, power, college diplomas, or English skills. Their example makes me a better leader,
Trust in God more than for it’s a reminder that a team member’s heart and passion are more indicative of future success
you trust in anything else. than their resume.
Interests: Reading, running,
watching college football.
KPMG LLP
Headquarters: New York City
Web site: www.us.kpmg.com
Primary Business: Audit, tax and advisory services.
Employees: 22,000
How has your understanding of diversity and inclusion helped you become a better leader?
Diverse perspectives enable you to see challenges through different lenses. Team members bring
a variety of experiences to the table and it is important to draw out those experiences with
relevance to the objectives of the team. I have been rewarded with stronger teams by creating an
inclusive environment where all team members are encouraged to share their views.
Education:
When giving advice or mentoring, what strategies and principles do you communicate? BS, Azusa Pacific University
When mentoring someone, I think it’s important to share as much relevant information about What I’m reading:
yourself as possible to demonstrate your empathy to the mentee. I think it’s also important to Lessons on Leadership:
be candid, and to examine strengths and weaknesses, to help build trust within the relationship. The 7 Fundamental Management
Skills for Leaders at All Levels,
Once you’ve established that trust, you can better help your mentee develop his or her short- and
by Jack Stahl
long-term goals.
My philosophy:
What obstacles have you overcome in your career to date, and how has this made you a Work hard, but play hard.
How has your understanding of diversity and inclusion helped you become a better leader?
The whole notion of inclusion is very motivating. It is one thing to have diversity within a
workforce, but inclusion inspires people to think about the benefits that can be gained by
participating in different cultures or traditions, rather than creating the perception of “winners
and losers.”
Education:
What/who has most influenced you in your career to date? BA, Economics, College
of the Holy Cross in Worcester,
Leading a human resources organization greatly influenced my career. I was exposed to a variety Massachusetts; MBA,
of different functions, from human performance systems to diversity initiatives to workforce The Fuqua School of Business,
development. It was eye-opening as I came to understand the different techniques and skills Duke University
required to mobilize a large workforce. Active engagement with front line employees across all What I’m reading:
levels was another experience as a senior manager that greatly shaped my decision-making Angels and Demons,
approach. To this day, I try not to make decisions solely from World Headquarters. I constantly by Dan Brown
go out into the field to connect with individuals and most of all, listen. The closer to the customer My philosophy:
I can get, the more likely I am to make the right decisions. Have vision and passion for
what you are doing.
What is the best advice you have ever received in your career? Interests:
If you want to be successful and achieve great things, go as hard as you can, but when it’s time Golf.
to rest, it’s time to rest. In addition, be kind and respectful to others and everything else takes
care of itself.
Shell Oil Company, a member of the Royal Dutch Shell Group of Companies
Headquarters: Houston, Texas
Web site: www.shell.com
Primary Business: Energy.
Employees: 22,000 U.S.; 102,000 worldwide
Sodexo
Headquarters: Gaithersburg, Maryland
Web site: www.Sodexousa.com
Primary Business: Leading provider of integrated food and facilities management services in North America.
Employees: 120,000
How has your understanding of diversity and inclusion helped you become a better leader?
You can influence people to work with you, or to do business with you, when you are sensitive to
their points of view and the lenses they use to see reality. If you recognize and respect individuality
and celebrate the differences among people they will follow your lead.
Education: BS, Business When giving advice or mentoring, what strategies and principles do you communicate?
Administration; MBA, Marketing I always recommend: to act with integrity, to be loyal, to be disciplined, and never give up. Always
and Sales Specialist
be positive, and be willing to accept constructive criticism.
What I’m reading: The Leader in
Me, by Stephen R. Covey What obstacles have you overcome in your career to date, and how has this made you a
My philosophy: better leader?
Always do the right thing, As a foreigner, coming into the American society and business environment, having to overcome
all the time. the language and the cultural barriers were good challenges. It is possible to accomplish your goals
Interests: Reading, golf. if you know where you want to go and take the steps to get there. It is not always easy.
What is the best advice you have ever received in your career?
Know exactly where you want to go, and set challenging but attainable goals for you personally
and professionally. Once you set those goals, do whatever it takes to get there, always doing the
right thing.
How has your understanding of diversity and inclusion helped you become a better leader?
Great ideas come from individuals, but no best idea has ever come from a single individual. Once an
idea or principle is brought forward and presented to a group, the greatest limitation is already estab-
lished if the group is not totally inclusive and diverse. From each person’s experience and world view, a
single idea can be viewed from every possible angle and all things considered. I am known for saying,
Education:
“I’ve often had a good idea, but I’ve never had the best idea.” The best idea comes from the group who
BS, Business Degree, Columbia
College; Graduate Business Studies,
is fully diverse and completely inclusive. This is a guiding principle of mine
Colorado University
When giving advice or mentoring, what strategies and principles do you communicate?
What I’m reading:
As a leader and in everything you do—be a “finisher.” With this are two rules.
