Also Featuring an Introduction by Bill George, Harvard Business School • A Celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month • Catalyst
Volume 10, Number 5 September / October 2008
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And we like it that way. After all, the more different perspectives we have on board, the more great ideas we can come up with. With a presence in more than 130 countries, we’ve learned for ourselves that being an inclusive business is an advantage. Now we’re looking for more people who can bring fresh thinking to the energy challenge, including: s 3ENIOR #OMMUNICATIONS -ANAGER 5 s 5TILITIES 2ELIABILITY )MPROVEMENT 0ROG -GR !MERICAS 5 s #ONTROL 3YSTEMS 4ECHNICIAN !ZUSA #! 5 s %NSURE 3AFE 0RODUCTION 0ROCESS &OCAL 0OINT 5 s 4EAM ,EADER 0ROCESS %NGINEERING 5 s 3TAFF 0ROCESS %NGINEERING 5TILITIES 5 s 4URNAROUND 3AFETY #OORDINATOR 5 s 0ROJECTS 3AFETY #OORDINATOR 5 &IND OUT MORE AND APPLY ONLINE AT www.shell.com/careers/usjobs. Shell is an Equal Opportunity Employer
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September / October 2008 • VOLUME 10 NUMBER 5
Shell people aren’t all the same
PROFILES IN DIVERSITY JOURNAL
IDEAS PEOPLE WANTED US LOCATIONS
No matter what your specialty, you’ll do more at Waste Management by working on projects that have a positive impact on the environment. Saving the world – now there’s a good reason to come to work.
Make a difference. Work here. Optional features shown.
Check out www.wmcareers.com
Waste Management is an equal opportunity employer and is commited to an environment free of unlawful discrimination.
Also Featuring an Introduction by Bill George, Harvard Business School • A Celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month • Catalyst
Volume 10, Number 5 September / October 2008 Sondra L. Barbour Lockheed Martin
Cindy J. Brinkley AT&T
Deborah H. Alderson
Ingrid Beckles Freddie Mac
25.00 U.S.
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SAIC
Angela M. Busch Ecolab, Inc.
Klaudia J. Brace KBR
Barbara Adachi Deloitte LLP
Judy Archibald Waste Management, Inc.
Patricia L. Barbari New York Life Insurance Co.
Karen A. Bedford ArvinMeritor, Inc., Light Vehicle Systems
Virginia Calega Highmark, Inc.
Delivering power through people.
Our vision is to be the best positioned, most trusted choice for electricity in competitive markets. We pursue that vision through the talents of our intelligent, creative and passionate employees. By harnessing the power of diverse thoughts, skills and experiences, we commit to delivering value to our customers and making a difference in the communities where we live and work. Reliant Energy is committed to attracting talented individuals to our workforce. Become part of our team and help us achieve our vision. Reliant Energy proudly recognizes
Susie Kupiec as a “Woman Worth Watching� and supports women and their accomplishments.
reliant.com
Also Featuring an Introduction by Bill George, Harvard Business School • A Celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month • Catalyst
Volume 10, Number 5 September / October 2008 Nancy R. Christal CVS Caremark
Anne Chwat
Cindy P. Crotty
Burger King Corporation
KeyCorp
25.00 U.S.
$
Mary E. Crego State Farm Insurance Companies
Liza Cartmell ARAMARK
Barbara Dirks Harris Bankcorp, Inc.
Carine Strom Clark Symantec Corporation
Dale Cendali O’Melveny & Myers LLP
Betty K. DeVita Citibank Canada
Sandra Devine Chineta K. Davis Northrop Grumman
EDS
© 2008 Lockheed Martin Corporation
BETWEEN THE CHALLENGE AND THE SOLUTION, T H E R E I S O N E I M P O R TA N T W O R D : H O W.
Diversity. It’s not a goal. It’s a necessity. When facing down the most important projects in the world, you need fresh ideas. And unique perspectives. Delivering the most complete answers to solve complex problems is all a question of how. And it is the how that makes all the difference.
Also Featuring an Introduction by Bill George, Harvard Business School • A Celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month • Catalyst
Volume 10, Number 5 September / October 2008
Tracey Doi Toyota Motor Sales, USA, Inc.
Lynne Doughtie
Katherine Giscombe
KPMG LLP
Catalyst
Lina Echeverría Corning Inc.
25.00 U.S.
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Marie Therese Dominguez U.S. Postal Service
Shaun M. Fracassi Kelly Services Inc.
Robyn L. Ewing Williams
Kimmy T. Duong Pragmatics, Inc.
Melissa B. Donaldson CDW Corporation
Lauren Flaherty Nortel
Dianne Douglas Mattel, Inc.
DIVERSITY... the one thing we all have in common
WWW.ROHMHAAS.COM
> SIMPLY STATED, DIVERSITY MEANS DIFFERENCES
At Rohm and Haas, we know that understanding, valuing and leveraging diversity will result in a healthier, more enriched workforce, maximized profitable growth and sustained competitive advantage. This is our priority. Leading the way since 1909, Rohm and Haas is a global pioneer in the creation and development of innovative technologies and solutions for the specialty materials industry. The company’s technologies are found in a wide range of industries including: Building and Construction, Electronics and Electronic Devices, Household Goods and Personal Care, Packaging and Paper, Transportation, Pharmaceutical and Medical, Water, Food and Food Related, and Industrial Process. Innovative Rohm and Haas technologies and solutions help to improve life every day, around the world. Based in Philadelphia, PA, the company generated annual sales of approximately $8.9 billion in 2007.
Visit www.rohmhaas.com for more information. imagine the possibilities™
Also Featuring an Introduction by Bill George, Harvard Business School • A Celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month • Catalyst
Kara Ferber Gordon Rohm and Haas
Volume 10, Number 5 September / October 2008
Patricia A. Heffernan Lifetime Care Home Health and Hospice
Carla Harris Morgan Stanley
25.00 U.S.
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Marjorie Hoey Interpublic Group
Janel S. Haugarth SUPERVALU INC.
Andrea R. Huff Lee Hecht Harrison
Linda P. Hudson BAE Systems Land and Armaments
Faith Renee Greenfield Gloria Johnson Goins The Home Depot
Campbell Soup Company
Diane J. Hoskins Gensler
Roz Ho Microsoft
And that may be the one true link that brings us all together, regardless of race, creed or color. Boeing proudly supports those courageous enough to make discrimination, history.
Also Featuring an Introduction by Bill George, Harvard Business School • A Celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month • Catalyst
Charisse R. Lillie Comcast Corporation
Volume 10, Number 5 September / October 2008
25.00 U.S.
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Pam Kohn Wal-Mart Stores, Inc.
Regina Lee
Jacqueline B. Kosecoff UnitedHealth Group
Suzanne L. Kupiec
Automatic Data Processing, Inc.
Reliant Energy, Inc.
Anne B. Jackson Wells Fargo Financial Bank
D. Lynn Kelley, PhD Textron, Inc.
Barbara L. Kunz Battelle Memorial Institute
Dianne Lamendola Safeway, Inc.
Dolores K. Kruchten Eastman Kodak Company
Karen Larrimer The PNC Financial Services Group, Inc.
Comcast’s commitment to diversity is woven into the very fabric of our company. As the nation’s leading provider of cable, entertainment and communications products and services – as an employer, a business, and a community partner – we believe that the success of our business and the prosperity of the communities we serve go hand in hand. Comcast congratulates its own Charisse Lillie for being featured in the 7th Annual WomenWorthWatching® Issue. Here’s to her tenacity and lifelong dedication to inspire others.
To learn more about our commitment to diversity, go to www.comcast.com/diversity
Also Featuring an Introduction by Bill George, Harvard Business School • A Celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month • Catalyst
Volume 10, Number 5 September / October 2008 Jacki W. Lowe
Diana X. Ma
Georgia Power
25.00 U.S.
$
Lisa H. Macpherson Hallmark Cards, Inc.
Applied Materials, Inc.
Michele Coleman Mayes Allstate Insurance Company
Caroline S. Matthews WellPoint, Inc.
Ellen M. Lord AAI Corporation
Consuelo E. Madere Monsanto
Gael Lundeen Pitney Bowes Inc.
Miranda K. Mandel Neal, Gerber & Eisenberg LLP
Machelle A. McAdory Chrysler Financial
Rose McKinney-James MGM MIRAGE
[ BANK OF THE WEST ]
WANT TO WORK FOR A TRULY GREAT BANK?
AT BANK OF THE WEST, WE BELIEVE OUR CUSTOMERS ARE WELL SERVED BY EMPLOYEES WHO ARE WELL SERVED. Different perspectives generate fresh ideas. That’s why at Bank of the West, we value diversity and equal opportunity for all our employees. Year after year, we continue to grow stronger thanks to our unique blend of people. After all, in today’s competitive banking environment, it is our employees with innovative ideas that keep us a step ahead of the rest.
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 Bill George, Harvard Business School • A Celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month • Catalyst
Volume 10, Number 5 September / October 2008
Maureen K. O’Connor Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina
Elaine Metlin Dickstein Shapiro LLP
25.00 U.S.
$
Lynn Pike Capital One Financial Corporation
Deborah O’Neil Wendy J. Murdock
MasterCard Worldwide
AXA Equitable Life Insurance Company
MaryAnn Miller Avnet, Inc.
Jeannette M. Mills Constellation Energy
Una O’Neill
Margaret C. Montana
CA, Inc.
Royal Dutch Shell
Marcia L. Narine Ryder System, Inc.
Michelle Paretti Credit Suisse
Thanks to you, women are helping to shape an America in which all citizens, regardless of gender, are free to live out their dreams.
WellPoint congratulates all of the WomenWorthWatching®, including our own current and past recipients Shamla Naidoo, Dijuana Lewis, Lisa Moriyama, and Caz Matthews. At WellPoint, we are addressing tomorrow’s health care issues today by taking a leadership role in women’s health. Focusing on the medical issues that most affect women, we’ve developed a four-pronged approach that addresses wellness and prevention, disease management, quality improvement, and community involvement. Some of the numerous resources we provide to help women take control of their health include: Women’s Health e-Newsletter, Baby Connection and MaterniCall, Mammography Compliance Initiative, and a Breast Cancer Resource Center. Working to better people’s lives is not something you do every day – but it can be, at WellPoint.
Better health care, thanks to you. Visit us online at wellpoint.com/careers and wellpoint.com/diversity Contact us at diversityrecruiting@wellpoint.com EOE
®Registered Trademark, WellPoint, Inc. ©2008 WellPoint, Inc. All Rights Reserved ®Registered Trademark, WomenWorthWatching ®Registered Trademark, DiversityInc Media LLC ®2008 Profiles in Diversity Journal All Rights Reserved
Also Featuring an Introduction by Bill George, Harvard Business School • A Celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month • Catalyst
Carmen G. Rive Vanguard
Sangeeta Gandhi Shah Brooks Kushman PC
Volume 10, Number 5 September / October 2008 Vilma Salaverria
Jocelyn E. Scott
25.00 U.S.
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DuPont
Aflac, Inc.
Barb J. Samardzich Ford Motor Company
Kimberly L. Senter
Ana Cabriela Pinczuk
Unilever
Cisco Systems, Inc.
Denise L. Ramos ITT Corporation
Susan A. Roberts Bausch & Lomb
Sue Reidy Agilent Technologies
Are you driven to make a difference? Join Stryker, a global leader in a growing industry dedicated to helping people live more active, fulfilling lives. Stryker is a broadly based medical technology company with a history of success and exceptional growth—growth driven by the diverse viewpoints and backgrounds of a workforce that enjoys accountability, clear expectations and the freedom to exceed them. As a company that embraces individual strengths, we care about what you can do, not just what you have done.
Stryker. Exceptional Experience for Exceptional People.
Growth Opportunity Innovation Discover new and exciting career opportunities— visit www.Stryker.jobs
Available positions may include: • Clinical Research • Distribution & Logistics • Engineering • Finance & Accounting • Human Resources • Information Technology • Manufacturing & Operations • Marketing • Quality Assurance & Regulatory Affairs • Research & Development • Sales
Also Featuring an Introduction by Bill George, Harvard Business School • A Celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month • Catalyst
Volume 10, Number 5 September / October 2008 Carrie Teffner
Susan Silbermann
Sara Lee Corporation
Pfizer
25.00 U.S.
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Karen Sock Grand Biloxi Casino, Hotel & Spa
Bentina Chisolm Terry Gulf Power Company
Barbara A. Taylor BDO Seidman, LLP
Sarah Thornton Bank of the West
Bronwen R. Taylor Stryker Corporation
Catherine Smith Motorola
Michelle D. Shepherd Bank of America
Heidi Shyu Raytheon Company
Teressa Szelest-Shah BASF SE
) NEVER IMAGINED ) D lND MYSELF SAYING THE WORDS hCAREERv AND hLOVEv IN THE SAME SENTENCE "UT AT (ALLMARK ) DO IT ALL THE TIME (ERE ) FEEL EMPOWERED AS A ,ATINA AND AS EDITORIAL DIRECTOR FOR 3INCERAMENTE (ALLMARK OUR 3PANISH LANGUAGE CARD LINE TO INFUSE ALL ) DO WITH THE PASSION AND SUBSTANCE OF MY HERITAGE !T (ALLMARK WE HAVE ONE PURPOSE TO ENRICH PEOPLE S LIVES "UT ) DIDN T KNOW THAT IN FULlLLING THAT PURPOSE MY LIFE WOULD ALSO BE ENRICHED IN SO MANY WAYS 3O NOW ) CAN TRULY SAY THAT MEANINGFUL WORK AND PURPOSEFUL LIFE COME TOGETHER FOR ME EVERY DAY !ND ) CAN ALSO SAY THAT AT (ALLMARK AND IN +ANSAS #ITY ) VE FOUND MY HOME ARLETTE TORRES n EDITORIAL DIRECTOR
L I V E Y O U R PA S S I O N L O V E Y O U R W O R K
TO LE A R N M ORE A B O U T C ARE ERS I N W R I T I N G E D I TOR I A L DE S I G N I L LU ST R AT I ON S C U L P T I N G PH OTO G R A PHY OR LET TER ING
GO TO W W W HAL LMAR KCREAT IVE CARE ERS COM Ú H A L L M A R K C A RD S I NC
Also Featuring an Introduction by Bill George, Harvard Business School • A Celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month • Catalyst
Darla H. Whitaker
Volume 10, Number 5 September / October 2008
Debbie White
Texas Instruments
Sherry D. Williams
Sodexo
Halliburton
Lizabeth H. Zlatkus
The Hartford Financial Services Group, Inc.
25.00 U.S.
$
Kathleen McClurg Wiljanen Kindred Healthcare, Inc.
Christine W. Wallace NCR Corporation
Gena P. Trimble Salt River Project
Jane Warner Illinois Tool Works Inc.
Sheri L. Thureen CSC
Lynne Fischman Uniman Andrews Kurth LLP
notebook editor’s notebook editors notebook
These Women are Worth Watching… James R. Rector
and so are the organizations that employ them.
PUBLISHER
John Murphy
MANAGING EDITOR
E
Cheri Morabito
CREATIVE DIRECTOR
Every year we publish a special edition of Profiles in Diversity Journal that features more than a hundred women worth watching. We showcase them precisely because they are an inspiration to other women. These individuals have risen to positions of responsibility that reflect their education, managerial competence, passion, and leadership. As much as we applaud their achievements, there is a corollary to their success. Each works for an organization that not only values diversity but also delivers on the promise to advance the careers of women they employ. These individual women are, in many ways, trailblazers. So, too, are the companies they work for.
One only need look to Catalyst, a fine organization with an extensive body of research relating to women in executive positions to see that much work still needs to be done. It would, indeed, be a pleasure to someday find no need whatsoever to showcase women in high places. Wouldn’t it be great if that were so common it was hardly worth mentioning? We’re not there yet, but as these women can attest, progress is being made. So as you read each woman’s mentoring essay, we hope you’ll find encouragement and direction for your own career. But also take note of the corporate profile shown on each page. Perhaps at one of these more progressive companies is where your career will really take off.
Congratulations to this year’s class of Women Worth Watching!
John Murphy Managing Editor
Damian Johnson
MARKETING DIRECTOR
Laurel L. Fumic
CONTRIBUTING EDITOR
Alina Dunaeva
O verseas C orrespondent
Jason Bice
WEB MASTER
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
Commentaries or questions should be
addressed to: Profiles in Diversity Journal, P.O. Box 45605, Cleveland, OH 44145-0605. All correspondence should include author’s full name, address, e-mail and phone number. DISPLAY ADVERTISING
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20
Pro f i les i n Di ve rsit y Journal
September/October 2008
Goodstein
contents
table of contents
Volume 10 • Number 5 September / October 2008
features 36
On the Cover / Women Worth Watching® in 2009 Take a look at this year’s class of influential women. A corporate profile and personal profile accompany each woman’s mentoring essay.
182 Special Feature: /
Hispanic Heritage Month The rich culture, shared values, and strong work ethic of Hispanic people should be celebrated with great appreciation throughout the country. The individuals profiled in this section provide an interesting perspective.
36
departments and Commentaries
Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month
182
28 Momentum Diversity Who, What, Where and When 30 Catalyst Advancing Women Leaders: The Connection Between Women Board Directors and Women Corporate Officers.
diversity
Leader
34 Viewpoint “ All you have to do is to open the doors and let them walk through…” by Bill George, Professor of Management Practice at Harvard Business School.
214 Featured Organizations Organizations and Advertisers 22
Pro f i les i n Di ve rsit y Journal
September/October 2008
34
AWARD
Diversity Leader Award: Recognizing the Communication Efforts of Leading Companies.
2008
32 From the Publisher Introducing the
T:7.75 in
T:10.75 in
Helping families rest easy for over 160 years. At New York Life, we have the highest possible rating * for financial strength, which means no matter how the world changes, we’ll be here to protect your dreams, just as we have for over 160 years. That’s why New York Life is The Company You Keep.
contents
table of contents
Volume 10 • Number 5 September / October 2008
Women Worth Watching 7th Annual
in
®
2009
36 Barbara Adachi
64 Chineta K. Davis
92 Carla Harris
Deloitte LLP
Northrop Grumman
Morgan Stanley
37 Deborah H. Alderson
66 Sandra Devine
94 Janel S. Haugarth
Science Applications International Corporation
38 Judy Archibald
Waste Management, Inc.
40 Patricia L. Barbari
New York Life Insurance Co.
EDS, an HP company
SUPERVALU INC.
68 Betty K. DeVita
96 Patricia A. Heffernan
Lifetime Care Home Health and Hospice
Citibank Canada
69 Barbara Dirks Harris Bankcorp Inc., part of BMO Financial Group
97 Roz Ho
Microsoft
42 Sondra L. Barbour
70 Tracey Doi
98 Marjorie Hoey
Lockheed Martin
Toyota Motor Sales, USA, Inc.
Interpublic Group
43 Ingrid Beckles
71 Marie Therese Dominguez
99 Diane J. Hoskins
Freddie Mac
U.S. Postal Service
Gensler
44 Karen A. Bedford
72 Melissa B. Donaldson
100 Linda P. Hudson
ArvinMeritor, Inc., Light Vehicle Systems Group
BAE Systems Land and Armaments
46 Klaudia J. Brace
KBR
48 Cindy J. Brinkley
AT&T
50 Angela M. Busch
Ecolab, Inc.
52 Virginia ‘Ginny’ Calega
Highmark Inc.
54 Liza Cartmell
Aramark
56 Dale Cendali
O’Melveny & Myers LLP
57 Nancy R. Christal
CVS Caremark
58 Anne Chwat
Burger King Corporation
59 Carine Strom Clark
Symantec Corporation
60 Mary E. Crego State Farm Insurance Companies
62 Cindy P. Crotty 24
CDW Corporation
73 Lynne Doughtie
KPMG LLP
74 Dianne Douglas
Mattel, Inc.
76 Kimmy T. Duong
Pragmatics, Inc.
78 Lina Echeverría
Corning Incorporated
80 Robyn L. Ewing
Williams
82 Lauren Flaherty
Nortel
84 Shaun M. Fracassi
Kelly Services, Inc.
85 Katherine Giscombe
Catalyst
86 Gloria Johnson Goins
The Home Depot
88 Kara Ferber Gordon
Rohm and Haas Company
90 Faith Renee Greenfield
Campbell Soup Company
KeyCorp Pro f i les i n Di ve rsit y Journal
September/October 2008
101 Andrea R. Huff
Lee Hecht Harrison
102 Anne B. Jackson
Wells Fargo Financial Bank
104 D. Lynn Kelley, PhD
Textron, Inc.
105 Pam Kohn
Wal-Mart Stores, Inc.
106 Jacqueline B. Kosecoff
UnitedHealth Group
108 Dolores K. Kruchten
Eastman Kodak Company
109 Barbara L. Kunz
Battelle Memorial Institute
110 Suzanne L. Kupiec
Reliant Energy, Inc.
111 Dianne Lamendola
Safeway Inc.
112 Karen Larrimer The PNC Financial Services Group, Inc.
PepsiCo Celebrates the Life of Edward F. Boyd 1914 – 2007 Edward F. Boyd helped place Pepsi in the hearts and hands of many Americans. And in doing so, he became an innovative leader and true pioneer in marketing. It’s been 60 years since Ed was hired to form the very first team of African-American marketers, opening up African-American communities across the nation. He defined target marketing — the way many businesses today meet consumer needs with products and services. Brave, distinguished and endearing, Ed Boyd helped move America and business to greater racial equality. Today, his spirit still inspires us. To learn more about Ed Boyd and all his accomplishments, read The Real Pepsi Challenge by Stephanie Capparell or visit careerjournal.com, go to the left column under Article Search and type in: Ed Boyd.
contents
table of contents
Volume 10 • Number 5 September / October 2008
113 Regina Lee
137 Maureen K. O’Connor
159 Karen Sock
Automatic Data Processing, Inc.
Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina
Grand Biloxi Casino, Hotel & Spa
114 Charisse R. Lillie
138 Deborah O’Neil
160 Teressa Szelest-Shah
AXA Equitable Life Insurance Company
Comcast Corporation
116 Ellen M. Lord
139 Una O’Neill
AAI Corporation, a Textron, Inc. company
CA, Inc.
117 Jacki W. Lowe
140 Michelle Paretti
Georgia Power
Credit Suisse
118 Gael Lundeen
142 Lynn Pike
Capital One Financial Corporation
Pitney Bowes Inc.
119 Diana X. Ma
143 Ana Cabriela Pinczuk
Applied Materials, Inc.
120 Lisa H. Macpherson
144 Denise L. Ramos
Hallmark Cards, Inc.
121 Consuelo E. Madere
Royal Dutch Shell
134 Wendy J. Murdock
MasterCard Worldwide
136 Marcia L. Narine
26
Ryder System, Inc.
Pro f i les i n Di ve rsit y Journal
Brooks Kushman PC
155 Michelle D. Shepherd
Constellation Energy
132 Margaret C. ‘Peggy’ Montana
Unilever
154 Sangeeta Gandhi Shah
Avnet, Inc.
130 Jeannette M. Mills
DuPont
152 Kimberly L. Senter
Dickstein Shapiro LLP
128 MaryAnn Miller
Ford Motor Company
151 Jocelyn E. Scott
MGM MIRAGE
127 Elaine Metlin
Aflac, Inc.
150 Barb J. Samardzich
Chrysler Financial
126 Rose McKinney-James
Bausch & Lomb
149 Vilma Salaverria
Allstate Insurance Company
125 Machelle A. McAdory
Vanguard
148 Susan A. Roberts
WellPoint, Inc.
124 Michele Coleman Mayes
Agilent Technologies
146 Carmen G. Rive
Neal, Gerber & Eisenberg LLP
123 Caroline ‘Caz’ S. Matthews
ITT Corporation
145 Sue Reidy
Monsanto
122 Miranda K. Mandel
Cisco Systems, Inc.
Bank of America
156 Heidi Shyu
Raytheon Company
157 Susan Silbermann
Pfizer
158 Catherine Smith
Motorola
September/October 2008
BASF SE
162 Barbara A. Taylor
BDO Seidman, LLP
164 Bronwen R. Taylor
Stryker Corporation
165 Carrie Teffner
Sara Lee Corporation
166 Bentina Chisolm Terry
Gulf Power Company
167 Sarah Thornton
Bank of the West
168 Sheri L. Thureen
CSC
170 Gena P. Trimble
Salt River Project (SRP)
172 Lynne Fischman Uniman
Andrews Kurth LLP
174 Christine W. Wallace
NCR Corporation
176 Jane Warner
Illinois Tool Works Inc.
177 Darla H. Whitaker
Texas Instruments
178 Debbie White
Sodexo
179 Kathleen McClurg Wiljanen
Kindred Healthcare, Inc.
180 Sherry D. Williams
Halliburton
181 Lizabeth H. Zlatkus The Hartford Financial Services Group, Inc.
DIVERSITY determines a company’s success.
Eastman Kodak Company is committed to becoming a truly diverse corporation. Embracing the ideals of diversity enables us to better meet the needs of our customers, employees, suppliers, and the communities in which we live and work. All of which ensures our continued success in the global marketplace.
www.kodak.com/go/supplierdiversity Š Eastman Kodak Company, 2007
momentum momentum who…what…where…when
Sodexo Appoints Betsy Silva Hernandez to Senior Position Sodexo, Inc., a leading provider of integrated food and facilities management services, has announced the appointment Silva HernandeZ of Betsy Silva Hernandez to the position of senior director, Diversity Learning and Consulting for North America. Silva Hernandez, who most recently served as chief diversity officer for Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts, brings more than 20 years of experience in diversity strategy and execution. She specializes in multicultural marketing, change management, and organizational development. In her new role, she will focus on implementing and advancing Sodexo’s diversity learning strategy which annually trains over 15,000 employees. She will also be responsible for internal and external consulting for Sodexo employees, clients, and potential clients. Silva Hernandez has held various positions in operations, diversity, and organizational development with companies including Sara Lee, American Express, and Freddie Mac. She holds an MBA from InterAmerican University, San German, Puerto Rico.
Jules Belkin Named Board President of the Cleveland International Film Festival The Cleveland International Film Festival has announced the election of Jules Belkin as president of its board of directors. Belkin is a native Clevelander who made his mark on the city as co-founder, along with 28
Pro f i les i n Dive rsit y Journal
his brother Mike, of the legendary concert promotions company Belkin Productions in 1966. Belkin Productions was responsible for bringing in such celebrated acts as the Beatles, Rod Stewart, the Rolling Stones, Stevie Wonder, Aerosmith, AC-DC, and many more to the Cleveland area. Belkin Productions was sold in 2001 to SFX, with Jules retiring as an active participant in 2005. He now lives in Cleveland with his wife Fran, their two children, Jamie and Steve, and five grandchildren. In addition to serving on the board for the Cleveland International Film Festival, Belkin also serves on the boards for the Jewish Community Federation, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum, and Ingenuity. For more information on the Cleveland International Film Festival, please visit www.clevelandfilm.org or call 216.623.3456.
Marcos Ronquillo Honored by ernst & Young as Inclusiveness Champion of the Year DALLAS—Marcos Ronquillo, managing partner of the Texasbased law firm Godwin Pappas & Ronquillo PC, was honored as the Corporate Individual Inclusiveness Champion of the Year during the Ernst & Young Celebration of Diversity Awards Banquet held in Dallas. Ronquillo was recognized for his efforts to foster and promote diversity, not only in the legal profession, but also in the community. The Celebration of Diversity awards recognize the efforts of individuals, nonprofit groups and corporations in promoting diversity. Honorees are selected based on their work in helping to improve the qual-
September/October 2008
ity of life for the diverse Dallas population, and their commitment to creating and promoting an environment of diversity and inclusiveness. Ronquillo, who recently was appointed chairman of the city of Dallas’ 16-member Judicial Nominating Commission, is a former president of the Dallas Mexican American Bar Association and chairman of the Dallas Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. Godwin Pappas & Ronquillo PC is a mid-size Texas trial and appellate firm with offices in Dallas and Houston, that represents Fortune 500 and middle-market industry leaders throughout the United States.
Lorie Valle-Yañez Appointed Diversity Head at massmutual SPRINGFIELD, Mass.— Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Company (MassMutual) has announced that Valle-YaÑeZ it has appointed Lorie Valle-Yañez as vice president of diversity and inclusion. In her newly created position, Valle-Yañez will be responsible for MassMutual’s diversity strategy development and implementation, as well as cross-departmental coordination of all diversity efforts. This appointment is designed to reflect and enhance MassMutual’s ongoing commitment to diversity. She will report to Debra Palermino, senior vice president of MassMutual’s Corporate Human Resources. Prior to joining MassMutual, Valle-Yañez spent six years at ESPN in Bristol, Connecticut. In addition, she spent more than twenty years at
the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory in Livermore, California, where she held various positions with increasing responsibility, and ultimately took on the lead diversity role as group leader of the diversity programs office. Valle-Yañez has a BS in organizational behavior from the University of San Francisco. She is a member of the Diversity Collegium, a 25-member diversity think tank dedicated to advancing the field of diversity and inclusion.
Liberty benefit Insurance Services Achieves California Certification in Human Resources SAN JOSE, Calif.—Liberty Benefit Insurance Services, Inc., has announced that benefits consultant Jenny Vonderwerth Vonderwerth has achieved California state-specific certification as a senior professional in human resources. Awarded by the Human Resource Certification Institute (HRCI), state-specific certification is attained by passing a comprehensive examination on California human resources knowledge. Of 7,472 certified human resources professionals in California, only 113 have statespecific certification. With more than 20 years of corporate human resources experience, Vonderwerth is skilled in the areas of compensation, benefits, human resource information systems and process efficiencies. Since 1998, she has served on the Northern California Human Resource Association’s Santa
Clara Valley Chapter board, and is currently the chapter’s college relations co-chairwoman. She is also a member of the Society for Human Resources Management. Liberty Benefit Insurance Services, Inc., is a full service insurance consulting firm. Areas of expertise include insurance auditing, HR consulting/outsourcing, cost containment programs, mergers & acquisitions, plan design, stop-loss insurance, flexible benefit plans, ERISA compliance, executive benefits, and purchasing alliances.
New York Life Elects Jon Stenberg Senior Vice President of Individual Retail Insurance NEW YORK— New York Life Insurance Company has announced that Jon Stenberg has joined the comStenberg pany as a senior vice president in the Individual Life Department, reporting to Senior Vice President Scott Berlin, the department head. Stenberg is responsible for overseeing the Retail Insurance division of the Individual Life Department, which includes all retail product development, systems, and marketing to support life insurance sales through the company’s career agency system. Prior to joining New York Life, Stenberg oversaw the UBS Insurance Agency at UBS Financial, including all key operations of product development, systems and distribution. Stenberg earned a BS degree in business administration from Central Michigan University, and an MBA
from the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania. He holds Chartered Financial Consultant (ChFC) and Fellow of the Life Management Institute (FLMI) professional designations. New York Life Insurance Company is the largest mutual life insurance company in the United States and one of the largest life insurers in the world. New York Life has the highest possible financial strength ratings from all four of the major credit rating agencies. Headquartered in New York City, New York Life’s family of companies offers life insurance, retirement income, investments and long-term care insurance.
Frank Quevedo Honored by Orc Worldwide NEW YORK—ORC Worldwide, a leading human resource management consulting firm, recently brought together leaders from across the diversity field to honor Frank Quevedo, vice president of Equal Opportunity for Southern California Edison (SCE), with the first ever Peter Robertson Award for Equality and Diversity Champions at a gala event held in Washington, D.C. On hand to present the award to Quevedo was Naomi Earp, chair of the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. Named for a pioneer in equality and diversity work, the ORC Peter Robertson Award seeks to recognize exceptional individuals and their tireless commitment to ingenuity and persistence in propelling forward the value of diversity in organizations and communities around the world. For more information about the award, visit www.orcworldwide.com/ hr/edi/award.php. PDJ
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www.catalyst.org
Advancing Women Leaders: The Connection Between Women Board Directors and Women Corporate Officers
O
By Catalyst
Over the past several decades, businesses have become more inclusive of women, dismantling many of the traditional barriers to women’s advancement. Although progress has been significant and is reflected in the number of women managers at the world’s largest companies and professional firms, it has been slow at the very top. Earlier Catalyst findings showed that Fortune 500 companies with the highest representation of women board directors and women corporate officers, on average, achieved higher financial performance than those with the lowest. In Advancing Women Leaders: The Connection Between Women Board Directors and Women Corporate Officers, Catalyst analyzed the relationship between the percentage of women board directors that a Fortune 500 company had in 2001 and the percentage of women corporate officers the same company had in 2006. The analysis controlled for the effects of industry, revenue, and the percentage of corporate officer positions held by women in 2000. These controls allowed for a more precise depiction of the effect women board directors have on women corporate officers.
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Results showed that there is a clear and positive correlation between the percentage of women board directors in the past and the percentage of women corporate officers in the future. To illustrate the effect of women board directors on women corporate officers, consider the following example: at two companies (Company A and Company B), in 2001, women hold 12.0 percent of corporate officer positions. The companies are in the same industry and have the same Fortune rank. At Company A, however, 30 percent of the board seats are held by women, whereas Company B has no women board directors. The analysis showed that in 2006, Company A would have 45 percent more women corporate officers than Company B—women at Company A would hold 17.4 percent of corporate officer positions, while women at Company B would still only hold 12.0 percent. Furthermore, the analysis showed that, when ranked by percentage of women board directors in 2001, companies in the top 25 percent—the highest quartile—would have 33 percent more women corporate officers in 2006 than companies in the lowest quartile in 2001.
Finally, the analysis indicated that companies with two or more women board directors in 2001 would have 28 percent more women corporate officers in 2006 than companies with one woman board director in 2001. Significantly, women board directors had a greater impact on the growth of women corporate officers in line positions—those making or selling the company’s products—than on the growth
of women corporate officers in staff positions. This is critical because line experience is a de facto requirement for CEO and other top leadership appointments. Put simply, women board directors are predictors of women corporate officers. The numbers tell the story—a gender-diverse board promotes continued success for women and for business. PDJ
The Partnering Sponsor for this report was The Chubb Corporation; Contributing Sponsors were Citizens Communications and IBM Corporation.
Founded in 1962, Catalyst is the leading nonprofit membership organization working globally with businesses and the professions to build inclusive workplaces and expand opportunities for women and business. You may download free copies of this and other Catalyst reports at www.catalyst.org. You may also sign up to receive our monthly email updates at news@catalyst.org. Prof iles in Div er s it y Jou r na l
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from the publisher
AWA R D
y t i s r e v i d
2008
r e d a e L
In January 2009, this magazine will confer the Profiles in Diversity Journal “Diversity Leader Award” to several organizations with outstanding diversity communication practices. In successive years, companies will be added to the list, and many companies that already enjoy the distinction will earn recognition for a second year, and then a third year, and so on. It could not be more appropriate for Profiles in Diversity Journal to bestow such an award on an organization. We are, after all, in the business of helping organizations tell their own success stories. We are the people side of diversity. Our mission is to give voice to diversity efforts around the world by offering a variety of editorial opportunities— totally independent of advertising, I might add—that allow companies to share their commitment to diversity. The Diversity Leader Award is given to companies who share their stories with us on a regular basis by taking advantage of our special features, by sharing their news releases with us, and by offering profiles of their thought leaders. Such ongoing communication serves as a beacon to others to proclaim their own commitment to diversity. One such opportunity is our regular feature Momentum, a report of people on the move who are championing diversity. Additionally, we regularly offer profiles of African American leaders, Hispanic Americans, Asian Americans, and Native Americans, and give them the chance around major holidays or observances to share their own thoughts
New award symbolizes communication efforts with our readers. And, of course, our Women Worth Watching® issue is unmatched in the industry. It typically includes more than 100 gifted women whose mentoring essays inspire the next generation of leaders. You might ask, Why is communication so important? The answer is not complicated, but it is far from simple. Diversity is about building relationships between and among people of different backgrounds. Communication is at the heart of relationships, whether between a husband and wife, parent and child, or a company and its employees. In business, effective marketing communication fosters strong customer relationships that drive brand value. Similarly, in the arena of diversity, communication deepens understanding and helps broaden the acceptance and advancement of diversity. It’s not enough to be committed to diversity. You must shout that commitment to the world. Otherwise, you are like the light hidden under a bushel basket. If your company is lighting the way for others, we want to help you get the word out. Plenty of opportunities are coming in 2009. Review our editorial calendar and make the decision to shine the light of your efforts for all the world to see. Put our Diversity Leader Award symbol on all your corporate communications and press releases so that there can be no doubt about where you stand. We are proud to stand with you. PDJ
James R. Rector Publisher
The Diversity Leader Award will be presented to companies whose executives have shared personal stories, thoughts, and profiles with our readers. Profiles in Diversity Journal will issue these awards to companies periodically throughout the year for outstanding acheivement.
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I AM
Mathew Augustine, GPHR Chief Operating Officer Hanna Global Solutions Member since 2005
Mathew Augustine’s SHRM membership gives him access to the most diverse roundtable in HR. From networking events to online discussion forums, Mathew gains insight from members worldwide–which comes in handy when he’s developing HR solutions for his global business partners.
08-0582
www.shrm.org keyword: HR Talk
Women Worth Watching 7th Annual
viewpoint
in
®
2009
“All you have to do is to open the
doors and let them walk through.”
T
By Bill George Professor of Management Practice at Harvard Business School
This is my response to questions I get about what it will take for women to reach the highest ranks of American business. No special favors. No unique programs. Just open the doors. In my classes at Harvard Business School, which are fifty percent female (well above the school average of 38 percent), the overall performance of females and males is equivalent. The interactions between the genders are completely natural, as the females bring a great sense of passion, openness, and insight to the classroom. The women are clear that they don’t want any special privileges, nor do they expect to have to jump over higher hurdles. A level playing field is all they seek. The good news is that we don’t have to wait for these future female stars to reach the top. As this issue of Profiles in Diversity Journal illustrates so well, there are a large number of talented women on the verge of reaching the highest ranks of American business. After supporting women in business for the past forty years in their struggles to gain acceptance and advance in male-dominated environments, I find it very gratifying to see so many extraordinary female leaders having a very positive impact on the leadership of American companies. Some people think the “glass ceiling” is still intact. They believe that women don’t have a chance to reach the top, because they are viewed by males as either too aggressive or too meek. Not anymore. These days, the invisible ceiling has been shattered into thousands of little pieces. To be fair to the skeptics, they may not know such extraordinary females as Meg Whitman, Marilyn Nelson, Anne Mulcahy, Andrea Jung, Indra Nooyi, Irene Rosenfeld, Paula Rosput Reynolds, or Brenda Barnes—and many others like them. These superstars of the business world have not only risen to the top of major corporations but are setting new standards for exceptional performance. In succeeding so spectacularly, they are paving the way for this next group of 108 rising stars, as selected by Profiles in Diversity Journal.
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Let me be clear about the rise of talented women: gender equity is not just an issue of fairness. Much more important are the better leadership and superior performance that result from having more women in senior executive roles. In a decade where failed leaders have become all too common, how could any rational person exclude half of the eligible population from taking on important leadership roles? Only an organization prepared to enter into long-term decline would do so. In the future, the highest performing organizations will be those who attract the most talented leaders, female and male. American business needs all the talented leaders we can develop to be competitive in the global world. These 108 females have plenty of talent, certainly equal to their male counterparts. They are bringing a deep sense of passion, compassion, and empathy to the workplace, as well as exceptional abilities to empower people throughout their organization—precisely the qualities needed for organizations to succeed in the 21st century. Note that I am not suggesting that this approach to leadership is the unique province of females. The most successful male leaders these days exhibit similar leadership styles. Rather, I am asserting that the rise of female leaders is enhancing the leadership of organizations for both males and females, and improving their long-term performance. Let’s look at a few examples of star female leaders who have already reached the top of America’s greatest corporations: Anne Mulcahy, Chair & CEO, Xerox. This spring Mulcahy was named “CEO of the Year” by CEO Magazine, a recognition that was timely and well-earned. Mulcahy took over the reins at Xerox in 2000, when the corporation was facing a liquidity crisis and possible bankruptcy. With $18 billion in debt, a rapidly declining stock price, and a major investigation by the SEC, Xerox was on the verge of collapse. Instead of going to Wall Street, Mulcahy focused her energies on regaining customer confidence and building the morale of her organization. It wasn’t the classic “quick fix,” but her approach restored Xerox to its leading role in the copier field.
“
I am asserting that the rise of female leaders is enhancing the leadership of organizations for both males and females, and improving their long-term performance.
”
Meg Whitman, former Chair & CEO, eBay. Credit Whitman with building one of the greatest electronic success stories of this century. Taking over as CEO in 1998 when eBay had only thirty employees, she built the world’s leading online trading market, with 84 million users and an inspired organization as well. These days eBay has revenues of $8 billion and represents the sole distribution network for more than 1.5 million small business owners. Andrea Jung, Chair & CEO, Avon Products. Jung runs the largest organization in the world: six million people who represent Avon Products. Becoming CEO in 1999, Jung immediately changed Avon’s vision to “the empowerment of women.” Following five years of spectacular growth, Avon’s revenues flattened out, and its stock price dropped 40 percent. Jung reinvented her leadership, trimming back Avon’s multi-layered organization and investing the savings in future growth. Since acquiring China’s first-ever direct selling license in 2006, Jung has ramped up to 600,000 sales people there. Her passion is in helping women from modest economic means achieve self-sufficiency. Marilyn Carlson Nelson, Chair, Carlson Companies. Nelson recently stepped aside as Carlson’s CEO after a spectacular decade of growth. Taking over an organization rigidified by her father’s “command-andcontrol” style, she built an empowered organization around the world by demonstrating personally inspiring leader-
ship wherever she went. Her efforts at organizational transformation have paid handsomely for Carlson in terms of growth and customer satisfaction. These are just a few of the leading examples of female CEOs who are starring on the main stage these days. Others include Pepsico’s Indra Nooyi, who took over the reins last year from Steve Reinemund, himself a passionate advocate of diversity; Irene Rosenfeld, who is growing a powerful business at Kraft; Brenda Barnes, who is transforming Sara Lee; and Paula Rosput Reynolds, who is building Safeco. The 108 Women Worth Watching who are featured throughout this issue are not far behind these female stars. Soon they too will be taking over the top positions in American business. The United States will be that much more competitive in the global economy for having opened the doors of its executives to such extraordinary leaders. We need them—now! PDJ
Bill George, author of True North: Discover Your Authentic Leadership, is professor of management practice at Harvard Business School. The former chair & CEO of Medtronic, he serves on the boards of ExxonMobil, Goldman Sachs, and Novartis.
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women worth watching in 2009
Barbara Adachi
R Deloitte LLP
reflecting back on my career, i have been fortunate to have had several influential role models who helped shape the person i am today. My parents were the number one influence on my life, and i am an optimistic person because of them. They instilled in me a belief that i could be whatever i wanted to be, as long as i was happy, helping other people, and making a difference in the world. as a third-generation Japanese american (sansei), i also inherited a strong work ethic. i am very proud that i came from humble beginnings—it taught me to appreciate every opportunity that has been given to me and to savor life’s ups and downs. i would not, however, be where i am today if not for the guidance and mentoring of my first boss. working with him was a major turning point in my life, because he was someone outside of my family who really believed in me. he gave me the confidence to follow my dreams and think outside of my comfort zone.
I believe in the “power of one”— that each of us can make a difference, one person at a time. i began my career as his secretary and he helped me see a new opportunity for growth by becoming the first woman sales representative for a national insurance company. he not only was my mentor, but my teacher of business and life lessons. his words, “never forget where you came from,” have stayed with me my entire career. Early in my career, being an asian woman in business was very isolating as there were meetings i would attend where not only was i the only woman, but the only asian, as well. Today, however, i’ve witnessed many positive changes in diversity in the workplace, especially the visible difference in leadership roles where there are many more women. if i were to give advice to young asian female professionals today, it would be to find your passion and to have the courage to speak up and ask for help along the way. i’m still the eternal optimist who believes that dreams can come true. it’s a matter of defining what success means to you, understanding your priorities, and revisiting them every day. Organizations are recognizing the importance of diversity, and today we have created an environment in which different backgrounds, genders, and viewpoints are respected and valued. in part, that’s because we’ve seen we can be more successful with a diversity of ideas than by just embracing a single point of view. it’s about redefining success and achieving it in new and different ways. since i have been so fortunate in my life and career, i want to help others be successful. i believe in the “power of one”—that each of us can make a difference, one person at a time. Our legacy as women leaders will be determined by how we pay it forward and create the next generation of leaders.
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TITLE: national Managing Principal, initiative for the Retention & Advancement of Women, Deloitte LLP; Principal, Deloitte Consulting LLP EDUCATION: BA, University of California, Santa Barbara FIRST JOB: Secretary of insurance company WHAT I’M READING: The Diving Bell and the Butterfly, by Jean-Dominique Bauby MY PHILOSOPHY: Follow your dreams and be true to yourself. FAMILY: Husband, Ted—married 32 years; daughter, Allison, 25 INTERESTS: My family, entertaining friends, travel, shopping, baseball (go Giants!) FAVORITE CHARITY: American Heart Association (AHA); Girls Scouts
COMPANY: Deloitte LLP HEADQUARTERS: new York City WEB SITE: www.deloitte.com BUSINESS: Professional Services ANNUAL REVENUES: $9.85 billion EMPLOYEES: 40,998
women worth watching in 2009
Deborah H. Alderson
I
Science Applications International Corporation (SAIC)
i can say without hesitation that the way i was raised has had the biggest impact on who i have become and how i lead. My mom, pat petrovic, raised three daughters on her own and always emphasized that we had to treat people the way we wanted to be treated. Early in my career, i realized that the word “i” meant nothing. i realized quickly that it is essential to remain focused on the people around you. Everything i do is focused on taking care of the people i work with. if you surround yourself with good people who want to succeed, treat them with respect, and keep an eye out for meeting their individual needs, everything else falls in line. but it doesn’t just happen. you have to recognize each person as an individual and try to ensure that his or her needs are being met. That is not always easy to do. it takes effort to pay attention to both the organization’s needs as well as each person that makes up the team. but it is absolutely imperative if you are to succeed.
Everything I do is focused on taking care of the people I work with. additionally, it is very useful to share experiences and discuss preconceived notions to help people maximize their potential. i benefited from strong mentoring during many phases of my career and have tried to diligently pay that effort forward. whether through the saiC women’s Network, MultiCultural Network or in one-on-one meetings with our people, i try to share my experiences and lessons learned and help others advance their careers. One of the things that drew me to saiC was the opportunities not only for women, but also for a diverse work force in general. Our company believes that diversity is not simply something to achieve for numbers. we recognize the strength of developing a diverse work force with the varied skills, ideas, and solutions that diversity brings to an organization. saiC is diligently pursuing that diversity. Throughout my career, i also have had the strong support of my family. My husband, two sons, and i share time together by being active in the community and charitable functions. They have been a rock-steady foundation throughout, and i could not be prouder of how my boys have grown into very altruistic young men! i have had a truly blessed life.
TITLE: President, Defense Solutions Group EDUCATION: MS, Virginia Polytechnic University FIRST JOB: Systems analyst at Advanced Technologies in support of navy ship-maintenance programs WHAT I’M READING: The Economist magazine and mystery novels MY PHILOSOPHY: People first; everything else will follow. The most fulfilling part of my work is the interaction i have with our people, creating opportunities for them to advance, feeling the energy that comes with developing a diverse work force, and the many different approaches and ideas that come from that diversity. FAMILY: Husband, Dick, and sons Bill and Jon INTERESTS: My family, my dogs, running, working out, and my newest hobby, snowboarding FAVORITE CHARITIES: new Hope Housing, Habitat for Humanity, and Lose the Training Wheels
COMPANY: SAiC HEADQUARTERS: San Diego, California WEB SITE: www.saic.com BUSINESS: SAiC is a Fortune 500 scientific, engineering, and technology applications company that uses its deep domain knowledge to solve problems of vital importance to the nation and the world, in national security, energy and the environment, critical infrastructure, and health. ANNUAL REVENUES: $8.9 billion annual revenue for fiscal year ending January 31, 2008 EMPLOYEES: Approximately 44,000
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women worth watching in 2009
Judy Archibald
I
Waste Management, Inc.
i’d like to share part of a poem sent to me by K.J. reimensnyder, a high school gymnast i coached in the late 1970s. “you helped me when i struggled, through my tattered mind and soul— and helped me feel less troubled, in making myself a goal. so now i’d like to thank you, for all that you could not see in lifting my self-confidence, you’ve helped me to find me.” i treasure the poem because it came from her heart. it clearly emphasizes the value of mentoring, although i didn’t think of myself as a mentor then. at that time, i didn’t know where my own future was headed.