Human Sigma, by John H. Fleming
and Jim Asplund Rule#1. Anyone can take on a challenge or task and anyone can get things started, but the key to
being successful is to finish the things you start. Don’t let perfection lord over and pre-
My philosophy:
Live to serve others well in the
vent you from crossing the finish line. Allow the extraordinary efforts of your timely and
greatest capacity you can master. personal best to be the finish line.
Interests: I like to analyze data and
Rule#2. Never say that you cannot do something because you lack the specific experience. Go into
build analysis models. I also like to every opportunity with an open mind and be the catalyst to change to the status quo.
play golf with friends, peers, and A true leader doesn’t walk in someone else’s exact steps; they take greater strides and find
team members. new ways to do things better. When I start a new job, all I really need are the keys to the
office and a current organizational chart. The rest is gaining understanding of the dynam-
ics of each of the parts and determining how to make them operate more efficiently.
Vanguard
Headquarters: Malvern, Pennsylvania
Web site: www.vanguard.com
Primary Business: Financial services.
Employees: 12,500
How has your understanding of diversity and inclusion helped you become a better leader?
When people can be their true and open selves, they feel and perform their best. Inclusive work-
places have higher morale, better retention, better access to talent, and ultimately, stronger business
results. I would never accept an environment that is not committed to practicing and promoting
the values of inclusion and diversity to the fullest.
Education:
Bachelor’s Degree, University What/who has most influenced you in your career to date?
of Puerto Rico; Law Degree,
My core values were shaped by the inspiring life example of my grandmother, Panchita Miranda.
Georgetown University Law Center
A farmer in Puerto Rico with a second grade education, she relentlessly pursued an unlikely goal
What I’m reading: for the times—getting six children through college. She understood the connections between
Outliers, by Malcolm Gladwell;
Enough, by John C. Bogle;
her life on a mountain and the rest of the world. Despite her poverty, she was the most generous
The Soloist, by Steve Lopez woman I have ever met.
My philosophies:
What is your most rewarding professional accomplishment?
Always give your best.
Perform in your current role with
I have had the opportunity to make a real difference in people’s lives in every job I’ve ever had. As
passion and excellence. a lawyer, I represented the poor. As head of Philadelphia’s child welfare system, I helped protect
Interests:
children from abuse and find them permanent families through adoption. As president of a United
Family time, music, and Way agency, I connected people with means to people with needs. And now, at Vanguard, the
reading on the beach. business I lead helps families all across the U.S. save for their children’s college education. Having
a positive impact on people’s lives is what makes my work meaningful to me.
SM1
bcbsnc.com
Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month
Pedro Correa Vice President, Multilingual Consumer and Business Sales
Verizon Communications
Headquarters: New York City
Web site: www.verizon.com
Primary Business: Entertainment/telecommunications.
Employees: 240,000
When giving advice or mentoring, what strategies and principles do you communicate?
I view coaching and employee development as a business imperative. My prescription is simple:
Help others achieve and be their best. I candidly share my experiences (including non-successes),
and attempt to help others avoid the pitfalls I’ve already experienced. I remind people that we’re
always on stage, and with that come opportunities for learning and growth. Being a strong com-
Education: University of Delaware
municator, providing “straight-talk” feedback, and if necessary, delivering a “tough love” message
What I’m reading: are critical for successful mentoring and coaching. Respecting, valuing and providing service to
The Post-American World, others are the foundation for giving advice and mentoring. One other thought, I tell mentees that
by Fareed Zakaria
they have to be “In or Out”—you can’t be half-in or half-out—you have to be fully committed.
My philosophy:
Be the best servant I can be. What is the best advice you have ever received in your career?
Interests: Golf. The best advice I ever received was a composite of sound, sincere interest on my behalf:
“Believe in yourself and believe in others. Deliver more than you promise. Create opportunities
for people to develop and grow, and always recognize and demonstrate genuine appreciation for
their accomplishments.”
One of my mentors touched me and inspired me with this advice “Be a Servant Leader. Be
there for others; it is very important to have balance in life and take time out to have fun and be
there for your family.”
When giving advice or mentoring, what strategies and principles do you communicate?
Have the courage to do the right thing because it builds character. I often tell people to be yourself
and find a career that fulfills you. When you set personal and professional goals, stay focused in
achieving those goals. Finally, I advise mentees to live every day like it will be their last. It’s good
to be focused, but it’s important to be positive and enjoy your work.
Education: BS, Fashion
Merchandising and Business, What/who has most influenced you in your career to date?
Seton Hill University
I have been fortunate to have worked for several outstanding people, each of whom has a gift or
What I’m reading: Womenomics, trait that makes them a great leader. I have adapted my leadership style from the lessons learned
by Claire Shipman & Katty Kay; from those leaders. Personally, my father-in-law was a great influence to me. He was a driven
Outliers, by Malcolm Gladwell
man with a tremendous work ethic and passion for life, as well as for his career as a physician.
My philosophies: He always said that “you won the lottery every day, by being alive and in good health.” That could
Things do happen for a reason.
Have fun. Be yourself always!
not be more true.