Each mentor added ingredients to my career path to success. My checkerboard career includes the field of education, business ownership, the nonprofit sector, and the corporate world. Each contributed to my success because of relationships i developed, the challenges i faced and conquered, and the opportunities that were presented. My leadership ladder can be credited to several mentors, all different in their style and approach. One raised two children who went on to be Olympic gold medalists. From her i learned the importance of passion and determination. another mentor was a former city newspaper editor. From him, i gained an understanding of the value of well-developed communications skills. yet another was an executive at a nonprofit organization who encouraged my risktaking and supported innovative solutions. Most importantly, my husband gave me self-confidence, and my Dad, with his tremendous work ethic and business sense, continues to serve as my role model. Each mentor added ingredients to my career path to success. so where is K.J. today? i found her through the internet to ask permission to use her poem. i am excited to say that she followed her passion and became a singer/songwriter who entertains thousands each year throughout the united states and Great britain. in her response she added, “you believed in me and gave me encouragement just when i needed it the most.” since coaching K.J. so long ago, i have found my passion. it’s helping people grow to their greatest potential. at waste Management, i have had an opportunity to advance a forum that promotes mentoring and provides development opportunities. My advice is to feel the excitement of being a mentor, treasure your mentors, and celebrate the successes along your career journey.
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TITLE: Director of Public Affairs EDUCATION: BA and MEd, College of new Jersey FIRST JOB: Waitress at Pal’s Pancake House. WHAT I’M READING: Richard Bode’s First You Have to Row a Little Boat: Reflections on Life and Living gives lesson in life; The Hybrid Leader: Blending the Best of the Male & Female Leadership Styles, by Trudy Bourgeois, guides my professional development and goals MY PHILOSOPHY: “Be with what is so that what is to be may become.” —Soren kierkegaard FAMILY: My husband of 40 years, a wonderful son and daughter, a special daughter-in-law, two pride-and-joy grandsons, and a very supportive dad INTERESTS: Spending time with family, gardening, golfing, biking, and traveling FAVORITE CHARITY: Those connected with women, community, and the environment
COMPANY: Waste Management, inc. HEADQUARTERS: Houston, Texas WEB SITE: www.wm.com and www.thinkgreen.com BUSINESS: Waste Management inc. is the leading provider of comprehensive waste management and environmental services in the industry. it serves municipal, commercial, industrial, and residential customers throughout north America. ANNUAL REVENUES: $13 billion EMPLOYEES: 47,000
Diversity is Our Competitive Advantage. We, at ITT, are committed to building a workforce that mirrors the world in which we do business. This will lead to improved creativity, innovation, decision-making, and customer service and is essential to achieving premier status. Our concepts of inclusion and diversity embrace differences in race, religion, gender, disability, nationality, age, sexual orientation, ethnic background and more. Our culture, work practices and programs will value and support the contribution of each individual that results from diverse work and life experiences. The ITT Management System, including our common Vision and Values, will allow us to leverage differences and generate innovation that results from a diverse and inclusive culture and sustain our success in the global marketplace.
We would like to congratulate ITT’s own Denise Ramos and all the Women Worth Watching.
www.itt.com/careers
The “ITT Engineered Blocks” symbol and “Engineered for life” are registered trademarks of the ITT Corporation. © 2006
women worth watching in 2009
Patricia L. Barbari
I
New York Life Insurance Co.
i was raised to believe that the way to be successful was to work hard and do the right thing. i believed that if i were dedicated and loyal, and dealt with everyone honestly and fairly, that my success would be assured. while i still believe in the intrinsic value of those attributes, as my career progressed i realized that opportunity is the real key to advancement. you must actively seek any opportunity to make an impact. These opportunities may not always be obvious, will frequently be unglamorous, and may involve some element of risk. you must consider each opportunity as it relates to your longterm goal. (There aren’t too many shortcuts.) remember that in all cases, it is how you take advantage of every opportunity that defines your career path.
You must actively seek any opportunity to make an impact. in my 19 years with New york life, i have been presented with many opportunities to help me develop and grow. at New york life, we emphasize the importance of talent management and developmental assignments. i made several lateral moves into new functions in order to build my skill set. These moves ultimately set the foundation for later advancement. it is now my responsibility as a senior manager to create opportunities for others and to be a mentor to aspiring employees. building the talent around me is one way i contribute to the long-term growth of the company. when you share your talent, others share their talent with you. building a team with diverse experiences creates opportunities for all to learn. appreciate those who contribute to your growth, and they will reward you with loyalty. if people hold you in esteem and believe that you care about their success, they are much more likely to work hard for you. My success is not so much about what i have accomplished on my own but what i have achieved with the talented people i have been lucky to have in my operations. personal hard work and integrity get you into the game. seizing opportunities when they come, working with others to create opportunities, and learning from them all are the keys of success.
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S EPTEMBER / O CT O BER 2 0 0 8
TITLE: Senior Vice President EDUCATION: BA, Duke University; MBA, Columbia University FIRST JOB: Credit clerk at Sears WHAT I’M READING: The Power of Nice: How to Conquer the Business World With Kindness, by Linda kaplan Thaler and Robin koval MY PHILOSOPHY: Continuous education, be it professional training or life experience, is extremely important. Every experience in your life and career should be viewed as a potential learning opportunity. FAMILY: Husband, Bill, and son Matthew INTERESTS: Professional and college sports, reading, spending time with family and friends FAVORITE CHARITY: Autism Speaks
COMPANY: new York Life insurance Co. HEADQUARTERS: new York City WEB SITE: www.newyorklife.com BUSINESS: insurance ANNUAL REVENUES: $12.9 billion operating revenue for 2007 EMPLOYEES: Approximately 8,600
women worth watching in 2009
Sondra L. Barbour
F
Lockheed Martin
Feedback. in my mind, it’s a four-letter word spelled G-i-F-T. i will admit most of us do not wake up in the morning shouting, “hooray! Today i get to give or get feedback!” On the contrary, we toss and turn the night before, dreading the sound of the alarm, knowing what’s ahead of us. Developmental feedback— whether you’re delivering it or receiving it—is a must for any leader seeking selfimprovement or team excellence. Embrace it. To be honest, i have not always felt this way about feedback, but over time i have grown to understand the power that this eight-letter word carries. i can remember many years ago someone saying, “sondra, i would like to give you feedback on xyz.” before that person had finished, i had lined up all the reasons that proved that person wrong. i had rationalized the feedback away. i was so busy preparing my rebuttal that i did not really hear most of what that person was saying!
Developmental feedback...is a must for any leader seeking self-improvement or team excellence. Embrace it. it wasn’t until i took on my first leadership role and had my first tough employee performance problem that i realized the importance of owning the feedback. No matter what i said, that tough employee rationalized my feedback away. after several sleepless nights, it dawned on me that i had displayed some of the same behavior earlier in my career. i went in the next day with a new understanding and passion for the power that feedback could provide. i worked with our human resources experts to gain the necessary skills and knowledge to help not only my team but also myself. seeking and embracing feedback are sometimes easier said than done. i would ask you to just listen to feedback and let it soak in. Then, when you are ready, start asking questions and developing your response, if appropriate. if you model and live by this, your team will see it and follow your lead. and perhaps one day you will wake up and say, “hooray! Today i get to ask for and give feedback. what a great gift!”
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S EPTEMBER / O CT O BER 2 0 0 8
TITLE: Chief information Officer and Vice President, Enterprise Business Services EDUCATION: Temple University, computer and information science and accounting FIRST JOB: Scooping up golf balls at the local golf course at 13 WHAT I’M READING: My e-mail! MY PHILOSOPHY: Always do what’s right, be authentic, and have fun.
FAMILY: Ron, my very supportive husband, and two great children, Bridgette, 10, and Pierce, 8 INTERESTS: Family activities and entertaining FAVORITE CHARITY: Children’s foundations
COMPANY: Lockheed Martin HEADQUARTERS: Bethesda, Maryland WEB SITE: www.lockheedmartin.com BUSINESS: Aerospace and defense ANNUAL REVENUES: $41.9 billion EMPLOYEES: 140,000
women worth watching in 2009
Ingrid Beckles
B
Freddie Mac
be intentional about your choices. understand that where you are reflects where you choose to be. This is the advice i give to people i mentor, both inside and outside the workplace. i faced the challenge of balancing personal choices early. My daughter was two when i separated from my husband and made the conscious decision to “step it up” career-wise and refocus my education on finance and accounting. i completed my undergraduate degree, taking nine credits a semester while raising my child and working full time at Chevy Chase savings bank. i started as a bank teller and worked my way up to vice president and manager of quality control, central processing, and policies and procedures.
I firmly believe that obstacles are simply opportunities in disguise. i then spent 10 years at pNC Mortgage Corporation of america, now known as washington Mutual home loans. while at pNC, i held a variety of executive positions, including executive roles in credit risk management, which i earned by working hard and accepting the challenge of remediating broken processes or departments. This path eventually led to my current position at Freddie Mac as vice president of servicing and asset management. The current housing crisis has made my job in the mortgage finance industry more difficult, but it has also made it more significant and rewarding than ever before. i know that life’s road can be bumpy, and i take pride in the fact that i have pioneered home preservation techniques that are helping hundreds of thousands of families overcome financial dilemmas that would have otherwise cost them their homes. i firmly believe that obstacles are simply opportunities in disguise. The obstacles i have faced throughout my life and career only strengthened my resolve and desire to be successful. My personal drive and refusal to ever settle for less than my best have been key factors in my success. identifying my strengths and innate skills and leveraging them to their fullest have enabled me to enjoy my career and my work. My advice for anyone interested in furthering his or her own career is to never be afraid to course-correct, because the road certainly isn’t a straight one. be intentional and focused on what you want and then set a clearly defined path to achieve your goals.
TITLE: Vice President, Servicing and Asset Management EDUCATION: BS in accounting and technology and management, University of Maryland FIRST JOB: Bank teller WHAT I’M READING: The Four Queens: The Provencal Sisters Who Ruled Europe, historical fiction by nancy Goldstone MY PHILOSOPHY: Be intentional about your choices. Understand that where you are reflects where you choose to be. FAMILY: Daughter. Also, my mother and father and stepfather of 33 years have been the role models from whom i derive my focus on hard work, strength, and never quitting until the tasks are completed and the goal achieved. INTERESTS: Running (completed four marathons), horseback riding, tennis, and cycling. i also have my PADi scuba diving certification. FAVORITE CHARITIES: American Stroke Association and any church i attend on a Sunday
COMPANY: Freddie Mac HEADQUARTERS: McLean, Virginia WEB SITE: www.freddiemac.com BUSINESS: Mortgage finance ANNUAL REVENUES: $3.29 billion EMPLOYEES: Approximately 5,100
Prof iles in Div er s it y Jou r na l
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women worth watching 2008
Karen A. Bedford
M
ArvinMeritor, Inc., Light Vehicle Systems Group
My greatest professional satisfaction is watching others succeed. i strive to empower my team to move past obstacles to deliver on their business goals with integrity. undoubtedly, a successful mentoring relationship must be built on a strong foundation of trust. an open-door policy is the cornerstone of my personal management style. Trust fosters transparency, honest feedback, and teamwork. several key behaviors have helped my personal and professional growth, and i strive to share them with others. understand that you are not an island; your networks can help you achieve your goals. as a single mother, i knew that the best way to support my children would be to further my education. so i returned to school and obtained my Mba. i couldn’t have achieved this without the help of a stellar network of supportive family, friends, and neighbors.
Don’t be afraid to make— and defend—tough decisions.
TITLE: Vice President, Human Resources, Light Vehicle Systems EDUCATION: BA in public administration, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan; MBA, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan WHAT I’M READING: The Road Less Traveled, by M. Scott Peck, MD MY PHILOSOPHY: Always operate on the assumption that your policies, actions, and decisions will be published in the press, and then work toward doing everything with integrity. i call this the “free press test,” and it plays a role in reputation management. FAMILY: Two daughters
believe that growth comes from moving beyond your comfort zone. My first job after college was teaching English in central africa. i’ve since lived and worked in Canada, France, and the united states. be open to international assignments; you will gain so much from living and working in a cross-cultural environment. Conversely, when people come to you from overseas, embrace the richness of their experience. prioritize your time. During my challenging years of single motherhood, i quickly learned that time management is essential. Time management goes along with the importance of outlining goals for the short, medium, and long terms. Never let external stresses interfere with family time. your family can really ground you. pursue your passion. i’ve tried to instill in my children the belief that they should pursue a cause, a career, a hobby, something about which they’re passionate. passion brings meaning. Establish yourself as a credible team player by delivering on your commitments. Don’t be afraid to make—and defend—tough decisions. To enable better communication, tell people your plans, then deliver. become a mover in the business world. Make yourself known so people know your value to the organization and to your field. Finally, embrace the fact that professional growth is progressive, dynamic, and diverse. like life, there will be curve balls along the way. how you react— your attitude—is the secret to enjoying the journey! After this story was written, Karen Bedford left the company to pursue other interests.
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INTERESTS: Reading, travel, languages, developing future leaders
COMPANY: ArvinMeritor, inc., Light Vehicle Systems Group HEADQUARTERS: Detroit, Michigan WEB SITE: www.arvinmeritor.com BUSINESS: Premier global automotive supplier of a broad range of integrated systems, modules, and components for vehicle bodies, chassis, and wheels ANNUAL REVENUES: $6.4 billion EMPLOYEES: Approximately 19,000 in 24 countries
For years, we’ve known Marge Hoey was a woman worth watching. Now the whole world knows it too.
Diversity & Inclusion is a core element of our business strategy. We aspire to be the world’s most inclusive network of marketing services companies, channeling the full power of diversity for the growth and success of our clients and business partners, our people, the local communities in which we operate and, ultimately, our shareholders. Major IPG global brands include Draftfcb, FutureBrand, GolinHarris International, Initiative, Jack Morton Worldwide, Lowe Worldwide, Magna, McCann Erickson, Momentum, MRM Worldwide, Octagon, Universal McCann and Weber Shandwick. Leading domestic brands include Campbell-Ewald, Campbell Mithun, Carmichael Lynch, Deutsch, Hill Holliday, Mullen, The Martin Agency and R/GA. For more information, please visit www.interpublic.com.
women worth watching in 2009
Klaudia J. Brace
I KBR
i have been very fortunate in my career choice. For me, the right manager is someone who has confidence in my abilities and lets me build a capable team. i have enjoyed situations where i have been brought in to either build or improve operations. when i went off to college, my father gave me one piece of advice: “study something that will enable you to get a job.” For me, that meant accounting and business, rather than literature or social science. The technical skills i learned proved to be a good foundation as i was able to move from entry-level accountant to controller to vice president. Moving from technician to manager was a transition prompted by rapid growth in companies where there were limited staff and unlimited opportunity.
My advice to others seeking career growth or those just starting out is to always look to do more. as a dual-career couple, my husband and i relocated six times in 15 years, with nearly every move providing me with a good opportunity to take on more responsibility and develop managerial skills. in addition, changing jobs exposed me to a wide variety of situations and people. i also was able, in one case, to move my job from New york to illinois, having established a good reputation as someone who gets things done and earned the trust of a CEO who had confidence that i could make it work. My advice to others seeking career growth or those just starting out is to always look to do more. Think beyond the scope of your own job to understand how your role fits in making a company successful. as a manager, it is your responsibility to develop the skills of those working for you. The best accomplishment i have had is developing people who i want to take along with me.
TITLE: Senior Vice President, Administration EDUCATION: Bachelor’s in business administration and MBA, Michigan State University FIRST JOB: Clerk at an insurance company during high school WHAT I’M READING: The Road, by Cormac McCarthy MY PHILOSOPHY: The key to any great organization is its people. Effective people management contributes greatly to a company’s overall success. FAMILY: Married 29 years, two sons ages 14 and 10 INTERESTS: Skiing with my family and watching my sons play sports FAVORITE CHARITY: Adopt-A-Classroom
COMPANY: kBR HEADQUARTERS: Houston, Texas WEB SITE: www.kbr.com BUSINESS: Engineering, construction, and services company ANNUAL REVENUES: $8.74 billion total revenue in 2007 EMPLOYEES: More than 52,000
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We all have distinct perspectives and individual talents that make each of us unique. Recognizing and celebrating those differences is integral to Bank of America’s commitment to diversity and inclusion. From our boardrooms to our banking centers to our offices abroad, we continue to build powerful alliances throughout our company and in the communities we serve. And our commitment to diversity and inclusion has helped foster a rich, rewarding environment that offers each of our associates unlimited opportunity. To learn more about starting a career with Bank of America and about our associate diversity programs, visit www.bankofamerica.com/careers.
Š2008 Bank of America Corporation
women worth watching in 2009
Cindy J. Brinkley
I AT&T
i work for a company that has long been a leader in providing equal opportunity, offering performance-based rewards, and creating cultures of excellence. My career at aT&T has been mine to make. Gender has never held me back because the company is a true meritocracy. along the way, i’ve had phenomenal teachers from whom i’ve learned a lot and to whom i owe a great debt of gratitude. as a young manager, i learned the importance of finding the challenge in any job, no matter how menial or trivial it may seem. My first job was in regulatory affairs, where i took filings to the Texas public utilities Commission and made copies of other companies’ filings. it was not the most exciting job initially, and i decided to expand it, to create what i thought added value. i started paying attention to what was going on at the commission and reporting back on what i learned. Others found that valuable, noticed the extra effort, and realized that i was capable of handling jobs with more responsibility.
Your career is a continuous journey... Keep learning. i also learned that an employee’s position in an organization shouldn’t hold them back and stop them from speaking up. when the company was trying to get caller iD approved by state regulatory commissions, some organizations, such as women’s shelters, wanted the ability to block caller iD, with good reason. at the time, our policy did not allow blocking. although i was only a manager, i recommended to the senior officer in charge of regulatory affairs that we change our policy. she listened and agreed. That was a real eye-opener, affirming that anyone at any level can make a difference. Today, as head of talent development and diversity, i try to share with younger managers what others have taught me: • Always say “Yes” to opportunities. They really do sometimes come just once. • Be yourself. Celebrate and communicate what makes you unique and demonstrate what you have to offer. • It matters how you get results. No ethical shortcuts. • Your career is a continuous journey. You never “arrive” at the destination. Keep learning. • Keep in mind that you can learn something from everyone—and sometimes that means learning what not to emulate. • Think big picture. Always consider how you can add value to the company and make your corner of it work better. Do that, and success will follow.
TITLE: Senior Vice President of Talent Development and Chief Diversity Officer EDUCATION: Bachelor’s degree in journalism, University of Missouri, Columbia; BS in political science, Truman State University FIRST JOB: Stuffing inserts in my hometown newspaper in Milan, Missouri WHAT I’M READING: i usually read several books at a time. Currently i’m reading Three Cups of Tea: One Man’s Mission to Promote Peace…One School at a Time, by Greg Mortenson and David Oliver Relin; 90 Minutes in Heaven: A True Story of Death & Life, by Don Piper and Cecil Murphey; and The Last Lecture, by Randy Pausch and Jeffrey Zaslow. MY PHILOSOPHY: Everything turns out for the best, and things generally happen for a reason. Often, good things can happen from seemingly bad situations, particularly if we stay positive and try to make everything we are involved with better. Don’t have regrets when you try and fail. The only real failure, or reason for regret, is when we do not try. Be involved. FAMILY: Two four-legged German shepherd “children,” Jules and Chelsea INTERESTS: Jogging, yoga, gardening, and reading FAVORITE CHARITY: The United Way
COMPANY: AT&T HEADQUARTERS: Dallas, Texas WEB SITE: www.att.com BUSINESS: Telecommunications ANNUAL REVENUES: More than $118 billion EMPLOYEES: More than 300,000 worldwide
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Roz Ho, Corporate Vice President Premium Mobile Experiences
Visionary Leadership Worth Watching Anyone who has watched the extraordinary career of Roz Ho has witnessed a remarkable journey through America’s high tech landscape. And while her visionary leadership has guided brilliant teams through countless groundbreaking technological advances, it’s her passion for consumers and how technology can improve their lives that makes her so deserving of this special recognition. Congratulations, Roz . . . for being one of Profiles in Diversity Journal’s “Women Worth Watching in 2009.”
women worth watching in 2009
Angela M. Busch
W Ecolab Inc.
when most people think about mergers and acquisitions (M&a), they correctly consider it a career dominated by men. i am almost always the lone woman at the table throughout negotiations. but i don’t think about that. Truth be told, i sometimes forget i am the only woman, until someone reminds me. i just think about doing the best job. That’s not to say i haven’t used gender to my advantage on occasion. as one of the rare women in the investment banking M&a field, people often remember me, especially prospective clients. in a crowd of male competitors, i learned that what i said would also stand out. On one occasion, after a particularly stressful, but successful, negotiation session, at which i was visibly pregnant, my client indicated that he now had new criteria for his M&a advisor—she needed to be in her third trimester.
I just think about doing the best job. Fast-forward to my current position at Ecolab, where i lead a team responsible for the company’s global mergers and acquisitions. we spend our time managing the entire acquisition and financial evaluation processes, from prospecting and investigation, through due diligence and negotiation, all the way to closing. in the past, a man with an all-male team always led this job. by taking on this role, i’ve shown that this position is really about talent and ability, not gender. in fact, during my short tenure i have pursued the most qualified candidates for the team, a practice that has yielded two additional female hires. i’ve been asked to speak before a women’s affinity group later this year about using negotiation and communication skills as career development tools. Obviously these are central to my work activities, and i agree that these skills are important as we use them every day at work and at home. however, i believe that effective negotiation and communication are based on two much more basic skill sets: being prepared and knowing yourself. being prepared is about researching the facts, developing your justifications, and understanding the possible choices and interpretations, including how others may view your decisions. Knowing yourself, on the other hand, is about identifying what you want and how to leverage your strengths to get it, while being honest with yourself and authentic in your behavior. if you keep those two things in mind, success at work and in life will follow.
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TITLE: Vice President of Corporate Development EDUCATION: Bachelor’s in mechanical engineering, University of Minnesota institute of Technology; master’s in management and JD from northwestern University, J.L. kellogg Graduate School and School of Law FIRST JOB: Mechanical engineer at ADC Telecommunications WHAT I’M READING: Sandra Magsamen’s When I Grow Up I Want to be Me, to my daughter MY PHILOSOPHY: Be prepared, be smart about your decisions, and be true to yourself. Success will follow, and you will enjoy the journey. FAMILY: Husband Darryl, and daughter Elli, 5 INTERESTS: Showing horses, building/remodeling FAVORITE CHARITY: Humane Society
COMPANY: Ecolab inc. HEADQUARTERS: Saint Paul, Minnesota WEB SITE: www.ecolab.com BUSINESS: The leading provider of cleaning, food safety, and health protection products and services for the foodservice, hospitality, health care, and industrial markets, helping customers achieve cleaner, safer, and healthier environments while minimizing their environmental footprint. ANNUAL REVENUES: $5.5 billion EMPLOYEES: 26,000 employees in more than 160 countries
A “ W O M A N WORTH WATC H ING.” BBUT N H UT K KEEP EEP AN AN EYE EYE O ON HER ER.. SSH HEE M MOV OVES ES PR PRETT ETTY Y FA FASST. T.
Harris congratulates Barbara Dirks and her fellow recipients of the WomenWorthWatching® award by Profiles in Diversity Journal®. The accomplishments of these women are proof that a culture of diversity and inclusion works better for us all. Harris is proud to stand behind these ideals and salutes the work of women everywhere.
Harris® is a trade name used by Harris N.A. and its affiliates. Member FDIC
harrisbank.com
women worth watching in 2009
Virginia ‘Ginny’ Calega
W Highmark Inc.
when i was growing up, the best way to get me to do something was to tell me that i couldn’t do it. That would motivate me. For example, my college advisor told me that i’d never be accepted into medical school. but i was. years later, i earned my Mba, too. My best advice is: Never take “no” as a final answer. instead, explore what the “no” really means. what are the alternatives? is there a different method, format, or avenue? Can i work this out? how? Trust your own abilities, and have confidence in your own remarkable potential. Don’t discount yourself. i come from a family headed by Depression-era parents who did not have the opportunity to attend college. Early on, my parents established the clear expectation that we were all college bound. They also imparted a very strong work ethic. They expected top grades from my siblings and me. Today we are doctors, engineers, and nurses. My parents set high goals for us. They expected us to achieve and reach our potential. That was a gift.
Trust your own abilities, and have confidence in your own remarkable potential. i attended an all-girls high school in western pennsylvania, where the girls ran the show. we gained valuable leadership experience and learned about the power of collaboration and teamwork. later, i attended a medical school established in 1850 exclusively for women. when i arrived there in the 1980s, the classes were still approximately 60 percent women. women physicians were the department chairs and professors. i learned from these role models to have the courage to break barriers. as a physician, i had the opportunity to manage a practice. i was elected the president and became so interested in the business side of medicine that i decided to earn my Mba. i saw an exciting new direction and pursued it, developing new skills and maintaining the flexibility and confidence to grow. Now i’m fortunate to work at highmark, where i combine my skills in medicine and business overseeing the development of medical policy and utilization management activities. highmark is unique in its large number of female executives. what strikes me is how very effective they are in their jobs, their visibility, and their willingness to assist other women in their professional development. women in management roles here are generous with their time and experience in mentoring others. Now, that’s a winning attitude!
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TITLE: Vice President, Medical Management and Policy EDUCATION: BS in biology, University of Pittsburgh; MD, Medical College of Pennsylvania; MBA, Villanova University FIRST JOB: internal medicine physician at a practice in southeastern Pennsylvania WHAT I’M READING: The Last Lecture, by Randy Pausch and Jeffrey Zaslow, about the final lecture delivered by a college professor diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. Who Says Elephants Can’t Dance? The Story of IBM’s Historic Turnaround, by Louis V. Gerstner, Jr. MY PHILOSOPHY: Do the right thing. it always pays off in the end. FAMILY: My husband, Mark, and our three cats INTERESTS: Travel, gardening, needlework, food, and reading a good book, fireside FAVORITE CHARITIES: The national Alzheimer’s Association and Vinalhaven (Maine) Eldercare Services
COMPANY: Highmark inc. HEADQUARTERS: Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania WEB SITE: www.highmark.com BUSINESS: The largest health insurance company in Pennsylvania, based on membership ANNUAL REVENUES: $12.4 billion EMPLOYEES: 18,500
Diversity. It Enriches Us. Strengthens Us.
DeďŹ nes Us. At Highmark, we value and celebrate the diversity that makes this world we share a better place. For our employees, our customers, and the suppliers we partner with throughout the many communities we serve. Together, we are building a great workplace.
Highmark, an equal employment opportunity employer, strives to capitalize on the strengths of individual differences and the advantages of an inclusive workplace.
women worth watching in 2009
Liza Cartmell
W Aramark
whether seeking out new opportunities at work or taking on additional responsibilities outside of work, i look to put myself in a position to create successful outcomes for a client, a customer, a team member, or a boss. in my experience, that has been a great formula for personal enrichment and growth. Experimentation carries its risks, and i’ve made my share of mistakes. i learned early on it’s OK to fail. One of my favorite pieces of advice was “always fail small.” it’s the ability to deal with adversity and to solve problems that matters most. Fortunately, i had a strong network of managers and mentors who took an interest in my professional development and helped me learn from my mistakes. Most importantly, they set examples for me. i’ve tried to carry these examples with me throughout my career.
I continue to challenge myself and seek the advice of my mentors.
TITLE: Group President, ARAMARk Sports & Entertainment EDUCATION: BS in economics from Wellesley College; MBA from Columbia University FIRST JOB: Financial analyst WHAT I’M READING: The Speed of Trust: The One Thing That Changes Everything, by Stephen M.R. Covey, Stephen R. Covey and Rebecca R. Merrill MY PHILOSOPHY: Put yourself in a position to create successful outcomes for a client, a customer, a team member or a boss. FAMILY: Husband, son and daughter
i try to create a sense of purpose, live with a set of core values, and generate confidence within my team. it is important to consider everyone’s opinion when making decisions, but in the end, it’s about achieving balance between cooperation and team consensus. when employees ask me for advice, i encourage them to learn new skill sets, take on more responsibility, and broaden their understanding of business. in many instances, i’ve encouraged team members to hone their expertise in a different line of business or in a new role in our company. sure enough, these individuals have often returned to the organization as more seasoned and knowledgeable employees. putting employees’ professional growth ahead of more immediate team objectives is an important investment, because in the long run everyone benefits from their enhanced capabilities. it is also important to achieve a balance between your career and family. Maintaining a better work-life balance helps reduce stress and enables you to keep things in perspective. The most rewarding aspect of my job is the opportunity to work with motivated employees and to mentor future leaders. i was fortunate enough to be given many opportunities, and there’s nothing more fun than passing those opportunities along to others. To this day, i continue to challenge myself and seek the advice of my mentors. i encourage my team to experiment and try new things, as well, and not to fear failure. it’s one of the only ways we really learn.
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INTERESTS: Gardening, golf and reading FAVORITE CHARITY: Please Touch Museum (the children’s museum of Philadelphia)
COMPANY: ARAMARk HEADQUARTERS: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania WEB SITE: www.aramark.com BUSINESS: Professional services ANNUAL REVENUES: $12.4 billion EMPLOYEES: 250,000
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women worth watching in 2009
Dale Cendali
I
O’Melveny & Myers LLP
i feel very lucky to live in a time when there are so many more opportunities for women than there have been in the past, and i feel an obligation to help ensure a future of opportunities for those who come after me. i was reared on stories of talented women forebears who accomplished a lot, but whose academic achievements were limited by economics and societal conditions during the times in which they lived. i particularly remember a key conversation with my mother, a phi beta Kappa college graduate and accomplished English teacher, who told me that when she graduated from college shortly after wwii, going to college was considered unusual for a woman—to pursue law, which she had an interest in doing, was beyond practical reach. Thus, one of the reasons that i was attracted to law was the idea that i could do something that previously had been essentially unattainable.
...I have also come to realize that the battles for equality have not all been won. The debt we all owe to those who came before us was driven home to me even more when i became a lawyer and attended various awards dinners honoring women just 20 or so years older than me. hearing those women talk about the discrimination they faced—often not being able to get jobs at law firms because of their gender—also made me appreciate where we are today. but while i am grateful for the progress that has been made, i have also come to realize that the battles for equality have not all been won. in law school, the number of women and men in my class was close to parity, and the idea that women were somehow not as capable as the men was greeted with derision. yet more than 20 years later, the number of women in senior positions at companies and firms is proportionately far less than one would have hoped for or expected. Given this reality, i feel that i should do what i can to avoid backsliding and to assist, when possible, in mentoring and promoting other women. This can take the form of co-authoring articles with someone, passing-on speaking engagements, referring business, or simply giving assignments to talented women. while these are just small steps, i hope that they will help create a future with even more opportunities than the present.
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TITLE: Partner and Chair of the Copyright, Trademark, and internet Practice EDUCATION: BA, history, summa cum laude, Phi Beta kappa, Yale College; JD, Harvard Law School FIRST JOB: Babysitter WHAT I’M READING: Home: A Memoir of My Early Years, by Julie Andrews MY PHILOSOPHY: Anything is possible. FAMILY: Husband, three children INTERESTS: Collecting comic books and native American pottery; theatre, travel
COMPANY: O’Melveny & Myers LLP HEADQUARTERS: Los Angeles, California WEB SITE: www.omm.com BUSINESS: Law firm ANNUAL REVENUES: not Available EMPLOYEES: More than 1,000 lawyers and more than 1,200 staff
women worth watching in 2009
Nancy R. Christal
A
CVS Caremark
approach your career with an open mind, and seek a path that will capitalize on your greatest strengths and interests. along the way, build your knowledge and continually apply what you’ve learned to the tasks at hand. here’s my story. after earning my Mba, i began my career as a financial analyst at a major oil company that rotated young professionals through a variety of analyst jobs every 18 months to expose them to all aspects of the controller’s function. i learned a lot in a very short time span, and i have been applying many of the skills i learned in that highly professional organization throughout my career. in fact, i think those skills have often set me apart from others who hadn’t had the good fortune of that experience.
Seek a path that will capitalize on your greatest strengths and interests. That said, i realized back then that crunching numbers and preparing reports at my desk all day was not for me. Despite the fact that i had spent six years in college and graduate school preparing for such a career, i set out to find a way to use my writing skills, apply my interpersonal skills, and satisfy my strong interest in corporate strategy, while capitalizing on my financial training and expertise. My persistence, and some good luck, led to a breakthrough. One of the recruiters i had been in contact with thought of me when an investor relations (ir) position opened up at a major bank. The executive who interviewed me was willing to take a chance, despite my lack of ir experience. if i could track her down today, i would thank her profusely because her blind faith in my ability set me on a path for success as an ir professional. Many people view ir jobs as rotational learning opportunities. i’ve chosen ir as a career. i’ve practiced ir across many industries, including banking, waste-to-energy, diversified services, specialty retail, drug stores, and health care. Today i lead the ir efforts of an innovative and fast-growing Fortune 25 health care company, and i couldn’t be happier. The dynamic nature of our business and sector makes my job interesting and challenging, and i still learn something new every day. what more can someone ask for?
TITLE: Senior Vice President of investor Relations EDUCATION: BA in accounting, Phi Beta kappa and summa cum laude graduate, Queens College; MBA in finance and corporate strategy, Beta Gamma Sigma graduate of new York University FIRST JOB: Bank teller at Chase Manhattan Bank WHAT I’M READING: Younger Next Year for Women: Live Strong, Fit, and Sexy Until You’re 80 and Beyond, by Chris Crowley, M.D., Henry S. Lodge, and Gail Sheehy
MY PHILOSOPHY: Always reach for the stars! if you find something you’re good at and truly enjoy, give it your best effort and you will succeed. if you know you did your best, you’ll never have any regrets. Quite the contrary; you are likely to exceed people’s expectations and enhance your reputation and value to those around you. And on a more personal note, treasure your family and nurture your important relationships no matter how busy your life becomes. That’s the part of life that is truly priceless. FAMILY: Mark, husband of 25 years, and daughters Samantha, 19, and Rebecca, 15 INTERESTS: Family get-togethers, working out, playing piano, decorating and landscaping our home FAVORITE CHARITY: Lymphoma Society
COMPANY: CVS Caremark HEADQUARTERS: Woonsocket, Rhode island WEB SITE: www.cvscaremark.com BUSINESS: Health care ANNUAL REVENUES: More than $76 billion EMPLOYEES: More than 190,000
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women worth watching in 2009
Anne Chwat
B
Burger King Corporation
before becoming a lawyer, i took a year off between high school and college to live and work in New york City, studied at four different universities, earned a teaching degree, and studied international business in rome, italy. i took a break from college for a few years and moved to los angeles to work in the music business. i worked at a hotel, the legal aid society, and a talent agency. after law school i joined a wall street law firm, went in-house to Joseph E. seagram & sons, and worked for sony/bMG Music in New york, where i became general counsel. i then moved my family to Miami to become general counsel of burger King Corporation, where i helped take the company public.
Be yourself. Don’t try to be someone or something you’re not. i learned invaluable lessons through my journeys that have greatly enhanced my life and career: Be yourself. Don’t try to be someone or something you’re not. Find a career and work environment that accepts and appreciates who you are and what you have to offer. Build meaningful relationships. it’s impossible to be successful in today’s world if you don’t cultivate strong and sincere relationships. be respectful and kind to everyone you encounter. you never know who may lead you to your next opportunity. Empower and trust your teams. hire highly talented people to be on your teams. Cultivate reports who are loyal and empowered. Earn respect from your team by pulling your own weight and being a good listener and problem solver. Don’t be a “know it all.” ask for and accept feedback and help. you’d be surprised how much you can improve yourself. Be flexible. The more flexible you are, the more doors will open. i thought i’d be a teacher. i thought i’d never leave New york City. if i had not changed direction several times, i would have missed many great experiences and opportunities. Trust your instincts. if something doesn’t feel right it probably isn’t. and vice-versa. Hug your children and spouse every day. Treasure your relationships with your family and friends. let them know that they will always be more important than your job. Have fun and stay positive. Take time for yourself and stay positive. you will be more productive and people will want to work and play with you.
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TITLE: Executive Vice President and General Counsel EDUCATION: JD, new York University Law School; BA in education and political science, new York University FIRST JOB: At 8, wrote and sold a neighborhood newspaper WHAT I’M READING: The Kite Runner, by khaled Hosseini MY PHILOSOPHY: Be yourself. Build meaningful relationships. Empower your teams. Trust your instincts. Have fun, and hug your kids every day! FAMILY: Married 22 years; a daughter, 15, and a son, 10 INTERESTS: The ocean, gardening, and spas FAVORITE CHARITY: Burger king’s “Have it Your Way Foundation” (i’m president.)
COMPANY: Burger king Corporation HEADQUARTERS: Miami, Florida WEB SITE: www.bk.com BUSINESS: Fast food hamburger restaurants ANNUAL REVENUES: $2.3 billion EMPLOYEES: 39,000
women worth watching in 2009
Carine Strom Clark
W
Symantec Corporation
why marketing? since i was a kid, i can remember being captivated by marketing. i always wanted to be convinced of things, and i always wanted to make things better. Marketing just seemed to be a great way to make things better. when i took my passion for marketing into the world of high tech, i realized that i was playing a whole new game. i was given tremendous opportunities to try many different marketing positions, and, as an opinionated young woman, i encountered some resistance as i tried to make changes. along the way, i learned a few lessons that have stuck with me. One—be fearless. Never be afraid of what might or might not happen. Never be afraid of the truth or to try new things. Never be afraid of being yourself. This was sometimes easier said than done in a largely male environment where things had always been done a certain way. but, i found that i changed perceptions as i stuck to my guns.
Never be afraid of being yourself. Two—never stop trying to capture the imagination of your customers and getting them to believe in your products. if you can help customers with things like making work easier, protecting children from the bad guys or giving people more time to dream, that’s a good thing. if you are not afraid and really feel committed to capturing the imagination of the people you serve—it makes for a wonderful place to work and live. Three—build strong teams. i’ve met many brilliant marketing executives who can’t get their teams to follow them. They might have the best ideas, but their teams aren’t committed to delivering on those ideas because they really dislike the person. it is much more fun to have a committed team than to be brilliant all alone. so, i have focused a lot of energy in building talented teams that can function without me. it’s about getting to know each member of the team and allowing them to contribute in a role that matches their strengths and allows them to grow. regardless of industry or company size, you can do so much more to help customers when you’re all in the same boat, rowing in the same direction to reach the same destination.
TITLE: Senior Vice President, Global Marketing EDUCATION: MBA and BA in organizational communications, Brigham Young University FIRST JOB: Accounting clerk for Class Vi Agency in Heidelberg, Germany WHAT I’M READING: The Effective Executive, by Peter F. Drucker MY PHILOSOPHY: Do hard things. FAMILY: Husband and two sons, ages 6 and 14 INTERESTS: Family, power walking, playing keyboard in a rock band FAVORITE CHARITY: Primary Children’s Medical Center in Salt Lake City, Utah
COMPANY: Symantec Corporation HEADQUARTERS: Cupertino, California WEB SITE: www.symantec.com BUSINESS: Security, storage and systems management software ANNUAL REVENUES: $5.9 billion EMPLOYEES: More than 17,500 worldwide
Prof iles in Div er s it y Jou r na l
September/October 2008
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women worth watching in 2009
Mary E. Crego
M
State Farm Insurance Companies
My earliest blessings were very gifted parents who were models for curiosity and lifelong learning. From my father, i learned the importance of discipline, as well as a love of language. From my mother, i gained the unconditional acceptance that i could do anything i chose. although i had four brothers, i think our mother took special care to instill confidence and self-esteem in my sister and me. Our brothers say she overdid it! it was only as an adult that i realized how lucky we were. after graduating from college, i married my husband, paul. a few weeks later, i began work at state Farm as a claims representative in the Chicago area. in the next five years, we had two children, who are now grown and still the delight of their parents.
I believe strongly in servant leadership, and with each promotional opportunity that responsibility grows. For the first 13 years of my career with state Farm, i changed jobs frequently to follow my husband’s career. That meant sometimes taking a step backward. in retrospect, it was a wonderful opportunity to experience many different areas of our complex organization in several geographic locations. along the way, i had many mentors. One of those mentors, a man named steve williams, passed away recently. as i reflected on his mentoring, i realized that he was still influencing me many years after his retirement. without his gentle but candid feedback my journey might have been different. i was reminded once more of his lessons of leadership and my debt to mentor those who will be here long after me. i believe strongly in servant leadership, and with each promotional opportunity that responsibility grows. in the Great lakes Zone, which i lead, we have more than 5,200 employees and almost 2,200 independent contractor agents. Our revenues in 2007 exceeded $5.6 billion. My responsibilities to those associates, our customers, and to the greater enterprise are something i never forget. i was blessed to begin in an organization with integrity that recognizes talent in all facets of diverse individuals, nurtures it, and provides great opportunities. That is a strong element of our culture. My commitment is to continue the development of talented individuals and to effect even greater success for our future.
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TITLE: Senior Vice President EDUCATION: BA in English, illinois Wesleyan University FIRST JOB: Detasseling corn, waitressing WHAT I’M READING: The City of Falling Angels, by John Berendt; and Boom! by Tom Brokaw MY PHILOSOPHY: it’s about the results. FAMILY: Husband, son, and daughter INTERESTS: Family, reading FAVORITE CHARITY: Voices for illinois Children
COMPANY: State Farm insurance Companies HEADQUARTERS: Bloomington, illinois WEB SITE: www.statefarm.com BUSINESS: insurance and financial services provider ANNUAL REVENUES: $61.6 billion EMPLOYEES: More than 65,000 associates and more than 17,000 agents nationwide and in three Canadian provinces
Do you want more out of your job than just a paycheck? Do you want to be challenged and learn new things? Do you want your talents to be recognized? Put your career in a position to grow at State Farm, a Fortune 500 速 速
company. With a variety of jobs and placement opportunities all across the U.S., go ahead and reward yourself and your career. Join the State Farm team. Visit statefarm.com/careers
F OUND :
A job where the paycheck is only half the reward.
An Equal Opportunity Employer
J e s s ic a K
. R ie f f el
RM S TAT E FA
women worth watching in 2009
Cindy P. Crotty
S KeyCorp
several years ago, i realized that i was mentoring in a different way. when i first heard the term mentoring, i understood it to be a supportive, encouraging, one-to-one relationship. The mentor, usually older and wiser, guided the younger and less experienced individual in developing and sustaining a rewarding career. i was fortunate to be mentored in just that way by several wonderful people. as a result, my role model for how to mentor was based on both the definition i learned and the mentoring i received. so, i was a bit surprised to realize that i wasn’t mentoring one to one. i was mentoring one to many, and i found the dynamics to be powerful and fascinating.
Much as I love and enjoy my job, though, I’m always alert to the multiple roles that those of us who work must play. i had begun to treat mentoring as the job of connecting the dots and leveraging individual strengths so my team could succeed. because they get collective ownership of success, they also take collective responsibility for getting there. as a result, i think they have formed stronger and better bonds in order to generate better results for our clients and our shareholders. They consult more with one another; actually, they’re mentoring peer-to-peer, not only one on one but in groups as well. They have given me a new view of the mentoring process, because at times they’re also mentoring me. i have had passion for my work as long as i can remember. in fact, i could hardly wait to get out of school so i could get to work and begin a career! Much as i love and enjoy my job, though, i’m always alert to the multiple roles that those of us who work must play. Career people today, both men and women, manage so many responsibilities. My husband and i, for example, both work at demanding jobs. we have two children and extended families. Many members of my team are in similar situations. i try to remind them and myself that a sense of humor and a work-life balance will take you far. it’s a critical ingredient in the mentoring and coaching we give to one another. Thanks to my team, i see mentoring today as a dynamic, powerful exercise that engages and benefits everyone—each of them, me, and most of all, our clients.
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TITLE: Executive Vice President and Segment Head, Commercial Banking EDUCATION: University of Georgia, BA in accounting FIRST JOB: Government auditor WHAT I’M READING: Big Russ and Me, Father and Son: Lessons of Life, by Tim Russert MY PHILOSOPHY: The Golden Rule FAMILY: Husband Ed, two children and two stepchildren INTERESTS: Gardening, travel, children’s causes FAVORITE CHARITY: Beech Brook
COMPANY: keyCorp HEADQUARTERS: Cleveland, Ohio WEB SITE: www.key.com BUSINESS: Financial services ANNUAL REVENUES: $4.9 billion in 2007 EMPLOYEES: Approximately 18,500
live. celebrate.
diversify.
educate.
evolve.
work.
value.
respect.
Diversity is critical to our commitment to be a global leader in science and technology and to our operations as a model organization for our staff, preferred supplier to our customers, and valued partner in the communities in which we work and live. We work to promote understanding, celebrate differences, and create an environment of mutual respect, individual value, and collective opportunity.
Battelle salutes Barbara Kunz as one of the 2008 Profiles in Diversity Journal’s WomenWorthWatchingŽ.
800.201.2011
solutions@battelle.org
www.battelle.org Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employers M/F/D/V
women worth watching in 2009
Chineta K. Davis
W
Northrop Grumman
when asked what was the key to my advancement, i knew there was not one answer. First and foremost, i knew i had been blessed with great mentors. They saw the potential in me—especially when i didn’t. They taught me the ropes, and the unwritten rules. They encouraged me to develop, to take risks, and to stretch outside my comfort zone. second, knowing and understanding the organizational culture and how to navigate it was critical. it helped me get properly positioned for the next move. Third, establishing a good internal and external network was critical to having a successful career. when i say a good network, i mean a genuine mutual partnership where all parties benefit from the relationship. Too often, i see people only seek out those that they believe can help them, yet offer little in return. This results in shallow networks which become very one dimensional and unsustainable.
Barriers made me only more determined to succeed. Finally, at every rung on the corporate ladder that i have climbed, there is at least one person that comes to mind as being not just instrumental, but also paramount in my being there. No leader can be successful without excellent support from the people they work with. acknowledging their support is key to building a strong team. My people don’t just work for me; i also work for my people. as an african american woman who chose to be an engineer in the 1970s and even wanted to take time off to raise my children, i experienced every obstacle imaginable. There were those who refused to take me seriously or even to recognize me as an engineer—let alone someone with promise. There was a reluctance to give me challenging assignments that would be crucial to my professional development. barriers made me only more determined to succeed. i learned that by displaying confidence and competence, as well as by listening to, acknowledging, and respecting what others bring to the team, i can build effective relationships. it was these relationships that helped me to press against the glass ceiling. i also realized that failure and adversity came with lessons to be learned, and each offered a new opportunity. Confronting and overcoming them helped me to develop and become the person i am today.
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TITLE: Sector Vice President and General Manager, Electronic Systems Operations EDUCATION: BS in engineering, John Hopkins University; Executive Marketing Program, UCLA; General Managers Program, Harvard University FIRST JOB: Engineer WHAT I’M READING: What is the What, by Dave Eggers
MY PHILOSOPHY: Always keep your integrity and live by the Golden Rule. i tell my mentees that i treat those that clean the boardroom the same as those who sit in the boardroom. FAMILY: Married with three children INTERESTS: Reading and gardening— i belong to a book club with four wonderful friends. FAVORITE CHARITY: My husband and i participate in several charities that encourage and help young people to pursue college. i also am on the board of kennedy krieger institute. it is wonderful to see the help that families across the world receive from this organization.
COMPANY: northrop Grumman HEADQUARTERS: Los Angeles, California WEB SITE: www.northropgrumman.com BUSINESS: Global defense and technology ANNUAL REVENUES: $33.5 billion EMPLOYEES: 120,000
WE’RE PROUD OF OUR DIFFERENCES. ALL 120,000 OF THEM.
Commissioning a new aircraft carrier. Launching a space telescope. Building the IT infrastructure of tomorrow. Achievements like these are the lifeblood of working with Northrop Grumman. We foster a wide range of perspectives to power our world-class aerospace, information technology, and defense projects. Perspectives like yours. At every level, we’ve made strong commitments to workforce diversity, because we know that greatness is often the product of bringing fresh perspectives to the table. So, if you’re interested in a career as vast as your ambitions, take a look at everything we have to offer.
Achievement never ends. For current opportunities, please visit our website:
careers.northropgrumman.com INFORMATION & SERVICES | AEROSPACE | ELECTRONICS | SHIPBUILDING | | |
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©2008 Northrop Grumman Corporation. Northrop Grumman is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to hiring and retaining a diverse workforce. U.S. Citizenship is required for most positions.
women worth watching in 2009
Sandra Devine
M
EDS, an HP company
Much attention has been focused on generational differences in the work force: baby boomers, Generation X, Generation y, and the Millennials. Each generation has acquired a stereotype in values and approach to careers. will this latest generation be loyal to one employer or become serial jumpers? will they trade off career for life balance or spiral into an intensifying work environment with evaporating work/life boundaries? as a boomer entering the work force in difficult economic times, i approached my career with the classic ethic: work hard; do the right thing; and the organization will return earned rewards in fair time frames. loyalty was a given, and the decision to change employers was not made lightly. Today, for newly minted college grads, it’s challenging to draw lessons from past generations’ choices. influenced by a vastly different work world, will past drivers of career effectiveness matter in a relentlessly competitive global norm?
From my perspective, the most enduring of fundamentals remains the value of business relationships.
TITLE: Vice President, U.S. Sales EDUCATION: BS, SUnY College at Buffalo; MBA, Georgetown University FIRST JOB: Jobs program grants planning for the city of Buffalo, new York WHAT I’M READING: A Year in Provence, by Peter Mayle
MY PHILOSOPHY: Listen to and follow your instincts. in most cases, you’ve gotten where you are because of them. Gather what you need to know, listen to multiple viewpoints, and then take your own best counsel. FAMILY: Husband, Bob; daughters Maddy and Becca; son Rory INTERESTS: Travel, reading, golf
From my perspective, the most enduring of fundamentals remains the value of business relationships. relationship equity is the investment one makes in developing lifelong annuities that yield unfiltered feedback, productive organizational insights, and help in mobilizing the right resources to get things done. Overseas team assignments, demanding client engagements, a big-bet product launch against the odds all create shared, in-the-trenches experience—the basis of enduring relationships. Much can be learned about the character of organizations and their leaders by observing the nature of senior leader relationships. Effective leaders maintain a sphere of trusted “go-to” people—long-term colleagues with the skills and values to accelerate the strategic agenda. but the most effective meritocracies continuously expand and renew this core, infusing the inner circle with new thinking and skills. if your executive team doesn’t reflect a healthy mix of veteran insiders and newer entrants, you may be in the wrong place. someone once said, “Character is who you are when no one is watching.” similarly, the relationships that ultimately bring the greatest rewards are forged when individual agendas aren’t at stake. in sum, pay attention to developing mutual, trust-based relationships at all levels. watch for the character of the organization by observing how relationships of those around you are grown and refreshed. and, as your own career progresses, create mechanisms that enable others to grow their relationship networks—tentacles of which will invariably come back around to benefit your own. 66
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FAVORITE CHARITY: Susan G. komen for the Cure
COMPANY: EDS, an HP company HEADQUARTERS: Plano, Texas WEB SITE: www.eds.com BUSINESS: Leading global technology services company delivering business solutions to its clients ANNUAL REVENUES: $22.1 billion for 2007 EMPLOYEES: 137,000 globally
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bcbsnc.com
women worth watching in 2009
Betty K. DeVita
I
Citibank Canada
i began my 28-year career at Citibank in New york City as a part-time teller while attending university. Never in a million years did i believe this job would lead to a senior executive position. i completed a management training program and became a branch manager, a position that gave me my first opportunity to run a profit and loss (p&l) report. This experience was pivotal for me in forming the foundation to run a business. after a few years, i was asked to move to the latin america region. so, my husband quit his job, the first of many times he would do so to accommodate my career, and we moved south. i have been blessed with a great partner. by gaining exposure to the CEO of latin america, i made it clear i wanted to be a country head. in 1999, i was given that chance in venezuela.
Act with authority: Communicate a vision, take risks, and make things happen. a few years later, i raised my hand again, grabbing an opportunity to work on a bank acquisition in south Korea. My husband and i took off again, now with two kids in tow. south Korea was an extremely tough environment for women, but the experience gave me invaluable tools. i gained first-hand knowledge working where two groups have radically different perspectives. i obtained personal experience running a business in a market where cultural norms are quite different. i managed crisis scenarios as we worked through conflicts with labor. after three years, i raised my hand to return to North america where i was appointed CEO of Citibank Canada, my current position. in closing i thought i would share some key career management strategies: • Speak your mind, but be relevant. • Build your brand and toot your own horn—often. • Spend time on significant projects. • Devote 80 percent of your time to working your job and 20 percent to managing your career. • Have specific business and people skills, and be clear on what you are really good at. • Act with authority: Communicate a vision, take risks, and make things happen. • Have some fun. Life is too short!
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TITLE: Chairman and Chief Executive Officer EDUCATION: BS in health care administration, cum laude, St. John’s University FIRST JOB: Teller WHAT I’M READING: Why Women Mean Business: Understanding the Emergence of Our Next Economic Revolution, by Avivah Wittenberg-Cox and Alison Maitland MY PHILOSOPHY: Make the biggest impact within your circle of influence. Don’t sweat the small stuff. After all is said and done, it’s all about your family! FAMILY: Husband Tim; son Zachary, 13; daughter Quinn, 8 INTERESTS: Spending time with my family, traveling, tennis, keeping fit, getting to know the countries and cultures where we live FAVORITE CHARITY: Susan G. komen Breast Cancer Foundation
COMPANY: Citibank Canada HEADQUARTERS: Toronto, Ontario WEB SITE: www.citibank.ca BUSINESS: Financial services ANNUAL REVENUES: $1.9 billion EMPLOYEES: 5,300
women worth watching in 2009
Barbara Dirks
E
Harris Bankcorp Inc., part of BMO Financial Group
Every successful leader needs to develop her own blueprint for success. Each leader’s blueprint is unique, comprising personal insights and experiences, as well as learnings from mentors they wish to emulate. More than a decade ago, i spent two years working for the botswana government in the Central Kalahari Desert. The perspective i gained through this jarring immersion in a completely new environment, packed with social, financial, and cultural contrasts, inspired me to develop my personal blueprint. successfully navigating this extraordinary cross-cultural experience required me to define a clear vision, collaborate with others, and have the courage to make tough decisions. These tenets have held true for me as i’ve progressed toward my career and personal goals.
Taking personal risks can create the most valuable learning experiences. Develop a clear vision and measure success. invest the time to think about what success means to you. is it a certain role in your company? industry? Community? Or is it degree of impact? Only you know the answer, but you must find clarity before you can be successful. whether it was working in africa, graduating from law school or taking responsibility for a business unit, achievement has never been a passive phenomenon. if you can’t define and measure the “end-state,” you’ll never get there. success is a culmination of realizing myriad goals, and it requires you to tend and nurture your vision to ensure it evolves with relevance. be collaborative. leadership and success are seldom accomplished single-handedly. learn to listen to your colleagues, understand what success means to them, and create solutions that everyone can support. To me, success is rarely about individual pursuit; rather, by listening, influencing, and working collaboratively, the success and accomplishments realized synergistically surpass those that would have been achieved alone. have courage. There is an old adage that says, “Nothing ventured, nothing gained.” Taking personal risks can create the most valuable learning experiences. have the courage to step up to opportunities or initiatives that challenge your comfort zone and expand your competencies. Manage risk-taking appropriately, but trust your instincts. This will be increasingly important as you progress to a position of leadership and influence and are called upon to make tougher decisions. sometimes courage is simply not settling for sub-optimal solutions. i continue to learn and find myself constantly refining my personal blueprint. The key is to set your sights on what is important to you and to use your own blueprint to make it happen.
TITLE: Senior Vice President, Harris e-Channel Services EDUCATION: BA with honors, University of Toronto; LLB, University of Western Ontario; MBA, University of Western Ontario FIRST JOB: Financial manager, kang Brigade Development Trust, kang, Botswana, Africa WHAT I’M READING: Copy This! How I Turned Dyslexia, ADHD and 100 Square Feet Into a Company Called Kinko’s, by Paul Orfalea and Ann Marsh; A Remarkable Mother, by Jimmy Carter; and The Price of Privilege: How Parental Pressure and Material Advantage are Creating a Generation of Disconnected and Unhappy Kids, by Madeline Levine MY PHILOSOPHY: Set your sights on what is important to you, and use your own blueprint to make it happen. FAMILY: Husband, Ron; son Charlie, 4; daughter Ainsley, 1 INTERESTS: Family time, outdoor activities (golf, swimming, running) FAVORITE CHARITY: Habitat for Humanity
COMPANY: Harris Bankcorp inc., part of BMO Financial Group HEADQUARTERS: Chicago, illinois WEB SITE: www.harrisbank.com BUSINESS: Financial services ANNUAL REVENUES: $833 million in 2007 EMPLOYEES: 4,400
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women worth watching in 2009
Tracey Doi
W
Toyota Motor Sales, USA, Inc.
when i reflect upon my professional journey several themes resonate, beginning with continuous learning. i am continuously learning, deepening my functional expertise and industry knowledge and strengthening my leadership skills through challenging assignments, educational resources, and professional organizations. i’ve learned the most by venturing into new areas and stretching myself. i am grateful for the many supporters who believed in me, provided challenging opportunities, and gave me enough freedom to stumble, grow, and develop. rather than seeking one mentor, look for more than one advisor for different facets of your life. build your own board of directors. No one knows you better than you, but it often helps to have a sounding board to doublecheck that you’re staying true to your core values. it’s hard work to keep priorities in check, but it’s worth the effort.
I’ve learned the most by venturing into new areas and stretching myself.
TITLE: Group Vice President, Chief Financial Officer EDUCATION: BA in business economics, UCLA FIRST JOB: Staff accountant, Arthur Andersen & Co. WHAT I’M READING: Audition: A Memoir, by Barbara Walters MY PHILOSOPHY: Cherish what’s important— your family, your friends, your community. Try to keep your priorities in balance, while challenging yourself professionally. FAMILY: My husband, Mark, our son and daughter, our parents, sisters, brother and their families
surround yourself with talent. i recognize that one person can only contribute so much. augment your strengths by building a talented team at work. listen closely and incorporate your team’s ideas. remember to recognize and thank team members frequently. it’s also important to have a strong support system at home. you’ll accomplish much more. set aside time to give back to the community and to develop others. Find the right culture. it’s a gift to find a culture that allows you to grow and learn in a profession and environment that you love. you’re bound to thrive and give your best. i’m very fortunate to have found Toyota. its guiding principles are continuous improvement and respect for people. The company’s values align with my personal beliefs. Not only can i contribute through my finance and administration responsibilities, but i also enjoy supporting others through our business partnering groups and community outreach.
INTERESTS: Spending time with my family, reading, volunteering for nonprofits FAVORITE CHARITIES: March of Dimes, Japanese American national Museum
COMPANY: Toyota Motor Sales, USA, inc. HEADQUARTERS: Torrance, California WEB SITE: www.toyota.com BUSINESS: Automotive ANNUAL REVENUES: $65 billion EMPLOYEES: 38,000, Toyota in north America
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women worth watching in 2009
Marie Therese Dominguez
S
U.S. Postal Service
success is rarely the result of one person’s action; rather, it is usually the result of leadership and teamwork. That certainly has been my experience. as an executive, i strive to create a team atmosphere where each member of the team has an opportunity to achieve individual goals while also contributing to the larger organizational objectives. i have filled my conference room walls with stamp images depicting various comic superheroes. These seemingly-ordinary, but really larger-than-life characters are the best illustration of my personal and professional philosophy. Each individual has special qualities that contribute to his or her success; but lasting success is achieved through cooperative efforts—melding individual strengths and “powers” to benefit a greater objective or good. bringing diverse skills and perspectives together to work cooperatively on a project began with my first job out of college as an environmental analyst. My integrated project team included professionals with varied backgrounds—chemists, public policy analysts, engineers, lawyers, and sociologists. we developed public policy proposals resulting in the first national guidelines for the transport and disposal of medical waste. This experience helped frame my career.
My experiences have taught me to always aim high, work hard, and care deeply about what I believe in. My advocacy and management skills have been honed through a variety of experiences, from managing large federal programs worth billions of dollars to owning a small business and managing political candidate and issue campaigns, to running business sector teams in the private sector. Today, i am fortunate to work with a most talented group of professionals at the postal service. like many latinas, my support structure is my family. in many ways, my parents are still my mentors. There are two major lessons they shared with us. The first is they have challenged us to have the courage to succeed. i am proud to be an eighth generation New Mexican and the first member of my family to receive a law degree. The second lesson sounds fundamental, but is often the hardest, and that is to listen. listen to yourself, listen to your co-workers and listen to your critics. you never learn by talking; you learn by listening. and in learning, you grow both as a person and as an executive. My experiences have taught me to always aim high, work hard, and care deeply about what i believe in. remember, power comes from within, so trust in your unique abilities. Each of us is a superhero in our own way, bringing our special strengths and abilities to the table to achieve success, both personally and professionally.
TITLE: Vice President, Government Relations and Public Policy EDUCATION: Graduate of Smith College; JD from Villanova Law School FIRST JOB: Environmental Policy Analyst WHAT I’M READING: One Hundred Years of Solitude, by Gabriel Garcia Marquez; My Life in France, by Julia Child MY PHILOSOPHY: “Whatever you vividly imagine, ardently desire, sincerely believe, and enthusiastically act upon...must inevitably come to pass!”—unknown INTERESTS: Politics, travel, skiing
FAVORITE CHARITY: national Council of La Raza
COMPANY: U.S. Postal Service HEADQUARTERS: Washington, D.C. WEB SITE: www.usps.com BUSINESS: An independent federal agency that is the only delivery service that visits every address in the nation ANNUAL REVENUES: $75 billion EMPLOYEES: nearly 685,000 career employees
Prof iles in Div er s it y Jou r na l
September/October 2008
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women worth watching in 2009
Melissa B. Donaldson
U
CDW Corporation
unemployment was one of the best things that ever happened to me. That’s right! No one could have suggested that to me during that painful and difficult time in my life 12 years ago when i was laid off from a major computer firm. however, hindsight has a way of showing you the rainbow after the storm. unemployment led me to three personal career philosophies that i have adopted and live by today. To thine own self be true. My job search motivated me to take a career inventory. For the first time in my life, i had to take stock of all of my roles, responsibilities, strengths, weaknesses, accomplishments, preferences, and aspirations over what had been a 10-year career. while excruciating, this exercise was critically important before i could package myself in a comprehensive two-page resume. it helped me see where i excelled, what i found effortless, and what i thoroughly enjoyed. These were my strengths, the things i knew i would be good at and could build a livelihood around.
I do believe that you have to take the time to find your true north to energize your career.
step out on faith. as a result of my personal and professional inventory, i could plainly see who i was, what i wanted and did not want, and, more importantly, where i wanted to go next as a professional. playing it safe was no longer appealing to me. i knew i could safely return to sales, but what i really wanted to do was to make a difference for people and particularly professionals, so i switched to training. it was a huge transition, to say the least, but one that has paid off many times over and eventually led me to my current role. Never be unprepared. One day you’re in. Next day you could be out. unfortunately, it’s just that simple in today’s business climate. Therefore, i promised myself that i would take advantage of growth opportunities and harvest all the knowledge and skills that i could. it’s the harvest that will prepare me for the next venture—if i need it. These three philosophies have led me to a wonderful career mosaic that is still evolving. while i’m certainly not recommending trading employment for soul searching, i do believe that you have to take the time to find your true north to energize your career.
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TITLE: Senior Manager, inclusion Practices EDUCATION: BS in management science, Wright State University; master’s degree in administration, Central Michigan University FIRST JOB: Computer tape librarian WHAT I’M READING: Privilege, Power, and Difference, by Allan G. Johnson MY PHILOSOPHY: if you get involved with something, you should strive to make a difference. Otherwise, why spend the time? FAMILY: Husband of more than 20 years, a teenage son, a preteen daughter INTERESTS: Christian faith, shopping, reading, gardening FAVORITE CHARITY: Jack and Jill of America inc.
COMPANY: CDW Corporation HEADQUARTERS: Vernon Hills, illinois WEB SITE: www.cdw.com BUSINESS: Technology hardware, software, and services ANNUAL REVENUES: $8.1 billion EMPLOYEES: 6,700
women worth watching in 2009
Lynne Doughtie
W KPMG LLP
when i talk to clients about how to make their organizations more successful, their challenges can seem daunting. but as we continue talking, key themes often emerge that enable us to address their concerns more easily. Managing one’s career is very similar. so, when i mentor colleagues, as with clients, i try to simplify their decisions by reducing them to a few key themes. First, i ask them to define their own unique view of success. it can seem overwhelming trying to reconcile professional ambition and personal goals. but both are important. i was fortunate to have a wonderful mother who also happened to be a successful businesswoman. Thanks to her example and the support i’ve received at home and from KpMG, i never doubted that i could have a family and build a rewarding career.
TITLE: national Managing Partner, Advisory EDUCATION: BS in accounting, Virginia Tech FIRST JOB: kPMG LLP WHAT I’M READING: A Thousand Splendid Suns, by khaled Hosseini MY PHILOSOPHY: Albert Einstein once said that his goal was “not to become a man of success, but rather a man of value.” My actions each day are not guided by professional ambition, but by my goal to create an environment founded on integrity, to commit to helping others, and to enable each of us to be our best.
...take whatever pitch comes your way and knock it out of the park. in mentoring discussions, i talk about adaptability. Five-year goals can help provide direction to your career, but you can’t plot every move. There have been times when my career took an unexpected turn. but my philosophy has always been to take whatever pitch comes your way and knock it out of the park. when you do your best and embrace new challenges, the opportunity to grow is great. i also advise the people i mentor to focus on caring for their team. To succeed, you have to nail the technical skills and deliver results. but true leadership involves much more than that. at KpMG we talk about our commitment to being a great place to work and build a career. we place a lot of emphasis on mentoring, supporting, and developing people. Finally, i encourage the people i mentor to become involved in their communities. i’ve worked for years with iNrOaDs, which prepares talented minority youth for corporate and community leadership positions. i’m also an active alumnus of virginia Tech. helping to lead efforts at KpMG to provide support after the tragic campus shooting was a profoundly moving experience for me. in fact, as my own career has moved forward, i find that giving back—to my colleagues and to my community—has become increasingly important. as i mentor people, i’m happy to help them achieve the typical markers of success: promotions, salary increases, broader responsibilities, etc. but by example, i try to model what to me is the true measure of success: the ability to “lift others as you rise.”
FAMILY: Husband Ben; son Schuyler,18; and daughter Evie, 14 INTERESTS: Skiing, horseback riding, cheering for my daughter in basketball, and attending Virginia Tech sports events FAVORITE CHARITY: My home church for its missions focus and guidance toward spiritual maturity
COMPANY: kPMG LLP HEADQUARTERS: new York City WEB SITE: www.us.kpmg.com BUSINESS: kPMG LLP is the U.S. audit, tax, and advisory member firm (www.us.kpmg.com) of kPMG international. kPMG international’s member firms have 123,000 professionals, including more than 7,100 partners in 145 countries. ANNUAL REVENUES: $5.357 billion EMPLOYEES: 22,003
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women worth watching in 2009
Dianne Douglas
W Mattel, Inc.
when i received my degree in accounting, i had no idea that i would end up as chief information officer for the world’s largest toy company. but the only constant in life is change, and that has certainly been the case for my career. after working for more than 10 years in accounting and finance roles, i had the opportunity to use my financial background in a new way—helping to develop the investor relations program at associates First Capital Corporation when the company went public. Five years later, it was a need for help with investor relations that brought me to Mattel. several years later my responsibilities broadened to also include corporate communications, consumer relations, governmental affairs, and Mattel’s philanthropic initiatives.
...my success is owed in large part to having mentors who believe in me... in 2005, i was asked by Mattel’s senior leadership to shift focus once again, this time in a more unexpected direction. with my appointment as chief information officer, i became part of a bigger trend—that of CiOs who don’t have a technology background. while it may have seemed a surprising choice at the time, i quickly realized that my experience lends itself well to this role. Every company looks to ensure that they make technology investments in the right areas and get the best return on investment. My background gives me a good understanding of what drives business value and brings a new financial discipline to the iT organization. The fact that i don’t have a deep knowledge of technology has not been an issue because we have a strong, collaborative iT leadership team that is capable and empowered to guide technical decisions. after three years in the position of CiO, i’ve realized that the bigger challenge is managing the ongoing demand for more iT services than we can supply, given our limited resources. so while there’s still plenty for me to learn about technology, my time is better spent on setting the right expectations with the business and keeping iT focused on delivering what’s most important to drive business value. if i’d tried to map out my career 25 years ago, i would never have come up with this path. but i’ve realized that my success is owed in large part to having mentors who believe in me and being open to what comes and making the most of it.
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TITLE: Senior Vice President and Chief information Officer EDUCATION: Bachelor’s degree, Texas A&M University; master’s degree in accounting, University of north Texas FIRST JOB: Summer job as a teen at a small toy shop in Abilene, Texas. Worked as a bank teller during college. WHAT I’M READING: The 5th Horseman, by James Patterson and Maxine Paetro MY PHILOSOPHY: Focus on what’s most important and don’t let the small things distract you from delivering. FAMILY: Parents, brother, niece, and nephew, all in Texas INTERESTS: Travel, spending time with friends, Dallas Cowboy football FAVORITE CHARITIES: Children’s charities including St. Baldrick’s, Mattel Children’s Hospital, Children Affected by AiDS Foundation
COMPANY: Mattel, inc. HEADQUARTERS: El Segundo, California WEB SITE: www.mattel.com BUSINESS: Worldwide leader in the design, manufacture, and marketing of toys and family products, including brands such as Barbie, Hot Wheels, Matchbox, American Girl, Radica and Tyco R/C, Fisher-Price, and a wide array of entertainment-inspired toy lines ANNUAL REVENUES: $6 billion EMPLOYEES: 30,000
© 2007 Pfizer Inc Printed in USA
In a time of rapid change for our company and for our industry, we believe that the unique perspective of each Pfizer employee is vital. Why? Because the tough health care challenges people are facing today call for new, different, and diverse ways of thinking. That’s why we’re implementing a global strategy to ensure Pfizer’s culture not only respects, but also leverages each individual employee’s background, character, and life experiences. We’re putting those unique perspectives to
work to find new, innovative solutions for patients, and better ways of working with our customers, our partners, and the communities we serve. At Pfizer, we believe diversity means an inclusive and empowering work environment. The result? A happier, healthier tomorrow for us all.
www.pfizer.com
women worth watching in 2009
Kimmy T. Duong
B
Pragmatics, Inc.
born in Nha Trang, vietnam, i grew up during turbulent times in my native country. i was raised with a strong work ethic that has served me well throughout my life—during the years i attended the university of saigon, my career at ibM-vietnam, my immigration to the united states in 1975, my subsequent reemployment with ibM, and my current position as CFO with pragmatics inc. My experiences as a young woman in vietnam are an integral part of who i am today and have shaped my life and leadership style. During my early employment with ibM-vietnam, i pursued a career, working hard to make the most of every opportunity. i had the privilege of working with and being mentored by dynamic colleagues and leaders who encouraged me and helped me to develop technical acumen that led to a number of challenging and enriching positions. and while i received recognition and awards for excellent technical achievement, the most valuable lessons i learned during those years were about integrity, respect, and working as part of a team to do the best possible job in all situations.
I use my position to pass on the lessons I have learned during my career— both the positive and the negative. The greatest challenge i faced was coming to the united states because i had no family in this country. sponsored by ibM, i was able to leave vietnam and come here to build a better life, further my career, and subsequently make a difference for others. i have been able to use my life lessons and good fortune to help raise and mentor five nieces and nephews who came to this country speaking no English. all five attended college here and have gone on to successful careers. i financially support approximately 100 cataract operations each year for the underprivileged in vietnam and sponsor scholarships to enable vietnamese high school students to get better educations. i am currently setting up the Duong-Nguyen Family Trust to provide college education scholarships, something that is of paramount importance to me. as an executive for a government contractor that places a high value on diversity in leadership, i use my position to pass on the lessons i have learned during my career—both the positive and the negative. i believe that it is my duty as a strong business leader to share institutional and strategic knowledge with those who work for me and to serve as a dedicated role model and mentor for those entering the corporate work force.
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TITLE: Chief Financial Officer EDUCATION: Bachelor’s degree in business administration, University of Saigon FIRST JOB: Programmer/analyst at iBM-Vietnam WHAT I’M READING: My busy schedule leaves me little time to read anything except financial, work-related reports and documents!
MY PHILOSOPHY: First: Work hard and do your best. i firmly believe that success in every area stems from consistently putting forth your best effort. Second: Use your success to help others. Find a cause that is important to you and use your energy, resources, and skills to aid others in whatever way you can. FAMILY: Five nieces and nephews INTERESTS: Travel, cooking, and watching the Washington Redskins FAVORITE CHARITY: Duong-nguyen Family Trust
COMPANY: Pragmatics, inc. HEADQUARTERS: McLean, Virginia WEB SITE: www.pragmatics.com BUSINESS: information technology (iT) solutions provider ANNUAL REVENUES: $80 million (estimated) EMPLOYEES: 361
women worth watching in 2009
Lina Echeverría
B
Corning Incorporated
Be true to yourself. For a corporate executive to deliver her best, she needs to be able to bring out her personal power, drive, energy and authenticity, and have the courage to be the best, authentic version of herself. This often means releasing ourselves from the cultural conditioning that expects us to be sweet girls who do not speak up, or that punishes us for being second-rate mothers that work too-long hours. rather, you should express your courage, your inspiration, and your creativity to deliver your best—and allow the feeling of self respect to emerge, leading you to relish the entire experience, without apology. Be intuitive. we are often encouraged to be logical, sequential, analytical and objective. in other words, to work with half of our pistons; the left brain. but we know that some of the most successful in our field also make room for right brain traits. intuition does not ignore good judgment.
How can we possibly expect innovation to happen without the growth and development of the people delivering it? Create an active network. Creating relationships with people who can support your growth and who can contribute meaningfully to your journey, and doing the same in return, is not only necessary, it will enrich your career experience. an open and honest dialogue will do more for furthering our ideas and projects than pushing to have our way. Performance, performance, performance. This is the golden rule of career advancement. remember as you look at your options, that you hold the winning card, there is no such thing as a job description—just many ways of fulfilling it. Balance your life. Just as a powerful engine needs high octane fuel, your spirit needs a source of energy. and that resides outside of work. your hobbies, your passion, your friends and your family will provide that energy that keeps you going. Deliver through people’s growth. This is perhaps the most compelling principle for me today. i feel strongly that accomplishments take place as a result of delivering technology through people. how can we possibly expect innovation to happen without the growth and development of the people delivering it? if there is something that i have learned throughout the years, something that i am truly passionate about, it is the growth of those who work alongside me, their growth as professionals, the advancement of their careers, and their growth as human beings.
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TITLE: Vice President, Science and Technology Director, Exploratory Markets and Technologies, Strategic Growth EDUCATION: Bachelor’s degree, geological engineering, Universidad nacional de Colombia; doctorate, Stanford University FIRST JOB: Junior Geologist, Geominas Consulting Medellin, Colombia WHAT I’M READING: Suite Francaise, by irene nemirovsky; John Steinbeck’s The Grapes of Wrath MY PHILOSOPHY: Expect nothing from life, but be prepared to be surprised. FAMILY: Married, two children INTERESTS: Antidote for stress: jogging, swimming, hiking, weight lifting. Activity for refueling: creating wearable art. FAVORITE CHARITY: FinCA international
COMPANY: Corning incorporated HEADQUARTERS: Corning, new York WEB SITE: www.corning.com BUSINESS: Technology ANNUAL REVENUES: $5.86 billion EMPLOYEES: Approximately 25,000 worldwide
Rise to new
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Chartered by Congress in 1970 to stabilize mortgage markets and expand homeownership, Freddie Mac has always provided exciting careers for people who care about making a positive contribution. Freddie Mac is a leader in the secondary mortgage business—buying, securitizing, guaranteeing and investing in residential mortgages, while providing a low-cost source of credit to finance America’s housing. Join us now in
IT | Finance | Investment and Capital Markets When you join the Freddie Mac team, you’ll discover an inclusive, empowering culture with an equal opportunity employer who recognizes the value of diversity. You’ll also find a total rewards package that supports your success both at work and in your personal life. Apply online at
FreddieMacDiversity.jobs careers with impact
women worth watching in 2009
Robyn L. Ewing
T Williams
The traditional concept of a career ladder has changed dramatically over the years. in my experience, the straight line from one position to the next, leading to a corner-office job, just doesn’t happen very often. The reality is often more circuitous and, in the end, more productive and satisfying. i began my career in iT and accounting, but prior to my appointment as chief administrative officer at williams, i served as the vice president of human resources for 10 years. That was a position i did not anticipate at the beginning of my career, but one that i found to be extremely interesting and fulfilling. in fact, i believe that the nontraditional path i’ve followed has given me a broader and deeper perspective and made me a better leader.
...use life to produce something that outlasts it. being a woman in the energy industry may sound like a very tough position, but i’ve never felt like i’ve encountered an obstacle that was insurmountable. i believe a successful career, like a successful life, is very dependent on your mindset, your capacity for hard work, and the ability to integrate pieces of your life together as appropriate. and, i’ve been fortunate to work with good leaders along the way. a common phrase often heard today is ‘work-life balance.’ For me, it’s always been more like ‘work-life integration.’ There are times when your work takes precedence, and other times when your personal life takes precedence. both are always present. it’s a matter of which one rises to the top at a particular time. i don’t know that one ever finds ‘balance’ in the true sense of the word. instead, i believe you learn to integrate the pieces of your life in a way that makes sense and is most satisfying. a few approaches to consider might include: • Integrating the pieces of your life in ways that engage and sustain you personally and professionally. • Being open to new, unexpected opportunities. • Finding new ways to showcase your contributions. • Looking for volunteer work in the nonprofit world that broadens your skills set. • Focusing on purpose. Most importantly, use life to produce something that outlasts it. That’s the axiom i keep next to my computer and the way i try to approach my life personally and in my career.
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TITLE: Chief Administrative Officer EDUCATION: BA in accounting; executive programs, Wharton Business School FIRST JOB: COBOL programmer in information technology WHAT I’M READING: My Sister’s Keeper: A Novel, by Jodi Picoult MY PHILOSOPHY: Use life to provide something that outlasts it. FAMILY: Married, four children, five grandchildren INTERESTS: Travel, cooking, gardening, reading FAVORITE CHARITY: United Way
COMPANY: Williams HEADQUARTERS: Tulsa, Oklahoma WEB SITE: www.williams.com BUSINESS: integrated natural gas company that produces, processes and transports natural gas to heat homes and power electric generation from coast to coast ANNUAL REVENUES: $10.5 billion EMPLOYEES: 4,400
At UnitedHealth Group, unique is everywhere. In our approach to health care. In each segment of our business. In every professional. In the career opportunities we offer. As a global leader in health care, UnitedHealth Group is committed to creating a workforce of unique individuals. Their unique perspectives bring about innovative ideas. It is the unique backgrounds, lifestyles and beliefs our professionals bring to their work that fuels innovation, creates a healthy environment and drives us towards our goal of creating a better health care system. Founded in 1974, UnitedHealth Group has since grown into a Fortune 100 company. Our family of businesses work tirelessly to advance the quality and access to care while making services more affordable and easier to use for everyone. Our work impacts the lives of nearly 55 million people and helps coordinate care for more than 20 million more. As unique as the many businesses that unite to form UnitedHealth Group, are the career opportunities they offer. From accounting to marketing, clinical to claims, the employment experience at UnitedHealth Group is second to none. Regardless of their unique talents, our professionals are united to improve health care for everyone.
Let us hear your unique voice in these careers available nationwide throughout our family of businesses.
• Business Analysts • Customer Care Professionals • Financial Analysts • Information Technology • Inside & Field Sales • Product Associates • Underwriting Analysts Through innovative leadership in health care, UnitedHealth Group provides ongoing career opportunities for diverse individuals, enriching the employment experience and creating a healthier atmosphere for all. UnitedHealth Group is an equal opportunity employer and employs individuals based on job-related qualifications regardless of race, religion, sex, national origin, age, or other protected characteristics. M/F/D/V.
To view current career opportunities, and to apply online, visit our CAREERS page at www.unitedhealthgroup.com.
women worth watching in 2009
Lauren Flaherty
W Nortel
whether as the mailroom clerk at ibM or as Nortel’s chief marketing officer, i have never let people tell me what i could not do. i have focused on what i knew i could accomplish and pursued it. i had a clear vision of what i wanted my future to look like, and i did not waver in my quest for success. Every career has its obstacles; some easy, others more difficult. but it is the way in which we overcome these challenges that shapes our careers. in the early 1980s, technology sector career paths for women were often set by gender. Out of college, women typically started as administrative assistants and worked their way up from there. as my typing was not quite up to speed, i had to find another way. i had an interest in technology and was determined to make my mark on the sector, even if it meant starting in the mailroom at ibM.
Remain a work in progress and remember that anything you want is possible. More difficult to overcome was my crippling fear of public speaking early in my career. rather than avoid doing it, i recognized public speaking as a skill i needed to master to be successful. i registered for public speaking classes and sought opportunities to speak in front of audiences. plenty of practice and the encouragement of colleagues boosted my confidence, and today public speaking has become something that i enjoy doing. while we like to think that we can do it all by ourselves, a strong support system is an important element of success. This includes friends and family, as well as mentors to help guide you. There are times when i could not have gone on without my personal team of cheerleaders. My mentors have been pivotal to my success. Mentors provide the confidence and the required road map to help you achieve your career goals. My mentors gave me a push when i needed it, but they also nurtured me and helped me develop my talents. i continue to participate in mentoring programs at Nortel and externally as well. Mentoring has played and continues to play an important role in my career, and i encourage you to seek out mentors to help you reach your goals. My personal advice is to love what you do and be good at it. remain a “work in progress” and remember that anything you want is possible.
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TITLE: Chief Marketing Officer EDUCATION: BA, Syracuse University FIRST JOB: iBM mailroom WHAT I’M READING: Team of Rivals: The Political Genius of Abraham Lincoln, by Doris kearns Goodwin MY PHILOSOPHY: Be young, have fun! FAMILY: Married with two children INTERESTS: Gardening, sailing, outdoor activities FAVORITE CHARITIES: United Way, UniCEF, Humane Society
COMPANY: nortel HEADQUARTERS: Toronto, Canada WEB SITE: www.nortel.com BUSINESS: Hardware and software solutions designed to improve the way consumers and businesses communicate ANNUAL REVENUES: $10.95 billion, 2007 revenues U.S. GAAP EMPLOYEES: 33,000
It’s people from all walks that make the world run. The world is a vast collection of people, cultures and ideas. And as a global company working in over 100 countries, we embrace the unique vision that a truly diverse workforce brings. With the broad experience of our more than 59,000 employees, we harness the most powerful energy of all — human energy. To learn more, visit chevron.com.
9.75"
CHEVRON and HUMAN ENERGY are registered trademarks of Chevron Intellectual Property LLC. The CHEVRON HALLMARK is a trademark of Chevron Intellectual Property LLC. © 2008 Chevron Corporation. All rights reserved.
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women worth watching in 2009
Shaun M. Fracassi
I
Kelly Services, Inc.
it is hard to think about the topic of leadership without thinking of the individuals and teams that i have worked with over the years. i have been fortunate to learn as much from them as i hope i have imparted along the way. it really is a continuous process, and i am grateful for each experience and what i have gained from it. i have always thought of leadership as a legacy, in terms of what you give back and what you leave behind. Clearly you direct your focus and activities, and that of your team, to achieve the business objectives at hand. yet, much of the value you deliver through coaching, mentoring, and developing others may not fully manifest until long after you have moved on from your role.
In the end, leadership is less about what you do and more about who you are. Embracing that responsibility is rewarding and humbling at the same time, particularly when you consider the role of female leaders. There is often an underlying symbolism that you learn to appreciate as you progress. at some point you realize that it’s not so much about individual accomplishments, but rather what your career success represents to other aspiring females. The progression itself can be inspiring. beyond that you have a greater opportunity to set a positive example, to guide, counsel, and help develop the next generation of leaders. i believe that to be a very critical component of my job. i have been with Kelly services inc. for 23 years. From my start as an entrylevel supervisor to my current role as senior vice president, i’ve had the opportunity to serve as a formal mentor for more than a dozen people and function informally countless times. it is important to be accessible for that exchange, whether speaking to a group of new recruits, discussing a career path, or responding to a request for guidance or perspective on a given issue. it demonstrates the capacity and willingness to grow and cultivate growth in others in order to achieve positive results. in the end, leadership is less about what you do and more about who you are.
TITLE: Senior Vice President and General Manager EDUCATION: AS in business administration, Central Michigan University; Executive Education Studies, University of Michigan Business School FIRST JOB: Age 14, shift lead at a soft-serve ice cream restaurant WHAT I’M READING: War on the Middle Class: How the Government, Big Business and Special Interest Groups Are Waging War on the American Dream and How to Fight Back, by Lou Dobbs MY PHILOSOPHY: Leadership is more about who you are, than what you do. Open yourself up to learn from those around you and recognize that it is a continuous process. Focus intently on what you give back and leave behind; that is your leadership legacy. Remain true to yourself, your personal beliefs, and values, and they will always be apparent in your actions. FAMILY: Husband, daughter, and son INTERESTS: Boating, skiing, cooking, reading, and family time FAVORITE CHARITIES: Salvation Army and March of Dimes
COMPANY: kelly Services, inc. HEADQUARTERS: Troy, Michigan WEB SITE: www.kellyservices.com BUSINESS: Human resources solutions ANNUAL REVENUES: $5.7 billion EMPLOYEES: 8,600 full-time employees
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women worth watching in 2009
Katherine Giscombe
W Catalyst
when i give young people advice on careers, i always talk about the power of networking. The best job leads i have received have stemmed from other people’s appreciation of small kindnesses. back in the recession of the early 1990s, i was part of a mass layoff from a large company in New york. i had always been friendly with a woman in a neighboring department that also was downsized. she met a man at a social event who was looking to hire someone with my qualifications. My acquaintance tracked me down and got a note to me with her contact’s name and phone number. i interviewed for the job and got it, starting the position eight weeks to the day that i was laid off.
It was extremely important to me to feel that I was making a positive difference in people’s lives. The job itself, which had an international focus, turned into one of the most rewarding experiences i have ever had. My perspectives on work broadened with the travel i did to locales as varied as the Czech republic, Germany, and China. Most importantly, navigating the political landmines of this job made me grow in toughness and maturity. i thanked my former colleague profusely for the job lead, but i do not think she ever realized what a big favor she did. i also advise people to go where their passion takes them. as much as i grew while working in the private sector, at a certain point i realized that i needed work that was better aligned with my personal values. it was extremely important to me to feel that i was making a positive difference in people’s lives. i explored options in social marketing, epidemiology, and organizational development before choosing to work at Catalyst, a nonprofit, in 1996, leading the organization’s new work on women of color in the workplace. it has been the most fulfilling choice i could have made—one that has let me and my team make a real difference to the quality of working lives of women of color and has helped organizations become more inclusive of their diverse talent.
TITLE: Vice President, Women of Color Research EDUCATION: BA in psychology, University of Michigan; PhD in organizational psychology, University of Michigan FIRST JOB: My first job in high school was as an assistant in my father’s medical office; my first job during college was at the University of Michigan laundry WHAT I’M READING: Covering: The Hidden Assault on Our Civil Rights, by kenji Yoshino MY PHILOSOPHY: “The good you do today may be quickly forgotten, but the impact of what you do will never disappear.”—Anonymous FAMILY: Large and loving extended family INTERESTS: Economic development issues affecting people of color, intergenerational wealth transmission, professional fitness conventions (semiannual attendance), creative writing FAVORITE CHARITY: Southern Poverty Law Center
COMPANY: Catalyst HEADQUARTERS: new York City WEB SITE: www.catalyst.org BUSINESS: nonprofit focused on women in the workplace. Catalyst has received the highest rating from the American institute of Philanthropy for maximizing the effectiveness of every dollar contributed. ANNUAL REVENUES: $11 million (revenue and support) EMPLOYEES: 63 full-time and 6 part-time employees
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women worth watching in 2009
Gloria Johnson Goins
I
The Home Depot
i firmly believe that to whom much is given, much is required. as a corporate executive, it is important to share your talents, counsel, and knowledge with those who are less experienced. i consider it a privilege and an honor for someone to want to stand on my shoulders to reach the top. in my own career, i credit a great deal of my success to those who were willing to allow me to stand on their shoulders. Those individuals were willing to coach, support, and guide me in my professional and personal endeavors. whenever i have an opportunity to mentor, i reflect back on the experiences that enabled me to progress in my career, and i willingly make the time to support others in their progression.
TITLE: Chief Diversity Officer EDUCATION: MBA in marketing, Mercer University, Atlanta, Georgia; JD, University of Pennsylvania School of Law, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; BA in psychology, departmental honors, Stanford University, Palo Alto, California FIRST JOB: Private law firm in Miami
The most important benefit of mentoring is that it helps you build your personal brand—and that’s powerful.
WHAT I’M READING: Latino Talent: Effective Strategies to Recruit, Retain and Develop Hispanic Professionals, by Robert Rodriguez MY PHILOSOPHY: To whom much is given, much is required. FAMILY: Married to Prince Leon Goins; one daughter, Grace Princess
The best career advice that i ever received came from a mentor who stressed the importance of creating networks both inside and outside the workplace. when people are early in their careers, they often tend to limit their involvement to work activities and neglect to participate in community or civic activities. as time passes, this will prove to be a career mistake. Many of the relationships created outside work can actually make you more effective and influential in your current role. in addition, you grow personally and professionally when you give back to a cause and organization in which you are genuinely interested. in addition to encouraging professionals to build internal and external networks, i also encourage them to become and to utilize mentors. Mentorship provides great opportunities and benefits for both parties. when you mentor others, you not only gain new information and insight about their background and experiences, but you also can increase your internal network and potentially reenergize your career. The most important benefit of mentoring is that it helps you build your personal brand—and that’s powerful.
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INTERESTS: Volunteering, traveling, and reading nonfiction books, particularly on the subject of personal finance FAVORITE CHARITY: Girls inc.
COMPANY: The Home Depot HEADQUARTERS: Atlanta, Georgia WEB SITE: www.homedepot.com BUSINESS: Retail ANNUAL REVENUES: $77.3 billion EMPLOYEES: More than 300,000
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women worth watching in 2009
Kara Ferber Gordon
C
Rohm and Haas Company
Calvin Coolidge once said, “Nothing in the world can take the place of persistence. Talent will not; nothing is more common than unsuccessful men with talent. Genius will not; unrewarded genius is almost a proverb. Education will not; the world is full of educated derelicts. persistence and determination alone are omnipotent…” while education has been a key factor in my own success, no amount of talent, genius, or education can be truly effective without persistence and commitment. when i find myself facing adversity, i reach inside and rely on my desire to achieve success despite that nervous feeling that says this could be a bumpy ride! Clearly i have benefited from the talents of teachers and mentors along the way who prepared me to be in a position where i could achieve. and there have been many people whose guidance, love, and confidence in me have been indispensable. but when the significant challenges in life create “headwinds,” persistence is the force to propel me onward.
When I find myself facing adversity, I reach inside and rely on my desire to achieve success...
TITLE: Director, Global Employment and Benefits Law EDUCATION: BS in communications, Emerson College, Boston, Massachusetts; JD, Villanova University School of Law, Villanova, Pennsylvania FIRST JOB: Associate producer, Greatest Sports Legends
WHAT I’M READING: The Inheritance of Loss, by kiran Desai; What Happened: Inside the Bush White House and Washington’s Culture of Deception, by Scott McClellan; Three Cups of Tea: One Man’s Mission to Promote Peace—One School at a Time, by Greg Mortenson MY PHILOSOPHY: “Success is not the key to happiness. Happiness is the key to success. if you love what you are doing, you will be successful.”—Albert Schweitzer FAMILY: Happily married.
There are countless valuable lessons that i’ve learned from mentors and others, but my favorite is that it’s not the mistake that matters but how you recover from the mistake. you can wallow in it and become defensive about the decision that led to the mistake, or you can learn from it and move on. Graceful recovery while correcting the problem is the best way to move forward. it shows others that you recognize that changing course sometimes is necessary. it also takes the focus off the mistake and points instead toward the solution. There are other principles that are important to me: i try to remain true to myself and to the values that i learned early in life. i hold my set of personal ethics close in every decision i make, especially those decisions that i know can have a profound effect on others. i also tend to be direct so that others know where i stand. My advice to other aspiring women is to remember persistence. strive to achieve what you can with the persistence of one whose focus is unwavering, whose hopes are immeasurable, and whose tenacity is unbreakable.
INTERESTS: English bulldogs, travel, movies, reading FAVORITE CHARITIES: HeavenSent Bulldog Rescue, Red Cross, Animal Welfare Association
COMPANY: Rohm and Haas Company HEADQUARTERS: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania WEB SITE: www.RohmHaas.com BUSINESS: Specialty materials ANNUAL REVENUES: $8.8 billion EMPLOYEES: 15,500
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WHAT’S POS SIBLE
FOR ME?
Children watch their parents to see what's possible. From the time she was 4, Emily Uniman has seen the success her mother has had and imagines a world of unlimited possibilities. Lynne Fischman Uniman is the managing partner of Andrews Kurth's New York office. She is a firm leader, a trial lawyer and an example of the achievement that is possible for all women at Andrews Kurth. We congratulate Lynne for being selected as a woman "worth watching" andrewskurth.com
and we are proud of her.
Andrews Kurth LLP t 600 Travis t Suite 4200 t Houston, Texas 77002 t P. 713.220.4200 450 Lexington Avenue t New York, New York 10017 t P. 212.850.2800
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women worth watching in 2009
Faith Renee Greenfield
M
Campbell Soup Company
Much of the pride and satisfaction of my job comes from assisting and supporting others in their professional ambitions and career growth. in my experience, the most effective mentoring relationships thrive only in the presence of mutual respect between two individuals. Fortunately, in my career, i was the beneficiary of several strong mentoring relationships, and they have fueled my interest in being a mentor for others. in all cases, my mentors had a significant influence on me. Each mentor was a person whom i admired for his or her abilities and achievements. i learned from each of them the importance of setting challenging goals and persisting in the pursuit of those goals within a framework of principled values.
Through coaching and mentoring, I am able to give back and, in a sense, pay tribute to the mentors who have coached me.
TITLE: Vice President of Legal, Chief Litigation Counsel EDUCATION: BA in history, Penn State University, 1976; Temple University School of Law, 1979 FIRST JOB: Restaurant dishwasher WHAT I’M READING: The Age of Turbulence: Adventures in a New World, by Alan Greenspan MY PHILOSOPHY: To be successful, know where you are going and work relentlessly to get there. FAMILY: Husband
My father was my first mentor. as a young teenager, i recall confiding in him my desire to be a lawyer. he not only encouraged my interest in the law, but also instilled in me the belief that my aspiration was achievable. he taught me that if i sincerely wanted something and was willing to devote myself to attaining it, i would be successful. My father’s philosophy—to understand first the direction in which one wants to travel and then to focus all of one’s energy on that journey—has helped me throughout my career. successful mentoring begins with respect and trust, which can only be established if the mentor keeps promises and is honest and candid. The expression of a sincere desire to help another person achieve his or her potential also goes a long way in constructing a strong mentoring bond. asking the right questions and listening to the answers are also critical. and, of course, well-timed praise and constructive criticism play important roles as well. Through coaching and mentoring, i am able to give back and, in a sense, pay tribute to the mentors who have coached me. i would like to think that through my coaching and mentoring i have helped, and will continue to help, others achieve their professional potential. in the end, one of the measures of my success as a mentor will be whether the beneficiaries of the relationship are inspired to become mentors themselves.
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INTERESTS: Weight training, reading, wine FAVORITE CHARITY: Organizations that fight breast cancer
COMPANY: Campbell Soup Company HEADQUARTERS: Camden, new Jersey WEB SITE: www.campbellsoup.com BUSINESS: Consumer goods ANNUAL REVENUES: $7.9 billion EMPLOYEES: 19,000
women worth watching in 2009
Carla Harris
A
Morgan Stanley
as smart people, we are inclined to study, weigh risks, study, weigh risks, study, weigh risks, and analyze, analyze, analyze. sometimes we analyze so much that we don’t want to move, or we become afraid to move. in our analyzing, we sometimes identify as many cons as there are pros, and we become virtually paralyzed. Great leaders are decisive; they act. They mobilize. They study, they weigh the risks, and then they act. They make decisions. They move the ball forward in the scheme of executing strategic plans. if you are going to be a great leader in the 21st century, you have to be willing to act, to make tough decisions. No one will follow someone who is indecisive.