Interests: Travel, reading, walking. What obstacles have you overcome in your career to date, and how has this made you a
better leader?
In a previous role, I felt I was perfect for a particular position, but when I wasn’t the one selected,
it was tough to pause and reflect. When that happened, I learned to be resilient and humble;
I listened to feedback and learned that you can’t become overly confident.
tplace,
rldwide marke
To work in a wo
represents
workforce that
Chevron has a
siness, we
rever we do bu
the world. Whe
r our
y is essential fo
believe diversit
. Because
d partners alike
employees an
human
ts of view, our
with more poin
er.
es even strong
energy becom
om.
visit chevron.c
To learn more,
Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month
Alex Oseguera Area Vice President, Sacramento/Nevada
In your opinion, what are the attributes of a great leader that you have employed in
your career?
I have discovered that great leaders are passionate, curious, and constantly learning. They must
have a perspective of the world at-large that allows them to break down complex issues into under-
standable trends. This ability allows the leader to utilize trends to gauge opportunities, challenges
Education: BA, Economics, Magna
or obstacles, and create the strategies needed for success. Strong leaders must develop exceptional
Cum Laude, California State
University, Stanislaus; listening skills that allow them to gain perspective from multiple points of view, and they must
MS, Foreign Service, Edmund A. never forget to be authentic. Finally, a true leader must be introspective and understand that most
Walsh School of Foreign Service, successes and failures are a direct consequence of one’s leadership.
Georgetown University
What I’m reading: Talent is Never When giving advice or mentoring, what strategies and principles do you communicate?
Enough, by John C. Maxwell I routinely convey to leaders that they must spend considerable time developing strategy, that they
My philosophy: must create the necessary operational mechanisms to ensure success, and that they must not forget
“Destiny is not a matter of chance, to have strong follow-up mechanisms to review the progress and appropriateness of their strategies.
it is a choice; it is not a thing to
be waited for, it is a thing to be
Finally, and most importantly, the positive engagement of their people will ultimately decide the
achieved.”—William Jennings Bryan success of their strategy.
Interests: Current affairs; golf,
What is the best advice you have ever received in your career?
coaching soccer, spending time with
my wife and children. I have a quote that was given to me by a college professor and that I always keep and constantly
remember: “Edison did not complain about darkness.”
WellPoint, Inc.
Headquarters: Indianapolis, Indiana
Web site: www.wellpoint.com
Primary Business: Health insurance.
Employees: 42,000
In your opinion, what are the attributes of a great leader that you have employed in
your career?
I have several Keys to Success:
• Believe in your ability to succeed—“no person can consistently perform in a manner that is incon-
sistent with the way he sees himself.”
Education: • Get rid of your pride—pride keeps you from trying new things or asking questions because you are
BA, University of Texas at Austin; JD,
University of Texas School
afraid of looking incompetent. It makes you stay in your comfort zone. It makes you focus on appear-
of Law ance rather than potential.
• Cultivate “constructive discontent”—complacency never brings success. Find a way to construc-
What I’m reading:
Womenomics, by Claire tively overcome your frustration and dissatisfaction, either by creating something new or by improving
Shipman & Katty Kay; what already exists.
Swimsuit, by James Patterson • Escape from habit—a habit is something we do without thinking; when we stop thinking, we stop
My philosophy: questioning and dreaming. Habit can cause you to simply go through the motions without thinking
The best way to predict your about the possibilities.
future is to create it. • Engage in continuous learning—this doesn’t mean continually taking courses; but rather, it is about
Interests: Painting pottery, refining and developing new skills through reflection and inquiry. It is about taking your work and
reading, and taking vacations to life experiences and making them your learning lab.
exotic beach locations. • Network and build relationships—everyone is your mentor!
®
stories
microtrigger stories
editors notebook
“ I am a middle-aged Latino man. I despise when in this economy is a good thing. I was having a discussion
people (at work, the club, or any other social setting) with my friend/former boss, and I was telling him about
greet me with ‘HOLA,’ particularly when it is not done some of the things that annoy me at my new job.
to non-Latinos in the room. This happens more often For instance, I am triggered when I hold the door for
than I would like: to me, and other Latinos I know.” someone and they don’t say thank you, or when people
walk past my desk, look at me, but don’t speak. What
-Michael Fernando
am I, invisible? I’m in an administrative role, but I would
hate to think that has anything to do with this behavior.”
-Wade Robinson
Janet Crenshaw Smith is president of Ivy Planning Group, LLC, a consulting and
training firm that specializes in diversity strategy and leadership. Her book is titled,
MicroTriggers: 58 Little Things That Have a BIG Impact. Have a MicroTrigger
story to share? Send it to: JSmith@ivygroupllc.com.
www.diversityjournal.com
www.diversityjournal.com
Aflac. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
www.aflac.com
Dewey & LeBoeuf LLP. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .108
www.deweyleboeuf.com
featured organizations
Congratulations to Deb Oler for being named a Woman Worth Watching. That’s getting the job done. FreddieMacDiversity.jobs
www.diversityjournal.com