If you are going to be a great leader in the 21st century, you have to be willing to act, to make tough decisions. i had the privilege of hearing Meg whitman, CEO of ebay, speak earlier last year, and she said something that really hit at the heart of this pearl of leadership. her point: “The price of inaction is greater than the cost of making a mistake.” in being decisive and mobilizing to action, you must be willing to take risks. Great leaders are great because they take risks—professional risks, capital risks, and even personal risks. if you think about why we don’t take risks, it is usually fear that holds us back. when i find myself hesitating to make a decision or to take a risk, i remind myself of two things: First, that F-E-a-r stands for False Evidence of things appearing real; and a passage from the bible, Timothy 2:9, “God did not give us the spirit of fear, but of a power, courage, and a sound mind.”
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TITLE: Managing Director EDUCATION: AB in economics, magna cum laude, Harvard University; MBA, Harvard Business School FIRST JOB: Morgan Stanley in the mergers and acquisitions department WHAT I’M READING: The Bible in a Year MY PHILOSOPHY: Own and leverage your personal power.
FAMILY: Married to Victor A. Franklin INTERESTS: Community service, mentoring, gospel singing and performing, golf, reading FAVORITE CHARITY: i have many that i am passionate about. key interests include hunger, education, music, and health care.
COMPANY: Morgan Stanley HEADQUARTERS: new York City WEB SITE: www.morganstanley.com BUSINESS: Financial services ANNUAL REVENUES: $28 billion EMPLOYEES: 45,212
Diversity A wide range of people and experience helps Morgan Stanley to think globally and act with deep local understanding. That’s why we take diversity seriously in all aspects of our business— from our employees, to our customers, to the companies that supply us with the goods and services that enable us to do business. At Morgan Stanley, we understand that diversity is not an obligation—it’s an opportunity.
Investments and services offered through Morgan Stanley & Co. Incorporated, member SIPC. © 2008 Morgan Stanley
www.morganstanley.com/diversity
women worth watching in 2009
Janel S. Haugarth
P
SUPERVALU INC.
president lyndon b. Johnson once said, “we must open the doors of opportunity. but we must also equip our people to walk through those doors.” To me, this is the essence of mentoring—preparing people to take the next steps in their career. i’ve been fortunate to have received this support throughout my career, and i hope that i’ve imparted something similar to those i’ve mentored, as well. i have had the benefit of two exceptional mentors throughout my career. i can honestly say that their advice and friendship made the difference in how i got to where i am today. although i always relied on my intuition, it was the confidence and support of my mentors that buoyed me when i was finding myself doubting decisions or nervous about leaping into a new challenge.
It’s the relationship of support and trust that you build that counts more than anything.
TITLE: Executive Vice President; President and COO, Supply Chain Services EDUCATION: BA in business administration and accounting, University of Mary, Bismarck, north Dakota FIRST JOB: Summer childcare for a family WHAT I’M READING: The Future of Management, by Gary Hamel and Bill Breen; and A Leader’s Legacy, by James M. kouzes and Barry Z. Posner MY PHILOSOPHY: Golden rule in everything i do: Treat others as you would want to be treated. INTERESTS: Gardening, hiking
when i began my career 30 years ago, i was firmly on a finance track. a mentor encouraged me to broaden my view by gaining exposure to the operations side of our business. This is where my road to success began to take turns as i was encouraged to take new positions that were sometimes a step or two back in a traditional career progression. however, they proved to be the right steps for achieving my goals. Many people ask me whether it is important for women to have other women as mentors. while i certainly believe in women supporting one another’s careers, i would never advise anyone to turn down a mentor because of gender. in my career, the grocery supply chain business is traditionally a maledominated field, so my opportunities for female mentors were few. as a result, my mentors have been men who connected with me and challenged me to look at my career growth and opportunities in a new light. remember, mentors come in all sizes, shapes, and both genders. it’s the relationship of support and trust that you build that counts more than anything.
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FAVORITE CHARITIES: Second Harvest and Associated Food Shelves
COMPANY: SUPERVALU inC. HEADQUARTERS: Eden Prairie, Minnesota WEB SITE: www.supervalu.com BUSINESS: Grocery retailing and supply chain services ANNUAL REVENUES: $44 billion EMPLOYEES: 192,000
Raytheon People
Innovation. Driven by Diversity. 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.
We’re proud to feature Raytheon employees in our ads. To join them in a rewarding career, visit
www.rayjobs.com © 2008 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 2009
Patricia A. Heffernan
I
Lifetime Care Home Health and Hospice
i credit adhering to the Golden rule for my upward career path. Giving the same consideration to a janitor as you would to the CEO puts you on a path toward fair and equal treatment for all. several key individuals who invested their time and energy in me and who were there for me in times of self-doubt and uncertainty were another powerful influence. From those experiences, i concluded that mentoring should be a lifelong pursuit, not restricted to discrete moments in time. when a waiter at a restaurant i used to visit was about to graduate from college, i offered to review his resume and role-play a mock interview with him to offer some feedback. we met at the college library, acted as though we were just being introduced, did the interview, and then talked through ways he could improve. Over the years i have conducted mock interviews with dozens of people and supervised many college students during internships required for social work degrees. i find that teaching others can be an effective way to cement lessons within yourself.
I find that teaching others can be an effective way to cement lessons within yourself. being a mentor is my way of “paying it forward.” (hollywood really messed up that concept!) i have been blessed with several important mentors. Every time i counsel someone, i do it in their honor. i challenge each person i mentor to do the same for others as a way of paying me back. i have received much more from others than i have been able to give, but it is a lifelong journey to try to even the score. i also believe it’s vital to offer a solution anytime you report a problem or challenge. imagine you are in charge, and brainstorm ideas for improvement. Create a work environment that encourages others to share their insights. and remember that every employee has a life at home that they are working to support. acknowledging and respecting that will help you assure a proper balance for them. as my final piece of advice, i offer three sentences that will free you as a professional: i am sorry. i made a mistake. if i could do it again, i would do it differently.
TITLE: President EDUCATION: BS in social work, Buffalo State College, new York; MSW, Syracuse University FIRST JOB: Social worker at agency for developmentally disabled children and adults in Rochester, new York WHAT I’M READING: Psychological thrillers or murder mysteries, such as John Sandford’s Prey series, for pleasure and intellectual rejuvenation
MY PHILOSOPHY: As a person and as a company president, i am guided by the Golden Rule. i learned it from my grandfather at age 9, and it remains my management credo today. it guides my decisions about our employees and the patients we serve. FAMILY: Mother, sister, two brothers, and a large “family of choice” to whom i’m related by heart. INTERESTS: Travel (have visited all 50 states), bringing friends and family together for sunsets, campfires, breaking bread FAVORITE CHARITY: Hospice and anything that helps children
COMPANY: Lifetime Care Home Health and Hospice HEADQUARTERS: Rochester, new York WEB SITE: www.LifetimeCare.org BUSINESS: Providing health care services at home and in homelike settings ANNUAL REVENUES: $75 million EMPLOYEES: 1,277 (includes part-time and per diem)
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women worth watching in 2009
Roz Ho
I
Microsoft
i have always been different. when i was growing up, i always thought i would make astonishing scientific discoveries that would change the world for the better, or maybe become an astronaut exploring outer space. Or sometimes i thought i would become a great leader and solve world problems. My heroes were the likes of albert Einstein, louis pasteur, alexander Graham bell, winston Churchill, and alexander the Great. That they were all male did not deter me. My family emigrated from hong Kong to san Francisco when i was 11. i had to adapt to a new culture and a new language. as i got older, i grew used to being one of the few women in math and engineering classes, then being in the minority at work. Further in my career, i was an engineer who was interested in business. i spent many years trying to belong and blend in, before i realized that being an outsider taught me skills that made me an effective leader.
A lifelong lesson is not accepting “no” easily and pushing the envelope. i was a keen observer and interpreter of culture, because i had to understand the dominant culture in order to navigate it. being an outsider also meant that i had to learn to develop connections with many different types of people quickly. but i also became independent; i had to come up with solutions to problems and not rely on someone else to solve them. a lifelong lesson is not accepting “no” easily and pushing the envelope. as a leader, having a sense of purpose is extremely important. being able to connect with others so that they also share your sense of purpose will help you build strong cohesive teams. i find that defining a set of values and articulating them clearly will further reinforce that sense of purpose. i have observed and studied many great leaders, and i have found that the most effective and inspirational leaders are those that are true to themselves. The values that come from your heart will resonate best with others. My final advice is to work in a profession that you love, and to do everything with passion. you will do your best work when you are truly engaged.
TITLE: Corporate Vice President, Premium Mobile Experiences EDUCATION: Bachelor’s degree in computer science from the University of California, Berkeley FIRST JOB: Securities transaction processing at Bank of America while in college WHAT I’M READING: Men of Salt: Crossing the Sahara on the Caravan of White Gold, by Michael Benanav MY PHILOSOPHY: Question conventional wisdom and use imagination to stretch what is possible. Embrace your difference and always be authentic to yourself. INTERESTS: Skiing, travel to remote places, archaeology, history, adrenaline sports in general FAVORITE CHARITY: Microloans
COMPANY: Microsoft HEADQUARTERS: Redmond, Washington WEB SITE: www.microsoft.com BUSINESS: Software development ANNUAL REVENUES: $51 billion EMPLOYEES: 79,000
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women worth watching in 2009
Marjorie Hoey
W Interpublic Group
we all need help along the way. whether we work in corporations, government agencies, not-for-profits, educational institutions or hospitals, working with, learning from, and helping each other are keys to our success. i happen to work in a large corporation and it has been my experience that when people work together wonderful things can happen. successful leaders foster this kind of collaborative environment while allowing individual strengths to develop. and this is where mentoring comes in. Many of us have had the experience of working on teams or in groups growing up. you learned from the coach, of course, but you probably also learned from your older, more experienced teammates. Maybe we didn’t call it such at the time, but this was mentoring.
Good leaders cultivate an environment of trust and continually invest in their people. i have been very fortunate in my career to have had people all along the way who guided and supported me, starting with my parents, my first mentors. They taught me that there wasn’t anything i couldn’t do if i put my mind to it. later, i went to law school at night while working in the law department of a large company. The lawyers there were incredibly generous of their time and energy, always ready with advice, talking about the law, helping me when i had questions, and giving me what amounted to a real-life legal education. as i look back on my career, it seems to me that i flourished in places where i felt supported, encouraged, and trusted. There certainly have been companies where i didn’t find that sort of environment. i think you have to seek out supportive places and people. The second part of the equation is to share that help. Good leaders cultivate an environment of trust and continually invest in their people. helping and encouraging people to find ways they can contribute build confidence, morale, and momentum. Communication is key. listening is crucial. people are wonderfully different and diverse but everybody needs to feel heard and acknowledged. This kind of mentoring can be formal or informal, but it is something we owe each other and our organizations. if we do this, then we have not only created a positive and productive environment for the present, but also are fostering confident future leaders who will carry that positive energy forward.
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TITLE: Vice President, Associate General Counsel, and Assistant Secretary EDUCATION: BA in English, Manhattanville College; MBA and JD, Fordham University FIRST JOB: Floor assistant at Martins Department Store in Brooklyn and camp counselor WHAT I’M READING: Pillars of the Earth, by ken Follett; Ladies of Liberty: The Women Who Shaped Our Nation, by Cokie Roberts MY PHILOSOPHY: Start where you are and remember it is all about relationships. FAMILY: My husband, Pete; Matt Hoey, my 95-year-old father; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins INTERESTS: Farming, yoga, cooking, kayaking FAVORITE CHARITY: The nature Conservancy
COMPANY: interpublic Group HEADQUARTERS: new York City WEB SITE: www.interpublic.com BUSINESS: Marketing services ANNUAL REVENUES: $6.55 billion, 2007 EMPLOYEES: 43,000
women worth watching in 2009
Diane J. Hoskins
W Gensler
when asked what motivates and invigorates me as a leader, i do not hesitate to say that above all else, i am intrigued by innovation and excellence— the ongoing search for ways to do things better and smarter. we live in a complex world and Gensler clients are looking for “game-changing” ideas—and that means redefining the possibilities! after many years in business, it is still a source of excitement and pride to see people achieve excellence. My objective at Gensler is to nurture in others an understanding and appreciation of the power of innovation and excellence and how to achieve extraordinary design as individual talents working in teams. There is no question that individual ideas and achievements are a vital part of the creative process. however, powerful synergies develop when groups of creative thinkers come together. when a team takes that seminal idea, builds upon and transforms it, the best ideas become extraordinary design concepts. The spontaneous generation of genius in the group setting generates creative momentum in the group—that’s when the transformative power of synergy is ignited!
Innovation requires the synergy of diverse talent—it is truly a team sport. Effective leadership requires a balance between the unrelenting commitment to excellence, and the empowerment of the individual talent to develop and grow. Excellence and empowerment must be balanced; singular focus on either creates unintended consequences. with a strong drive for excellence only, it is possible to frustrate new and undeveloped emerging talent that needs supporting and nurturing, not heavy-handed criticism. likewise, a leader who fails to monitor and manage individuals’ empowerment runs the risk of multiple objectives undermining the clarity of purpose. achieving superior results also means motivating team members. True leadership is about being able to raise the bar, motivating others to reexamine, reevaluate, and rethink without losing enthusiasm or commitment. working with our firm’s leadership—all of whom are committed to collaboration and synergy as a “one firm firm”—has been a source of energy and inspiration for me at Gensler. Throughout my career, i have found that the most compelling and accomplished leaders are the ones who think this way. My daily effort continues to ensure that, as our team strives for ever-greater excellence, everyone at Gensler knows that i look for the best in them and strive to help them achieve their greatest potential.
TITLE: Executive Director EDUCATION: BS, Massachusetts institute of Technology (M.i.T.), School of Architecture and Urban Planning; MBA, University of California at Los Angeles (UCLA), The John E. Anderson Graduate School of Management FIRST JOB: Architect, Skidmore Owings & Merrill (SOM) WHAT I’M READING: The Collaborative Enterprise: Managing Speed and Complexity in Knowledge-based Businesses, by Charles Heckscher MY PHILOSOPHY: The architect’s responsibility is to apply both creative strategy and creative design to every project. INTERESTS: Organic cooking, music, art FAVORITE CHARITY: Here’s Life inner City
COMPANY: Gensler HEADQUARTERS: San Francisco, California WEB SITE: www.Gensler.com BUSINESS: Architecture, Design, Planning, Strategic Consulting ANNUAL REVENUES: $435 million EMPLOYEES: 3,000
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women worth watching in 2009
Linda P. Hudson
T
BAE Systems Land and Armaments
Throughout my career, i have developed a personal philosophy of what it means to be a leader. as a woman in a male-dominated field, i have come to believe that leadership traits are gender neutral and that the required attributes evolve as circumstances and organizations change. leadership is a concept that is difficult to define, but you know it when you see it. From my experience, an effective leader must inspire people, establish a sense of direction, create change, and anticipate customer needs while effectively balancing her personal and professional lives. in addition to these responsibilities, a leader helps find the right lens, the right perspective, and the right angle of view. it is the leader’s job to find the next right answer and make the tough decisions to get there.
Leadership doesn’t just happen while you are at work; it’s a 24/7 state of being. but above all, leaders are passionate and committed to what they do. leadership doesn’t just happen while you are at work; it’s a 24/7 state of being. Over the years, i’ve had the opportunity to meet several great leaders. while the list of attributes they share is long, four critical traits stand out above the rest: honesty: Nothing is more important than personal integrity and ethical behavior. i’m not just talking about what is legal. i’m talking about what is right. you never get a second chance to be trusted and respected. passion: be passionate about everything you do. you should play as hard as you work, and you should have fun at both. it has been my experience that the most successful business people have incredibly interesting personal lives. They are often well-traveled, well-read, have exciting hobbies and interests, and are generous with their time and money. Excellence: hold yourself and your people accountable to a high standard of performance. you must lead by example and never ask your employees to work harder than you are willing to work yourself. Flexibility: be flexible, open-minded, and cooperative—no matter what! Embrace change and uncertainty. Continue to brutally reassess everything. be proactive, and act quickly to adapt to the changing marketplace. again, the list of traits shared by successful leaders is extensive, but these four traits continue to prove valuable and relevant. They have become critical components of my leadership philosophy. as you develop into the leaders of tomorrow, i encourage you to consider how these traits relate to you and your vision of leadership. 100
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TITLE: President EDUCATION: BS in systems engineering, with honors, University of Florida FIRST JOB: Research and development engineer, Harris Corporation, Melbourne, Florida
WHAT I’M READING: i just finished Infidel, by Ayaan Hirsi Ali, and i am starting What Happened: Inside the Bush White House and Washington’s Culture of Deception, by Scott McClellan. MY PHILOSOPHY: The challenge is that we all must be everyday leaders inspiring everyday creativity, leading by example, and taking the time to win the hearts and minds of those who work for us. FAMILY: Daughter, Jordan Mingus, and son-in-law, Frank Mingus; three grandchildren, izabell, 9; Lilly, 4; and Malaki, 2 INTERESTS: Yoga, international Women’s Forum, adventure travel, reading, gourmet cooking FAVORITE CHARITIES: The United Way and the USO
COMPANY: BAE Systems Land and Armaments HEADQUARTERS: Arlington, Virginia WEB SITE: www.baesystems.com/ Businesses/LandArmaments BUSINESS: Defense contractor ANNUAL REVENUES: £3.538 billion EMPLOYEES: 20,700
women worth watching in 2009
Andrea R. Huff
M
Lee Hecht Harrison
My career path has been a combination of corporate and entrepreneurial experiences that has allowed me to build businesses and contribute to the development of talented people in many organizations. some of my most satisfying personal experiences were building and selling three different companies from start-up operations. in each endeavor, talent, strategy, sales, and operations were the critical components. being an entrepreneur helped me learn accountability because, at the end of the day, you and your employees will have a paycheck only if you’re delivering value to your customers.
...developing talent was the biggest contribution I could make to an organization. it’s the same in my corporate career, consulting and coaching larger organizations to achieve top performance. if you aren’t focusing on the four elements of talent, strategy, sales, and operations, your company will not achieve its full potential. ultimately, this starts and ends with people. That’s why i decided that developing talent was the biggest contribution i could make to an organization. in my current role as Chief learning Officer (ClO) at lee hecht harrison and as a member of the company’s executive team, i’ve created talent management services for our employees and external customers who want to hire, engage, retain, and develop the best talent for their companies. in my position as ClO, my past line management experience has enabled me to approach learning and talent management as tools to produce results for the business. since our organization provides talent solutions, we believe that to have credibility with our customers, we must “walk the talk” by offering our own employees a full scope of development services similar to those we offer our customers. One of my most rewarding career experiences was founding our leadership Consulting line of business at lhh. This was an entrepreneurial venture that required creating a new business model and scalable services that could be delivered consistently in global locations. as head of our Diversity Council at lhh, i also believe in the importance of inclusion and diversity in all our company’s activities. we work with our parent company, adecco, on a joint Diversity Council with representatives from all North american business units to ensure that diversity and inclusion are driving forces in decision-making at our companies. we’re all hoping to make an impact in what we do, and the combination of leadership, learning, and diversity can make that possible.
TITLE: Executive Vice President, Chief Learning Officer EDUCATION: Master’s degree, Washington University, St. Louis, Missouri FIRST JOB: Employment Counselor, State of illinois WHAT I’M READING: Unaccustomed Earth, by Jhumpa Lahiri MY PHILOSOPHY: Focus on contributing to the development of others and you will develop yourself as a leader. FAMILY: Husband and son INTERESTS: Travel, real estate renovation, biking, hiking, art, and design FAVORITE CHARITY: Common Ground, for its development of solutions for the homeless
COMPANY: Lee Hecht Harrison HEADQUARTERS: Woodcliff Lake, new Jersey WEB SITE: www.LHH.com BUSINESS: Talent development providing services in leadership consulting and career transition with 240 offices globally ANNUAL REVENUES: $335 million EMPLOYEES: 1,400
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women worth watching in 2009
Anne B. Jackson
M
Wells Fargo Financial Bank
Most people think about career success as climbing the corporate ladder. i prefer to liken the climb to scaling one of those rock walls. sometimes the best route to the top requires a few moves sideways. like most new hires at what was then Norwest Financial, now wells Fargo Financial, i joined our sales force right out of college. The typical advancement track for salespeople was branch manager to district manager to regional manager to divisional manager. That was my planned path to the top. i was promoted to branch manager, but my husband’s career caused us to relocate for a new opportunity. i accepted a transfer as a trainer—a lateral move. That role put me on the road to more than 50 different branches. i quickly learned what made a branch and its manager succeed or struggle. The experience also opened my eyes to what i had done on both sides of that spectrum in the branches i had managed.
Sometimes the best route to the top requires a few moves sideways. i then went back to a position as branch manager. Eventually, i made it to district manager. after nine years in that position and being passed over for the next step, regional manager, i charted a new course that has turned out pretty well for me. My point is this: Things don’t always go as planned and the target can change. That’s OK. sometimes it takes your career places you could not have fathomed. let the leaders above you know your goals and aspirations. raise your hand and take on the challenging assignments where you know you can stand out. Trust the mentors who are looking out for you when they come to you and say, “you can do this job,” even though you may doubt yourself. One of the most rewarding elements of career success is the ability to give back to people in different generations or at different levels in their careers. be sure you are mentoring at least one other person. when you do, listen to that person. ask the probing questions that will help that person determine the next step. Just be sure that the people you mentor know that reaching sideways can ultimately help them reach the top.
TITLE: President, Wells Fargo Financial Bank EDUCATION: BBA in finance, Texas Christian University FIRST JOB: Credit manager of a norwest Financial branch in Fort Worth, Texas, the predecessor company of Wells Fargo Financial WHAT I’M READING: The Fountainhead, by Ayn Rand MY PHILOSOPHY: The most important thing you can do as a business leader is to take care of your people. Business considerations are obviously important, but people are the key to business success. As a leader, it also is vital that you fully understand and embrace the importance of diversity. One of my core values is that i respect, value, and support the diversity of our team members, our customers, and the community. FAMILY: Husband and two sons, ages 16 and 14 INTERESTS: Reading, running, gardening, tennis, skiing FAVORITE CHARITY: United Way
COMPANY: Wells Fargo Financial Bank, a unit of Wells Fargo Financial HEADQUARTERS: Sioux Falls, South Dakota WEB SITE: www.wellsfargofinancial.com BUSINESS: Wells Fargo Financial Bank provides credit cards to customers of various Wells Fargo Financial business units throughout the United States and Canada. ANNUAL REVENUES: $5 billion EMPLOYEES: Approximately 2,000
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Visit our career site at wellsfargo.com/careers. Wells Fargo has a long history of fostering an environment that values diversity and inclusiveness. In fact, we’ve consistently been named among the top 50 companies for diversity. Our congratulations to a team member who lives and leads that commitment.
Anne Jackson President Wells Fargo Financial Bank With leaders like Anne, your someday can be today at Wells Fargo.
Wells Fargo is an Affirmative Action and Equal Opportunity Employer M/F/D/V. Š2008 Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. All rights reserved.
women worth watching in 2009
D. Lynn Kelley, PhD
I
Textron, Inc.
i have had several significant defining moments in my career that dramatically shifted my focus in life. These moments taught me the most about who i am as a leader and, more importantly, who i am as an individual. One of my first defining moments came while i worked at a small hospital in Detroit, Michigan. in just six years, i had worked my way up from an assistant to become the chief operating officer. i was successful in my job, but i had no work/life balance. i had worked so hard for this title that it took a significant shift of thought for me to see the need to redefine my life. This defining moment led to a conscious decision to create a personal definition of success based on my own core values. based on your core values, challenge yourself to create a personal definition of what success looks like to you.
Based on your core values, challenge yourself to create a personal definition of what success looks like to you.
TITLE: Vice President, Textron Six Sigma EDUCATION: PhD, Wayne State University; MBA, Michigan State University; BA, University of Detroit-Mercy FIRST JOB: Assistant clerk WHAT I’M READING: Team of Rivals: The Political Genius of Abraham Lincoln, by Doris kearns Goodwin MY PHILOSOPHY: Balance, continuous improvement, and collaboration are my core values and focus for future decision making so that all key decisions i make can be based upon the things that are most meaningful and important to me. FAMILY: Husband, Daniel Ross; daughter, krista, 28; son, Ryan, 26
armed with “balance” as my first value, i took the leap, leaving the job and title i had worked so hard to obtain to begin a phD program. The learning challenges i experienced while obtaining a phD made me recognize my second core value, continuous improvement. i have used this value to continuously challenge and improve the person i am and the things that i touch. My basis for personal decision-making is what will stretch me the most. There have been difficult times in my career when i have turned down positions with higher titles to take roles that would help me to grow the most. as the vice president of six sigma at Textron, i continue to guide myself by my core values. i have expanded my personal view of continuous improvement to encompass Textron, the people who report to me, my leadership abilities, and myself. One way i do this is through collaboration, which has become my third core value. i strive to partner with colleagues, customers, and my team. Collaboration is frequently the hardest value for me to translate into action because it takes time, energy, and a conscious effort to turn a disagreement into an opportunity for finding common ground.
INTERESTS: Reading, walking, jogging, and downhill skiing FAVORITE CHARITIES: The Festival Ballet, Providence, Rhode island; Tsebo House, South Africa
COMPANY: Textron, inc. HEADQUARTERS: Providence, Rhode island WEB SITE: www.textron.com BUSINESS: Multi-industry with aircraft, defense and intelligence, industrial, and finance businesses. ANNUAL REVENUES: $13.2 billion EMPLOYEES: 44,000 in 34 countries Industry RanKing: number 202 on the Fortune 500
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women worth watching in 2009
Pam Kohn
I
Wal-Mart Stores, Inc.
i have been fortunate enough to have mentors who have guided me, which have allowed me to experience a fulfilling and successful career path. without my mentors, i would have made decisions that prevented me from seeing the bigger picture. My mentors encouraged me to take risks and explore new opportunities. My first mentor was a senior retail executive who challenged me while i was a junior buyer, helping me to excel quickly. he always put things in perspective, showing me how my efforts contributed to the success of the overall strategy and team. he’s someone i still call today to share my enthusiasm about changes in my career, as well as the challenges and disappointments that happen along the way.
A good mentor is able to have ‘eggshell’ conversations and give open and honest feedback. Of all the many important lessons i have learned from my mentors, three rank high as my professional philosophies in life. • Build self-confidence in yourself to take courageous steps in your career and step outside of your comfort zone. • Maintain a commitment to work-life balance, so that you can be productive and happy in both places. • Be a mentor to others along the way. Pass on lessons and skills to those who are watching you and wanting you to make a difference. a good mentor is able to have ‘eggshell’ conversations and give open and honest feedback. a good mentor also looks beyond a mentee’s job responsibilities and tries to understand that person and his or her interests. a good mentor exposes people to unique experiences that they might not get on a regular basis. Finally, good mentees choose their mentors wisely, take the initiative for their own development, and keep an open ear to feedback and comments. Companies who adopt formal mentor programs, such as wal-Mart’s Mentor Me program, are creating a structure that helps people navigate through the company culture while giving everyone permission to fully activate a mentormentee relationship. The Mentor Me program encourages the exchange and transfer of diverse knowledge, experience, and perspectives among our associates and enhances their personal and professional development.
TITLE: Senior Vice President, Perishables and General Merchandise Manager, Wal-Mart Stores, U.S. Division EDUCATION: BA in sociology, northwestern University
MY PHILOSOPHY: Build self-confidence to take courageous steps in your career. Sometimes, it can be very difficult. it helps to work through small steps to medium steps to large steps when big career discussions are in front of you and you have to decide if you want to go left or right. FAMILY: Husband, a daughter, and a son INTERESTS: Family fun time, reading, boating and travel
COMPANY: Wal-Mart Stores, inc. HEADQUARTERS: Bentonville, Arkansas WEB SITE: www.walmartstores.com BUSINESS: Retail ANNUAL REVENUES: $375 billion EMPLOYEES: 1.9 million
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women worth watching in 2009
Jacqueline B. Kosecoff
I
UnitedHealth Group
i grew up thinking women had just two career choices: nursing or teaching. lacking the prerequisites of a good nurse, i opted for teaching. i thought i had achieved Nirvana when i landed a faculty position at uCla, but i soon realized that teaching, despite all its worthwhile attributes, wasn’t right for me. My eventual epiphany was that my choices weren’t nearly as limited as i was conditioned to believe. i began to imagine the possibilities and started to focus on doing what i love: building businesses that promote health. i subsequently transitioned to growing, running, selling, and even taking public several businesses in the health-care arena. i learned that to reach the top, it was important to get into a revenue-generating role. so i went for it.
Everyone has to decide what is best for them and what they love to do.
TITLE: CEO, Prescription Solutions EDUCATION: BA, MS in applied mathematics, PhD in research methods, University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) FIRST JOB: Teaching assistant at UCLA WHAT I’M READING: When Nietzsche Wept, by irvin D. Yalom, one of my favorite books of all time. MY PHILOSOPHY: Assume positive intent. FAMILY: Husband, four kids, and a golden retriever INTERESTS: Reading, theater, travel, family
i tell the women i mentor that there is no one right path. Everyone has to decide what is best for them and what they love to do. it’s important, especially for women, to understand that while it may be possible to have it all, it may not be possible to have everything at the same time. Decide what things are most important to you, and figure out how to sequence and fit them in your life. you will have to make some compromises along the way. i certainly found that to be the case. because my husband and i both chose to pursue challenging careers, we decided early on that our family would benefit if we put down deep roots. we made a pact that neither of us would pursue career opportunities that would prevent us from living in los angeles. Of course, that led to some missed opportunities along the way, but it proved to be a good strategy for us. i’m thrilled how things have turned out so far. although my career has and continues to be fulfilling and rewarding, my deepest pride is reserved for my success in raising a family. any missteps or mistakes i’ve made along the way (and i’ll admit to a few) in retrospect were just opportunities to refocus and keep going. Finally, i believe that it is very important to surround oneself with role models. My most important role model has been my husband. in both his professional and personal life, he personifies an enduring commitment to integrity, hard work, and service.
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FAVORITE CHARITY: City of Hope Medical Center, on the Board of Directors and as chair of the Medical Center Board. it’s fulfilling and allows me to give twice: first, by sharing my professional expertise and second, through financial contributions.
COMPANY: UnitedHealth Group HEADQUARTERS: Minnetonka, Minnesota WEB SITE: www.unitedhealthgroup.com BUSINESS: Helping people live healthier lives ANNUAL REVENUES: $75 billion EMPLOYEES: 67,000
Solutions begin with integrity. As one of the largest pharmacy benefits managers in the U.S., Prescription Solutions focuses on providing innovative solutions that truly benefit clients and members. Like promoting the appropriate use of generic medications to help improve outcomes while managing overall health care costs. At the heart of every solution is a commitment to act in an honest and upfront manner that always places the needs of clients and members first. Leading this dedication to quality service is Dr. Jacqueline Kosecoff, CEO of Prescriptions Solutions, UnitedHealth Group. As her enduring commitment to integrity, hard work and service continues to make an impact on the health care industry, we congratulate her for being selected by Profiles in Diversity Journal as one of the Women Worth Watching in 2009. Improving care. Maximizing value.
prescriptionsolutions.com 1.877.309.5345
women worth watching in 2009
Dolores K. Kruchten
A
Eastman Kodak Company
a competent manager knows the business or organization, the market and customers, and understands the people with whom he or she works. becoming a competent manager is a good thing; however, stepping it up ever so slightly can result in great results for your company and you—as you become a leader who has the vision to shape the future. i believe that leadership is a blend of a number of components. The first is curiosity. be curious about your business—it leads to learning. ask questions. who are your customers? what do they want? which areas are most profitable? how does the business work with customers? where does my current role fit?
TITLE: General Manager, Document imaging; Vice President, Graphic Communications Group; Vice President, Eastman kodak Company FIRST JOB: Site manufacturing technician WHAT I’M READING: Act of Treason, by Vince Flynn
Imagination and vision form the foundation for leadership.
MY PHILOSOPHY: Do what is right, not what is popular. FAMILY: Husband, Brad; a daughter, 18; a son, 14; two stepsons, 24 and 14; and a stepdaughter, 22. INTERESTS: Family vacations
There are so many questions you can ask to gain knowledge about the business, customers, and the people who make it work. recognize that asking questions is a valid pursuit in each role you play, today and in the future. Take time to internalize and reflect. Doing so may seem contradictory in the digital age where everyone is moving along at 120 percent. There is just little or no time. yes, we’re all moving fast today and information is exploding around us. Don’t become overwhelmed. Do research, organize information, and, most importantly, think before making a decision or committing to an action. Establishing a support mechanism of people whose judgment you value will help. ask questions and bounce ideas off of them. in today’s business world there isn’t time to do something twice to make it right, but there is time to make the right decision. Take it. look for opportunities to apply what you’ve learned. in every assignment, recognize pathways to go beyond what is simply requested to share what you’ve digested in the process. in fact, leaders will expect this of you. be respectful but confident when expressing your perspective. imagination and vision form the foundation for leadership. Coupling your imagination to the knowledge you’re gaining will bring you to the point of visualizing the future for your business and career. leaders see the future and how to get there with a roadmap in their heads. sure there could be bumps along the way, but once you see the future, you can drive towards it, and you have a duty to share it with others. Doing so is leadership.
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FAVORITE CHARITY: Disabled Veterans
COMPANY: Eastman kodak Company HEADQUARTERS: Rochester, new York WEB SITE: www.kodak.com BUSINESS: Digital imaging and information management ANNUAL REVENUES: $10.3 billion EMPLOYEES: 26,900
women worth watching in 2009
Barbara L. Kunz
T
Battelle Memorial Institute
The single most significant element that has played a role in my life achievements, both at the office and in my personal life, is my attitude. starting in my childhood, i learned that a positive attitude was the key to success in both personal and career arenas. The basis of good leadership lies not in your educational credentials or the experiences you bring to a role. it is intimately tied to the character that you bring to your organization. One does not automatically attain the leadership ranks simply by being given a title. rather, leadership is earned by what you do, the job content that you bring, and, most importantly, the person that you are.
I have learned that to lead, you must be respected. i have learned that to lead, you must be respected. and to be respected, you must earn the trust of others. you must demonstrate a true desire to see others succeed; and you must work toward your own success through your personal contributions, not by flying on the wings of others. you must face new challenges with a can-do attitude and approach the many changes that life and business bring as continuous learning opportunities. as an example, at one point in my career, i took the position of regional vice president for latin america, just as argentina fell into a major currency crisis. it would have been easy to give up on the assignment because all signals pointed to a long period of financial hardship. Nonetheless, i embraced the role as an opportunity to learn and make a difference. i worked to ensure staff that they had support, that payroll would be made, and that our clients would be served. i developed a committed team and a loyal set of clients, many of whom are still part of my life today. as the fiscal crisis stabilized, the business thrived. i learned more about crisis management and commitment than at any other time in my life. My advice for others is to embrace life’s challenges with gusto. see each hurdle as an opportunity to learn and to become a better person—and live life to its fullest!
TITLE: President, Health and Life Sciences Global Business EDUCATION: MS in polymer science, BA in chemistry, BA in biology FIRST JOB: Research scientist WHAT I’M READING: The Game-Changer: How You Can Drive Revenue and Profit Growth with Innovation, by A. G. Lafley and Ram Charan MY PHILOSOPHY: Live every day to the fullest! FAMILY: Partner; daughter Emily, 24; son Peter, 21 INTERESTS: Travel, exercise, cooking, gardening, reading FAVORITE CHARITY: American Heart Association
COMPANY: Battelle Memorial institute HEADQUARTERS: Columbus, Ohio WEB SITE: www.battelle.org BUSINESS: international science and technology enterprise ANNUAL REVENUES: $4 billion in 2007 EMPLOYEES: 20,000
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women worth watching in 2009
Suzanne L. Kupiec
R
Reliant Energy, Inc.
reflecting on the leaders and mentors who have influenced me, one thing is prominent: their memorable philosophies about life and career. They have inspired me to counsel and to develop others in a similarly memorable way. some of the counsel i have provided, and i believe made a difference, goes like this: The impossible is possible. when president Kennedy announced in the 1960s that we would put a man on the moon by that decade’s end, i’m virtually certain he heard all the reasons why this was impossible. Thankfully, a group of people saw that possibility and became, i believe, Nasa’s next leaders. see what is possible—embrace it, inspire it, and make it happen.
When you ask the uncomfortable questions, you push yourself and your team to bold new places.
TITLE: Chief Risk and Compliance Officer EDUCATION: BBA in finance and BBA in accounting, Texas A&M University FIRST JOB: Folding T-shirts in a warehouse
WHAT I’M READING: Bella Tuscany: The Sweet Life in Italy, by Frances Mayes; Finding Meaning in the Second Half of Life: How to Finally, Really Grow Up, by James Hollis, PhD MY PHILOSOPHY: You only live this life once, so live it well. FAMILY: My husband, Tony, and our two sons, Stephen and Jacob
Be outrageous. well, be judiciously outrageous. Challenge the status quo. Move beyond past assumptions and beliefs. when you ask the uncomfortable questions, you push yourself and your team to bold new places. after all, the idea of putting a man on the moon was, at first, outrageous. Be emotionally committed. believing in the purpose of your work matters! and emotional commitment to a purpose is contagious. at reliant Energy, we power hospitals, critical manufacturing facilities, and my children’s nightlights in a socially responsible way. i am proud and excited to be a part of that every day. You can have it all (but perhaps not all at once). having a career requires trade-offs. Doing your job with excellence requires trade-offs. be honest with yourself about what those trade-offs are and weigh them carefully against what you hope to accomplish before you go for it. Great achievements often require putting yourself on the line and taking great risks. when the astronauts were preparing to go to the moon, they made enormous sacrifices, but they were able to come home and share how the earth looks from the heavens.
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INTERESTS: Enjoying our family and friends, reading, travel, and shopping FAVORITE CHARITY: Boys & Girls Harbor (care for children and families in crisis)
COMPANY: Reliant Energy, inc. HEADQUARTERS: Houston, Texas WEB SITE: www.Reliant.com BUSINESS: One of the largest independent power producers in the United States ANNUAL REVENUES: $11 billion EMPLOYEES: 3,700
women worth watching in 2009
Dianne Lamendola
I
Safeway Inc.
i have had several wonderful mentors throughout my life and career. My mother, my first mentor, taught me that i could be or do anything once i received an education. My first professional mentor, sandee alexander, taught me to invest in myself, to be responsible for my financial security, and to never give up. i met sandee after interviewing for six different positions at ibM and being rejected for all of them. i ultimately landed a role as a part-time assistant for a regional manager. sandee offered me advice on professional appearance, how to invest (prince Charming might not have a bank account), and she gave me my first constructive feedback.
What you don’t say is almost as important as what you do say, so use your voice wisely.
TITLE: Group Vice President of information Technology EDUCATION: Bachelor’s in business administration, Wayne State University; MBA, University of Detroit FIRST JOB: iBM, finance administration WHAT I’M READING: Know-How: The 8 Skills That Separate People Who Perform From Those Who Don’t, by Ram Charan MY PHILOSOPHY: Work hard. Play hard. FAMILY: Husband, Pete; mother, Barbara; nieces and nephews INTERESTS: Book club, avid bike rider, adventure racing, cooking, making jewelry
i will never forget the first time sandee sat me in her office and gave me some difficult criticisms. she later expressed surprise that i hadn’t broken down in tears. but i realized that if i wanted to improve i needed feedback, the good and the bad. Fortunately, sandee was also terrific at sharing positive feedback. what you don’t say is almost as important as what you do say, so use your voice wisely. David Ching, the CiO at safeway and my long-term mentor and friend, has coached me on knowing when to use my voice, how to condense my message, and when to be silent. learn to really listen to other people. ask thought-provoking questions. be open to new ideas. Give other people credit for their ideas and projects and you’ll be viewed as a team player and a promoter of others’ success. Never fear responsibility and accountability. seek opportunities to make a difference. One of my favorite books is The Leadership Pipeline, by ram Charan, stephen Drotter, and James Noel. The authors discuss one of our greatest responsibilities: how to develop future leaders. work for a company that you believe in. when you believe in your company’s products or services, your passion shines through. i am fortunate to work at safeway, a company that is committed to acquiring quality people and products and delivering world-class service. Finally, take care of yourself and always be willing to learn. you need energy as a leader and will be a happier role model. Continually develop the skills needed to improve yourself and your career.
FAVORITE CHARITY: northern California Girl Scout Association (board member)
COMPANY: Safeway inc. HEADQUARTERS: Pleasanton, California WEB SITE: www.Safeway.com BUSINESS: Food and drug retailer ANNUAL REVENUES: $42.3 billion EMPLOYEES: 201,000
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women worth watching in 2009
Karen Larrimer
M
The PNC Financial Services Group, Inc.
My very first mentors were my parents, who taught me to be positive, confident, and organized. They helped me to become an effective problem-solver and a caring leader. My dad was my trusted confidant and advisor until he lost his battle with cancer. My mother continues to encourage my every success. as my first and most important mentors, my parents profoundly influenced my life at home and at work. as my career grew, i sought informal mentors who helped me to develop guiding principles for my career. i will always rely on my mentors for advice. Today, what i find most rewarding is the time i spend mentoring others. Every time i sit down with someone who is looking for advice, i first stress the importance of establishing and connecting with a network of people and proactively seeking informal mentors.
Take the initiative to figure out what you want. Make it happen. Own your career. Ask for opportunities. My second principle of mentoring is that perception is reality. people do not naturally see their own shortcomings, so there is great value in listening to and seeking feedback from others. One of my keys to self-improvement is to be eminently coachable. when people provide feedback to me, i never discount their thoughts. i stop to consider what they have said and reflect upon how i can improve. i also strongly believe in the importance of asking for what you want. Take the initiative to figure out what you want. Make it happen. Own your career. ask for opportunities. Early in my career, i decided that i wanted to move from my position in finance to pursue a sales position. it was the beginning of my master plan to be well-rounded enough in my experiences to eventually run a business. Today, i have held positions in finance, sales, product management, customer service, and marketing. Each time, i had to push myself out of my comfort zone to move to the next step, but the experience i gained was well worth the work. This brings me to my last, and best, piece of mentoring advice. stay out of your comfort zone. Every six months, something about my job or my life changes. Each change brings with it a feeling in the bottom of my stomach that is both frightening and exciting at the same time. when that happens, i embrace the new opportunity. it has been worth it every time.
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TITLE: Chief Marketing Officer EDUCATION: BS in business management, Point Park University; graduate, Executive Leadership Program, Carnegie Mellon University FIRST JOB: Part-time administrative assistant for Mellon Bank during college WHAT I’M READING: The Secret, by Rhonda Byrne; The Tipping Point: How Little Things Can Make a Big Difference, by Malcolm Gladwell MY PHILOSOPHY: Stay out of the comfort zone. Seek new opportunities to learn and grow. Try things that you aren’t necessarily comfortable with. it is the best way to continue to develop yourself. FAMILY: Married to James; two children, Ryan, 20, and Allison, 3 INTERESTS: Spending time with my family, golfing, and watching sporting activities FAVORITE CHARITY: Goodwill of Southwest Pennsylvania, where i serve as a board member and chair of the development committee
COMPANY: The PnC Financial Services Group, inc. HEADQUARTERS: Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania WEB SITE: www.pnc.com BUSINESS: Financial services EMPLOYEES: 28,000
women worth watching in 2009
Regina Lee
T
Automatic Data Processing, Inc.
To build a high-performing organization, you must be a role model for the behaviors and values you expect of others. i take this responsibility very seriously. i have benefited a great deal over the course of my career from mentors who took an interest in me, challenged me to take on high-risk assignments, and gave me direct and honest feedback about how i could be more effective. as a result, i have always felt a deep responsibility to reciprocate. i have learned as much from the people i have mentored as i have from my own mentors.
The most important part of any leader’s job is people development. i also passionately believe in being part of the solution. More than half of the associates at aDp are women, and about 44 percent of our managers are women. approximately eight years ago i helped to create a women in leadership program that focuses on increasing female leadership representation in our executive ranks. The program has a mentoring component where we match women with senior aDp leaders. it also has strong development and networking components. i consider this program an example of women being part of the solution. My top strategies for success focus on these key areas: creating a track record of outstanding results, building strong relationships, continuing to learn and grow, and taking risks. while many female leaders are ambitious, some remain in their career comfort zones, afraid to take on high-profile challenges and risky assignments. Over my 26 years with aDp, i have taken on many assignments that were considered turn-around and start-up assignments, and accepted roles in areas where i had no prior experience. These assignments were sometimes lateral moves, but they gave me the opportunity to broaden my skill set, increase my value to the company, and differentiate my results from other leaders. The most important part of any leader’s job is people development. if you invest your energy in talent development and demonstrate sincere care and concern for people at all levels of your organization, you will be successful.
TITLE: President, ADP national Account Services and Employer Services international EDUCATION: BS in business, Rutgers University FIRST JOB: While in high school worked as a day-care assistant for a nonprofit entity that served low-income working mothers WHAT I’M READING: John Adams, by David McCullough MY PHILOSOPHY: no one wins alone. To achieve and sustain excellent business results, the most important component is building a strong team. My goal is to place people in roles that leverage their strengths. FAMILY: Husband, two sons, and one daughter INTERESTS: Reading, running, travel, mentoring, and spending time with family FAVORITE CHARITY: The Salvation Army
COMPANY: Automatic Data Processing, inc. HEADQUARTERS: Roseland, new Jersey WEB SITE: www.adp.com BUSINESS: ADP is one of the world’s largest providers of business outsourcing solutions. ADP offers the widest range of HR, payroll, tax, and benefits administration solutions from a single source. ADP is also a leading provider of integrated computing solutions to vehicle dealers throughout the world. ANNUAL REVENUES: $8 billion EMPLOYEES: 46,000
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women worth watching in 2009
Charisse R. Lillie
T
Comcast Corporation
Throughout my life, mentoring has contributed to both my personal and professional success and played an important role in how i approach opportunities and challenges. My parents were both teachers and artists who emphasized to my sister and me the importance of true diversity, getting an education, and self-expression through music, theater, and other arts. They also were very good listeners and opened our home to many of their students and mentored them over the years. watching them, i learned how to lead others and how to set my own goals for success.
A good mentor listens and learns from her mentees. One of those goals was to one day become a federal judge. after law school at Temple university, i served a two-year clerkship with the late honorable Judge Clifford scott Green. Judge Green taught me about the nuances of federal court and helped to perfect my understanding of law. he also introduced me to other prominent figures in the law profession so i could learn additional skills from them. My experience made me want to be a mentor and develop my own way of contributing to others’ lives. a good mentor listens and learns from her mentees. i have learned so much by observing their approaches to life and hearing their perspectives. i often counsel my mentees to always have a plan but be flexible. Take chances and adapt to change, no matter the plan or stage of your career. One mentee that stands out in my mind is soon to become partner at my former law firm. i have enjoyed many conversations with her about her goals and aspirations. she embodies perseverance and integrity in everything she does and has gone on to become a mentor herself. i am not a federal judge, but i am exactly where i want to be. Every day i have the privilege of creating opportunities for people of all backgrounds to reach their full potential as individuals and communities. at Comcast, i work to instill the very values that i have learned from my mentors and mentees— strong work ethic, commitment to common goals, the importance of education, care for one’s community and taking chances.
TITLE: Vice President of Community investment at Comcast and Executive Vice President of the Comcast Foundation EDUCATION: BA, Wesleyan University, indiana; JD, Temple Law School, Pennsylvania; LLM, Yale Law School, new Hampshire; Doctor of Laws, honoris causa, Seton Hill University, Pennsylvania FIRST JOB: Law clerk for Judge Clifford Scott Green, United States district court judge for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania WHAT I’M READING: The Measure of a Man: A Spiritual Autobiography, by Sidney Poitier MY PHILOSOPHY: Always have a plan and be open to learning as much as you can from the people around you. FAMILY: Husband, two daughters, and one son INTERESTS: Going to the theater, all kinds of music, reading, spending time with family FAVORITE CHARITY: Juvenile Law Center, Philadelphia
COMPANY: Comcast Corporation HEADQUARTERS: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania WEB SITE: www.comcast.com BUSINESS: Cable, internet, and phone communications ANNUAL REVENUES: $30.9 billion EMPLOYEES: 100,000
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Information is the currency of today’s global economy. Safeguarding it is more important and more challenging than ever. Individuals and organizations need a partner who can help them understand and manage all of the many risks to their information.
As the fourth largest software company in the world, Symantec provides solutions to help assure the security, availability, and integrity of information. We’re able to do this through the varied backgrounds, experiences and perspectives of the high achievers who choose to work here. In turn, we provide them with an environment where their uniqueness is valued and empowered.
I CHOOSE <to ensure> INTEGRITY When you choose to pursue a career with Symantec, you can be assured of top-notch training and the non-stop stimulation of innovation. We also provide excellent benefits that are complimented by additional perks including adoption assistance, tuition reimbursement, and 401(K) with company match.
Discover the many reasons to choose a career at Symantec when you visit us at:
www.symantec.com/careers
Symantec is proud to support the success of women in the workforce and is an equal opportunity employer.
women worth watching in 2009
Ellen M. Lord
I
AAI Corporation, a Textron Inc. company
i’ve been fortunate in having many different opportunities within the Textron family of businesses. i started out in the technical area and moved through operations, commercial applications, mergers and acquisitions, strategic planning, and more. i also benefited from on-the-job training, seminars, and other educational opportunities aimed specifically at female leaders. These opportunities made it clear that i have a responsibility to reach out and do the same thing for others. i try always to ensure that there’s time in my schedule to listen and provide counsel. There’s a lot of potential out there that can be realized, often with very little effort on someone else’s part. if i can have even a small effect on someone in a positive way, it’s energizing for me.
How you do things is just as important as what you do. There also were many people along my journey, both managers and co-workers, from whom i’ve picked up ideas and strategies that continue to serve me well. My advice is to look for role models wherever they can be found, and always be observant of the behaviors that make people successful and hold people back. after all, you can be the brightest person in the world, but if you can’t work well with others you’re not going to be successful. how you do things is just as important as what you do. as i’ve grown as a leader, i’ve come to realize that the more you know, the more you realize you don’t know. as aai’s new leader, i’ve spent a lot of time listening, learning, and getting to know the employees, the customers, and the businesses. This strategy is fundamental to effective leadership. Finally, i believe that the same attitudes and behaviors that nurture success in everyday life can lead to success in the workplace—taking personal responsibility for one’s life and career, looking for and tackling challenges head-on, and being mindful of your actions and values. These are the actions that reflect on you as an individual and communicate your values to others. at the end of the day, all you have is your credibility.
TITLE: Senior Vice President and General Manager EDUCATION: Master’s degree in chemistry, University of new Hampshire; BS in chemistry, Connecticut College; Textron Six Sigma Black Belt FIRST JOB: Analytical chemist WHAT I’M READING: The Bottomless Well: The Twilight of Fuel, the Virtue of Waste, and Why We Will Never Run Out of Energy, by Peter Huber and Mark P. Mills MY PHILOSOPHY: i set high expectations for myself and those around me. A person’s attitude and the way in which he or she handles situations ultimately determines whether or not there are limitations to what can be accomplished. FAMILY: Husband, Geoffrey INTERESTS: Gardening, cooking, entertaining, sports/fitness FAVORITE CHARITY: American Red Cross
COMPANY: AAi Corporation, an operating unit of Textron Systems, a Textron inc. company HEADQUARTERS: Hunt Valley, Maryland WEB SITE: www.aaicorp.com BUSINESS: Aerospace and defense ANNUAL REVENUES: $663 million in 2007 EMPLOYEES: 2,600
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women worth watching in 2009
Jacki W. Lowe
I
Georgia Power
i have spent most of my career in the male-dominated electric utility industry. when i joined the company in 1974, white men held almost all of our exempt, or white-collar, jobs. as our communities changed, so did our work force. we now have about 26 percent minorities and nearly 22 percent women in our company. Of our officers, 23 percent are minorities, and 23 percent are women. Georgia power has worked hard to increase female representation in the workplace and in leadership. Fortunately, i had mentors, managers, and friends—male and female, black and white—who helped me achieve my goals.
You make a company strong with strong employees, and you make strong employees one at a time.
TITLE: Region Vice President EDUCATION: MBA, Samford University; BBA, Georgia State University FIRST JOB: Teaching children to swim WHAT I’M READING: You Can’t Send a Duck to Eagle School (And Other Simple Truths of Leadership), by Mac Anderson MY PHILOSOPHY: Leave your world better than you found it. FAMILY: Two sons, daughter-in law, and a grandson on the way INTERESTS: Swimming, travel, and reading
a real “tipping point” in my career came after i was encouraged to step into a role i had not prepared for. i found myself leading a group of long-term professional employees. i had to put my leadership skills to work at the highest level. i did not pretend to have their skills, but rather i let them do their jobs while focusing on the larger issues in leading the department. They respected that, and i believe it paid off. let’s be clear: you will make mistakes; but being afraid to make decisions gets you and your organization nowhere. My experiences have led me to help others in turn. as a female officer, and the first female officer with children, i feel a special responsibility to help other women employees achieve their goals and objectives. in fact, mentoring is a major part of the legacy i want to leave. it’s not always easy. it can take a lot of time to build the trust and relationships necessary to get below the surface issues. in today’s culture, however, that is gradually becoming easier. i find many of the employees i mentor now are like sponges. They soak up everything you tell them, as long as you are being candid and relevant. Most want to hear it straight—with tact, of course—but without pretense. Mentoring is an investment; 20 minutes at the end of the day rarely works. The discussions involved sometimes take several hours, but they are worth it. i want to make Georgia power strong today and tomorrow. you make a company strong with strong employees, and you make strong employees one at a time.
FAVORITE CHARITIES: United Way and Girl Scouts of America
COMPANY: Georgia Power HEADQUARTERS: Atlanta, Georgia WEB SITE: www.georgiapower.com BUSINESS: Electric utility and largest subsidiary of Southern Co., one of nation’s largest generators of electricity. Serves 2.3 million customers in all but four of Georgia’s 159 counties. ANNUAL REVENUES: $7.6 billion in 2007 EMPLOYEES: Approximately 9,000
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women worth watching in 2009
Gael Lundeen
W Pitney Bowes Inc.
when it comes to giving career advice, i’d have to say that determination is the secret ingredient that propels brains, skills, or opportunity into a success. it’s amazing how many otherwise talented people seem to lose their passion for making things happen. Determination is about drive, consistency, and dedication to an idea. if something’s worth doing, you can find a way to get it done. The ability to adapt to changing circumstances is another important character trait. why? Change is a certainty. and you’ll probably see five times more change than you expected when you first launched that career! start with your own skills: are you strategic? an excellent project manager? a conceptual thinker? Then link these skills to the changing needs of your company. volunteer to do special projects alongside your regular job; it’s a powerful statement to make on your part, and it exposes you to deeper insights about your company and where it’s going.
Really listen to your colleagues; their insights can be the shortcut to a better outcome. Third, build and recognize the talents within your organization that can help you achieve success, whether in getting a project done, selling an idea, or coming up with a new product concept. really listen to your colleagues; their insights can be the shortcut to a better outcome. achieve buy-in by walking through the implications of different actions. Mobilize people by convincing them that they can do it. Then applaud their success. lastly, build and maintain connections with professional associates inside and outside your company. you may have met them at your first company, while serving on a board, or through other professional connections. This is a group of people with whom you stay connected throughout your career. These people are important to you, and you are important to them. you may help each other by exchanging business ideas, or, in this era of corporate mergers and relocations, you might provide each other new career paths or lend a helping hand in getting that new business idea off the ground. in today’s fast-paced marketplace, companies are dealing with change on many different levels. in order to create value in such dynamic industries, differentiate yourself and your organization by staying connected to what really matters—your customers, and honing the necessary skills to move beyond their expectations.
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TITLE: Vice President, Customer Experience EDUCATION: MBA, Harvard Graduate School of Business Administration; BA, Harvard University FIRST JOB: Product manager, General Electric WHAT I’M READING: ngaio Marsh, Voltaire and Wikipedia
MY PHILOSOPHY: This life we have is a gift. And we each have the power to make this world better. Delight people around you. Help them get past imaginary roadblocks. Fix things worth fixing. Leave lots of legacies. FAMILY: Husband and four children INTERESTS: Running, landscaping, photography, and painting FAVORITE CHARITY: Lutheran World Relief
COMPANY: Pitney Bowes inc. HEADQUARTERS: Stamford, Connecticut WEB SITE: www.pb.com BUSINESS: Mailstream technology ANNUAL REVENUES: $6.3 billion EMPLOYEES: 36,000
women worth watching in 2009
Diana X. Ma
P
Applied Materials, Inc.
people sometimes say a woman is like a river because a river continues to flow even if something is blocking the way—it just changes its path a little bit. i’ve seen this in many of my mentors. when i was first promoted to director at applied Materials, i was fortunate to have had a mentor who was a very successful female vice president at Cisco. she taught me about some of the challenges i would face involving priorities, business sense, and people management. she taught me how to look at the bigger picture and to look ahead because this would make decisions easier. My father was a mathematics professor. he encouraged me to explore things and learn from my mistakes. in mathematics, for example, there is more than one approach to solving a problem, be it geometry, algebra, or trigonometry; but only one approach is the most effective. This concept taught me to be open to different people’s perspectives to reach the most effective solution.
Know that family and career aren’t mutually exclusive; you don’t have to delay one to have the other. One thing i would recommend as a mentor is to be confident in yourself. learn to shrink your ego and extend your interest and success criteria to others, so that you can identify and create a bigger opportunity to learn, contribute and demonstrate your leadership in any position. it’s also important to have your own life in addition to your career. understand your priorities, set realistic expectations, and manage your activities. leave room for soul enlightening activities such as reading, friendships, and volunteering. and never wait for the best time to do something because there may never be a best time. Know that family and career aren’t mutually exclusive; you don’t have to delay one to have the other. My mother, a full-time professor and mother of three, set an early example for me. i now have both a family and a career. you may face challenges and doubters in your career. although you can’t control what people will say, you can control how you react to a situation. Treat challenges and doubters as an opportunity to make new friends, and try to turn the negative into a positive. if you find you still can’t make a difference and change something, that’s OK. Just remember the river analogy and pursue another pathway.
TITLE: Vice President, General Manager, Display Systems Products Group EDUCATION: PhD in chemistry, University of Southern California; MS in chemistry, University of California at Los Angeles; BS in chemistry, Zhongshan University, China
WHAT I’M READING: Good to Great: Why Some Companies Make the Leap... and Others Don’t, by Jim Collins; Blue Ocean Strategy: How to Create Uncontested Market Space and Make Competition Irrelevant, by W. Chan kim and Renée Mauborgne; The Dalai Lama’s Book of Wisdom, by the Dalai Lama MY PHILOSOPHY: Happiness and success are in your hand. You cannot control what happens to you, but you can definitely determine how to respond to a situation. Vexation and joy are, in reality, within one single thought. Prosperity and adversity both facilitate our growth: Prosperity fulfills us; adversity disciplines us. no one can take your confidence away from you. FAMILY: Husband, daughter, 17, and son, 15 INTERESTS: Tai chi, martial arts, reading, connecting with family and friends. FAVORITE CHARITIES: Second Harvest Food Bank, American Red Cross, and Chung Tai Zen Center of Sunnyvale, California
COMPANY: Applied Materials, inc. HEADQUARTERS: Santa Clara, California WEB SITE: www.appliedmaterials.com BUSINESS: Global leader in nanomanufacturing technology solutions for the fabrication of semiconductor chips, flat-panel displays, solar photovoltaic cells, flexible electronics, and energy-efficient glass. ANNUAL REVENUES: $9.73 billion in fiscal year 2007 EMPLOYEES: 14,500
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women worth watching in 2009
Lisa H. Macpherson
V
Hallmark Cards, Inc.
valued mentors taught me important personal leadership lessons. From them, i’ve learned a great deal about the source of true success. be authentically you. i once believed success required “being one of the boys.” i wore the same blue suit and foulard tie as the men in the cubicles around me in the bank where i started my career. showing “womanly” traits like compassion and caring meant giving away power. Over time, i met leaders, women and men, who got their power by simply being themselves. by expressing empathy and bringing out every employee’s best self, they had the power to make you feel you could do anything.
TITLE: Senior Vice President and Chief Merchandising Officer, Hallmark Retail; Corporate Officer at Hallmark Cards inc. EDUCATION: BA, Colgate University; MBA, State University of new York at Buffalo FIRST JOB: Counter clerk at Burger king in 1976
...caring can be the most powerful leadership attribute of all.
WHAT I’M READING: The Five Dysfunctions of a Team: A Leadership Fable, by Patrick M. Lencioni; Style Statement: Live by Your Own Design, by Danielle LaPorte and Carrie McCarthy MY PHILOSOPHY: Plan the work; work the plan.
Consultants who helped hallmark conduct an employee engagement survey remarked that a company’s leadership effectiveness was revealed by one bellwether statement: “My manager really cares about my well-being.” it was a great reminder that caring can be the most powerful leadership attribute of all. say yes to opportunities. i was working at Fisher-price Toys when Mattel acquired it for its growth potential in international markets, and our president asked me to lead the new international division. i would travel the world and teach Mattel employees how to sell Fisher-price products. The employees would report to Mattel, not me, so success would require quickly assessing markets and offering ideas that really built the business. That scared me! but i said yes. The international offices successfully built sales and market share and, based on that growth, the merger is considered among the industry’s most successful. i learned volumes about saying yes, even to opportunities that scare me. have the right questions and the right people. i once assumed effective leadership meant having all the answers. Then another president, this time at hallmark, asked me to leave my role overseeing a wholesale business to become the head merchant of hallmark retail. it required recruiting executives from leading specialty retailers, managers who would know more about retailing than i did. leading meant conveying a vision for the business, setting a clear strategy, and tapping into others’ expertise. Our team now is two years into the turnaround of one of america’s largest specialty store networks. and i’ve learned that true leadership means letting people find answers for themselves and blending diverse backgrounds and perspectives to find the best solutions to business problems.
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FAMILY: Daughter kelsey, 16 INTERESTS: Cooking, traveling, horseback riding, spending time with kelsey FAVORITE CHARITY: i am on the Board of the Central Exchange, a kansas City organization that provides advocacy and leadership development for women.
COMPANY: Hallmark Cards, inc. HEADQUARTERS: kansas City, Missouri WEB SITE: www.hallmark.com BUSINESS: Hallmark is known throughout the world for its greeting cards, related personal expression products, and television’s most honored and enduring dramatic series, the Hallmark Hall of Fame. ANNUAL REVENUES: $4.4 billion EMPLOYEES: 16,000
women worth watching in 2009
Consuelo E. Madere
I
Monsanto
i am often asked to share key career lessons or to give advice. like any good businesswoman, i conduct “market research” to prepare. One particular speaking event was scheduled to take place just after i had rendezvoused with my sisters Carmen, a professor and department chair at houston’s M.D. anderson Cancer Center; Teresita, vice president of nursing at Terrebonne General hospital in louisiana; and Maria, a phD in nutrition and public health and lieutenant colonel in the u.s. army. what better pool for my data gathering! we shared our key life lessons and the advice that had helped us navigate our own career paths and achieve success.
TITLE: President, Monsanto Vegetable Division EDUCATION: BS in chemical engineering, Louisiana State University; MBA, University of iowa FIRST JOB: Babysitter
Being respected is much more important than being popular. First and perhaps most important, i don’t think our story is unique. There are many other women who have overcome greater challenges, both personally and professionally. we grew up in a small town in south louisiana in a family of six children, four girls and two boys. it wasn’t until i was in college that i realized we were financially poor but rich in many other ways. although neither of our parents had the opportunity to pursue a college degree, they instilled in us the importance of learning at a very early age, the window to access the rest of the world. listening to others to understand different perspectives before making critical decisions is important. however, after considering different viewpoints, you can’t be afraid to make tough decisions. being respected is much more important than being popular. it’s also key to give back by being a mentor for others. in addition to my supportive husband and family, i have crossed paths with several key leaders who supported me in taking risks. There were times when they had more confidence in me than i had in myself. i think back to their advice and support and how essential that was for me. in summary, my advice is work hard, never stop learning, be open to the input and ideas of others, and be a role model and mentor to those around you. Finally, never forget where you came from. it has a direct influence on who you become, sometimes in spite of it and sometimes because of it. My favorite bookmark says, “it’s never too late to become who you might have been.” i truly believe that.
WHAT I’M READING: Unaccustomed Earth, by Jhumpa Lahiri MY PHILOSOPHY: it’s never too late to become who you might have been. FAMILY: Husband, Michael; married 25 years; no children, but many nieces and nephews that we “rent.” INTERESTS: Reading, exercise, travel, gardening, sports enthusiast—especially football and baseball FAVORITE CHARITY: Guardian Angel Settlement Association
COMPANY: Monsanto HEADQUARTERS: St. Louis, Missouri WEB SITE: www.monsanto.com BUSINESS: Agriculture ANNUAL REVENUES: $8.6 billion in fiscal year 2007 EMPLOYEES: 19,000
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women worth watching in 2009
Miranda K. Mandel
W
Neal, Gerber & Eisenberg LLP
when i started practicing law 27 years ago, there was only one model for a successful female attorney—that of a successful male attorney. The women who preceded me typically were single or came back to work three days after having a baby. My husband is an attorney who travels frequently. when he and i decided to start a family, we knew we needed to find a different way. i had recently become a partner at Neal Gerber Eisenberg, a newly formed firm with young, progressive leadership. i started working part-time in early 1987. Three sons and 21 years later, i still maintain a flexible schedule.
...take the long view. You can’t achieve all of your goals all at once, but you can over a lifetime.
My law practice has centered on corporate and transactional law, and i have applied some of the principles of closing a deal to my life. i realized early on that the best approach is to achieve a result that benefits all parties. in 2006, i worked with other firm leaders to identify a new role that would align my strengths with the needs of the firm. in a win-win move for myself and the firm, i became Neal Gerber Eisenberg’s first general counsel. This position, which focuses on ethics and professional responsibility, allows me to add value to the firm in a unique way. as a pioneer in part-time/flex-time options, i act as a role model and mentor to younger women attorneys. whatever work option they choose to pursue, i advise them to keep their perspective. a three-month maternity leave may seem like a long time for a junior attorney to be away, but it really is a blip in the span of her career. My advice for balancing work and life? First, be flexible. Take your particular work environment into account when structuring an arrangement that will be successful for both you and your firm. For me, it was having full-time childcare so i wouldn’t be tied to a rigid schedule. second, be responsive and communicate. Most projects aren’t emergencies. Clients and colleagues just want to know that you are on top of things. Third, don’t compartmentalize your daily life. successful professionals are expected to be available 24/7, and some “life” issues have to be addressed during business hours. Fourth, take the long view. you can’t achieve all of your goals all at once, but you can over a lifetime.
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TITLE: Partner and General Counsel EDUCATION: BA, JD, indiana University FIRST JOB: Age 13, organic gardener (aka, the “Tomato Queen”) WHAT I’M READING: Fieldwork: A Novel, by Mischa Berlinski; The Language of Truth: The Torah Commentary of Sefat Emet, by Judah Aryeh Leib Alter, Arthur Green, and Shai Gluskin MY PHILOSOPHY: Life is a series of stages; make the most of each of them. FAMILY: Husband and three sons INTERESTS: Books and beaches (preferably together), fitness, food, Jewish studies FAVORITE CHARITY: Planned Parenthood
COMPANY: neal, Gerber & Eisenberg LLP HEADQUARTERS: Chicago, illinois WEB SITE: www.ngelaw.com BUSINESS: Law firm EMPLOYEES: 202 attorneys, 474 total employees
women worth watching in 2009
Caroline ‘Caz’ S. Matthews
M WellPoint, Inc.
My parents taught me early on in life that being a strong leader isn’t just about what you accomplish at work. it’s about who you are as a person and what type of leader you are in your daily life. volunteering is something my parents ingrained in me while i was young. They realized that having good fortune was a privilege and that it should be used to help those in need. volunteering not only helps you give back to the community, but it also helps you sharpen your leadership skills and be a better manager and team player.
...make a commitment to nurture other leaders so the leadership mantle is spread on many shoulders. having mentors is extremely important in work and in life. i probably have had more than 100 mentors, some who didn’t even know they were mentors. i met one of my mentors while volunteering as a board member and was amazed at how he put together so many “dots” to create a stronger, better program. i also believe that learning is a continuing journey. Each day, i learn from the people around me, no matter what role they play in my life. Timing is also important. One of my greatest career opportunities at wellpoint came because i was in the right place at the right time. i was the acting chief information officer and was meeting with the CEO. in the middle of the meeting, he received a phone call about a new project that would immediately require 50 people in a state more than 1,000 miles away. i volunteered on the spot to lead the project and was eventually promoted to president for the west region of anthem blue Cross and blue shield health plans, affiliated health plans of wellpoint inc. i later served as president of another affiliate, blue Cross and blue shield of Georgia. i then saw an opportunity to take on my dream job as wellpoint’s vice president of social responsibility and president of the wellpoint Foundation. My best advice is to always look for growth opportunities, learn from everyone you encounter, respect all persons from different backgrounds and persuasions, network, and get involved with the community. and most importantly, make a commitment to nurture other leaders so the leadership mantle is spread on many shoulders.
TITLE: Vice President, Corporate Social Responsibility, WellPoint inc., and President, the WellPoint Foundation EDUCATION: Bachelor’s degree in accounting and financial management, Sheffield University, Yorkshire, England; MBA, indiana University FIRST JOB: Systems analyst at PricewaterhouseCoopers WHAT I’M READING: Natural Capitalism: Creating the next industrial Revolution, by Paul Hawken, Amory Lovins and L. Hunter Lovins
MY PHILOSOPHY: People who have been honored with good fortune in their life have a responsibility to take an active role in giving back to the community and using their voice and talents for the greater good. Volunteering and serving as a board member for a not-for-profit organization are great ways to accomplish this. As Sir Winston Churchill once said, “We make a living by what we get; we make a life by what we give.” FAMILY: Single INTERESTS: Horseback riding, skiing, fund-raising, and connecting people to help others FAVORITE CHARITY: United Way
COMPANY: WellPoint, inc. HEADQUARTERS: indianapolis, indiana WEB SITE: www.wellpoint.com BUSINESS: Health benefits ANNUAL REVENUES: $61 billion in 2007 EMPLOYEES: 41,700
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women worth watching in 2009
Michele Coleman Mayes
W
Allstate Insurance Company
when you are defining who you are professionally and determining what is truly important to you, it is invaluable to have other perspectives. This is particularly true for women and minorities, who historically have experienced a more difficult time succeeding by the rules. One way to crack the code is to find a mentor who is part of the establishment. My mother was my first personal mentor. My first workplace mentor was a member of senior management at a former employer of mine. she is the one who first planted the seed about my becoming a general counsel. i had not thought about that possibility. she asked, “why not?” i did not have a compelling response. The exchanges i had with her caused me to reassess how i saw myself. she exemplified the key characteristics of a good mentor—a willingness to challenge and not accept half-baked excuses.
TITLE: Senior Vice President, General Counsel and Chief Legal Officer
COMPANY: Allstate insurance Company HEADQUARTERS: northbrook, illinois WEB SITE: www.allstate.com BUSINESS: insurance and financial services
Some of my best mentors have been people most unlike me. some of my best mentors have been people most unlike me. i gained different insights from them because their experiences were not like mine. also, we learned from each other, which is another benefit of a successful mentoring relationship. One of the best ways i can honor those who took the time to know, grow, and challenge me is to “pay it forward.” as a result, i have mentored many individuals. i have a few words of wisdom for those i mentor: First, don’t be afraid to take risks. second, be true to yourself and your values. Third, treat time as the limited resource that it is. Mark Twain once remarked that 20 years from now you’ll be more disappointed by the things you didn’t do than by the ones you did. Fourth, do not defeat yourself. This advice was best captured by a Frenchman who said, “My life has been filled with terrible misfortunes, most of which never happened.” and finally, give back in any way you can. My advice is rather simple. Find your mentors everywhere you go. Don’t wait for them to find you. and when someone reaches out to you for advice, be open, and “pay it forward.”
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ANNUAL REVENUES: $36.8 billion in 2007 EMPLOYEES: More than 70,000 professionals, including 14,700 exclusive Allstate agencies and financial representatives in the United States and Canada
women worth watching in 2009
Machelle A. McAdory
A
Chrysler Financial
as i reflect on my accomplishments, both personal and professional, there is a common thread woven through all of them—the lessons that i’ve learned from others. These lessons have come from individuals who have shared their experiences, stories, and wisdom with me in a number of ways and on numerous topics. i’m fortunate that over the years i’ve had people who were and remain willing to support my career and personal development through coaching and mentoring. but none of their efforts would have been effective if i were not willing to listen, consider, and apply the many lessons.
I learned early on that a person does not have to forge a career path alone. a career in corporate america is something you have to build. The journey can take many different paths depending on your decisions and actions. i learned early on that a person does not have to forge a career path alone. To be successful at whatever i’ve attempted to do, i recognized i needed to, first, be focused on my task; second, be committed to performing that task with excellence; third, deliver—often beyond expectation; and fourth, seek guidance and support from appropriate people as needed. i’ve also learned to seek multiple perspectives on an issue. Often we only seek or rely on advice from those with whom we feel most comfortable, who may not provide all the information required for the best course of action. i’ve often sought information from those who may not have been ardent supporters and from those who were my champions simply to have the widest possible view. For me, it is equally important to pass on what i have learned to others. it is my responsibility to reach out to others. i strongly believe in respecting the legacy of history and experience, and that there is no replacement for wisdom, no matter what your age, station in life, or where you are positioned in the corporate hierarchy.
TITLE: Vice President, Human Resources, Administrative Services and Communications EDUCATION: Master’s degree, University of Michigan; bachelor’s degree in industrial administration, GMi Engineering and Management institute FIRST JOB: Material driver for family’s electrical contracting firm WHAT I’M READING: What Keeps Me Standing: Letters From Black Grandmothers on Peace, Hope and Inspiration, by Dennis kimbro; and A Thousand Splendid Suns, by khaled Hosseini MY PHILOSOPHY: Do not let others set boundaries on what you can do. FAMILY: Husband, Randall, and three children INTERESTS: Spending time with family and friends; sports FAVORITE CHARITY: Board member for HAVEn (Help Against Violent Encounters now), supporting abused and at risk families; board of directors vice chair for the American Red Cross of Southeastern Michigan
COMPANY: Chrysler Financial HEADQUARTERS: Farmington Hills, Michigan WEB SITE: corp.chryslerfinancial.com BUSINESS: Automotive finance PORTFOLIO MANAGED: $70 billion USD EMPLOYEES: 4,000
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women worth watching in 2009
Rose McKinney-James
T
MGM MIRAGE
The first half-century of my life has been richly blessed through my experience with mentoring. i believe that it is an essential component to success. Done well, an effective mentoring experience can help to establish the values that carry us through life. i am the beneficiary of the kind and thoughtful mentoring of several incredible people who were generous with their time and demonstrated incredible patience, integrity, and wisdom. They seemed to surface just in time and shared with me an eclectic mix of philosophies and backgrounds. Mentoring allowed me to explore my aspirations, quietly fail, and pick myself up to move on to the next adventure. in 1999, that path led me to the executive suite. Mentoring allowed me to experience the aspects of both success and failure, perhaps the most important principle in mentoring.
Done well, an effective mentoring experience can help establish the values that carry us through life. My first mentors were my grandparents. They held strong values and relied on their faith and the belief that success was always within reach. They emphasized the view that a willingness to work hard and maintain a focus on achievement was critical to a successful future. More importantly, they valued education and made the sacrifices necessary to insure my ability to pursue my dreams. because of that unconditional support, i have been able to take advantage of a wide range of opportunities in both public service and private enterprise. in turn, i have made myself available as a mentor to those who seek my help. These interactions have ranged from strategic planning to simply providing a sounding board and a strong shoulder. i have been gratified by the exchange of perspectives and the invaluable lessons that i have learned through my exposure to those just beginning their careers. sharing leads to mutual understanding, which allows us to agree to disagree, hold firm views and positions, but appreciate the value of compromise and collaboration. Mentoring is a vehicle to pursue these important life lessons. To move forward requires only a willingness to say yes.
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TITLE: Managing Principal EDUCATION: BA, Olivet College, Olivet, Michigan; JD, Antioch School of Law, Washington, D.C. FIRST JOB: intern, Councilman nicholas Hood, Detroit City Council WHAT Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;M READING: State of Denial, by Bob Woodward; Energy Victory: Winning the War on Terror by Breaking Free of Oil, by Robert Zubrin MY PHILOSOPHY: Live and lead by example. FAMILY: Married to Frederick James Jr., CPA; two sons, Erick, 18, and Avery, 12; two brothers, kenneth and kelly INTERESTS: Politics, desert gardening, tennis, and all things musical FAVORITE CHARITY: Energy Foundation
COMPANY: MGM MiRAGE HEADQUARTERS: Las Vegas, nevada WEB SITE: www.mgmmirage.com BUSINESS: Hospitality ANNUAL REVENUES: $7.7 billion EMPLOYEES: 66,000
women worth watching in 2009
Elaine Metlin
A
Dickstein Shapiro LLP
as one of five sisters, i was raised to believe that i could achieve anything if i was passionate about my goals and willing to work hard. Diagnosed with Crohn’s Disease at 16, i missed nearly half of my senior year of high school but managed to graduate at the top of my class. after college, i married and gave birth to my first daughter. as a stay-at-home mom, i began volunteer counseling, speaking, and writing on behalf of rape, incest, and spousal abuse victims. My fascination and frustration with the judicial system led me to apply to law school.
To succeed, you must commit yourself to achieving your heart’s desire. when my marriage foundered, i became a full-time law student as well as the single parent of a 2-year-old. This was my crash course in learning about balance; i arose at 5 a.m. to study and resumed full-time mothering duties when i picked up my daughter from daycare after classes were over. i remained a single parent until i remarried the year i was elected partner and went on to have two more wonderful daughters. i joke that the 20-year gap between my oldest and youngest is because i “spaced my husbands.” at Dickstein shapiro, we recognize that work-life balance is a cornerstone for success. in recent years, law firms have made progress in advancing and retaining talented women but still have work to do in terms of ensuring that women attain leadership roles. women’s leadership initiative, which i head in our D.C. office, recognizes the importance of retaining and promoting women. The program seeks to provide women with the necessary tools to define their own success and reach their professional goals. building relationships between women partners and associates is a key aspect of our program. My unconventional career path has been guided by the support of family, friends, and great mentors, as well as a work environment that made it possible for me to succeed. in return, i try to mentor the young women at my firm. with 30 years of child rearing behind me, and many more to go, i’ve become an expert at juggling my personal and professional roles. although meeting the day-to-day demands hasn’t been easy, the rewards have been extraordinary. To succeed, you must commit yourself to achieving your heart’s desire. remember, though, that you don’t have to go it alone. working together, we can and will achieve more than we can accomplish separately.
TITLE: Partner EDUCATION: BA, magna cum laude, University of Pittsburgh; JD, University of Virginia School of Law FIRST JOB: Library assistant at Fairfax County Public Library WHAT I’M READING: She Wins, You Win, by Gail Evans MY PHILOSOPHY: Find your heart’s desire, then achieve it with hard work and passion. FAMILY: Husband and three daughters: Emilie, 30; Susannah, 13; Madeline, 10 INTERESTS: Gardening and baking artisan bread FAVORITE CHARITY: Gift of Life Bone Marrow Registry
COMPANY: Dickstein Shapiro LLP HEADQUARTERS: Washington, D.C. WEB SITE: www.dicksteinshapiro.com BUSINESS: Law firm ANNUAL REVENUES: $293.8 million EMPLOYEES: 947
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women worth watching in 2009
MaryAnn Miller
A Avnet, Inc.
according to author Father James Keller, “a candle loses nothing by lighting another candle.” in a similar way, i believe mentors guide others in career and personal pursuits without sacrificing their own goals or energy. as leaders, we have a responsibility to share our knowledge and help others develop in their careers and personal lives. Certainly, there are many forms of mentoring. while many of us, myself included, may yearn to follow the sage career advice of a single mentor, it’s not always as easy as it may seem. For formal mentoring to work, there needs to be good chemistry. you can’t force it. There should be shared interests and a level of trust that allows for an open exchange of ideas and insights. at avnet, we are creating a formal mentoring program that will match senior professionals with employees interested in participating. however, if after the first meeting the interest isn’t there to continue, that’s OK.
The best part of mentoring? By sharing my thoughts, I learn, too. Other forms of mentoring may be more informal. i’ve encountered many interesting and wonderful people over the years, and i’ve learned that everyone has gifts. i try to take away nuggets of wisdom whenever i meet someone. For example, a supervisor i met early in my career had an excellent follow-up system. he did everything in triplicate, giving one copy to me and keeping the others for himself so he knew when to follow up. he taught me how important it is to meet deadlines and keep your commitments. we don’t keep things in triplicate any more, but i have developed similar ways to keep track of things so i can stay on top of work assignments and personal tasks. Mentoring can also take the form of coaching, such as sharing personal experiences and subject matter expertise. i look for the other person to initiate the relationship and to take responsibility for his or her development. The best part of mentoring? by sharing my thoughts, i learn, too. as you engage in dialogue, you work through your ideas and sometimes come up with different ways of looking at things that help put everything in perspective.
TITLE: Senior Vice President, Global Human Resources EDUCATION: BA, University of illinois at Chicago; MBA, W.P. Carey School of Business at Arizona State University FIRST JOB: Management trainee at Allstate Motor Club; supervised employees in the mailroom and tour bureau WHAT I’M READING: Eat, Pray, Love: One Woman’s Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia, by Elizabeth Gilbert; Mobilizing Minds: Creating Wealth From Talent in the 21st Century Organization, by Lowell L. Bryan and Claudia i. Joyce MY PHILOSOPHY: We spend so much time at work, it’s important to really love what you do. i don’t think in terms of work/ life balance, so much as work/life blend. Working full time and raising a family are actually like having two full-time jobs. At different times, you have to focus your attention where it is needed most. i believe in always being the best you can be no matter what the task or situation. That means, i’m constantly competing with myself and looking for ways to improve. FAMILY: Husband of 22 years, Duane; three daughters, katie, 21, and twins Allison and Gianna, 18 INTERESTS: Travel, cooking, music, art and reading FAVORITE CHARITY: Friends of the Orphans
COMPANY: Avnet, inc. HEADQUARTERS: Phoenix, Arizona WEB SITE: www.avnet.com BUSINESS: Technology distribution ANNUAL REVENUES: $17.95 billion for fiscal year 2008 EMPLOYEES: 13,000
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CVS Caremark celebrates successful women in business. CVS Caremark believes in celebrating womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s achievements as industry leaders. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s why we are joining Diversity Journal in honoring some of the most successful women in business. We are proud to support the women who challenge us to care and inspire us to lead. We congratulate one of our most valuable CVS Caremark leaders for being recognized as a Woman Worth Watching for her accomplishments: Nancy Christal, Senior Vice President of Investor Relations
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women worth watching in 2009
Jeannette M. Mills
T
Constellation Energy
Throughout my life, i have often been called a natural leader. Even in my youth, i tried to lead my sisters and friends as we played four squares or flag football. i got everyone organized and, of course, sought victory for my team. as i matured and developed, i learned that leadership goes well beyond being organized. while it’s not always about winning, it is about growing. in my career at baltimore Gas and Electric Company, a subsidiary of Constellation Energy, i have led numerous teams, many of which have been comprised of men much older than me. being a woman in a male dominated field, coupled with the age difference, requires effective organizational, leadership, and relationship-building skills to help make the team excel. For example, we may have to overcome unintended biases or stereotypes about each other. but overcoming obstacles doesn’t happen by chance. it must be deliberate. and it also takes time and patience.
...overcoming obstacles doesn’t happen by chance. My initial approach when asked to lead a team has been to do the following: • Introduce myself and convey my excitement about the project • Listen, learn, and identify what is working well and potential opportunities for improvement • Observe and make preliminary assessments of the people, processes, and systems • Ask additional questions and listen even more • Confer with key external stakeholders • Listen and observe again. This technique has been very useful in helping break down barriers and diffuse conflicts that may develop within a new team. it allows members to have input on prospective changes and shows value for individual contributions. it typically takes about 60 days to complete this process, but in the end, the team has a better understanding of my style and expectations. During this time, there is also the opportunity to correct or clarify any misconceptions through open, two-way communication. Next, i work with my new team to develop a strategy. while everyone deals with change differently, i believe most people prefer an environment of success and achievement to one of failure and disappointment. whether it’s an improved customer service model, or a more efficient work process, there must be clearly identified business plans to achieve results. with the strategy determined, the team puts a plan in place with a set of clear deliverables, achievable milestones, and relevant measures. in the past, i have found that this process engenders high morale, strong loyalty, and ultimately strong results. as a leader, that is what i believe to be my primary responsibility. 130
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TITLE: Senior Vice President, Customer Relations & Account Services EDUCATION: BS, electrical engineering, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Virginia; MBA Loyola College, Baltimore, Maryland FIRST JOB: Blue Chip-in job: Cleaning streams in Baltimore City WHAT I’M READING: A New Earth: Awakening to Your Life’s Purpose, by Eckhart Tolle MY PHILOSOPHY: Success is a team effort. it requires the best from every person and the dedication to make it happen. FAMILY: Husband, Dave; daughter, 12, and son, 8 INTERESTS: Spending time with family, golfing, and reading biographies FAVORITE CHARITY: Voices for Children, a child advocacy organization in Howard County, Maryland
COMPANY: Constellation Energy HEADQUARTERS: Baltimore, Maryland WEB SITE: www.constellation.com BUSINESS: Energy ANNUAL REVENUES: $21 billion EMPLOYEES: 10,600
Constellation Energy is proud to support the achievements and success of leading women executives such as Jeannette Mills. Working together, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve become a FORTUNE 125 company, the #1 national provider of energy and energy services to large industrial and commercial customers and the nationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest wholesale power seller. 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. DOREEN HARTLEY Director, Customer Relations Contact Center
BRENDA BOULTWOOD Chief Risk Officer
constellation.com
CHIOMA ONWUANIBE Director, Technology Business Office
women worth watching in 2009
Margaret C. ‘Peggy’ Montana
I
Royal Dutch Shell
i grew up in a large, raucous, but loving, family; and i now have a supportive husband and children. Therefore the challenges i have faced have been primarily self-generated or as a result of the work situation. i’ve always been competitive, so i get revved up when i see a challenge to overcome. it’s great to feel that sense of accomplishment when success is achieved. how do you challenge yourself? First it’s about stretching your boundaries. Get out of your comfort zone. Take some risks in assignments. Don’t stay on the sidelines in team or support roles. Take on the uncomfortable leadership role. it won’t always be smooth; it’s not supposed to be. Taking on the more difficult challenges and being successful build your ability and confidence to take on even bigger challenges.
A good leader strikes the right balance between challenge and support. second, it’s about making the hard decisions. Don’t shy away from the facts. use them to build the case for change; but then paint the picture of the destination and reward positive moves toward it. inevitably, the hardest decisions are the ones that have an impact on people. you need to do what’s right for the business but treat those affected with dignity and respect. how do you challenge others? Enter each interaction with positive intent. hold others to the same high standards you set for yourself. Coach constructively and often. have the difficult conversations; they provide significant opportunities for both parties to develop. Create opportunities for others to challenge themselves. Offer support and empathy when needed; be flexible and work closely with someone going through trying times. My company loyalty was forged by how positively i was treated when i was pregnant, as a working mom with small children, and during the deaths of my parents. These circumstances may involve only brief stretches of time over a long career, but they are remembered and paid back a thousand times over. a good leader strikes the right balance between challenge and support. i am extremely grateful for the assignments and challenges that have enabled me to grow as a person and a leader, and strive to help those i mentor be successful in facing their challenges.
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TITLE: Vice President, Global Distribution EDUCATION: BS in chemical engineering, University of Missouri-Rolla FIRST JOB: Making tacos on a restaurant buffet line WHAT I’M READING: Wild Swans: Three Daughters of China, by Jung Chang; Conscious Business: How to Build Value Through Values, by Fred kofman MY PHILOSOPHY: Enjoy what you do and act in line with your values; it’s the best determinant of success. Continue to grow and embrace new ideas and activities. Value the work and, most importantly, the people doing it. FAMILY: Husband Duane, children kelly and Stephen, extended family and in-laws—all of them terrific. INTERESTS: Bird watching, sports, travel FAVORITE CHARITIES: United Way, nature, and education
COMPANY: Royal Dutch Shell HEADQUARTERS: The Hague, the netherlands WEB SITE: www.shell.com BUSINESS: Global group of energy and petrochemical companies ANNUAL REVENUES: $355.7 billion EMPLOYEES: 104,000
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women worth watching in 2009
Wendy J. Murdock
T
MasterCard Worldwide
To reach corporate america’s highest ranks, women must leverage their special skills to succeed and to help change the existing gender dynamics for the future. after all, the pathways to the top were created by men and, therefore, often call for the traits more typical of men. That’s why it’s critical for women to develop skills such as analytical thinking and problem solving, while also embracing creativity and intuition. i also advise ambitious young women to build careers in meritocracies, environments where accomplishment and hard work are the basis on which they are measured and promoted. i was fortunate to begin my professional life at McKinsey & Company, where i was able to distinguish myself through achievements and work ethic. as a result, i had some very talented senior people become my mentors who’ve proven strong advocates throughout my career.
I believe that nurturing talented leaders is a responsibility all of us share. admittedly, i am a relentless optimist. i focus on the positive and never give up. i inherited my perseverance from my father, a hard-working, self-made man. he was a phD chemist and ran a research lab, putting in incredibly long hours, while building our family house himself. such a role model inspired me to swim upstream through the male-oriented corridors of power, which i am deeply committed to changing. That’s why i recently spearheaded the launch of the Executive women’s initiative at MasterCard worldwide, where the need to promote diversity and elevate the number of women in the leadership pipeline is a business imperative. we launched the initiative in september 2007, bringing together 60 MasterCard women executives with our CEO and senior leadership team. The goal: Take best practices and build a program that converts frustration into a game plan. we are now planning a second Executive women’s summit for fall 2008, and the number of executive women has grown to 72. while we want to generate enthusiasm about the initiatives we have implemented and the progress made to date, we’ve only just begun, and we will continue to build the framework for the future. in the meantime, i take every opportunity to reach into the organization and help develop promising young women. when i see a bright light, i try to find ways to promote that future star’s visibility and offer guidance, as my mentors did for me. i believe that nurturing talented leaders is a responsibility all of us share.
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TITLE: Chief Product Officer, Global Product Group EDUCATION: BA, McGill University; MBA, University of Western Ontario FIRST JOB: Mckinsey & Company WHAT I’M READING: Under My Skin: Volume One of My Autobiography, to 1949, by Doris Lessing MY PHILOSOPHY: in work and life, do the things you are passionate about and don’t try to be something you are not. FAMILY: My husband of 16 years, Jack Murrin, a former Mckinsey colleague and now the firm’s CFO; three children: two girls, 15 and 11, and one boy, 13 INTERESTS: My children and their endeavors, which include competitive horseback riding and tennis; antique collecting; gardening; and cooking FAVORITE CHARITY: The nature Conservancy.
COMPANY: MasterCard Worldwide HEADQUARTERS: Purchase, new York WEB SITE: www.mastercardworldwide.com BUSINESS: Global payments ANNUAL REVENUES: $4.1 billion in 2007 EMPLOYEES: 5,900 (YE 2007); 440 in the Global Product Group (YE 2007)
©2008 MasterCard
It’s just a piece of plastic that lives in your wallet that comes from a company that employs hundreds of � s, dozens of �s, not to mention a couple of thousand Diversity’s at the
s.
of everything we do.
People of every shape, size, color and perspective make up the thousands of employees of MasterCard Worldwide. Occupying over 40 different offices and speaking in excess of 50 different languages, we’re in a distinct position to understand and profit from the complex and constantly changing global marketplace. Putting diversity at the very center of our ethos, and placing MasterCard Worldwide squarely at The Heart of Commerce.
TM
MasterCard Worldwide congratulates Wendy Murdock, Chief Product Officer, on being recognized as a Woman Worth Watching in 2008.
women worth watching in 2009
Marcia L. Narine
T
Ryder System, Inc.
There are not a great many black female deputy general counsels in corporate america, and there are fewer still whose job combines all the areas and responsibilities of my job. i am fortunate that throughout my life i have always been recognized and rewarded for my hard work. at ryder, i was promoted over the years to the position i have today without ever having to ask for a promotion. This is a testament to the company and to the rewards of hard work. My leadership style has been greatly influenced by my bosses. From my previous boss, i learned that it is important not to back down when you know you are right, even when you say things that people may not always want to hear. i learned that building relationships is a marathon, not a sprint. From my current boss, i learned about the importance of using diplomacy to get things done. My leadership style blends both of these perspectives.
My career has flourished because I followed what I loved. One of the most important lessons i have learned is that a high salary does not equal happiness. when i moved from New york City to Miami, i took a 50 percent pay cut. i had a young child, and i was a single mother. i was willing to take a lower salary because i needed to be close to family in Miami. when i left that law firm to take a position at ryder, i also took a pay cut. i enjoyed the counseling aspect of the law, and i knew i would be happier helping others working in-house at a corporation instead of at a law firm doing battle against other lawyers in the courtroom. i thrived because i loved what i was doing, and the higher pay and the titles followed naturally. My career has flourished because i followed what i loved. My best advice is to do what you enjoy because the success will follow. also, network constantly and be open to having all kinds of mentors and accepting all types of feedback. The insight you take away from each person will help you create your own personal brand of wisdom to lead you to success.
TITLE: Vice President, Global Compliance and Business Standards; Deputy General Counsel; Chief Privacy Officer EDUCATION: BS in political science and psychology, cum laude, Columbia University; JD, cum laude, Harvard Law School FIRST JOB: Law clerk for Justice Marie Garibaldi of the new Jersey Supreme Court MY PHILOSOPHY: Some people make the mistake of believing their mentor has to look like them. i have been fortunate to have mentors of all backgrounds. People with my same demographic makeup have a unique and invaluable perspective, but i have learned a great deal from listening to all of my mentors, some of whom were white males. Sometimes the people who do not look like you are the ones who go to bat for you; and when they do, it can be more powerful than if you had done it yourself. FAMILY: 12-year-old son INTERESTS: Watching classic movies, traveling FAVORITE CHARITIES: Teach for America, Donorschoose.org, Hands on Miami
COMPANY: Ryder System, inc. HEADQUARTERS: Miami, Florida WEB SITE: www.ryder.com BUSINESS: Transportation and logistics solutions worldwide ANNUAL REVENUES: $6.6 billion in 2007 EMPLOYEES: 28,800
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women worth watching in 2009
Maureen K. O’Connor
I
Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina
i was not born to be a leader as some people are, but i have grown into the role and have come to enjoy it. as the second of six children, i learned the value of teamwork, negotiation, compassion, and humor. i had to find my own voice, and i had to learn to use it effectively. having benefited from wonderful mentors, i am now at a point where i can reach out to others. what i have learned is that i get as much from the experience as i give. as the first woman member of our company’s executive leadership team, i am often asked what advice i would give to young women who aspire to be leaders. The advice below applies equally to men and women, young and old.
As the second of six children, I learned the value of teamwork, negotiation, compassion, and humor. Be passionate about your work. i wake up most days excited about my role in making a difference for our customers and employees. if you are not passionate in your role, consider a change. passion is critical to success. Take risks. Many believe that if you work hard, success will follow. working hard is important but only one piece of the equation. if you know you are ready to take on more responsibility, let others know. if offered a position you’re not quite ready for, consider taking it and build support around you to learn the skills you may lack. Don’t wait until you are perfectly suited for that next step. Timing is everything. Build and nurture a great team. you’ve often heard, “hire people better than yourself.” i would add, “build a team with diversity of experience and perspective.” surround yourself with individuals who will challenge you. listen to your team members and thank them often for the work they do. Their accomplishments will reflect well on you. Save time and energy for the people you care about. remind yourself regularly why you are building your career. Make time for the people you love and allow yourself time to enjoy life. Enjoy the journey. Try not to think of your career as a “track” where you are either “on track” or “off track.” instead, think of it as a journey with detours and forks in the road. if you can shift priorities for a time, i believe you can have it all. The detours and forks in the road will make you a stronger, more balanced person.
TITLE: Chief Administrative Officer, General Counsel, and Corporate Secretary EDUCATION: BA in English, College of the Holy Cross, Worcester, Massachusetts; JD, cum laude, Suffolk University Law School, Boston, Massachusetts FIRST JOB: Bank teller, Heritage Savings Bank, kingston, new York WHAT I’M READING: Team of Rivals: The Political Genius of Abraham Lincoln, by Doris kearns Goodwin; Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire, by J.k. Rowling MY PHILOSOPHY: Whatever you set out to do, whether professionally or personally, do it well with energy and enthusiasm. FAMILY: Husband, Tim, married 30 years; two sons, Patrick and Brendan; one daughter, Deirdre INTERESTS: Reading, traveling, photography, golf, driveway basketball, college sports FAVORITE CHARITY: Triangle United Way
COMPANY: Blue Cross and Blue Shield of north Carolina HEADQUARTERS: Chapel Hill, north Carolina WEB SITE: www.bcbsnc.com BUSINESS: Health insurance ANNUAL REVENUES: $4.8 billion EMPLOYEES: 4,515
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women worth watching in 2009
Deborah O’Neil
I
AXA Equitable Life Insurance Company
i have always tried to focus on growth and improvement. after graduating from high school, i enlisted in the u.s. air Force. i also made it a goal to be the first person in my family to earn a bachelor’s degree. i did this by attending school at night and on weekends while serving in the air Force in Nebraska and Germany. This experience made me realize that it was up to me to set my course. after eight years in the air Force, i worked my way through law school. During all of these experiences, i had the opportunity to work with people from different socioeconomic and cultural backgrounds. This led to two very strong philosophies that have guided my career. First, every person is important to an organization, whatever his or her role. second, hard work needs to be, and always should be, recognized.
The opportunity to learn from and share with others is as valuable as any compensatory benefit.
TITLE: Vice President EDUCATION: Bachelor’s degree, University of Maryland, European Division; JD, University of Denver College of Law FIRST JOB: Telemarketing magazine subscriptions WHAT I’M READING: What Happened: Inside the Bush White House and Washington’s Culture of Deception, by Scott McClellan MY PHILOSOPHY: Do the right thing! FAMILY: Shawn O’neil, husband of 26 years INTERESTS: Travel, theater, arts
it is important to understand that success requires hard work and sacrifice, not just to thrive today, but also for victory tomorrow. recognition of that hard work can take many forms. Compensatory benefits are the most obvious, but equally important is the benefit of forming relationships with others who can provide guidance today and into the future. i was lucky to find great mentors throughout both my military and professional careers. Or maybe they found me, realizing my potential before i did. as a young leader, i need to provide that guidance to others. The opportunity to learn from and share with others is as valuable as any compensatory benefit. as i progress on my journey of growth, i hope to continue to surround myself with high-performing teams and talented people from whom i can learn and who will help me grow. My goals now are to help others achieve their goals and to recognize the hard work of my mentors, including my husband of 26 years.
FAVORITE CHARITY: national Multiple Sclerosis Society
COMPANY: AXA Equitable Life insurance Company HEADQUARTERS: new York City WEB SITE: www.axa-equitable.com BUSINESS: Financial services: financial protection and wealth management ANNUAL REVENUES: $26.5 billion gross revenues in 2007* EMPLOYEES: More than 11,000 throughout the United States and Puerto Rico**
*Gross revenues for AXA Financial, inc., the parent company of AXA Equitable **This number includes sales personnel
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women worth watching in 2009
Una O’Neill
I
CA, Inc.
in thinking about sharing insight on how to achieve success, i reflected on the experiences and opportunities that led me to my executive leadership position in New york, 3,000 miles from my childhood home in ireland. like many others, my path to success started with the values my parents passed on to me. They raised me to have a strong sense of responsibility for my actions that later developed into a strong work ethic that helped me overcome many challenges. in our home, entitlements were earned, not given, and i have carried those values with me throughout my professional career. i developed a disposition toward challenging perceived boundaries. i chose to study engineering, not solely because i enjoyed math and science, but because engineering was seen as somewhat out of bounds for women. i liked the idea of challenging stereotypes and went on to excel in my studies.
First, take nothing for granted; earn your entitlements. it was my propensity to challenge perceived boundaries that led me to pick up and move my family from Dublin to New york to run Ca’s professional services business. The position required a complete transformation of a business that was losing millions of dollars a year to one that was profitable. To make things even more challenging, a year after i took the role the company entered a period of significant instability and change. i often look to the words of sir Edmund hillary for inspiration when considering monumental challenges. his answer to the question, “why climb Mt. Everest?” (a feat that, to me, seemed equal to the challenge i was considering) was, “it is not the mountain we conquer, but ourselves.” in thinking about the opportunity in New york, there was something very appealing about trying to succeed where others had not. in 2003, i accepted that challenge and have never looked back. in fact, by “conquering myself,” i eventually was named executive vice president and became a member of the executive leadership team. The advice i offer is not unique, but it has worked for me. First, take nothing for granted; earn your entitlements. second, challenge perceived boundaries and fight through stereotypes. Finally, approach every challenge as an opportunity to learn more about yourself and the great things you can accomplish.
TITLE: Executive Vice President and General Manager EDUCATION: Bachelor’s degree in engineering and mathematics FIRST JOB: Consultant with PricewaterhouseCoopers WHAT I’M READING: The Bottom Billion: Why the Poorest Countries are Failing and What Can Be Done About It, by Paul Collier
MY PHILOSOPHY: never take anything for granted. Entitlement is earned. FAMILY: Husband and three children, ages 9, 6, 3 INTERESTS: Skiing, watching my kids’ little league games FAVORITE CHARITIES: UniCEF and St. Baldrick’s Foundation
COMPANY: CA, inc. HEADQUARTERS: islandia, new York WEB SITE: www.ca.com BUSINESS: Enterprise software EMPLOYEES: 14,000
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women worth watching in 2009
Michelle Paretti
M Credit Suisse
My advice to future leaders is to be honest with yourself, actively manage your career, and define success on your own terms. i attribute the success of my career to having both confidence and conviction in my decisions. i have always tried to be extremely prepared, thoughtful and well-informed before making decisions. Oftentimes, however, immediate action is required, without much time for this diligence. That is also OK. Trusting my instincts has proved to be invaluable in such circumstances. you cannot be afraid of making mistakes, as this can stifle your ability to be creative and take action. when mistakes happen, and they will, i find that acknowledging, learning, and moving on is the best way to deal with it. in order to develop and advance your career, you must be comfortable taking on risk.
You cannot be afraid of making mistakes, as this can stifle your ability to be creative and take action. i am also a great believer in mentoring. although there are many benefits from both formal and informal mentoring programs, my personal experiences have all been a bit more informal. These relationships seemed to develop organically throughout my career. The length of mentoring can also vary; there are unique advantages to both short- and long-term relationships. another strategy i often use in business is observation. be aware of the environment, culture, and people around you. There are countless non-verbal clues which can provide insight into professional situations. Oftentimes, people do not take the time to assess their surroundings prior to formulating their thoughts. balance your work and your life in the way that works best for you and your family. i make it a priority to manage my time carefully, constantly tweaking my schedule to adjust for the unexpected. i don’t think it’s possible to have everything be harmoniously flowing at all times. The steadiness comes over time, and often, in the moment, doesn’t seem very balanced at all. lastly, it is vital to your success to let others know what you are doing and promote your wins. This has to be done tactfully, with good judgment and thoughtfulness.
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TITLE: Managing Director EDUCATION: Fairleigh Dickinson University FIRST JOB: Real estate department of Shearman & Sterling WHAT I’M READING: American Pastoral, by Philip Roth, and A Long Way Gone: Memoirs of a Boy Soldier, by ishmael Beah MY PHILOSOPHY: Do good always for the sake of goodness and truly live life each day, because we do not control time. FAMILY: Husband, Glenn Goldstein; three children, ages 7, 6, and 4. INTERESTS: Horseback riding, cooking, and, most of all, spending time with my family. FAVORITE CHARITY: Ready Willing and Able, the Doe Fund. The Doe Fund believes that every human being has the potential to be a contributing member of society. What some lack is the opportunity.
COMPANY: Credit Suisse HEADQUARTERS: Zurich, Switzerland WEB SITE: www.credit-suisse.com BUSINESS: Private banking, investment banking and asset management ANNUAL REVENUES: $32.1 billion EMPLOYEES: 49,000
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women worth watching in 2009
Lynn Pike
A
Capital One Financial Corporation
as leaders, we leave an impression on those around us each day. we hope to inspire, but doing that well is a learned and cultivated skill. Over the course of my more than 30-year career in banking, i have worked with and learned a great deal from some of the best people in banking, as well as leaders in other industries and within our communities. i have had the good fortune to find myself surrounded by mentors, role models, and leaders who have supported and encouraged me at every turn along my life’s journey. building lifelong connections with people of diverse backgrounds and points of view, often with perspectives contrary to my own, has helped me to navigate my path and motivated me to succeed. My network of mentors has served as role models and a sounding board to assist in guiding career and life decisions. but being a mentee is not a passive activity. Deriving the greatest benefit from a mentor and role model means being an active participant— listening, learning, and engaging.
Challenge the meaning of success, choose your own path, and love the journey. Choosing your mentors wisely and surrounding yourself with people who challenge you to think differently can help you clarify your goals and succeed in ways that you might never have envisioned. being open to their challenges, including new and different ways to think about your goals and motivations, is essential to help you learn how to succeed in the way that is true to your values and sense of self. My journey has brought me to what i believe is the right place at the right time. i am proud to be part of a culture that thrives on collaboration and innovation, believing that our people are our greatest asset and striving to give each associate the tools they need to be great. i think that the banking industry, like so many others, has evolved over the last 20 years. as someone who has been a part of that evolution, i see the changing face of banking as a virtual circle. as more women take on higher profile leadership roles across the industry, there are more role models and mentors to inspire and engage a new generation.
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TITLE: President, Capital One Bank FIRST JOB: Bank teller WHAT I’M READING: A Short Guide to A Happy Life, by Anna Quindlen; Giving: How Each of Us Can Change the World, by Bill Clinton MY PHILOSOPHY: Challenge the meaning of success, choose your own path, and love the journey. INTERESTS: Traveling, spending time with family and friends FAVORITE CHARITIES: Operation HOPE, Autry national Center
COMPANY: Capital One Financial Corporation HEADQUARTERS: McLean, Virginia WEB SITE: www.capitalone.com BUSINESS: Diversified bank ANNUAL REVENUES: $16.8 billion EMPLOYEES: 27,000
women worth watching in 2009
Ana Cabriela Pinczuk
S
Cisco Systems, Inc.
sir winston Churchill once said, “success is the ability to go from one failure to another with no loss of enthusiasm.” For me, this paints a picture of what the road to success looks like along the way. as a teenage emigrant from argentina, i learned early on to approach challenges with determination and define success on my own terms. Despite years of studying English, at age 13 i was neither fluent nor prepared to acclimate socially when i arrived in the united states. while wallowing in self-pity, i attended English as a second language classes three times a week and socialized with other foreign students. For the first couple years i didn’t feel like i fit into the mainstream.
Be optimistic about people’s intentions. Once i embraced this country as my new home, i made a decision to move beyond my comfort zone: i joined the French club, played club soccer and volleyball, took advanced classes, and started to hang out with the brainy kids. My focus shifted from compensating for my differences to fulfilling my dreams. as a result, i developed new and lasting friendships, acquired new skills, increased my self-confidence, and was ultimately able to graduate at the top of my class. i have come to appreciate how my mindset can make a difference in achieving my professional goals. i can make my own road and leverage my strengths, knowledge, and experiences. here’s what i’ve learned: Be open to change. you never know what is behind a new door if you aren’t open to the possibility. Accept help. when i joined Cisco, i met regularly with a mentor who gave me honest and timely feedback on my management style and performance. i learned to put my ego aside and really listen so that i could make meaningful changes. Be generous. be optimistic about people’s intentions. Give people the benefit of the doubt. Zig-zag purposefully. Evaluate your personal portfolio of skills and consider pursuing a lateral or non-traditional move. Careers are not a straight line to the top. Zig-zags allowed me to acquire new skills that ultimately made me a stronger candidate for roles i later pursued. Transcend from zero to hero. if we look beyond career dips, we can overcome adversity with hard work, perseverance, and passion. Our attitude and enthusiasm can make the difference between short-term failure and long-term success.
TITLE: Vice President of Engineering EDUCATION: BS and ME in mechanical engineering, Cornell; Master of Technology Management, University of Pennsylvania, Wharton School FIRST JOB: Systems Engineer at AT&T Bell Laboratories WHAT I’M READING: Ladies of Liberty: The Women Who Shaped Our Nation, by Cokie Roberts MY PHILOSOPHY: Be happy. Be Present. Love Deeply. Be Gracious. Give Back. Eat Healthy. FAMILY: Husband and two sons, 10 and 8 INTERESTS: Running, reading, hiking, Cornell alumni activities, spending time with friends and family FAVORITE CHARITY: Habitat for Humanity
COMPANY: Cisco Systems, inc. HEADQUARTERS: San Jose, California WEB SITE: www.cisco.com BUSINESS: Telecommunications ANNUAL REVENUES: $34.9 billion EMPLOYEES: 65,225
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women worth watching in 2009
Denise L. Ramos
I
ITT Corporation
in work, as in life, we learn in many ways—through books, experiences, even from talking to others. One of the most overlooked learning methods is mentoring. in the business world, most mentoring is unofficial and occurs between a supervisor and a subordinate. reflecting on my career, one mentoring relationship stood out. in 1979, after receiving an Mba from the university of Chicago, i went to work at arCO, a global oil company in los angeles. For the next 20 years, i rose through the ranks. by 1998, i had become assistant treasurer. This turned out to be a critical time for both the company and me. arCO began planning its merger with bp, and i was a direct report to Terry Dallas, the company treasurer masterminding the transition. we had worked together before, but now our efforts became more intense.
From him, I learned that work is not just a job–it is a way of being.
TITLE: Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer EDUCATION: MBA, University of Chicago FIRST JOB: Sales Clerk at Boutique Shop WHAT I’M READING: An Ordinary Life: A Global Journey of Self-Discovery, by my sister, Deborah Johnson (yet to be published) MY PHILOSOPHY: A passion for excellence grounded in values such as respect, tolerance, honesty and openness. FAMILY: Married 30 years with two children, ages 25 and 20 INTERESTS: Bridge, reading, walking and visiting northern Michigan
Dallas had thoughts as broad as a CEO’s. Every morning at 7, my phone would ring. Dallas would begin talking through his thoughts from the previous evening. Moving smoothly from point a to b to C, he drew out the consequences of various actions. his thoughts never stopped—he was always anticipating what was around the corner. penetrating to the heart of issues, he easily persuaded others to follow the right course of action. Nothing was too small for his attention. people listened to Dallas because he was authentic and he put everyone on a level playing field. he taught me to think strategically and relate to people. From him, i learned that work is not just a job—it is a way of being. i lost my fear of moving beyond the boundaries of my job—i began exploring strategic linkages the way Dallas did. Through becoming more open and authentic, my relationships with colleagues changed. people knew that i was direct, but honest. if i gave my word, they could count on my keeping it. after arCO’s merger with bp, i moved on to become treasurer of yuM brands and then CFO for yuM’s Kentucky Fried Chicken. in 2005, i became CFO of Furniture brands. last summer, i accepted the position of CFO of iTT. looking back, Dallas taught me the value of vision and the importance of authenticity and honesty in carrying it out.
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FAVORITE CHARITY: Ravi Zacharias international Ministries
COMPANY: iTT Corporation HEADQUARTERS: White Plains, new York WEB SITE: www.itt.com BUSINESS: Manufacturing ANNUAL REVENUES: $11.5 billion EMPLOYEES: 40,000+
women worth watching in 2009
Sue Reidy
I
Agilent Technologies
i have worked for hewlett-packard/agilent in human resources for almost 30 years. i have worked in every hr function, in global and local roles, and i have moved across the country and back again. i have learned: Surround yourself with really amazing people. i try to stay one step ahead of the energetic, creative, people with whom i work. My role is to remove obstacles so that others can shine. in turn we all succeed. it’s about always asking questions and learning together. i work with leaders and colleagues who i respect and who motivate and challenge me every day!
Ask questions, get input then take a stand. Play on your side of the street. The list of opportunities will always be longer than the available resources. success depends on focusing on the critical few. My team has implemented a segmented approach to researching customer issues, so we can assess which actions would be of greatest value to the largest number of people. This is an invaluable tool to ensure focus while addressing our customers’ needs. Ask questions, get input then take a stand. being a leader takes the courage to make a decision. i have learned that i can most easily stand behind data driven decisions. Data helps me take the emotion out of most issues. Change is inevitable; deal with it and move on. in today’s business environment you must be ready to adapt (or abandon) and move on. My team had been working six months on an exciting plan that would address hr support issues in a certain segment of our customers. priorities and financing changed, and despite receiving corporate innovation awards, we had to make the tough decision to abandon this work. although painful, it was time to move on to our next challenge. Maintain balance in your life. as much as i enjoy my work, my family and friends are a top priority for me. My weekends are filled by traveling to watch my son play sports, working with my daughter in her classroom or spending time with friends. i have taken many red-eye flights to be home for an activity, and i would not change a thing. i lead a very rich life and i am thankful for the opportunities i have experienced.
TITLE: VP, Americas HR, Global Staffing and Mobility Services EDUCATION: MBA, UnC Chapel Hill; bachelor’s, economics and psychology, Duke University
FIRST JOB: Bartender during school; joined HP after MBA and have proudly been with HP/Agilent ever since! WHAT I’M READING: The Glass Castle, by Jeanette Walls MY PHILOSOPHY: Your accomplishments and results speak for themselves. Always maintain balance. Over 13 years ago, fueled by fear that i had lost work-life balance, i pioneered a work-at-home schedule and have been a telecommuter ever since. And, of course, have fun along the way! FAMILY: Husband, Denny, of 25 years; son, daughter, son-in-law, and two dogs INTERESTS: Spending time with family and friends; the beach; sports FAVORITE CHARITY: Penn State’s THOn— the largest student run philanthropy in the world—benefitting efforts to conquer childhood cancer.
COMPANY: Agilent Technologies HEADQUARTERS: Santa Clara, California WEB SITE: www.agilent.com BUSINESS: World’s premier measurement company providing core bio-analytical and electronic measurement solutions to the communications, electronics, life sciences and chemical analysis industries. ANNUAL REVENUES: $5.4 billion EMPLOYEES: 20,000
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women worth watching in 2009
Carmen G. Rive
I
Vanguard
i began my career working at a public accounting firm as a Cpa. My fiancé (now my husband of 15 years) accepted a job in the philadelphia area. so, i moved from puerto rico, even though i did not want to. like all women in my family, i had planned to be a stay-at-home mom. so much for the original plan! i love the stimulation i get from work. i have the good fortune of working for a company that provides me with great opportunities, support, and recognition. Throughout my career, i’ve learned five key lessons: Embrace opportunity. as a self-described worry-wart, i had to learn to deal with risks. people at work and at home pushed me to take those risks, and for that, i am grateful. The risk/reward formula has resulted in big gains for me.
At some point, we need to accept who we are. Be self-aware. it’s important to learn from our mistakes, but harmful to dwell on what we’ve done wrong. at some point, we need to accept who we are. Take advantage of tools that are available for feedback. listen with an open mind, and learn about how you are perceived. Know and use your strengths to help others and add value. Find your own balance. Early in my career, i defined balance as spending equal amounts of time between work and personal activities. That’s an impossible goal for most professionals. i’ve realized that the key wasn’t achieving equality, but figuring out what i can and can’t afford to miss. i may miss a field trip, or a soccer game, but i won’t miss a birthday, an awards ceremony, or a holiday show. balance is not about time; i must simply love my family every day. Cherish friends and mentors. Early on, i tried to be friends with everyone and liked by everyone. That’s also impossible. pick your mentors and friends carefully—they should be those that are thrilled when they see you succeed, and hold your hand when you fail. Treat people fairly. when i started my first job, some leaders threw phones at people. it was a good lesson in what not to do as a leader. being logical, patient and understanding is more helpful and effective than being harsh and intimidating.
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TITLE: Principal, Vanguard integrated Retirement Plan Solutions EDUCATION: St. Joseph’s University, bachelor’s degree in accounting FIRST JOB: Legacy Price Waterhouse, now Price WaterhouseCoopers LLP WHAT I’M READING: La Sombra del Viento, by Carlos Ruiz Zafón MY PHILOSOPHY: Treat others with respect, laugh at yourself, be positive and happy, push yourself. FAMILY: i have two girls ages 8 and 10 and a very supportive husband and friend INTERESTS: Food, reading, tennis, music, and travel FAVORITE CHARITIES: United Way and our parish
COMPANY: Vanguard HEADQUARTERS: Valley Forge, Pennsylvania WEB SITE: www.vanguard.com BUSINESS: Financial services ANNUAL REVENUES: $2 billion EMPLOYEES: 12,000
At Vanguard, diversity is about more than color.
At Vanguard, we know diversity is more than just labels or gender or the color of someone’s skin. We believe in an unwavering, holistic commitment to diversity that resonates through every level of our team. Diversity at Vanguard means: • We respect the variety and differences among people across all categories and creeds. • We put programs in place to foster diversity in the workplace—including monthly awareness activities, diversity councils, and training activities for everyone from senior management to new hires. • We partner with national professional organizations representing minorities and women. • We actively recruit and promote a diverse workforce. Most importantly, we value our employees for being themselves and for what they contribute. Because in an environment that champions the unique value of each individual, diversity represents unlimited potential.
To learn more
Connect with Vanguard > www.vanguard.com/careers ®
Vanguard is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Vanguard, Connect with Vanguard, and the ship logo are trademarks of The Vanguard Group, Inc. © 2008 The Vanguard Group, Inc. All rights reserved.
women worth watching in 2009
Susan A. Roberts
W Bausch & Lomb
“what do you want to be when you grow up?” For me, that question wasn’t a big deal. My parents taught me that it didn’t really matter what you did for a living, but whatever you chose to do, you had to do it well. The success i’ve achieved in life has come from heeding that lesson. whether it was music, sports, college, law school, work, or being a mom, i tried my very best to do whatever i did well. how? by always working hard, being prepared, listening, learning, having courage, earning others’ respect and trust, and never forgetting who i was and what was important. when you combine that with a passion for what you do, success is inevitable.
Use your passion to inspire others to do great things. i’m passionate about what my company, bausch & lomb, has been doing for 155 years. we help people see. i have personally observed peoples’ lives change for the better because of what we do, and i’m proud of that. i’m also passionate about my role in the company. as head of compliance, i help our employees obtain the right results in the right way. i also remind them that no matter what their job is, each of them makes a difference. Together, we perfect vision and enhance life. use your passion to inspire others to do great things. be the change you wish to see. Do not underestimate your ability to make a difference. i can’t take full credit for my success. i’ve been blessed in so many ways throughout my life and i have had the opportunity to learn from wonderful people who believed in me. although i’ve thanked them along the way, the best way to show my appreciation is to believe in others, encouraging them to be passionate about what they do and be the best they can be. whatever you do, do it well. be real. be kind. Enjoy each day. live a full and happy life.
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TITLE: Vice President and Chief Compliance Officer EDUCATION: JD, Albany Law School, Union University; BA, law & society, business management adjunct, Binghamton University FIRST JOB: High school intern at iBM WHAT I’M READING: Ike: An American Hero, by Michael korda; How—Why How We Do Anything Means Everything in Business (and in Life), by Dov Seidman MY PHILOSOPHY: “The quality of your life is in direct proportion to your commitment to excellence.”—Vince Lombardi FAMILY: Wonderful husband, fabulous children—daughter 8, son, 6 INTERESTS: Spending time with family and friends, all sports, reading FAVORITE CHARITY: The United Way
COMPANY: Bausch & Lomb HEADQUARTERS: Rochester, new York WEB SITE: www.bausch.com BUSINESS: Eye health products ANNUAL REVENUES: $2.5 billion EMPLOYEES: 13,000
women worth watching in 2009
Vilma Salaverria
E Aflac, Inc.
Everybody should have a mentor. at least that is what i believe helped me achieve success and obtain my dream job as vice president of multicultural marketing for aflac. starting out as a high school math and science teacher and reaching the apex of a global corporation has been a rewarding ascension for me, filled with the guidance of wonderful mentors who helped me achieve personal and professional growth. My introduction into aflac was as an administrative assistant for the company’s Caribbean sales territory. Eventually, i became a coordinator for the hispanic market and moved up through several positions. My venture as second vice president of the management division and eventually vice president of client services was a blessing in disguise. There, i found new mentors and acquired new knowledge and skills about business implementation and customer service.
I believe that your life gets enriched when you meet someone new. in addition to receiving great career advice and achieving a well-rounded professional background, having mentors helped me gain valuable knowledge and allowed me to transition smoothly from one area to another throughout my career. i believe that your life gets enriched when you meet someone new. Therefore, i recommend fostering relationships with more than one mentor to develop in several areas professionally and personally. also, i believe your chosen mentor doesn’t have to look like you or share your interests to be a good mentor. your mentors can be individuals from the community, church, or the career field that you aspire to tap into. i am honored to be a mentor myself and to advise others that the worst obstacle is a self-imposed one. My advice to those seeking career and personal progression is as follows: • Have integrity. • Be honest. • Develop relationships. • Help others. • Take pride in what you do. • Find mentors who will be honest, frank, and help you grow. • Work hard and do your best at whatever your given assignment.
TITLE: Vice President of Multicultural Marketing at Aflac EDUCATION: BBA in accounting and a minor in management, University of Puerto Rico. Holds Health insurance Associate (HiA) and Managed Healthcare Professional (MHP) designations. FIRST JOB: Teaching high school math and sciences. WHAT I’M READING: The Latino Boom, by Chiqui Cartagena; Beyond Bodegas, by Jim Perkins; Human Sigma, by John Fleming and Jim Asplund; 212: The Extra Degree, by S.L. Parker. MY PHILOSOPHY: Depend on the Lord for everything. He is the source of my strength. FAMILY: Mother, father, two sons, one daughter-in-law, a future daughter-in-law, and two grandchildren FAVORITE CHARITY: Any organization that is committed to helping senior citizens and disabled veterans
COMPANY: Aflac, inc. HEADQUARTERS: Columbus, Georgia WEB SITE: www.aflac.com BUSINESS: Voluntary benefits sold at the worksite ANNUAL REVENUES: $15.3 billion EMPLOYEES: 5,000 corporate headquarters employees and 69,000 independent field force agents
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women worth watching in 2009
Barb J. Samardzich
I
Ford Motor Company
i am frequently asked about key strategies that have contributed to my success in the workplace, particularly as a woman who has progressed through the corporate chain in a very male-dominated field. There are four strategies that, as i reflect on my own career, i typically highlight: 1. hone your craft. regardless of your field, gain substantial technical expertise in some area of your business. as you progress through roles of increasing levels of responsibility, your teams will rely on your knowledge, experience, and judgment to guide and train them in their decision-making. Expertise also provides the foundation for your credibility with constituents inside and outside your company.
When you are engaged in activities that excite and challenge you, work doesn’t feel like work. 2. Know your priorities. rather than trying to balance everything going on in your life and having work, home, etc., all pulling on you at once, make sure your priorities are clear. Those priorities will change throughout your career and life. sometimes it will be your career, at other times your family, etc. as long as you deliver on your commitments, no one will question your priorities, and having your priorities crystallized in advance of a potential conflict takes tremendous stress off of you. 3. utilize mentors. having someone you can talk to who has “been there, done that” is invaluable in helping to guide you through difficult decisions and work situations. Don’t limit yourself to one person, as various perspectives provide additional insight. however, do select individuals you respect enough to put their advice into action. 4. Enjoy what you do. when you are engaged in activities that excite and challenge you, work doesn’t feel like work. if you do the math, we spend an inordinate amount of our lives at or engaged in our work. The only way to make this an enriching experience that spans your total working life is to feel passionate about what you are doing and be convinced that at some level your work is making a difference.
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TITLE: Vice President, Powertrain Engineering EDUCATION: BSME, University of Florida; MSME, Carnegie Mellon; MSEM, Wayne State University FIRST JOB: CAE/CFD analyst on pressurized water reactor cores WHAT I’M READING: The Post-American World, by Fareed Zakaria MY PHILOSOPHY: Over time, all problems can be solved. FAMILY: Married, two children INTERESTS: Travel, running FAVORITE CHARITY: Gleaners Food Bank, Detroit, Michigan
COMPANY: Ford Motor Company HEADQUARTERS: Dearborn, Michigan WEB SITE: www.ford.com BUSINESS: Automotive ANNUAL REVENUES: $174 billion EMPLOYEES: 228,000
women worth watching in 2009
Jocelyn E. Scott
M DuPont
Mentoring is first and foremost the art of listening, deeply. i believe that some of the best advice and direction comes from within. Mostly when i mentor, i ask questions to explore past experiences, desires, or concerns. i don’t believe a mentor is necessarily someone wiser but someone who is available, caring, and trusted. The second foundation of mentoring is trust, a trust which allows one to speak freely and candidly without the fear of being judged. a good mentoring pair has a certain chemistry, a connection, not necessarily because they are similar, but because they respect their differences. Mentoring needs to be protégé-driven. as a mentor, i find that i get back as much as i give. it gives me the ability to reflect on the differences and perhaps strengths of the protégé, perhaps things i may want to emulate.
The only expectation of a mentor is to listen or advise. it is important to differentiate a mentor from a sponsor. The only expectation of a mentor is to listen or advise. a sponsor should represent or promote a person’s abilities. Mentoring is as effective peer-to-peer as it is by having a mentor at a higher level. Mentoring is not networking. Too often colleagues seek a mentor solely based on their position within the company. That mentor generally may have the least amount of time to spend with them and their recent experience may be too far removed to provide much empathy. a mentor in name only is not a help. Mentoring can have many different avenues of communication. i have no idea how many people i currently mentor; i don’t keep track. some of my protégés i have known for over 15 years, some a few months. i have mentored via e-mail—sometimes successfully, sometimes not. i was a mentor in the first pilot year of MentorNet back in 1997/1998 and participated in that program for the next 5 years. in closing, i believe mentoring is a responsibility incumbent on all leaders.
TITLE: Vice President, Engineering EDUCATION: BS, Chemical Engineering, Stanford; MS, Chemical Engineering, MiT FIRST JOB: Process Development Engineer at DuPont WHAT I’M READING: The Farming of Bones, by Edwige Danticat MY PHILOSOPHY: Leave the little piece of the world you touch every day better than you found it. Act, don’t react. The only person who can make you mad is yourself. “Victory creates hatred; defeat creates suffering. Those who are wise strive for neither victory nor defeat.”—Buddha FAMILY: Extended family and my pets INTERESTS: Trail running, reading fiction, tennis, perennial gardening FAVORITE CHARITY: Salvation Army
COMPANY: DuPont HEADQUARTERS: Wilmington, Delaware WEB SITE: www.dupont.com BUSINESS: DuPont is a science-based products and services company ANNUAL REVENUES: $29.4 billion EMPLOYEES: 60,000
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women worth watching in 2009
Kimberly L. Senter
D Unilever
Developing functional and leadership expertise will be a defining characteristic of organizations and teams that succeed. as companies become flatter, and more responsibility is placed upon the shoulders of their managers, it is important to equip professionals with a leadership tool kit. relationship building, maturity, and courage are among the most important components in my leadership tool box; and continuous improvement in these areas will be critical to my success as i move closer to the executive suite. The greatest lesson i have learned in business is the importance of relationships. i began my career in sales, where my success was not based solely on my ability to master the job, but more so on what i could persuade others to do for and with me. This humbling, yet important, lesson helped me to realize that every person has a unique experience or perspective that must be considered in conjunction with my goals. The ability to influence is critical, as leaders must be able to inspire others to move beyond their individual silos and to work together towards a common vision.
...I have been blessed to work with people who are smart, passionate and committed.
TITLE: Director, Category Management EDUCATION: BS in business administration, Florida A&M University FIRST JOB: Territory manager, Warner Lambert WHAT Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;M READING: A New Earth, by Eckhart Tolle; The Bible MY PHILOSOPHY: Ensure that others i come into contact with discover and develop their potential. FAMILY: Single, no children INTERESTS: Travel, theatre, dance FAVORITE CHARITY: Boys & Girls Club
COMPANY: Unilever
an effective leader also possesses the ability to place her personal interests aside and do what is best for the team. This requires maturity and selflessness. i am thankful that as unilever continues to change, it has provided me with new opportunities to lead larger teams. Further, as my sphere of influence increases, i am committed to ensuring that our work force looks more like the marketplace in which we compete. while people with similar backgrounds, experiences and personalities would be a delight to work with, they may not provide a significant competitive advantage for the company in the long run. The excitement and real reward for me comes from recruiting diverse people to be members of my team. it takes courage to extend beyond cultural norms, but both my department and this organization will reap the benefits of many different types of people contributing to the achievement of our common goals. Throughout my career, i have been blessed to work with people who are smart, passionate and committed. My leadership style is a part of my professional brand, and my success will be determined to the extent i leave a place in better shape than it was when i arrived.
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HEADQUARTERS: Englewood Cliffs, new Jersey WEB SITE: www.unileverusa.com BUSINESS: Home & personal care, foods ANNUAL REVENUES: $55 billion EMPLOYEES: 174,000
Adding Vitality to Life
Embracing differences, creating possibilities, growing together -- thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s what diversity is all about. Unilever understands the importance of diversity and thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s why it is a critical component of our business strategy and an integral part of everything we value and do.
www.unileverusa.com
women worth watching in 2009
Sangeeta Gandhi Shah
H
Brooks Kushman PC
here are some simple principles that have guided me. Keep yourself open to new experiences and adapt to changing dynamics. after working on patents for five years, i took the opportunity to get involved in litigation, although i had little experience and was the only woman litigator in our firm at the time. Taking on that challenge opened up a new and rewarding dimension of the practice of law. This same openness has helped me embrace the challenge of expanding our firm into asia. Don’t be afraid to try your hand at something new, to get out of your comfort zone. Change can be transformative; it can expand our horizons and enrich our lives in immeasurable ways.
Change can be transformative; it can expand our horizons and enrich our lives in immeasurable ways. second, understand and maximize your strengths, while targeting your interests. Engage in candid self-assessment periodically to ensure that your strengths are being properly utilized. if you are able to align your interests and strengths and put them to work for you, you can strive toward your maximum potential. My abilities and varied interests have together facilitated a unique work/personal mix that is deeply fulfilling. On the professional side, forging into asia, expanding my client base, and taking on new and expanding legal roles have proven stimulating, as has my involvement in our firm’s women’s initiative. On the personal side, my interest in social activism has been realized through my role as the united Nations representative for the isha Foundation, a non-governmental organization (NGO) based in india that is at the forefront of education, environment, and health initiatives. i also am involved with the leadership committee of the united states india political action Committee. Third, the ability to look to mentors and learn from constructive criticism is essential for one’s development. Mentors serve as professional guides and role models to help us achieve our aspirations. likewise, constructive criticism helps us progress. Fourth, be assertive when the situation demands. as director of human resources and a member of the management committee, i am sometimes faced with complex and uncomfortable tasks. when a difficult situation arises, it is essential for someone to step up and take the necessary action, however difficult that may be. The person who takes care of these situations provides tremendous value to any organization and satisfies a much-needed role. Finally, with everything that you do, immerse yourself totally. as abraham lincoln once said, “in the end, it’s not the years in your life that count. it’s the life in your years.”
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TITLE: Shareholder, Member of Management Committee, Director of Human Resources EDUCATION: Bachelor’s in chemistry and economics, cum laude, kalamazoo College; JD, Wayne State University FIRST JOB: Cashier at a kay Bee Toy store WHAT I’M READING: Midnights with the Mystic, by Cheryl Simone and Sadhguru Jaggi Vasudev MY PHILOSOPHY: Embrace every challenge as an opportunity for personal growth. Life is filled with unexpected and challenging obstacles. How we handle these obstacles helps shape us as individuals and reveals meaningful lessons. if we are able to handle these obstacles with some ease, we can revel in the beauty of life and allow it to transform us along the way. FAMILY: Husband and daughter INTERESTS: Hiking, yoga, swimming, reading, travel abroad FAVORITE CHARITY: isha Foundation
COMPANY: Brooks kushman PC HEADQUARTERS: Southfield, Michigan WEB SITE: www.brookskushman.com BUSINESS: intellectual property and commercial law firm EMPLOYEES: 140
women worth watching in 2009
Michelle D. Shepherd
A
Bank of America
as the sixth of ten children in a close-knit family, i learned very early in life to treat people the way i want to be treated. i also understood that everything had to be shared—toys, clothes, trust, and the knowledge that comes from experience. perhaps most importantly, i learned that thoughtfully resolving conflicts is essential in order to grow—and grow up. i have been blessed with a number of wonderful mentors over the years who believed in me. Their confidence was an inspiration and the spark that lit my desire to test myself and see just how far i could go. Most of my mentoring relationships have been informal, and the result of a leader watching me struggle and wanting to help me succeed. i owe these friends a tremendous debt for their generosity of spirit.
I learned that thoughtfully resolving conflicts is essential in order to grow... an effective mentor isn’t afraid to be direct, honest, and tough. i have made the most progress when i’ve had a sounding board, a person willing to be perfectly frank and tell it like it is; someone who appreciates unique strengths but also understands weaknesses. The best mentors have been those who were willing to tell me when i’d made a mistake and how i could have done better. Their honesty and integrity made me stronger. with their help and guidance, i became more open-minded and learned to never say no to an opportunity. i became a better student of the business and overcame obstacles through collaboration and by valuing the talents of those who surrounded me. My teammates motivate me to succeed. i know they look to me for leadership, but i also want to be a mentor to them. i want to be a true advocate for their career desires and ambitions. if i can’t be their advocate, i owe it to them to tell them why and to do something about it. i don’t limit my mentoring to those i work with directly every day. i work with talented individuals across the organization who demonstrate leadership potential. i want to understand their challenges and seek shared solutions. it’s how we all learn and grow.
TITLE: East Division Executive EDUCATION: BA in English literature, Georgetown University FIRST JOB: Copywriter for internal advertising agency at predecessor bank WHAT I’M READING: On Chesil Beach, ian McEwan MY PHILOSOPHY: i believe in the expression “Opportunities are seldom labeled.” My philosophy is that you’ve got to keep your eyes and ears wide open to what is going on around you and take advantage of opportunities that present themselves. if you’re too prescriptive about what might be right or wrong for your career, you’re sure to miss an opportunity. FAMILY: Husband, two daughters INTERESTS: Cooking, reading, spending time with my family FAVORITE CHARITY: The Mary Campbell Center, a residence for the disabled in Wilmington, Delaware
COMPANY: Bank of America HEADQUARTERS: Charlotte, north Carolina WEB SITE: www.bankofamerica.com BUSINESS: Financial services ANNUAL REVENUES: $17.30 billion EMPLOYEES: 209,000
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women worth watching in 2009
Heidi Shyu
E
Raytheon Company
Earlier in my career, i was asked to lead the development of the next-generation active array radar system on the most technologically-advanced jet fighter aircraft in the u.s. military. The task seemed insurmountable at the time, because we had a relatively short time to deliver this product at half the cost, half the existing weight, and with better reliability than the current system. Most people thought i was crazy to take that assignment. however, i chose to approach the situation as an opportunity to do something important for my organization that would benefit the men and women in uniform who protect our nation. in the end, despite the early characterization of the project by my team as “outrageous, ridiculous and impossible,” we completed the assignment three months ahead of schedule and exceeded all the customer’s goals.
Consider seemingly overwhelming situations as opportunities to test your mettle... The point is, do not be afraid of challenges. Consider seemingly overwhelming situations as opportunities to test your mettle and truly believe that you are going to exceed your own expectations in the end. look at the bigger picture and figure out how all the pieces of the puzzle fit together before creating your action plan. i would advise every professional woman to seek out the assistance and counsel of a mentor—someone who is at least two levels above you that has a very good grasp of what success looks like. what are the things this individual knows, but you don’t? what attributes do they have that you currently don’t have, but are willing to learn? you might also find it helpful to seek out an independent, 360-degree assessment of your strengths and weaknesses by your managers, your peers, and your employees. Even if you feel that you have wonderful working relationships, in many cases, you’ll be very surprised about the feedback you receive from individuals who interact with you most often. use this exercise as an important vector check for your professional progression. Finally, learn and understand the importance of building and utilizing diverse teams of individuals to solve problems. The beauty of a team is that every individual has a different background, knowledge base, education, and set of experiences, which allows them to think differently and offer unique and valuable perspectives. leverage that diversity of thought to your advantage.
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TITLE: Vice President, Technology and Research EDUCATION: BS, mathematics, University of new Brunswick; MS, mathematics, University of Toronto; MS, electrical engineering, UCLA; engineers degree, UCLA; UCLA Executive Management Course; University of Chicago Business Leadership Program
FIRST JOB: Engineer on the Phoenix Missile Program—Hughes Aircraft Company WHAT I’M READING: The Jasons: The Secret History of Science’s Postwar Elite, by Ann Finkbeiner MY PHILOSOPHY: Strive for the highest goal possible and push yourself beyond your limits. FAMILY: none INTERESTS: Hiking and traveling FAVORITE CHARITY: Doctors Without Borders (www.DoctorsWithoutBorders.org)
COMPANY: Raytheon Company HEADQUARTERS: Waltham, Massachusetts WEB SITE: www.raytheon.com BUSINESS: Defense, homeland security, information security ANNUAL REVENUES: $21.3 billion EMPLOYEES: 72,000
women worth watching in 2009
Susan Silbermann
T Pfizer
Two words are critical to the success of any leader in today’s business world: thank you. For me, they are door openers—the first words you utter after a hard discussion, a tough presentation, a heartfelt one on one. They say that no matter what outcome, i have been fortunate to spend this time with you and learn something i never knew before. For that, thank you. i have had opportunities to do more than my parents could have ever dreamed for me. On my father’s side of the family, i am a first generation american—he came to the united states to escape Nazi Germany at the age of seven. he was thankful for the chance to be reunited with his family, to go to both college and graduate school, and to open a small engineering business in his adopted country.
I have had opportunities to do more than my parents could have ever dreamed for me. On my mother’s side, i am the first person to have gone on to a higher education. My mother completed high school and rose to a senior level position in a department store in baltimore, Maryland. she was thankful for the chance to travel the world, to interpret what would be fashionable to wear in the 70s, and to become an executive—a very rare opportunity for any woman at that time. both my parents inspire me to remember not only from where i come, but to make sure that no one feels left behind on my life’s journey. For the past 20 years, i have taken this inspiration to the pharmaceutical industry, marrying a love of science with an interest in global business issues. sitting with scientists, physicians, marketers, lawyers, and accountants is an everyday event for me and the teams i lead. respecting all that expertise and ensuring that we leave having thanked each other for our views and input have been keys to success. i am proud to be a leader at pfizer. For the opportunity to grow and to help others do the same, i would like to just say two simple words: thank you.
TITLE: Senior Vice President, Worldwide Commercial Development EDUCATION: BS, biology, and BA, French, Tufts University; MBA, new York University Stern School of Business, Marketing and international Business; MA, new York University Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, French studies FIRST JOB: Copy editor under contract to the national Cancer institute WHAT I’M READING: The Omnivore’s Dilemma: A Natural History of Four Meals, by Michael Pollan MY PHILOSOPHY: it’s not about where i go, but who i can bring along with me for the ride. no matter what your job or level, people matter more than projects every time. Be gracious, firm and understanding— and always, always be yourself. FAMILY: Domestic partner and 2 pugs INTERESTS: Canine agility (a competitive sport!), reading, swimming, skiing FAVORITE CHARITIES: Guiding Eyes for the Blind and Pulmonary Hypertension Association
COMPANY: Pfizer HEADQUARTERS: new York City WEB SITE: www.pfizer.com BUSINESS: Pharmaceuticals ANNUAL REVENUES: $48.2 billion EMPLOYEES: 85,000
Prof iles in Div er s it y Jou r na l
September/October 2008
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women worth watching in 2009
Catherine Smith
I
Motorola
i owe my success to several mentors and teachers. but my heroes—the people who made the greatest impact on my path to success—are my parents. since i can remember, my parents said there were no limits to what i could do. No surprise, my father was the only black in his graduating class at harvard business school in 1948. My parents’ perseverance and encouragement inspired me to achieve my dreams and never seek second-best. Throughout my legal career, i have gravitated towards challenges. i seek out challenges as they often bring about opportunities for growth and advancement. while diversity can bring challenges to an organization, it is also a powerful agent of change.
Working with people from different backgrounds has enriched my life...
TITLE: Vice President and Lead Counsel, Law Department EDUCATION: Bachelor’s degree in political science, University of Virginia; Juris Doctor, Georgetown University Law Center FIRST JOB: Associate with the Bell, Boyd & Lloyd law firm in Chicago WHAT I’M READING: The Story of Yiddish, by neal karlen MY PHILOSOPHY: All things are possible to those who believe. FAMILY: Husband, son and daughter
i believe that a company can only be successful if it fully embraces diversity and inclusion. Motorola’s customers circle the globe, representing every imaginable demographic background. we’ve learned that when the benefits of diversity are championed within the company, we are successful in the global marketplace. i am extremely proud of the diversity within the law department and my own team, which crosses many cultures and ethnicities. in my job, i have put teams together across the globe. i’ve traveled around the world, and brokered deals with people whose cultures are very different from mine. you have to communicate effectively and work to find common ground, critical skills for a lawyer and a manager. working with people from different backgrounds has enriched my life, driving me to be a better member of the communities to which i belong. at Motorola, i’m co-chair of the company’s black business Council—just one of many employee diversity councils across the company. The council provides a channel for employees to share work experiences and learn from others. we also work to support charities and community organizations that promote diversity. Outside of the office, my husband and i regularly volunteer to engage at-risk youth and young adults. we recently hosted a seminar at our home for more than 40 high school students from the inner-city. we talk with kids about overcoming obstacles, staying in school, and making good decisions. sharing time with these promising students has been an immeasurably rewarding experience. i truly believe that with every bit of my success is an obligation to inspire the next generation to greatness.
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INTERESTS: Slow strength training; baseball (i root for the Mets and the White Sox); Gospel music FAVORITE CHARITIES: Wheaton Christian Center, eta Creative Arts Foundation
COMPANY: Motorola HEADQUARTERS: Schaumburg, illinois WEB SITE: www.motorola.com BUSINESS: Telecommunications/ Wireless/networks ANNUAL REVENUES: Motorola had sales of US $36.6 billion in 2007 EMPLOYEES: 66,000
women worth watching in 2009
Karen Sock
O
Grand Biloxi Casino, Hotel & Spa
Over the years, i have learned first-hand the importance of mentoring. i have benefited greatly from the support of leaders at all levels of the organization. i have been fortunate to also have role models in my family and in the various communities in which i have lived and worked. The wisdom others shared with me greatly assisted me in achieving my career goals. as a result, it is a priority in my professional life to help guide others to achieve their personal and professional goals. The casino industry has given me the opportunity to work in several different locations and markets. i have met and mentored many talented young leaders during my career. it is always rewarding to receive a call and hear of a significant accomplishment a mentee has achieved. i keep in contact with many former co-workers and employees that live all over the country who still call and seek advice and counsel. Today i opened my mail to find a book entitled Fanatically Relentless Customer Service, by Calvin stovall. Calvin was a student and employee of mine back in the late 1980s, and we still keep in touch.
We must lead by example, treat others with respect and dignity, and be honest and straightforward... an important part of mentoring is modeling. i have learned many important lessons on leadership by watching how other great leaders carried themselves and conducted business. it is important to remember that, as leaders, others are always watching us. we must lead by example, treat others with respect and dignity, and be honest and straightforward in our dealings. successfully providing critical feedback and sometimes delivering news that is not popular is the true test of a good leader. Mentoring also takes place in group settings. My leadership team routinely discusses and debates important business decisions. Team members challenge each other, bring perspective, and learn. we hold ourselves and each other accountable to perform. Mentoring is an integral part of being a leader. by being approachable and building strong relationships with all employees, i believe i have built a strong culture where employees are vested in the business and know they are an integral part of its success. After this story was written, Karen Sock left the company to pursue other interests.
TITLE: Senior Vice President and General Manager EDUCATION: Attended Cuyahoga Community College, Wright State University, LeMoyne Owen College and Jackson State University FIRST JOB: Gift shop clerk at Associated inns & Restaurants Company of America, Cleveland, Ohio. WHAT I’M READING: Monday Morning Choices—12 Powerful Ways to Go from Everyday to Extraordinary, by David Cottrell MY PHILOSOPHY: My philosophy is firmly grounded in always ensuring that everything i do is right for my family, my community and my company as well as the employees that support me each and every day. Giving back to the community where i live and work along with developing and supporting my staff to achieve their personal and professional goals are responsibilities i embrace. FAMILY: Husband, one daughter INTERESTS: Travel, dancing, entertaining FAVORITE CHARITY: Gulf Coast Renaissance Corporation, a non-profit private corporation dedicated to facilitating the rebuilding of affordable housing on the Mississippi Gulf Coast after Hurricane katrina
COMPANY: Harrah’s Entertainment HEADQUARTERS: Las Vegas, nevada WEB SITE: www.harrahs.com BUSINESS: Entertainment, hospitality EMPLOYEES: 85,000
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women worth watching in 2009
Teressa Szelest-Shah
I
BASF SE
i was very fortunate early in my career at basF to have a number of senior managers guiding my career and giving me advice. One of the most memorable conversations from those early years surrounded the issue of how i viewed myself and what i really wanted career-wise. sounds simple, right? but i can tell you that all these years later, those two questions follow me, quite simply because i am not the same person as i was back then. Continually taking stock of who i am and what i really want was a key factor in determining how i went about seeking mentoring and who i sought out. sometimes it was people who were in similar situations. Other times i sought out someone i’d met from another company.
The key is knowing how to apply the various kinds of mentoring to the person you are and want to become.
TITLE: Group Vice President, intermediates EDUCATION: BS, chemical engineering, Rensselaer Polytechnic institute FIRST JOB: Temporary employee; BASF Corporation; EHS department WHAT I’M READING: Big Russ & Me, Father and Son: Lessons of Life by Tim Russert MY PHILOSOPHY: Find the balance and have fun doing it. FAMILY: Husband, iqbal, and two daughters, 14 and 6 INTERESTS: Travel/vacationing
but what is mentoring anyway? is mentoring the coaching you receive through a transitional or tough phase of your career? Can it come from someone who inspires you, even if you see that person only once? Or does it come through a guru, a yoda-like person? Does mentoring come from someone who doesn’t really have a particular vested interest in your career and most likely doesn’t even work in the same company, but who you trust explicitly? My answer to all of these questions is a resounding “yes.” but the “what” of mentoring is only part of the question. The key is knowing how to apply the various kinds of mentoring to the person you are and want to become. as mentors and mentees, i feel it is most important to raise self-awareness. if this element is missing, we run the risk of misapplying mentoring opportunities and resources. while someone early in their career might benefit from examining competency profiles and how those fit with company expectations, a mid-career employee might find great value in exploring cross-business or cross-functional networking opportunities. There are many facets of mentoring and each one has its own place and time. The trick to gaining the most value from mentoring will come with the wisdom of knowing when to apply each. The success of this, in turn, is dependent on your ability to remain open-minded to personal appraisals and to really know yourself.
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FAVORITE CHARITY: United Way
COMPANY: BASF SE HEADQUARTERS: Ludwigshafen, Germany WEB SITE: www.basf.com BUSINESS: Chemicals ANNUAL REVENUES: $80 billion EMPLOYEES: 95,000
women worth watching in 2009
Barbara A. Taylor
I
BDO Seidman, LLP
i have worked for bDO seidman for 14 years, serving as lead general counsel for the last six years. a few years ago, the CEO asked me to spearhead two new firm strategies—bDO Flex and the bDO women’s initiative. i accepted the leadership role in service to an organization about which i care deeply. in the end, i have benefited much more than i expected to in terms of personal and professional growth. The unique combination of legal counselor and change driver has opened my eyes to a few important lessons about success.
During challenging times, look to past experiences and to those you respect for guidance. Take risks to champion an issue that’s important to you. as a wife, mother, community volunteer, and executive, i could not have achieved success without the flexibility to manage where and when i get my work accomplished. Transitioning from a personal user of flexibility to the firm-wide leader of bDO Flex required me to step outside of my area of expertise and take a risk. in the end, i have learned about building a strategy from the ground up and have helped create a cutting edge approach to flexibility that benefits the firm and all of our employees. A commitment to change benefits everything you do. Change, both personal and organizational, is messy. however, it’s the only way to survive in a fast-paced, ever-evolving world. both bDO Flex and the bDO women’s initiative are about culture change and shifting individual beliefs and assumptions about the workplace. whether it is a small change like planning a networking event with female clients or something more significant, such as asking people to dialogue about gender stereotypes, re-imagining our firm is what will keep us thriving. During challenging times, look to past experiences and to those you respect for guidance. as the General Counsel, much of my time is spent on difficult, high stakes problems—especially during the recent years of upheaval in the accounting industry. in the midst of a new regulatory landscape, there were times i didn’t know the answers when others were looking to me to lead. The two best sources of guidance i found were lessons i learned during other challenging times, and reaching out to trusted advisors and colleagues. leaders do not have to know all the answers and they do not have to lead alone. i feel very blessed to be at a point in my career where i can reflect on my accomplishments. i look forward to continued risk-taking, discomfort, challenges, and guidance from peers.
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TITLE: General Counsel; Chair, BDO Flex and BDO Women’s initiative EDUCATION: JD, Georgetown University; BS, accounting, University of Delaware FIRST JOB: kitchen aide at a nursing home. i was promoted to cook’s helper in the middle of the summer, and i was very proud, because it meant i didn’t have to wash the dishes anymore. WHAT I’M READING: Atonement, by ian McEwan MY PHILOSOPHY: To whom much has been given, much will be required; to whom much has been entrusted, even more will be demanded. FAMILY: Married, with 3 children—two daughters, ages 8 and 11, and a son who is 5. INTERESTS: My kids, running, movies, books FAVORITE CHARITY: Habitat for Humanity and my church
COMPANY: BDO Seidman, LLP HEADQUARTERS: Chicago, illinois WEB SITE: www.bdo.com BUSINESS: Accounting and consulting ANNUAL REVENUES: $659 million EMPLOYEES: 3,020
BDO Seidman, LLP congratulates our partner and general counsel, Barbara Taylor, and all of the Women Worth Watching in 2009.
Driving Opportunities, Opening Doors At BDO Seidman, LLP, these foundational goals of our Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Initiative reflect our dedication to the development and growth of all our people. Fostering a diverse, collaborative culture that embraces individual strengths is a core philosophy of our firm. We are proud to be in the company of others who share a similar commitment.
www.bdo.com
women worth watching in 2009
Bronwen R. Taylor
M
Stryker Corporation
My career has travelled many paths and my destination is still not certain. i enjoy the attraction of the unknown but also having the courage and skill to indentify and seize opportunities when they arise. i have been approached for all my roles with my choice being influenced by those i work with and respect. i started my career as an accountant in Coopers & lybrand (now pricewaterhouseCoopers), australia, and expected to be a partner. at age 27, i was managing a group of 47 accountants in london, the youngest person appointed to this position, female and australian. at age 30, i relocated back to australia and joined a global mining company. This opportunity allowed me to start taking all the good business practice advice i had been giving my clients.
I made decisions based on the heart, the head, and my core values.
TITLE: Vice President internal Audit and Compliance EDUCATION: Bachelor of Business, accounting; MBA and Fellow of the institute of Chartered Accountants, Australia FIRST JOB: newsagent at age 13, filling in for the full time staff on school holidays. WHAT I’M READING: Edward Rutherfurd’s London MY PHILOSOPHY: Make every day count and don’t forget to have fun. FAMILY: My husband Sep, who followed me to the USA, and our supportive families based in Australia
i left the mining company to take a finance company through an ipO. This career move was short as my values were not aligned to the organization. i had lectured on ethics and never expected to be in the situation where my values would be challenged. My next role, in 2000, was CFO for stryker south pacific, a division of stryker—an easy choice given the sterling reputation of stryker. During this role i developed and implemented a compliance program. in 2006 i moved to the usa as stryker’s chief compliance officer to build the global compliance program. The business skills gained over the years helped me establish the compliance framework and infrastructure needed to support the business. This role gave me the opportunity to be a change agent and to partner with great people from many different cultures. i have found myself in an informal mentoring role to divisional compliance officers. More recently, my role in stryker has expanded to include internal audit, a natural fit with existing compliance responsibilities. My career has changed course based on a blending of personal and family needs. i made decisions based on the heart, the head, and my core values. Colleagues i have worked with are now dear friends and advisers whose views i cherish, and i have learned that some skills come with time and experience. looking back, my career choices have all contributed to my current professional standing.
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INTERESTS: Meeting new people, travel and great food FAVORITE CHARITY: Breast Cancer Research Foundation
COMPANY: Stryker Corporation HEADQUARTERS: kalamazoo, Michigan WEB SITE: www.stryker.com BUSINESS: Medical devices, orthopedic implants and medical equipment ANNUAL REVENUES: $6 billion EMPLOYEES: 16,500
women worth watching in 2009
Carrie Teffner
I
Sara Lee Corporation
i used to think that i was really lucky. i’ve had so many great opportunities. That had to be luck, right? some of it was, but i also know that my success has also come from my beliefs: • Always do your best. I was taught early that if you’re going to do something you need to do it to the best of your ability. anyone can be mediocre. • Do the right thing. Sara Lee has a Global Business Practices program with a mirror test. simply put, if you do something, will you be able to look at yourself in the mirror and feel good? being ethical isn’t hard. • Trust your instincts. I was once hired to lead a team where I had none of the technical skills of those i would be managing. The advice i was given was to trust my instincts and my common sense and i would succeed.
Be flexible. Not everything happens the way you want it to. • Face your fears. There have been times when I was presented a new opportunity and i was afraid that i couldn’t do it. i realized that my fear was a sign that i was being pushed out of my comfort zone. These challenges were always the ones that helped take me to the next level. • Give back. It is extremely rewarding to see the success of those that I have managed and mentored. One of my goals is to hire people smarter than me and then spend time helping to develop them. The key is to know when to get out of their way so they can move ahead. • Be flexible. Not everything happens the way you want it to. I’ve always evaluated each opportunity by assessing what i would learn from it and if i would enjoy it. if i have those things, it is worth it regardless of level, title, or location. One of my first managers instilled in me that you should do a job because you want to, not because you have to. ultimately you are in control of your own life and you will be successful if you are doing what you enjoy and are passionate about.
TITLE: Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer—Household and Body Care EDUCATION: BS in business administration and MBA from University of Vermont FIRST JOB: At 11, i started working in our family convenience store as cashier and gas station attendant. First job with a paycheck, age 15, dishwasher at a summer resort. WHAT I’M READING: The Known World, by Edward P. Jones MY PHILOSOPHY: Always do your best, do the right thing, trust your instincts, face your fears, give back, be flexible. At work, do a job because you want to, not because you have to; have fun every day. FAMILY: Husband of 15 years, Chris, and 13-year old daughter INTERESTS: Reading and fitness FAVORITE CHARITY: Girls Scouts of Chicago and Greater Chicago Food Depository
COMPANY: Sara Lee Corporation HEADQUARTERS: Downers Grove, illinois WEB SITE: www.saralee.com BUSINESS: Consumer packaged goods ANNUAL REVENUES: $12 billion EMPLOYEES: 51,000
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women worth watching in 2009
Bentina Chisolm Terry
I
Gulf Power Company
i believe that making long-term choices is what leads you to a successful and fulfilling career. it is much easier to stand back and talk about what you want and where you want to be than actually do the work to get there. Everything you do is ultimately your choice and not a result of what other people say or do to you. you may find yourself in situations that are not totally in your control, but how you handle or respond to those situations is your choice. all of the choices i have made in my life have led me to where i am today. For example, i chose to take positions throughout my career that weren’t always promotions, but they were jobs within an organization where i knew i wanted to be and where i knew i would learn new skills that i could take with me to the next level of my career. My long-term goal was to have a satisfying job where i could make an impact. with that goal in mind, i made choices that brought me to where i am today in my career.
All of the choices I have made in my life have led me to where I am today. i never asked to be an executive at southern Company, but the skills and knowledge i gained from working in various parts of southern Company, such as Georgia power and southern Nuclear, helped me really understand all sides of the business and prepare me for the role i am in today. what keeps you good at what you do is being where you want to be and where you choose to be. looking for jobs you enjoy and learning from and excelling in those roles will direct you to a fulfilling career that is right for you.
TITLE: Vice President, External Affairs and Corporate Services EDUCATION: JD, University of Michigan Law School; BA in English, north Carolina State University FIRST JOB: Clerk for north Carolina Supreme Court Justice Henry Frye WHAT I’M READING: All the King’s Men, by Robert Penn Warren MY PHILOSOPHY: We make choices every day, whether we mean to or not, that direct and focus our lives. We must actively be the masters of our fate. FAMILY: i am married and have two dogs. INTERESTS: i enjoy reading, weight training, running, playing golf, and traveling abroad. FAVORITE CHARITY: i don’t have one charity that i view as more worthwhile than any other.
COMPANY: Gulf Power Company, a subsidiary of Southern Company (nYSE: SO) HEADQUARTERS: Pensacola, Florida WEB SITE: www.gulfpower.com BUSINESS: Electric utility ANNUAL REVENUES: Gulf Power revenue: $1.2 million. Southern Company revenue: $15.2 billion EMPLOYEES: Gulf Power: 1,408 Southern Company: 26,000
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women worth watching in 2009
Sarah Thornton
W Bank of the West
when people ask me for career advice, i tell them they should develop a strong work ethic, follow their passion, and strive to build and maintain positive relationships throughout their personal and professional lives. a strong work ethic has been part of my nature from my first job as a teenager scooping ice cream to my current position as executive vice president, chief marketing officer for bank of the west, one of the largest banks in the united states. when i decided to attend college at the university of Oregon, my father agreed on the condition that i pay the added cost of out-of-state tuition and that i graduate in four years. i was determined to attend school in Eugene, so i had to work several jobs while achieving my degree in telecommunications and film.
...be able to focus on what you are truly passionate about. Throughout my career, i have always endeavored to learn from my colleagues and mentors. at my first job out of college, i started at the bottom, learned all that i could, and then rose through the ranks over a ten-year period. Today i am still in touch with many of the people i worked with there. in fact, a recommendation from my very first manager took me to my current position. i think it is important to cultivate lasting relationships, because you never know when you may be able to help someone you have respected in the past. To develop a network of professional contacts, it helps to have diverse experiences early in your career. i think it’s great to gain experience through a variety of jobs that interest you and work with different people in different environments to identify and be able to focus on what you are truly passionate about. During my career in marketing, i’ve worked as a senior executive at Coca-Cola, The Gap, Eddie bauer, and borders Group, inc. prior to joining bank of the west, i managed brand strategy for various divisions of Microsoft, hewlett-packard, and radio shack at hamilton partners as client services director. These experiences have shaped me and my career and i continuously draw on the friendships that i have developed along the way.
TITLE: Executive Vice President, Chief Marketing Officer EDUCATION: University of Oregon, Eugene, Oregon. BA, telecommunications and film FIRST JOB: Serving ice-cream at Baskin-Robbins WHAT I’M READING: Water for Elephants: A Novel, by Sara Gruen MY PHILOSOPHY: Follow your passion and make people and relationships a priority in all aspects of your life. FAMILY: Husband and two four-legged kids INTERESTS: Travel, food and cooking, friends FAVORITE CHARITY: Sonoma Land Trust (www. sonomalandtrust.org)
COMPANY: Bank of the West HEADQUARTERS: San Francisco, California WEB SITE: www.bankofthewest.com BUSINESS: Banking and financial services ANNUAL REVENUES: $2 billion EMPLOYEES: 9,700
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women worth watching in 2009
Sheri L. Thureen
T CSC
To be successful in today’s corporate world, i believe you must have integrity, respect for people, a desire to continue to advance your education, and a commitment to teamwork. you must set high standards for yourself and deliver what you promise. i also believe you need to find a strong mentor. i have been fortunate to have many mentors over the course of my career who took real interest in furthering my capabilities and my career. These mentors have encouraged me, given me honest feedback, and helped me to value a balanced approach to work and personal life. This experience has helped form the principles that continue to guide my career. i believe that finding the right mentor can make a world of difference in helping you develop the required leadership skills to become a future leader in the organization.
...finding the right mentor can make a world of difference... i also believe it is important to take advantage of the programs that will help you continuously improve your skills and support your advancement. These include online training, leadership development programs, formal educational courses and joining external organizations. industry organizations and networking groups provide tremendous opportunities to meet people and tap into expertise within and around your industry. being proactive and developing a strong network will help you develop a solid support system that will aid in both your personal and professional success. lastly, promoting teamwork and learning how to foster teamwork are critical to succeeding in today’s corporate environment. i believe you need to lead by example and demonstrate a strong commitment to teamwork. Teamwork is all about learning to be collaborative, flexible, and committed to the success of the organization. as leaders, it is essential to delicately balance the needs of the organization with the needs of the individual’s career so that a win-win situation is achieved. Finding the right balance and treating people with respect will strengthen the teamwork and ultimately lead to outstanding business results. This will also position you well for further career advancement.
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TITLE: Vice President, CSC Defense Division EDUCATION: BA, computer science, Concordia College; MBA University of Delaware FIRST JOB: Systems Analyst for DuPont WHAT I’M READING: Wikinomics: How Mass Collaboration Changes Everything, by Don Tapscott and Anthony D. Williams MY PHILOSOPHY: Find the fun in everything you do. FAMILY: Husband Dean; two daughters INTERESTS: Family time FAVORITE CHARITY: Make-A-Wish Foundation
COMPANY: CSC HEADQUARTERS: Falls Church, Virginia WEB SITE: www.csc.com BUSINESS: information technology services ANNUAL REVENUES: $16.5 billion EMPLOYEES: 91,000
women worth watching in 2009
Gena P. Trimble
A
Salt River Project (SRP)
as i look back on my career, i see it as a series of opportunities. Every success i’ve experienced was an opportunity seized and acted upon. it actually goes back to school days, when my parents insisted i take as many math classes as were offered. My parents had high expectations for me. it was difficult and didn’t appear much like an opportunity at the time, but those expectations were the foundation of my future success. armed with self confidence and analytical skills, i took computer science courses—a new and exciting territory for women in the early 1970s. Those classes provided me the opportunity to teach high-level mathematics and computer programming in a new high school. a few years later i earned a master’s degree in industrial engineering, which eventually led me to salt river project.
...always make time for those you love—it’s just good for your soul.
TITLE: SRP Communications and Community Relations Manager FIRST JOB: Cashier when i was 16 at W.T. Grant Co. in Sparks, nevada WHAT I’M READING: A Fine Balance, by Rohinton Mistry, and The Sparrow, by Mary Doria Russell MY PHILOSOPHY: Leadership requires commitment, self confidence, and generosity. FAMILY: Husband, Phil Ordway; son, Roger Trimble; daughter-in-law, Fiorella; one grandson INTERESTS: Snow skiing, golf, piano, reading, exercising
During my years at srp, i have planned for facilities to house corporate growth and managed srp’s land Department. Today, i work in a different capacity, managing srp’s communications and community relations. as an added bonus, srp has given me the chance to be involved in the nonprofit community. There’s no substitute for the growth in character and compassion as a result of volunteering. Opportunity is often veiled, and it takes practice and courage to identify it and act on it. Other tools that i would like to share are: Patience. Take the time to observe and listen. Perseverance. you can’t win all the time. when you don’t, pick yourself up and get back in the game. Communication. you must be able to communicate at all levels, whether it’s in writing or orally. Analytic Strength. This is the great equalizer and an invaluable skill. Self confidence. This underpins the generosity and loyalty necessary for leadership. i’ve also learned that life isn’t always fair and if you’re constantly looking at the scoreboard, you’re only handicapping yourself. Don’t sweat the small stuff and avoid being a martyr. Make decisions that are best for you, and always make time for those you love—it’s just good for your soul. Finally, i’ve found there’s no substitute for rolling up your sleeves and pushing yourself to do your best. if it feels difficult, you’re probably doing all the right things. Enjoy the journey.
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FAVORITE CHARITY: United Way
COMPANY: Salt River Project (SRP) HEADQUARTERS: Phoenix, Arizona WEB SITE: www.srpnet.com BUSINESS: SRP is the largest provider of electricity to the greater Phoenix area. SRP is also the area’s largest supplier of water. ANNUAL REVENUES: $2.63 billion for 2007 EMPLOYEES: 4,800
Every day, SRP meets the Valley’s demands for power. But what about tomorrow? SRP constantly works to ensure we have clean, efficient power for generations to come. That’s why long before it was popular, SRP researched and invested in renewable energy. As a result, today SRP’s energy mix includes solar,
OUR MOST IMPORTANT CUSTOMERS CAN’T EVEN REACH THE LIGHT SWITCH YET.
geothermal, wind and hydro. To make these energy sources more accessible, SRP’s EarthWise program offsets the cost of installing solar in your home. And that’s good for all our customers – today and tomorrow. To learn more about green energy, get involved at srpnet.com/renewables.
women worth watching in 2009
Lynne Fischman Uniman
I
Andrews Kurth LLP
i entered the practice of law in 1979, young, scared, and doubtful of my ability. as one of only a handful of women in a profession and a practice dominated by men, i was intimidated to say the least. with few female mentors to guide me, i relied for assistance upon the men around me who knew what it took to succeed. Many were sincerely helpful; others were actually inadvertently so. in that day, associates, both male and female, were treated with less regard than they are today. we were commodities that could be replaced in a heartbeat, yet we all wanted the coveted “wall street Firm” training and prestige. Frequently, i’d be summoned into a partner’s office with no warning and no explanation of what was needed. immediately, i’d climb up the stairs and report to his office, only to be sent down again to retrieve a stack of files. upon returning, i’d be sent back down for another stack. i didn’t need a gym to stay very fit in those days.
You have to know what is expected of you, then go the extra mile. Other times, i’d be called into a partner’s office, only to sit and wait, often for long stretches of time, while he finished whatever business he was in the middle of. it may sound demeaning today to be treated as part of the furniture or wallpaper, but it was the best training i could have received. The partners, without intending to mentor, train, or guide, were allowing us, the lowly associates, to listen in on high-level conversations that we would never have been privy to otherwise. and thus, i learned to practice law—on my feet, going up and down the stairs, and sitting in a partner’s office like an ornament on his desk. The advice i would give to young professionals today is to try to learn from whatever experiences are offered to you. because i felt that i was treated differently for being female, as a manager i learned to treat all employees with respect, regardless of gender or title. you have to know what is expected of you, then go the extra mile. and most of all, make others feel confident and comfortable when a matter is in your hands.
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TITLE: Partner EDUCATION: BA, new York University, summa cum laude, Phi Beta kappa; LLM (taxation), new York University; JD, cum laude, Brooklyn Law School FIRST JOB: Legal: Office of the Chief Counsel internal Revenue Service; non-legal: Salesperson at B. Altman & Co. WHAT I’M READING: Pride and Prejudice, by Jane Austen
MY PHILOSOPHY: never give up. FAMILY: Married with two children, a daughter and a son INTERESTS: Reading classic literature, interior design, and travel FAVORITE CHARITY: Bide-A-Wee Association
COMPANY: Andrews kurth LLP HEADQUARTERS: Houston, Texas WEB SITE: www.andrewskurth.com BUSINESS: Law firm ANNUAL REVENUES: $251 million EMPLOYEES: 882
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women worth watching in 2009
Christine W. Wallace
I
NCR Corporation
is it possible to have a great career and still be a good wife, mom, and daughter? i’ve been asked that question many times, and i also have teenagers, so it’s a topic i’ve thought about a lot. My answer is “yes.” as someone who leads a 10,000+ person, global service organization, and who believes that family matters most, i’ve learned some important lessons about combining family and career. First, there’s no substitute for hard work. My father formed my strong work ethic. Once he picked me up from work and asked, “Did you make any money for the company today?” My response was, “i just attended meetings today, Dad. i don’t think i made any money for the company.” he replied, “Then why did you bother going to work?” so he was tough, but he was also very proud of what i accomplished.
...enjoy the journey while it’s happening, because that’s all you get. second, get it done. Mark hurd, who left NCr in 2005 to lead hewlettpackard, became my boss several years ago when i moved from a financial leadership role to a sales leadership role. Mark taught me the importance of delivering results. Too often in the business world, people revisit an issue a thousand times and, in the end, nothing happens. Mark taught me how to get stuff done and move on to the next task. Third, your spouse or partner needs to be supportive. i have been very fortunate in this regard. There is a lot of pressure in the business world and your partner needs to have a strong ego because there is going to be conflict. if you have someone who is always whining that you are working too much, then it’s going to be tough on both of you. Fourth, put something back. it can’t be all about the career or the money. it’s about helping others to be successful, whether that’s the employees who look to you for leadership or the people in your community. Finally, enjoy the journey while it’s happening, because that’s all you get. Quit worrying about what will happen three years from now. Just put one foot in front of the other, and you’ll be able to get through the hard times and enjoy your life.
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TITLE: Senior Vice President, nCR Worldwide Customer Services EDUCATION: MBA in banking and finance FIRST JOB: Pricing analyst WHAT I’M READING: The Appeal, by John Grisham MY PHILOSOPHY: From a personal standpoint, you have to live your life with honesty, morality and integrity. What matters most in life is family, and not the stuff that swirls around us every day. From a business standpoint, my number one focus is driving shareholder value. FAMILY: Husband, teenage daughter and son INTERESTS: Spending time with family FAVORITE CHARITY: Wright State University Foundation
COMPANY: nCR Corporation HEADQUARTERS: Dayton, Ohio WEB SITE: www.ncr.com BUSINESS: Global technology provider ANNUAL REVENUES: $5 billion EMPLOYEES: 20,000
FOCUSING ON CUSTOMER SATISFACTION:
HELPING OTHERS TO BE SUCCESSFUL As a business leader, Christine “Chris” Wallace, NCR’s Senior Vice President of Worldwide Customer Services, is committed to customer satisfaction and dedicated to mentoring the next generation of business leaders. You can’t drive great shareholder value without having strong relationships with customers and employees. Throughout her tenure at NCR, Chris has based her business philosophy and success upon the belief that satisfying customers is the key to driving shareholder value. NCR satisfies its customers by providing innovative products and great service, and by working with them to develop strong partnerships. Chris believes it’s the same with employees. By providing your employees with the tools and support they need, and building strong relationships with them, they are better able to deliver a great result to the customer.
NCR offers its sincere congratulations to Chris Wallace and all the outstanding female executives recognized in 2008 as “Women Worth Watching.” To learn more about NCR’s commitment to diversity and career opportunities within our global organization, visit us at http://www.ncr.com/about_ncr/careers.
© 2008 NCR Corporation
women worth watching in 2009
Jane Warner
T
Illinois Tool Works Inc.
“Two roads diverged in a wood, and i took the one less traveled by, and that has made all the difference.” This excerpt from robert Frost’s poem frames both my own and many other successful women’s decisions. i began my career in human resources as a trainer with a large automotive manufacturer over 30 years ago. while grateful for promotions in the human resources ranks, i was attracted to the mainstream business. as i looked around, it became clear there were roles which were traditionally “acceptable” for women, and there were roles which led to the top of the organization. rarely were the two the same; particularly in the manufacturing sector. The challenge was to move into the male-dominated, core automotive business and be successful.
Self confidence and taking risks are a large part of success.
TITLE: Executive Vice President EDUCATION: Bachelor’s and master’s in business and education, Michigan State University; master’s in business, Stanford University FIRST JOB: Trainer, Chevrolet Engineering Center, General Motors Corporation WHAT I’M READING: Supreme Conflict: The Inside Story of the Stuggle for Control of the United States Supreme Court, by Jan Crawford Greenburg MY PHILOSOPHY: Build on success, learn from failures, manage your future. FAMILY: Married, two grown children
Good mentors not only relate to their mentees but have the self confidence, experience, and commitment to bring someone along. They are also capable of finding the right balance between coaching their mentee and running interference where needed. My stepping stone was taking a lateral move into labor relations from which a plant manager asked me to become the company’s first woman superintendent. as a feted vietnam leader, he mentored me with his military leadership style, and three years later, the two plants under my responsibility were among the most successful in the division. This enabled me to build a career in profit and loss positions, culminating in my current role with one of the most respected manufacturing companies in the world. so what is the take away? life is full of choices. self confidence and taking risks are a large part of success. also, anyone aspiring to key leadership positions has to be willing to invest time, potentially relocate, and have a commitment strong enough to overcome failures. Most successful women have at least one key mentor and may have others over time. Typically these relationships are cultivated through demonstrated achievement, a desire to advance, and natural relationship chemistry. bottom line: it is the ability to be comfortable with and ‘fit into’ the culture which will win the day.
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INTERESTS: Outdoor activities and international travel FAVORITE CHARITY: United Way
COMPANY: illinois Tool Works inc. HEADQUARTERS: Glenview, illinois WEB SITE: www.itw.com BUSINESS: Diversified manufacturer ANNUAL REVENUES: $16.2 billion EMPLOYEES: 60,000
women worth watching in 2009
Darla H. Whitaker
M
Texas Instruments
My parents and a few special mentors have had a profound impact on my leadership style. They genuinely cared about me and my growth, and they took the time to share their personal experiences with me so that i could learn from them. My parents—especially my father—convinced me that i could be anything i wanted to be. Throughout my childhood, they reinforced strong values of honesty, integrity, hard work, and taking responsibility for my own actions. as a military family, we moved often and had to build new relationships regularly. That experience can be difficult for many people, but it became a great life lesson for me. The ability to forge trusting relationships is imperative for a great leader, especially one who works in human resources.
I’m driven by a desire to be great at whatever I do. looking back, the mentors who had the greatest influence were those who told me things that were difficult to hear. it is easy for a mentor to reinforce positive characteristics, but it takes a special relationship to tell someone honestly and candidly what they need to change. Mentors who are willing to give tough feedback are priceless. i’m driven by a desire to be great at whatever i do. i have never defined success as a specific role or position, but instead view it as doing a great job and contributing to the success of the enterprise. since graduating from college, i have spent my entire career at Texas instruments, where i have had opportunities to move and grow. i believe doors opened for me because i focused on being great at whatever i was working on and because i worked for leaders who took chances on others. The most rewarding part of my job today is helping others grow and develop. From formal mentoring programs inside and outside of Ti to informal mentoring relationships across the company, providing thoughts, suggestions, insights, knowledge and experiences is very satisfying personally and important for the organization. My advice is twofold: First, build relationships with those rare people who are willing to tell you what you do well and who can help you see what you should do differently to get even better. and, second, become that kind of mentor yourself.
TITLE: Senior Vice President, Human Resources EDUCATION: BS in electrical engineering, Southern Methodist University; MBA, University of Dallas FIRST JOB: Sacking groceries at a military commissary in Germany WHAT I’M READING: A Thousand Splendid Suns, by khaled Hosseini MY PHILOSOPHY: The best recipe for success is to follow your heart and focus your time and energy on things you truly enjoy doing. FAMILY: Husband, Mark; and 3-year-old daughter, Jordan INTERESTS: Spending time with family and friends, being a mom, enjoying vacations, reading FAVORITE CHARITY: Camp John Marc— provides camp experiences for children with chronic illnesses or major disabilities.
COMPANY: Texas instruments HEADQUARTERS: Dallas, Texas WEB SITE: www.ti.com BUSINESS: Semiconductors EMPLOYEES: 30,300
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women worth watching in 2009
Debbie White
T Sodexo
Throughout my career, i have been very fortunate to have had a number of official and unofficial mentors. Mentoring is a valuable opportunity to accelerate your personal and professional career growth. Throughout my mentoring relationships, i have gained perspectives and insights that have helped me to develop strategies for my career. Mentors help you to challenge your perceptions, focus on behaviors, and identify learning opportunities from events and situations you are involved in. They also help you evaluate and identify business relationships that will help your career, flag those relationships that could negatively impact your career, and help you decide what you can do to improve them.
...it is critical that you are open with your mentor, to use a common expression from the UK, warts and all. i have discovered three key strategies for maximizing mentoring relationships. First, enter each meeting with your mentor with a structured agenda. Take the time to outline what you want to discuss, why it is important, and what you want to get out of the meeting. The time that you have with your mentor is valuable, both for you and your mentor. Take the time to plan the outcomes you would like and the approach you will take to get to those outcomes. secondly, it is critical that you are open with your mentor, to use a common expression from the uK, warts and all. holding back from your mentor will inhibit the process. The entire point of your mentoring relationship is to provide a safe forum in which to discuss ideas and topics that may be uncomfortable, or holding you back in your career. your mentor can help you identify strategies and develop tactics that will help you overcome what is holding you back, but you must be open. Finally, and perhaps most importantly, if the mentoring relationship is not working, then change it. you will never be able to fully leverage the value of that relationship if you do not feel comfortable with the person. in summary, a mentoring relationship can support your short- mediumand long-term objectives if the foundation on which it is built is secure.
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TITLE: Senior Vice President and Chief Finance Officer EDUCATION: MA, economics, Cambridge University, United kingdom FIRST JOB: Auditor at Arthur Andersen WHAT Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;M READING: Into the Wild, by Jon krakauer MY PHILOSOPHY: Always put family first, work hard, and play hard. FAMILY: Married to Peter with 3 sons, 16, 9 and 4 INTERESTS: Spending time with family and friends, walking, cycling, and church activities FAVORITE CHARITIES: Methodist Church in the United kingdom, Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB), Sodexo Foundation
COMPANY: Sodexo HEADQUARTERS: Gaithersburg, Maryland WEB SITE: www.sodexousa.com BUSINESS: Food services ANNUAL REVENUES: $7.3 billion EMPLOYEES: 120,000
women worth watching in 2009
Kathleen McClurg Wiljanen
I
Kindred Healthcare, Inc.
i recently saw the movie Vantage Point, which is a story of a presidential assassination. This movie examined the different viewpoints of the individuals that saw the unfolding events from different angles and perspectives. it struck me that individuals within an organization are often viewing strategy, initiatives, and organizational designs from different perspectives. as an executive, how do i become certain that the organization is benefiting from these varied perspectives and views? as a new business woman, i was fortunate to have a strong mentor that helped me to understand that women are very good at managing, because they manage with what she called a “web of inclusion.” she never had an organizational chart that was hierarchical; her organizational reporting structure looked like a spider web. Each member of the team had a connection to each other member of the team. The people closest to the work created the strategies and the policies, while people that supervised them eliminated the barriers and helped to cascade the messages that were needed.
As a new business woman, I was fortunate to have a strong mentor... This mentor also helped me to give up “barbie” as a role model. in the early ’70s, women were expected to work, marry, and have babies and then maybe, if their spouses permitted, to work part-time. she was an example of an executive that could blend family and work and be successful at both. Even in the most important meetings, if a call came in from her spouse or children, she would take that call. i have had tremendous opportunities throughout my working career to work with strong, successful women who have been willing to share and to give hints on how to manage both family and work. These women have also been willing to help me advance and succeed. One actually told me, “i believe there should be a place in hell for women who do not help other women.” as an executive, i have learned to appreciate and welcome different perspectives, organize my resources in a web, throw out barbie, Ken, and the motorcoach, and help other women.
TITLE: Vice President, Managed Care EDUCATION: BA from Ursuline College, Cleveland, Ohio FIRST JOB: Medical social worker WHAT I’M READING: The Ghosts of Hotel Conneaut and Conneaut Lake Park, by Carrie Andra Pavlik MY PHILOSOPHY: To help other women succeed FAMILY: Married, two children INTERESTS: Reading, fishing FAVORITE CHARITY: Pigeon key Foundation
COMPANY: kindred Healthcare, inc. HEADQUARTERS: Louisville, kentucky WEB SITE: www.kindredhealthcare.com BUSINESS: Healthcare services ANNUAL REVENUES: Over $4 billion EMPLOYEES: 53,900
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women worth watching in 2009
Sherry D. Williams
M Halliburton
Mentoring is an important component of my professional and personal life. Genuine mentoring relationships require trust, reciprocity, respect, engagement, and sincerity. as a mentee, i’ve learned this. as a mentor, i insist upon it. i mentored a talented young woman at the law firm where we worked together. but her ability was overshadowed by her appearance. with her khakis, sweaters, casual shoes, and ponytails, she looked like a teenager, fostering the partners’ perception that she was immature. her water-cooler conversations, even with her male superiors, often revolved around her upcoming wedding or her weekend plans with her fiancé. The result: nobody took her seriously, and she was rarely given the high-profile, high-value work she deserved.
In order to have an effective mentor relationship, you must have a goal.
TITLE: Vice President & Corporate Secretary EDUCATION: BA, English, University of Oklahoma (1992); Juris Doctor, University of Miami School of Law (1995) FIRST JOB: Sales clerk at Fashion Conspiracy (the clothes discount was important at 16!) WHAT I’M READING: Negro With a Hat: The Rise & Fall of Marcus Garvey, by Colin Grant; Nice Girls Don’t Get the Corner Office: 101 Unconscious Mistakes Women Make That Sabotage Their Careers, by Lois P. Frankel MY PHILOSOPHY: Show up. Be invested. Anticipate change.
she trusted me and told me her goals, and i advised her to make some changes. she listened. she adopted a more professional style of dress. she confined her conversations to topics that did not involve giggling or blushing. within six months, people talked of her with admiration for being serious about her career. i later had an identical conversation with another young lawyer whose image obscured her talent. she listened to me, too, but she responded, “well, that’s your opinion.” she left the firm, and not by choice, the following year. These examples may seem trivial, but the point is important: if you want to short-circuit a mentor relationship, don’t listen. Mentoring that merely provides a shoulder to cry on wastes everyone’s time. we all have friends, parents or therapists who will serve that purpose. in order to have an effective mentor relationship, you must have a goal. Every recommendation, every conversation, must be focused toward that goal, and, just as crucial, filtered through shared trust. in the absence of this combination, you don’t have a mentor, you have a sounding board—someone who listens, but not someone who can help you reach your goal. a mentor can guide, facilitate, and help formulate a strategic plan—but only if your goal is clearly defined. i function best when i engage my mentors—my “board of directors”—who give me the benefit of their experience and wisdom in all aspects of my life. i trust them. i listen to them. i owe them. and that’s the foundation of a good mentoring relationship.
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S EPTEMBER / O CT O BER 2 0 0 8
FAMILY: Single. But one of nine siblings. INTERESTS: Travel, cooking, politics FAVORITE CHARITY: The Hattie Williams Memorial Scholarship at the University of Oklahoma. i established the fund as a tribute to my mother; it will help first-generation college students with tuition.
COMPANY: Halliburton HEADQUARTERS: Houston, Texas and Dubai, United Arab Emirates WEB SITE: www.Halliburton.com BUSINESS: Energy services ANNUAL REVENUES: $15.3 billion EMPLOYEES: 50,000
women worth watching in 2009
Lizabeth H. Zlatkus
O
The Hartford Financial Services Group, Inc.
One of the most important qualities i inherited from my father was never to stop learning. as a child, i seemed to be the only one in my class who asked so many questions and always remained curious. i have always loved to learn and believe this has been one of the keys to my professional success. it was important for me to choose a profession and work environment that encouraged and supported my love of learning. when i found this at The hartford, i committed myself to my work, looked to learn as much as i could from each of my positions, and remained focused to ensure i had given my best effort to complete the job.
...never stop learning AND help those around you learn.
TITLE: Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer EDUCATION: Pennsylvania State University FIRST JOB: Staff Accountant at Peat Marwick Mitchell & Co. (now kPMG) FAMILY: Married, three sons
COMPANY: The Hartford Financial Services Group, inc. HEADQUARTERS: Hartford, Connecticut
Moving through a variety of financial and operational roles, i’ve relished the opportunities to learn many areas of The hartford’s business, work with new teams, and discover how individual strengths could be best leveraged to produce the optimal result. These new opportunities did not always come at the most convenient times, but i always took them on and i’m thrilled that i did. ultimately, these varied experiences broadened my knowledge and skills, allowed me to develop new interests and helped me to become a more wellrounded business leader. as i took on these managerial positions, i quickly realized that my personal and professional “lessons learned” were far more valuable when i shared them with my teams and colleagues. as a leader, one of my most important roles is one of mentor, and not just to those in my business unit but to many across the organization. To be a good mentor, i have strived to be a valuable resource of information and guidance as well as, hopefully, stirred in others a passion for learning The hartford’s businesses. i believe you should never stop learning aND help those around you learn. i have been quite fortunate in my career to work closely with many talented people who have often taught their adviser new perspectives and solutions to problems. so, even with this incredibly rewarding experience where i am expected to be the one imparting knowledge, i am given yet another opportunity to learn. i have truly cherished that.
WEB SITE: www.thehartford.com BUSINESS: The Hartford is one of the nation’s largest diversified financial services companies, offering investment products, life insurance and group benefits; automobile and homeowners products; and business property and casualty insurance. ANNUAL REVENUES: $25.9 billion in 2007 EMPLOYEES: 31,000
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Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month It’s time to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month. Let’s do so with passion! Hispanic Heritage month begins September 15, the anniversary of independence for five Latin American countries: Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua. Today, more than 35 million people in the United States identify themselves as Hispanic or Latino.
It’s too bad Hispanic Heritage Month doesn’t garner more attention
from the mainstream media. The rich culture, shared values, and strong work ethic of Hispanic people should be celebrated with great appreciation throughout the country. We asked our Hispanic readers to share their story with us. We wanted to know who influenced them early on, what they value right now, and what concerns them for the future. We found a remarkable similarity in their answers. Almost all grew up poor, or, at least, lower middle class. But their parents valued education and hard work, and they instilled these values in their children.
We are proud to introduce these individuals with you, and we thank
them for sharing their stories with us. Their contribution to the rich fabric of America cannot be overstated. We applaud their efforts and celebrate their achievements.
We hope you’ll enjoy meeting them, too.
Who are/were your mentors? What were the lessons learned from them?
One early mentor of mine was subash sam valanju, former CiO for rockwell automotive. subash was the first to expose me to the international and corporate world. he was a leader who coached, motivated, ALmiR SaNTOs and inspired; he helped me learn to do the same. he Vice President, also reinforced important Information Systems Business Solutions values, especially respect for ARviNMERiTOR the individual. susan Kampe, former CiO for Meritor, was another mentor. she helped develop my teamwork and delegation skills, while motivating and inspiring me with her vision and energy. Finally, larry yost, former Chairman and CEO at arvinMeritor, was an inspiring leader with strong principles and an impressive talent to motivate and energize people. Do you teach anything different to those you mentor? If so, what is it?
probably not. From infancy, i was taught ethics and respect by my father. Each successive mentor reinforced those values, and i want to do the same with those i mentor.
Who in your family had the most impact on your upbringing and success?
My father. a strong, respected man, he provided me with a foundation of ethical principle and respect upon which my life has been built. What are your two favorite books/authors and what impact have they had on your career and personal life?
Built to Last, by Jerry poras and Jim Collins, and Good to Great, by Jim Collins. These books describe the characteristics of great companies and great leaders. i try to implement their principles of motivation, commitment, and alignment of people into my work habits. One quote from Good to Great especially impacts my business philosophy, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Greatness is not a function of circumstance. Greatness, it turns out, is largely a matter of conscious choice.â&#x20AC;? How are you involved with your community?
There is a large local brazilian community here. with its size, it is difficult to remain a tight-knit group, but it is important that we remain close. we have frequent reunions to strengthen togetherness. If you were to have lunch with the President of the United States, what would you ask or suggest?
i would like to see more attention on two issues that directly affect our future: global warming and public education. What is your philosophy of life?
i seek to live a life in which my legacy will be the principles i helped solidify in others. i feel a person is judged not by how much money he makes, but how he affects those around him. What is your most rewarding accomplishment?
being a poor kid from a small town in brazil, then becoming an executive of an american global company is certainly nice, but i find my greatest accomplishment is in helping people to grow professionally. If given the chance, what would you do differently?
probably nothing. Everything that has happened in the past helped shape my character. a man grows in crisis.
Almir Santos enjoying karaoke with friends and family.
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Who are/were your mentors? What were the lessons learned from them?
How are you involved with your community?
i have had wonderful mentors and it would not be fair to name only one or two. They all have very collaborative styles and are generous in sharing their expertise. They believed in me, strengthened my confidence, and entrusted me with a great deal of responsibility.
i am involved through my church and i have visited orphanages in El salvador twice to distribute gifts and necessities to children. i also participate in fund-raising to help fight breast cancer and domestic violence.
Do you teach anything different to those you mentor? If so, what is it?
i share my experiences freely and always speak openly about the obstacles i have overcome. you may sometimes not have all the skill sets needed for a particular project, but if you take everything as a learning experience, you will succeed. Who in your family had the most impact on your upbringing and success?
My grandmother. she’s a beautiful, caring, and brave woman who taught her seven children and seventeen grandchildren to be independent. she taught us that through hard work and furthering our education, we could achieve our goals. she worked multiple jobs to support her family. witnessing her strength shaped the person i am today. What are your two favorite books/authors, and what impact have they had on your career and personal life?
Early in my career i competed with managers with abrasive management styles. after reading Lions Don’t Need to Roar: Using the Leadership Power of Personal Presence to Stand Out, Fit in and Move Ahead, by D.a. benton, i became more confident in my managerial skills, and it assured me that my management style would lead me to success. i recently read Basic Black, by Cathie black, and it has become one of my favorite books. president of hearst Magazines, Cathie is one of the most accomplished women in business.
PRisCiLLa ALvaRadO
If you were to have lunch with the President of the United States, what would you ask or suggest?
director of franchise operations
Avis BudGET GROup
i would suggest to the president that he rise above partisan politics and provide real leadership on energy consumption, conservation, and exploration. What is your philosophy of life?
i do not believe in a set philosophical view on life, but i always treat people with respect. What is your most rewarding accomplishment?
The most memorable is an award that i received when the district which i was responsible for reached the highest level of profitability, growth, customer service and employee retention. i made sure my employees knew i gave them the credit for everything. If given the chance, what would you do differently?
in hindsight, i would have pursued my Mba earlier in my career. i am currently enrolled in an executive Mba program, and i am enjoying the curriculum. it’s an intense program and the older you get, the more difficult it becomes to find extra time. but it proves it is never too late to pursue your goals.
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Who are/were your mentors? What were the lessons learned from them?
JOhNNiE GaRCia Vice president of manufacturing & distribution for Crystalens
BausCh & LOmb
My parents for the most part. i’m a Mexican-american and my parents taught me simple truths about doing your best and not allowing others to influence what you know in your heart is right. Fr. arturo uribe later in life helped me learn to question myself in a constructive manner.
Do you teach anything different to those you mentor? If so, what is it?
i do not teach in absolutes. i tell young people to question everything, especially themselves; it is the easiest way to learn. Who in your family had the most impact on your upbringing and success?
My father and i learned almost everything by example. he never says much, but how he has carried himself for 77 years speaks volumes on respect, loyalty, love, courage, humility, and class. What are your two favorite books/authors and what impact have they had on your career and personal life?
Don Quixote, by Cervantes, and For Whom the Bell Tolls, by hemingway. i think they both remind me of what people are capable of, good and bad. That circumstance should not excuse one’s behavior or diminish one’s beliefs.
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How are you involved with your community?
Mostly through the Church, i am a certified Confirmation teacher and the parish’s facilitator for virtus training. i have grandchildren in soccer, softball, etc., and volunteer and help out where i can. What is your philosophy of life?
Make a decision… and make it work. What is your most rewarding accomplishment?
i raised three sons, pretty much on my own, and their grandfather is proud of each and every one of them. If given the chance, what would you do differently?
Not much. perhaps i’d push my sons even more and follow my dad’s example more diligently and maybe have at least tried to be the person my mother thought i should have been.
Who are/were your mentors? What were the lessons learned from them?
because i did not have family members who had advanced professional degrees, i have always relied upon colleagues to help mentor me in my career. Currently, at bNsF railway, there are executives whom i rely upon not only in dealing with specific issues, but also with general career advice. previously, i relied upon the general counsels at Qwest and u.s. west to help mentor me. The advice these individuals have provided for me has been invaluable. it has helped shorten my learning curve and avoid issues they may have experienced. Do you teach anything different to those you mentor? If so, what is it?
i mentor various individuals at bNsF railway and at other companies. The one piece of advice i offer these individuals is to not only seek out advice but to make sure that in adopting such advice they are comfortable owning it. This is part of the developmental process that must occur for one to be successful. Who in your family had the most impact on your upbringing and success?
My parents had the greatest impact on me. They have always been my role models. i try to do the right thing. i strive to do the best i can in whatever i undertake. i also always try to remember that i must give back to the community where i live or have lived. How are you involved with your community?
i have always volunteered to help nonprofit organizations that are critical to our communities. Currently, i am the president of the board for the Greater Dallas
Council on alcohol and Drug abuse, which educates and provides resources to those dealing with those issues. One of the novel programs that this organization has created is called “social Norms.” social Norms is aimed at educating high school students about the issues associated with alcohol or drug use. i have also been on the boards of the human rights Campaign, latin american Educational Foundation, and the Texas ballet Theater.
JamEs H. GaLLEGOs Vice president and Corporate General Counsel
BNSF
What is your philosophy of life?
i live my life in a way that i do not have regrets about it. i recognize i have choices, and i select them ethically and in a way to take advantage of what is offered to me. One of the saddest comments i have heard is, “if i could do things differently today, i would.” What is your most rewarding accomplishment?
i am continuing to enjoy my career and don’t feel that there is one accomplishment i can point to as being the most rewarding. as long as i continue to be challenged and feel that i am learning, i will continue to feel rewarded. If given the chance, what would you do differently?
because i try to live my life in a manner not to have regrets, i would not have done anything differently.
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Who are/were your mentors? What were the lessons you learned from them?
JuLiO RamiREZ Executive Vice President, Global Operations
BuRGER KiNG CORp.
First, my father, who was born in spain, was a significant influence in my life and always impressed upon me the importance of learning the spanish language and furthering my education. another was roger burge, a dean at Georgia state university, where i studied as an undergraduate. as a student, i came to realize that i had to reach beyond my peer group to learn and grow.
Do you teach anything different to those you mentor? If so, what is it?
being a good, effective, and consistent communicator is essential, from peers to management. i also encourage others to ensure that along with the responsibility that they give their employees, they must also make them accountable for their actions. Who in your family had the most impact on your upbringing and success?
My parents guided my upbringing and have had the biggest impact on my life. They instilled great values in me and provided me with spiritual guidance. as a result, i really believe that all human beings have a physical, mental and spiritual dimension to them. What are your two favorite books/authors and what impact have they had on your career and personal life?
i have a couple. The first is The Clash of Civilizations, by samuel p. huntington. it’s a book that defines the world not by physical boundaries but by cultural differences. The second is God Is My CEO, by larry s. Julian. i’m reading this now and would call it living the values.
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How are you involved with your community?
For six years, i served on the board for the united way of Miami-Dade County. During my tenure, i was the marketing chairman for three years and helped the organization recruit volunteers and contributors in target markets. i’m also currently serving my fourth year as a board member for the Mercy hospital Foundation; i’m one of the founding members of the ® havE iT yOur way Foundation at burger King Corp. If you were to have lunch with the President of the United States, what would you ask or suggest?
i would encourage our government leaders to be very sensitive and compassionate towards the immigration issue in the united states today. What is your philosophy of life?
Do your homework and know the facts before you make a decision. Treat people fairly. have patience and perseverance. Take action. and, remember to enjoy the ride! What is your most rewarding accomplishment?
My most rewarding accomplishment to date has been the entry, development and growth of the burGEr KiNG® brand in brazil. This venture has been one of the most successful new country entries for the company. If given the chance, what would you do differently?
a couple of times in my career, i’ve been faced with hard decisions and i’ve picked the more difficult course of action. so, i think sometimes in life, it’s not about making the easy decisions; it’s about internalizing, discerning the situation and making the right call.
© 2008 KPMG LLP, a U.S. limited liability partnership and a member firm of the KPMG network of independent member firms affiliated with KPMG International, a Swiss cooperative. 19662NSS
Why settle for someone else’s idea of your career path
when you can build your own?
KPMG’s culture of continuous development includes mentoring and training programs, women’s networks that offer coaching and opportunities to connect with other women, and an interactive career mapping Web site. We empower our women with the tools they need to achieve personal and professional growth. KPMG congratulates Lynne Doughtie on being selected one of Profiles in Diversity Journal’s Women Worth Watching. us.kpmg.com KPMG. A great place to build a career.
Who are/were your mentors? What were the lessons learned from them?
OLivia GaLLEGOs Chief auditor, Global Cards & regional Consumer
My most significant mentor was an assistant in the public school system during my first high school summer job. For a number of years she pushed me to complete my education and to work hard; but the most important lessons were to be bold, make decisions, and follow through with implementation.
CiTi
Do you teach anything different to those you mentor? If so, what is it?
Those lessons hold true today, so they are part of my message. My other message is to take a risk and not allow fear of failure to limit your opportunities, because important growth can occur from perceived failures. Who in your family had the most impact on your upbringing and success?
My parents are immigrants to the united states, and they embedded an extremely high work ethic, preached
the importance of education and learning, and insisted on ethical behavior. as adults, they have kept my siblings and me grounded and encourage us to help others achieve their potential. What are your two favorite books/authors and what impact have they had on your career and personal life?
Much of my reading is for escapism during travel and covers a large group of authors like isabel allende, Gabriel Garcia Marquez, and Jodi picoult. How are you involved with your community?
Due to my recent travel and work situation, my involvement has been limited to activities with our church, food bank, and clothing and food drives for a homeless shelter. previous activities have focused on organizations providing support to children fighting cancer, and their families. If you were to have lunch with the President of the United States, what would you ask or suggest?
letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s set the example for the world by joining with other countries in extensive efforts to eliminate hunger, especially for all children. Constructing partnerships with the private sector around the world could go a long way toward accomplishing this. What is your philosophy of life?
work hard and deliver on your commitments, but not at the expense of your friends and family. What is your most rewarding accomplishment?
iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d have to say that it is maintaining strong and open relationships with my siblings, parents, and friends. They have always enthusiastically celebrated all my accomplishmentsâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;big, small, personal, or professional. If given the chance, what would you do differently?
live each day more fully and spend less time inwardly focused or stressing about what the future might hold.
mentoring session in progress with audit staff, alex dumke.
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Some think progress. We think performances worth watching.
Credit Suisse is proud to support the 7th annual Women Worth Watching issue and salutes one of our own, Michelle Paretti, Managing Director. As a global employer, we look to draw talent and ideas from all areas of the world. Diversity and Inclusion encourages innovation, motivates our staff, strengthens client relationships and develops new business opportunities. At Credit Suisse, we have a culture where all employees are treated with dignity and respect and are given opportunities to realize their full potential. We are proud to have been selected as one of the Top Ten in 2008 for our Innovations in Diversity by Profiles in Diversity Journal. www.credit-suisse.com
Thinking New Perspectives. Credit Suisse Securities (USA) LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate in its employment decisions on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, veteran or military status, disability or any other protected category. Investment banking services in the United States are provided by Credit Suisse Securities (USA) LLC, an affiliate of Credit Suisse Group. Š2008 CREDIT SUISSE GROUP and/or its affiliates. All rights reserved.
Who are/were your mentors? What were the lessons learned from them?
Many, many people along my career; i learned to trust in myself, in my capabilities. They consistently had higher expectations about me—higher than my own. MabEL Rius Vice President, Strategic Consulting, Human Resources
Do you teach anything different to those you mentor? If so, what is it?
it’s basically the same, but i also teach to persevere, to not give up in spite of tough circumstances. you can always learn something new and grow even in the worst scenarios.
ThE CLOROX COmpaNY
Who in your family had the most impact on your upbringing and success?
My parents. They placed a high value on responsibility, education, respect, and constantly trying to do better.
What are your two favorite books/authors and what impact have they had on your career and personal life?
Jorge luis borges, and all of his work which i have read several times. This is one of my favorite borges quotes: “i have committed the worst sin that can be committed. i have not been happy.” i have recently read several books by historic novelist philippa Gregory: The Other Boleyn Girl and The Constant Princess. i have enjoyed reconstructing a very well known story through the lenses of her women characters. i remind myself to be open to all points of view. How are you involved with your community?
i volunteer at my children’s schools. i also participate in Junior achievement and Girls inc. programs. If you were to have lunch with the President of the United States, what would you ask or suggest?
what have you learned from this role? what advice would you give to your successor? What is your philosophy of life?
i frequently ask myself that question. how do i want to be remembered when i’m gone? what has my footprint been in this world? how many people have i touched? i aspire to transform for the better the people and the world around me. What is your most rewarding accomplishment?
My family—still a work in progress. If given the chance, what would you do differently?
i would have probably worried less about life in general. i have made many mistakes, but they all converge in the person i am today. so i am not sure i would change much of the past. we can only change the future.
rius works with Clorox client manager, sandra Lew, on human resource planning to support business objectives.
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The company we keep makes us a better company.
Allstate congratulates Michele Coleman Mayes -named by Profiles in Diversity Journal as one of the WomenWorthWatching® in 2009. Excellence deserves to be recognized. That’s Allstate’s Stand.® © 2008 Allstate Insurance Company, Northbrook, IL
Who are/were your mentors? What were the lessons learned from them?
My mentors have mostly been great people for whom i have had the pleasure of working. They believed in me and opened the doors that i couldn’t so that i could reach my potential. RafaEL ALvaREZ
Do you teach anything different to those you mentor? If so, what is it?
low-income students grow up with very low expectaGENEsYs WORks tions. if we allow them to experience success in a professional environment, their outlook on life changes. as a mentor, sometimes we have to push people to achieve something greater than what they believe is possible. president and Ceo
Who in your family had the most impact on your upbringing and success?
My father taught me the importance of having balance in life. What are your two favorite books/authors and what impact have they had on your career and personal life?
Clayton Christensen’s The Innovator’s Dilemma made me think about “disruptive technologies.” From there i realized that low-income students, when trained, could be a
“disruptive technology” in the services market, and that in the process they could experience professional success that would change their lives. Thomas Kinkade’s Simpler Times encouraged me to leave my comfortable but incomplete lifestyle in corporate america to do something truly meaningful. How are you involved with your community?
i founded and operate Genesys works, a nonprofit program that changes the lives of underprivileged students by training and placing them in Fortune 500 companies. upon completion of the program, graduates are armed with valuable skills, relevant work experience, and the drive and desire to obtain a college education. More than 90 percent of our students enroll in college after completing the program. Genesys works has the potential of reforming public education. as such, i am involved in a number of education reform and social enterprise initiatives. If you were to have lunch with the President of the United States, what would you ask or suggest?
The key to progress in our country is to inspire people to come up with innovative solutions to the most pressing social problems and give them what they need to succeed. Take down old institutions that no longer work, and be open to new ideas for true change based on what other countries have done well. What is your philosophy of life?
i like people who are action oriented. My philosophy is to get involved to create change rather than thinking about the philosophy of life and sitting on the sidelines. What is your most rewarding accomplishment?
starting and running Genesys works and being able to change the lives of underprivileged youth. More importantly, using our program to inspire school systems to believe in the true capability of their students. If given the chance, what would you do differently?
i would think bigger from the start, and i would try to get the right people on my side early on. it took me the first four years to really realize the potential of what i was doing. alvarez congratulates Genesys Works “young professional” amanda Barboza during Genesys Works’ “Breaking through” ceremony. the ceremony, held each fall, signifies the students’ completion of the training program and entry into the professional world. amanda was placed to work in nasa’s Johnson space Center. 194
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Who are/were your mentors? What were the lessons learned from them?
What is your philosophy of life?
My first mentor was my dad. he always had something smart to say that touched my heart and ignited passion in me. Dedication and responsibility were his legacy. i have had very strong mentors at halliburton. They taught me the american way of business. i believe in the importance of integrity, respect, transparency, honesty, accountability, and passion.
if you have lemons, drink lemonade. you have to optimize and enjoy what you have in your hands. and always put forth your best effort and passion in what you do.
Do you teach anything different to those you mentor? If so, what is it?
i teach the values i believe in, putting more focus on personal life. you have to have good balance to get great results. work hard, but with a fresh mind generating ideas and bringing value to the table. you have to enjoy your job and your family. Who in your family had the most impact on your upbringing and success?
Definitely my dad, but my mother was the perfect balance. she had strong faith and values, too. What are your two favorite books/authors and what impact have they had on your career and personal life?
alvin Toffler’s Future Shock impacted me as a kid, and helped me to develop my environmental conscience and look-ahead vision. Overcoming Five Dysfunctions of a Team, by patrick lencioni, helps me with teambuilding and leadership.
What is your most rewarding accomplishment?
it’s having a fantastic relaGuiLLERmO CapaChO tionship with my wife and being a good father to my Senior Product Manager, daughter. professionally, it Sperry Drilling Services was being selected by our HaLLibuRTON halliburton CEO to participate in the president’s leadership Excellence program, and having had the opportunity to be the senior country area manager for Mexico, a significant market for halliburton. If given the chance, what would you do differently?
Nothing! i believe in a life with no regrets. whatever mistakes i made, i learned from.
How are you involved with your community?
i try to give people a hand to develop their skills and a chance to be successful in life. in addition, working with the company’s Community relations Department, i have been involved in community projects, most recently the devastating flood in Mexico last year. we arranged the setup of a temporary shelter; coordinated the delivery of food, rations, and water; and collaborated in the rescue of more than 1,000 people who were stranded. If you were to have lunch with the President of the United States, what would you ask or suggest?
i would like to know how he makes time for a personal life when his hands are so full.
Guillermo Capacho, center, shakes hands with a mexico government official. Capacho spearheaded a drive to collect batteries for safe disposal to demonstrate Halliburton’s commitment to protecting the environment. one digital wristwatch battery is enough to contaminate an olympic-sized swimming pool.
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Who are/were your mentors? What were the lessons learned from them?
Mickey Drexlor was the CEO of Gap inc. and taught me that nothing is more important than a consumer’s first impression of a store. From the cleanliness of the front door handles to the sharpest looking folds on a sweater wall—it all counts. David JimENEZ Gary Friedman was the president of retail for retail Vp, pottery barn and is the curVisual merchandising rent CEO of restoration HaLLmaRk hardware. he taught me that the most successful brands have a clarity of vision that consistently delivers on that brand’s promise and never sways from it. Do you teach anything different to those you mentor? If so, what is it?
i have learned that investing in one’s team yields the greatest return. There is something incredibly satisfying about mentoring an employee and then watching him or her blossom over time. Who in your family had the most impact on your upbringing and success?
My mom and dad have been selfless, devoted, and true anchors. without their guidance and support i wouldn’t be here.
What are your two favorite books/authors and what impact have they had on your career and personal life?
For work, one of my favorites is Why We Buy: The Science of Shopping, by paco underhill. it’s a classic and, to those of us in retail merchandising, informed a new way of thinking about everything from signage to fixture placement. For the weekend, a favorite is Me Talk Pretty One Day, by the humorist David sedaris. his autobiographical essays consistently make me laugh out loud. How are you involved with your community?
i am on the board of DiFFa (Design industries Foundation Fighting aiDs), have been honorary chair for the Mattie rhodes Center’s “behind the Mask” fundraiser and will be honorary chair for “The art of Expression,” a fund-raising event that takes place October 17 to benefit the american Civil liberties union of Kansas and western Missouri. If you were to have lunch with the President of the United States, what would you ask or suggest?
i would ask him about the housing market crisis and the constant threat of u.s. jobs being outsourced. i would want to know what he will do to ensure a brighter economic future for younger americans. What is your philosophy of life?
something mom taught me as a boy: “Como te tires asi te tratan.” loosely translated, it means “how you present yourself is how you’ll be treated.” What is your most rewarding accomplishment?
The incredible friendships that have filled my life with laughter, love and the occasional hangover. If given the chance, what would you do differently?
i would have spent more time enjoying being a kid in puerto rico—flying kites, chasing pigeons, and eating chicharron. really, what was all the rush about?
david Jimenez with some friends at a design industries foundation fighting aids (diffa) dining by design event where Jimenez had designed a table which was sponsored by Hallmark. 196
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Cultivating Diversity At Monsanto, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re passionate about using science and technology to improve agriculture. Monsanto is team based with highly motivated professionals sharing knowledge and taking ownership for results. Diversity is at the heart of our innovation.
Visit our website at: www.monsanto.com/careers to learn more about our growing career opportunities at Monsanto. Monsanto is an equal opportunity employer, we value a diverse combination of ideas, perspectives and cultures. EEO/AA EMPLOYER M/F/D/V. Monsanto, imagine and the vine symbol are trademarks of Monsanto Technology, LLC Š 2008 Monsanto Company
Who are/were your mentors? What were the lessons learned from them?
MiRiam ViaLiZ-BRiGGs VP Marketing, Global Financial Services Sector
IBM
i’ve had numerous professional mentors in my career. i think their most valuable lessons have been: First, focus on the customer, continuously adding value to their business. second, manage the politics of business by building many deep relationships. and finally, NEvEr surprise the boss with negative news that you should have anticipated and managed beforehand.
Do you teach anything different to those you mentor?
yes, i counsel my mentees to expand their horizons beyond national borders; to gain experience working on global issues; and to collaborate broadly with diverse colleagues. Who in your family had the most impact on your upbringing and success?
My parents were both very influential in developing my values, my faith and my desire to excel academically. i had a very humble upbringing but one very much focused on education. My mother died when i was nineteen, and so it was my father’s life as a salesman and small business owner that rubbed off on me the most professionally.
What are your two favorite books/authors and what impact have they had on your career and personal life?
Webster’s Unabridged Dictionary. i still remember that my parents gave it to me as a birthday present. i loved looking up words and their definitions. The Bible has always provided me with comfort and wisdom. How are you involved with your community?
at ibM, i chair our Multicultural women’s initiatives. it is a wonderful opportunity to ensure that our very talented multicultural women are developed and promoted. i also represent ibM on the advisory Council of the hispanic association on Corporate responsibility (haCr). If you were to have lunch with the President of the United States, what would you ask or suggest?
we need to DraMaTiCally grow interest in the pursuit of careers in the sciences, technology, engineering and mathematics in our children. it doesn’t appear to be high on the national agenda. how can we get it to be so? What is your philosophy of life?
always do the very best you can, but you can’t be all things to all people. What is your most rewarding accomplishment?
On the personal level, i am blessed to have a wonderful daughter, stepson, husband, and father; keeping us together and connected is what i’m most proud of today. professionally, i was thrilled to have been recognized in 2004 by the National society of hispanic Mbas (NshMba) with their brillaNTE awarD FOr COrpOraTE EXECuTivE EXCEllENCE. If given the chance, what would you do differently?
i love what i do, so i wouldn’t change my career choice. having said that, i think i should be managing my vacation time in a much smarter way. i have visited many beautiful cities and i need to smell the roses more, as i might not get the chance to go back.
the 2007 HaCr press conference presenting the HACR Corporate Governance Report Study, sponsored by iBm. from Left: Carlos F. Orta, president and Ceo, HaCr; Congressman Joe Baca; Miriam Vializ-Briggs, Vp marketing, iBm; Manny Mirabal, Chairman, HaCr; and Alma Morales Riojas, Vice Chairwoman, HaCr. 198
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Who are/were your mentors? What were the lessons learned from them?
My mother taught me a lot about perseverance. she and my father had 14 children together, and after my father passed away, she had to look after eight children under 18. Nonetheless, she raised me and 11 of my 13 siblings to be college-educated, successful professionals. Who in your family had the most impact on your upbringing and success?
My mother was an incredible woman. Even though she had limited English speaking skills and attended school only to third grade, she always gave me great guidance and wisdom. Today, i seek similar guidance from lou Miramontes, western area industry leader for KpMG’s building, Construction, and real Estate practice. like my mother, he has a passion for what he does and is extremely well-respected by his peers, community, and family. Do you teach anything different to those you mentor? If so, what is it?
My mother said it’s important to treat people as you would like to be treated. i tell the same thing to those who seek my advice. What are your two favorite books/authors and what impact have they had on your career and personal life?
My favorite book is rick warren’s The Purpose Driven Life. it helped me understand my purpose, including my KpMG career. it helped me to see myself as an ethical provider of tax services, a role model to my colleagues, and a champion for top minority professionals. i also love John Grisham novels. How are you involved with your community?
KpMG wants to provide a work environment where employees can succeed and take part in the communities in which they live and work. i am a member of the New Mexico state university business advisory Council, the advisory Council of Executives of the st. Mary’s bill Greehey school of business, and am a board member of the san antonio symphony, and the san antonio Chapter of Financial Executives international.
i am also on the KpMG hispanic Network steering Committee and am the southwest partner Champion for the KpMG Disabilities Network. i am also a past board member of the El paso rehabilitation Center for Children. If you were to have lunch with the President of the United States, what would you ask or suggest?
LiNda DOubRava
i’d like to know what he federal tax partner would like to be remembered KPMG for, and what he would have done differently. it’s important to be proud of one’s accomplishments but also recognize and take responsibility for one’s mistakes. What is your philosophy of life?
with hard work, you can be anything you want to be. remember and learn from your past but don’t live in your past. What is your most rewarding accomplishment?
admission to KpMG’s partnership. Given the chance, what would you do differently?
professionally, i wish i would have spent some time on an international assignment, working abroad in spain or Mexico, knowing it would have enhanced my spanish, and perhaps accelerated my admission to the partnership.
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Who are/were your mentors? What were the lessons learned from them?
My most important mentor was my father. My father, who did not have a formal education, taught me the value of a strong work ethic and how to treat everyone with dignity and respect. HaNk HERNaNdEZ Other mentors include many of the officers that i Chief Executive Officer served with in the army as Las PaLmas well as two highly respected MEdiCaL CENTER health care executives who exemplify professionalism, David buchmueller and rich Cordova, both Fellows in the american College of healthcare Executives. Do you teach anything different to those you mentor? If so, what is it?
The art of listening. Who in your family had the most impact on your upbringing and success?
My mother on family issues and my father on business matters.
What are your two favorite books/authors and what impact have they had on your career and personal life?
The Art of War, by sun Tzu. Many believe the book is about always winning. The book is more about honing negotiation skills which, if practiced well, avoids conflict. The second book is The Little Red Book of Selling, by Jeffrey Gitmer. This book is a tool to make our customers (staff, patients, and physicians) feel appreciated. How are you involved with your community?
as the CEO of las palmas Medical Center, i am very involved and i encourage our staff to be involved. The hospital also funds organizations that mirror our mission and value statement. i am most proud of the thousands of dollars raised under my watch as the chairman of the hispanic Chamber Education Foundation, which targets minority students aimed at attaining a college education. If you were to have lunch with the President of the United States, what would you ask or suggest?
i would challenge the president to move beyond the token minority appointments of women and people of color to the most senior positions in our government. What is your philosophy of life?
Treat people as you would like to be treated. What is your most rewarding accomplishment?
My children, as it relates to the educational opportunities that they have been given. If given the chance, what would you do differently?
i would have attended medical school and formed a large medical specialty practice.
Hank Hernandez addressing the medical staff department of Las palmas medical Center. 200
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Committed to Diversity & Advancement of Women As a leading global law firm representing clients in virtually every sector of the economy, Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Melveny & Myers LLP strives to make diversity a strength and an asset that promotes uncompromising excellence in our work, fosters distinctive leadership in the legal profession and in the communities in which we practice, and cultivates superior citizenship in a rich and dynamic environment where individuals are respected for their unique styles, contributions, and differences. These are the values that drive the practice of law at Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Melveny. They also are the qualities that have distinguished the career of our Partner and Chair of the Copyright, Trademark, and Internet practice,
Dale Cendali
We join Profiles in Diversity Journal in recognizing her achievements, and those of the other Women Worth Watching.
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Beijing
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Shanghai
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Los Angeles Tokyo
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Who are/were your mentors? What were the lessons learned from them?
OsvaLdO “OZZiE” RamOs managing director, Global media & Communications investment Banking
LEhmaN BROThERs
i have been fortunate to have a lot of mentors throughout my career—some really exceptional people. if i had to summarize what i have gained from those relationships, two lessons stand out: First, be resilient when you have setbacks—the more resilient the better—and, second, run with your strengths while managing your weaknesses. Do you teach anything different to those you
mentor? If so, what is it?
i try to apply what i’ve learned to other people’s circumstances. One question i get asked a lot from young, minority colleagues is ‘how has being hispanic shaped my career?’ My answer is usually the same: having a different background is a strength. it gives me a different perspective. it also opens doors that otherwise might have been closed.
Who in your family had the most impact on your upbringing and success?
like most first generation immigrants, i saw my parents work incredibly hard and make untold sacrifices to provide for our family. i can’t imagine how hard it must have been for them, but they never complained. What are your two favorite books/authors and what impact have they had on your career and personal life?
One of my favorites is Undaunted Courage, by stephen ambrose, which tells the story of the lewis and Clark expedition. James Michener is another favorite author—fantastic historical sweep. How are you involved with your community?
i have a strong interest in working with kids with disabilities. yai National institute for people with Disabilities is one organization that i currently devote time to. They do terrific work, and i’m proud to be a part of their mission. If you were to have lunch with the President of the United States, what would you ask or suggest?
One topic that i have found frustrating is immigration. i take great pride in this country and the opportunities it has afforded me. There are certainly some legitimate immigrations issues to consider, but, in my opinion, the topic is being addressed with a focus on fear and divisiveness that isn’t productive. What is your philosophy of life?
simple: take responsibility, persevere through adversity, nurture your children. What is your most rewarding accomplishment?
last year i completed my first ironman distance triathlon. but running out in the middle of the day to see my kids perform at an event feels more like an accomplishment on some days! If given the chance, what would you do differently?
i am a big believer in taking things as they are and moving forward. Could i have done some things better? i am sure i could have. so my focus is on looking forward, keeping things in perspective and doing good.
osvaldo ramos talking in front of a panel at HaCr. 202
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Follow the leader. Exceptional performance always gets noticed.
PNC is very proud to announce that our own Karen Larrimer has been named a Woman Worth Watching for 2009. Karenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s belief in the power of mentoring makes PNC a better place to work both today, and in the years to come. Congratulations to Karen and all the honorees.
Š2008 The PNC Financial Services Group, Inc. All rights reserved.
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Who are/were your mentors? What were the lessons learned from them?
MYRNa SOTO Vice President of IT Governance and Chief Information Security Officer
MGM MIRAGE
My most significant mentor was my mother. she taught me about being a strong individual, respecting your heritage, and not allowing anyone to judge you on any basis other than your accomplishments, actions, and character. Do you teach anything different to those you mentor? If so, what is it?
i teach the value of building high-performance teams. i also focus on diversifying skill sets and not limiting growth opportunities solely based on traditional career paths. Who in your family had the most impact on your upbringing and success?
My mother—she was my biggest supporter and cheerleader. she wanted so much more for me and my siblings than she experienced as a young adult. My father was also a very strong influence. i feel very fortunate to have had such a strong parental team. What are your two favorite books/authors and what impact have they had on your career and personal life?
The 8th Habit, from Effectiveness to Greatness, by stephen Covey, and The Heart of a Leader, by Ken blanchard. These books have improved my ability to optimize my leadership abilities and to become a leader in multiple forms.
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How are you involved with your community?
i support the empowerment of hispanic women in the community and aspiring young adults. i am a member of the las vegas Chapter of women in Technology international. i am a Diversity Champion within my company and community. If you were to have lunch with the President of the United States, what would you ask or suggest?
i would want to talk to him about several areas of public policy, immigration issues, the sub prime mortgage crisis and our reliance on the Middle East for oil. i probably would throw in an iT topic—mainly the importance of “green iT” and security in our digital world. What is your philosophy of life?
i govern my life by the morals and values that have been instilled in me and focus on the value of others. i believe it is imperative to make the most of the team you have and the formation of a personal legacy is quite important. What is your most rewarding accomplishment?
building a diverse, high-performing team in a previous role. The team enjoyed several accomplishments, and virtually all of the members of that team have prospered into very successful careers. If given the chance, what would you do differently?
i would have begun the mentoring process sooner in my career. it was not until my second leadership role that i truly gained an appreciation for the value of being mentored and being a mentor. There is nothing sweeter than finding that mentorship opportunity by chance where you least expected it.
Who are/were your mentors? What were the lessons learned from them?
My father, Jose Maria Fernandez de villalta, was a journalist in habana who shed the political limelight during batista’s regime and after the revolution to try to protect the integrity of journalism in Cuba. From him i learned a deep love for the written word and a thirst for knowledge. he sent me abroad when i was 12 to experience travel and other cultures and made me feel i could do anything. he also insisted on a Jesuit military education that is with me today. Do you teach anything different to those you mentor? If so, what is it?
yes, as a professor and father i believe that you teach who you are rather than what you know. so i try to be an example of the best i have learned. Who in your family had the most impact on your upbringing and success?
Different people, at different stages of my life. My older sister Marta would not give up on me after we came to this country as political refugees with no resources. she encouraged me to continue my education, including law school. later in life, my wife and children have taught me courage and love beyond all i knew.
rected in to an employment program for urban youth focused on re-building our infrastructure and creating “green” cities. What is your philosophy of life?
i try to live with love and courage and in contact with the natural world. i avoid “playing it safe.” i believe that humor and the human touch among people are gifts we do not use enough and must deliberately build into our relationships.
JOsE FERNaNdEZ manager, Bureau of tidelands management
NEw JERsEY DEpaRTmENT Of ENviRONmENTaL PROTECTiON
What is your most rewarding accomplishment?
standing by my children and wife in times of crisis and learning to look at myself as i truly am. If given the chance, what would you do differently?
i would devote more time to my children as they were growing up.
What are your two favorite books/authors and what impact have they had on your career and personal life?
h. G. wells planted the bug of imagination. Jose Marti, the Cuban altruistic revolutionary poet, also left a lasting impression with his message of simplicity, love for our fellow beings and their culture, and the importance of understanding one’s history. How are you involved with your community?
i have served as the Camden representative to the New Jersey puerto rican Congress, was a founding member of the labor Council for latin american advancement New Jersey aFl-CiO, and was a founding member of the New Jersey Farmworkers Coalition (CaTa). i currently serve in Governor Corzine’s advisory Group on latin american issues. If you were to have lunch with the President of the United States, what would you ask or suggest?
i would ask that the troops be brought home from iraq and afghanistan and that the money saved be di-
tidelands manager Jose fernandez discusses a claim with staff members William Kresnosky and martin mosen. Prof iles in Div er s it y Jou r na l
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Who are/were your mentors? What were the lessons learned from them?
i have had several mentors throughout my career, but my current manager, Joann Martin, has been a mentor for me. some of the important lessons that i have learned from her CYNThia TOsCaNO-LOpEZ include: take charge of your own career developBusiness Process ment and do not wait for Outsourcing Specialist someone else to do it for PiTNEY BOwEs you. another important lesson is building a network of professional associates who can help you along your career path. Do you teach anything different to those you mentor? If so, what is it?
i usually offer advice on how to examine and gain perspective on a career trajectory. This means knowing and understanding your career preferences and what you aspire to be. understanding the big picture is critical before focusing on aspects of your life that you will either change or improve on. Who in your family had the most impact on your upbringing and success?
My mother. we moved to the united states from buenos aires when i was eight. she worked her way through night school to obtain her associate’s and bachelor’s degrees while raising four children, maintaining a household, and working full-time. “if she could do it, so can i,” is my motto. What are your two favorite books/authors and what impact have they had on your career and personal life?
The Alchemist, by paolo Coelho, and Rich Dad, Poor Dad, by robert Kiyosaki and sharon l. lechter. The Alchemist taught me that experiencing the journey is necessary to truly understand the meaning of your life.
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Rich Dad, Poor Dad was about thinking outside the box and realizing that the only thing preventing us from being wealthy is our lack of financial education. How are you involved with your community?
recently i’ve coached my daughter’s soccer team. it might not sound like much, but life’s lessons seem to make their way to practice, and i sure love to teach 7- and 8-year-olds about it. i have also mentored high school students to encourage them to attend college. If you were to have lunch with the President of the United States, what would you ask or suggest?
i would ask the president to bring the troops back home and focus our tax dollars on health care and education. What is your philosophy of life?
live life in the present moment, take some risks from time-to-time, and learn from mistakes. What is your most rewarding accomplishment?
My most rewarding accomplishment is having two children, working full-time, and obtaining my Mba, all at the same time. If given the chance, what would you do differently?
i would have liked to be the unplanned, take-mewhere-the-wind-blows kind of person prior to settling down. i also would have loved to do more international traveling.
Together, we can bring people and ideas together. At Parker, some of our greatest successes are the result of bringing people with different backgrounds and perspectives together. The ideas ďŹ&#x201A;ow and innovation begins. As the global leader in motion and control technologies, we are proud to support ProďŹ les in Diversity Journal and its seventh annual Women Worth Watching special issue.
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Who are/were your mentors? What were the lessons learned from them?
My parents and teachers were my first mentors, and later certain professional colleagues became mentors. The common feature among all of them is that they genuinely cared. MiChaEL MONTELONGO senior Vice president and Chief administrative officer
SOdEXO, INC.
Do you teach anything different to those you mentor? If so, what is it?
No, because these are principles that transcend generations and stand the test of time.
Who in your family had the most impact on your upbringing and success?
i suppose i looked up to “papi” and emulated him in everything he did. he was an early role model. he set high standards; i tried my best to meet or exceed them. he served his country; i did likewise. What are your two favorite books/authors and what impact have they had on your career and personal life?
My former boss, Gordon sullivan, co-wrote Hope is Not a Method, which chronicles his experience as the army’s top general in transforming the army. i applied many of his insights in my career after i finished working for him.
as for fiction, the Harry Potter series by J.K. rowling is one of my favorites, because i read the books with my daughter and they collectively tell a compelling story about loyalty, selflessness, and sacrifice. How are you involved with your community?
i served as national president for the american society of Military Comptrollers; served as vice president of Community services for the harvard business school Club of atlanta, on the board of directors for the Georgia voter hispanic registration Campaign, and as a director for youth and young adult ministries in every community in which i’ve lived. Today, i’m a member of the Council on Foreign relations, serve on the boards of Denny’s Corporation, Datapath, inc., and the National aeronautics and space administration (Nasa) advisory Council, and partner with key hispanic organizations. If you were to have lunch with the President of the United States, what would you ask or suggest?
i would suggest that he build on the initial and modest success he had with the “No Child left behind” legislation and promote local school reform. What is your philosophy of life?
i believe life is a God-given gift, blessing, and opportunity to employ one’s talents for the benefit of others. That’s why i believe in servant leadership and why i have such a strong preference for organizations and activities that are purposeful and values driven. What is your most rewarding accomplishment?
it would have to be being a husband to my bride and a father to our daughter. beyond that i am most grateful for the opportunities i’ve been given to make a difference and touch the lives of others. If given the chance, what would you do differently?
actually, i wouldn’t change anything, because everything that’s happened has helped me learn, develop, and grow and meet all the wonderful “angels” in my journey.
as assistant secretary of the air force, montelongo thanks some of america’s heroes at dyess air force Base in texas. 208
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p
Firm
Dewey & LeBoeuf
Dewey & LeBoeuf llp Dewey & LeBoeuf (pty) ltd. Dewey & LeBoeuf studio legale Dewey & LeBoeuf Grzesiak llp
Khalid A. Al-Thebity Law F in affiliation with Dewey & LeBoeuf llp
Who are your mentors? What were the lessons you learned from them?
LEO DiaZ
Vice President, Supply Chain
TEREX CONsTRuCTiON
i have been privileged to have two exceptional mentors at previous companies: shelly stewart, now senior vice president at Tyco, and stanley Mickens, a vice president and general manager at Eaton. From shelly i learned how to engage people to secure their buyin for projects. stan taught me how to fuse talent within an organization.
Do you teach anything different to those you mentor? If so, what?
There aren’t enough mentors out here. i’ve adapted what i’ve learned to my style. For sure i’ve learned that i need to set an example, to be a role model, and to develop people by tapping the abilities i see in them. Who in your family had the most impact on your upbringing and success?
it’s been my mother. i am the first one in my family to graduate from college. she is my role model and confidante. she told me: “be proud of who you are. you can do anything you want. i don’t ever want you to play the ‘latino card’ if things get tough. we all come to this country equal and need to work hard to succeed.”
What are your two favorite books/authors and what impact did they have on your life?
Execution: The Discipline of Getting Things Done, by larry bossidy and ram Charan, provided me with practical advice. Emotional Intelligence, by Daniel Goleman, taught me the five skills of emotional intelligence. How are you involved in your community?
i have been active in the National society of hispanic Mbas and was on the board of directors for the boys and Girls Club of Kalamazoo County, Michigan. If you were to have lunch with the President of the United States, what would you ask or suggest?
i would have to ask, “Mr. president, what are your plans to really improve education in our country?” what we’re doing now is not working for the majority of people who can’t afford private schooling. What is your philosophy of life?
you have to be able to enjoy life and to know that some day you’ll want to look back at the outcome and be proud that you have left a meaningful legacy. placing my family and God first is the essence of how i keep all else in my life in perspective. What is your most rewarding accomplishment?
having the majority of the responsibility in raising my son, while accomplishing the completion of my college education, has been my most rewarding experience. If given the chance, what would you do differently?
God has been so good to me that i have no regrets. he has given me a wonderful wife and a loving family. if i hadn’t had struggles the successes would not have been as sweet.
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Believe
in what is possible.
CAREERS.CSC.COM
Be
@ CSC
Who are/were your mentors? What were the lessons learned from them?
ALEX CasimiRO manager of technology and manufacturing Group it
TEXas INsTRumENTs
i like to observe many successful senior executives, and i have had the luxury of seeing what works and what doesn’t. i have learned to adapt my style by observing great leaders in action. Do you teach anything different to those you mentor? If so, what is it?
Every situation is different. in general, i suggest they observe people they admire and ask them to examine what they admire and why.
How are you involved with your community?
i serve on the yMCa board of directors and participate in various united way activities and functions. i’m also involved in youth sports in my hometown, McKinney, Texas. If you were to have lunch with the President of the United States, what would you ask or suggest?
if he knew eight years ago what he knows now, what would he do different in regards to immigration, health care, and energy? how does he balance his personal beliefs versus those of his constituents? What is your philosophy of life?
have fun, enjoy what you do for a living, and don’t stress over the small stuff. What is your most rewarding accomplishment?
Who in your family had the most impact on your upbringing and success?
My mom and dad. They sacrificed professional careers in Cuba to find a better living for their family in the united states. What are your two favorite books/authors and what impact have they had on your career and personal life?
i don’t read many books. Tom Clancy and stuart brooks are my favorites when i do have time to read.
212
Pro f i les in Dive rsit y Journal
September/OctOber 2008
My relationship with my best friend and wife, Carmen. also rewarding has been guiding our children to have successful professional careers. If given the chance, what would you do differently?
i would be more involved with local community. and i’d like to be a stronger role model to younger hispanics in the community.
Who are/were your mentors? What were the lessons learned from them?
My high school basketball coach gave me the chance to mature quickly by inserting me onto a team with older kids, and as an african american, he handled a couple of racial issues with complete professionalism. another coach yelled at me for the entire halftime of a game mandating i become the leader of the team. it was a defining moment in my life, that someone who i respected dearly had the confidence in my ability to lead. Do you teach anything different to those you mentor? If so, what is it?
a relationship with a mentor shows us that together we can be something bigger and better than if we had never listened to, learned from, or engaged with the people we encounter in our lives. Who in your family had the most impact on your upbringing and success?
it was my mother who had the strongest influence on my personal and professional values. she raised six kids and was the voice of discipline in our family. Mom taught me “street smarts,” pride, respect for people, and to trust. What are your two favorite books/authors and what impact have they had on your career and personal life?
i recently read American Son, by Oscar De la hoya. i was intrigued not by De la hoya’s boxing exploits, but by how he has gone from boxing to business and the charitable accomplishments of his foundation. i have also read every single John Grisham novel purely for enjoyment.
& Girls Club, Coalition to provide shelter and support for the homeless, and the rotary Foundation. If you were to have lunch with the President of the United States, what would you ask or suggest?
i would have to ask president bush why his administration has essentially taken a pass on the climate change issue? he has not made a priority of environmental issues.
PaT DeRuEda President
WasTE MaNaGEmENT RECYCLE AmERiCa
What is your philosophy of life?
having the guts to do the right thing. if you don’t make it on character, the rest won’t amount to much. What is your most rewarding accomplishment?
Together with my wife, raising our 10-year-old son. since i travel a lot, i try to understand the notion of quality of life and the impact of work-life balance. If given the chance, what would you do differently?
instead of waiting until i was a mature adult, i would have wanted to gain a more comprehensive appreciation of my Mexican heritage at a much earlier age.
How are you involved with your community?
last year i served as the chairperson for waste Management’s annual united way fundraising campaign in houston. i have served on the board of directors for the visiting Nurse association, boys
Prof iles in Div er s it y Jou r na l
September/OctOber 2008
213
corporate spotlight featured
featured organizations
BOLD denotes Advertiser
AAI Corporation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 116, 216
Bank of America. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .47, 155
Catalyst. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. . 30, 85
Dewey & LeBoeuf LLP. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .209
Aflac, Inc.. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 149
Bank of the West . .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 12, 167
CDW Corporation. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. . 72
Deloitte LLP. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. . 36
Agilent Technologies. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 145
BNSF. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .187
Chevron . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83 www.chevron.com
www.dicksteinshapiro.com
Allstate Insurance Company . .. 124,193
BASF SE. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 55, 160
Chrysler Financial. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 125
DuPont. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 151
Andrews Kurth LLP . .. .. .. .. .. .. 89, 172
Battelle Memorial Institute. . . . .63, 109
Cisco Systems, Inc.. . . . . . . . . . . . . 143, 214
Eastman Kodak Company. . . . . . .27, 108
Applied Materials, Inc.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 119
Bausch & Lomb. .. .. .. .. .. .91, 148, 186
Citi. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 190
Ecolab Inc.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
ARAMARK. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
BDO Seidman, LLP. . . . . . . . . . . . . 162, 163
Citibank Canada. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68
EDS, an HP company. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66
ArvinMeritor, Inc., . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44, 184
Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .67, 137
The Clorox Company. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 192
Federal Home Loan Bank of San Francisco. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 169
www.aaicorp.com www.aflac.com
www.agilent.com
www.allstate.com
www.andrewskurth.com
www.appliedmaterials.com www.aramark.com
www.arvinmeritor.com
AT&T. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48 www.att.com
Automatic Data Processing, Inc.. . . . . . . . 113 www.adp.com
Avis Budget Group . .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 185 www.avisbudgetgroup.com
Avnet, Inc.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 128 www.avnet.com
AXA Equitable Life Insurance Company. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .41, 138 www.axa-equitable.com
BAE Systems Land and Armaments . . . . 100 www.baesystems.com/Businesses/ Landarmaments
www.bankofamerica.com
www.bankofthewest.com www.bnsf.com www.basf.com
www.battelle.org www.bausch.com www.bdo.com
www.bcbsnc.com
The Boeing Company . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 www.boeing.com
Brooks Kushman PC. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 154 www.brookskushman.com
Burger King Corporation. . . . . . . . . . . . 58, 188 www.bk.com
CA, Inc. . .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 139 www.ca.com
Campbell Soup Company. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. . 90 www.campbellsoup.com
Capital One Financial Corporation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 142, 173 www.capitalone.com
Who you are shapes who we are. We believe in the power of the human network. And we believe it starts with you.
www.catalyst.org www.cdw.com
corp.chryslerfinancial.com www.cisco.com www.citi.com
www.citibank.ca
www.thecloroxcompany.com
Comcast Corporation . . . . . . . . . . .10, 114 www.comcast.com
Constellation Energy . .. .. .. .. .130, 131 www.constellation.com
Corning Incorporated. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. . 78 www.corning.com
Credit Suisse. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 140, 191 www.credit-suisse.com
CSC . .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .168, 211 www.csc.com
CVS Caremark. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .57, 129 www.cvscaremark.com
www.deweyleboeuf.com www.deloitte.com
Dickstein Shapiro LLP. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 127
www.dupont.com www.kodak.com
www.ecolab.com www.eds.com
www.fhlbsf.com
Ford Motor Company. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Inside Front, 150
www.ford.com
Freddie Mac. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43, 79 www.freddiemac.com
Gensler. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99 www.gensler.com
Genesys Works. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 194 www.genesysworks.org
Georgia Power. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 117 www.georgiapower.com
Grand Biloxi Casino, Hotel & Spa. .. .. .. 159 www.harrahs.com
Gulf Power Company . .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 166 www.gulfpower.com
Halliburton. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 180, 195 www.Halliburton.com
Hallmark Cards, Inc.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18, 120, 196 www.hallmark.com
Harris Bankcorp Inc. . .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .51, 69
Fresh thinking . . . it’s how we stand out.
www.harrisbank.com
The Hartford Financial Services Group, Inc.. .. .. .. .. .. .. 181 www.thehartford.com
Highmark Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52, 53 www.highmark.com
The Home Depot. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86
Janel Haugarth
www.homedepot.com
IBM . .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 198 www.ibm.com
Illinois Tool Works Inc.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .141, 176
Executive Vice President President & COO, Supply Chain Services
Interpublic Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45, 98
Congratulations to Janel Haugarth
ITT Corporation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39, 144
for standing out as a
www.itw.com
www.interpublic.com www.itt.com
Ivy Planning Group. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 133 www.ivyplanningllc.com
Woman Worth Watching in 2009.
KBR . .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 46, 161 www.kbr.com
Kelly Services, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84 www.kellyservices.com
KeyCorp. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 62 www.Key.com
Smart energy development starts with creative thinking. Ingenious minds.
Talented engineers like Bola
help Williams gather and process natural gas in the Gulf of Mexico more efficiently, safely and reliably. In fact, federal and state agencies recently recognized Williams with four awards for environmental best practices. At Williams, we believe that smart energy development begins with a valuable resource – smart people.
Ingenuity takes energy.™ (800) WILLIAMS | www.williams.com
© 2008 The Williams Companies, Inc.
corporate spotlight featured
featured organizations
BOLD denotes Advertiser
Kindred Healthcare, Inc.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 179
NCR Corporation . .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .174, 175
Prescription Solutions. . . . . . . . . . . 106, 107
SUPERVALU Inc . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .94, 215
KPMG LLP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73, 189, 199
Neal, Gerber & Eisenberg LLP . . . . . . . . . . . . 122
Raytheon Company . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .95, 156
Symantec Corporation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59, 115
Las Palmas Medical Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 200
NJ Department of Environmental Protection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 205
Reliant Energy, Inc.. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 2, 110
Terex Construction. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 210
Rohm and Haas Company. . . . . . . . . . . 6, 88
Texas Instruments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 177
Ryder System, Inc.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 136
Textron Inc. . .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 104
Safeway Inc.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 111
Toyota Motor Sales, USA, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70
Salt River Project (SRP) . . . . . . . . . 170, 171
U.S. Postal Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71
Royal Dutch Shell/ Shell Oil . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 132, Back Cover
Unilever . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 152, 153
www.kindredhealthcare.com www.us.kpmg.com
www.laspalmashealth.com
Lee Hecht Harrison. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101 www.LHH.com
Lehman Brothers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 202 www.lehman.com
Lifetime Care Home Health and Hospice . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96 www.LifetimeCare.org
www.ncr.com
www.ngelaw.com
www.state.nj.us/dep
New York Life Insurance Company . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23, 40 www.newyorklife.com
www.lockheedmartin.com
MasterCard Worldwide. .. .. .. .. .134, 135 www.mastercardworldwide.com
Mattel, Inc. . .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 74, 87 www.mattel.com
MGM MIRAGE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 126, 204 www.mgmmirage.com
Microsoft . .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 49, 97 www.microsoft.com
Monsanto . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 121, 197 www.monsanto.com
Morgan Stanley . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92, 93 www.morganstanley.com
Motorola. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 158, 211 www.motorola.com
Nortel. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. . 82 www.nortel.com
www.reliant.com
www.rohmhaas.com
www.safeway.com
www.northropgrumman.com
www.srpnet.com
O’Melveny & Myers LLP. . . . . . . . . . .56, 201 www.omm.com
Parker . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 207 www.parker.com
www.shell.com
Sara Lee Corporation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 165
PepsiCo, Inc.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
www.saralee.com
Pfizer . .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 75, 157
Science Applications International Corporation (SAIC) . .. .. .. .. . 37
Pitney Bowes Inc.. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 118, 206
SHRM . .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. . 33
The PNC Financial Services Group, Inc.. . . . . . . . . . . . . 112, 203
Sodexo. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21, 178
www.pepsico.com www.pfizer.com www.pb.com
www.pnc.com
Pragmatics, Inc., a UnitedHealth Group. . . . . . . . . . . . .76, 214
7/9/08
3:42 PM
www.saic.com
www.shrm.org
www.sodexousa.com
State Farm Insurance Companies. . 60, 61
www.pragmatics.com
AAI_DiversityMagHalfPage08
www.raytheon.com
www.ryder.com
Northrop Grumman Corporation. .. 64, 65
Lockheed Martin . .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .4, 42
www.rxsolutions.com
www.statefarm.com
Stryker Corporation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16, 164 www.stryker.com
Page 1
www.supervalu.com www.symantec.com www.terex.com www.ti.com
www.textron.com www.toyota.com www.usps.com
www.unileverusa.com
UnitedHealth Group. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81 www.unitedhealthgroup.com
Vanguard . .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .146, 147 www.vanguard.com
Wal-Mart Stores, Inc.. .. .. .. .. .. . 77, 105 www.walmartstores.com
Waste Management.. . .38, 213, Inside Back www.wm.com & www.thinkgreen.com
WellPoint, Inc.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14, 123 www.wellpoint.com
Wells Fargo Financial Bank. .. .. .102, 103 www.wellsfargofinancial.com
Williams. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .80, 215 www.williams.com
BIG-COMPANY REACH, SMALL-COMPANY ATTITUDE. AAI Corporation’s innovative technologies include unmanned aircraft, training systems, automated test and maintenance equipment, armament systems, aviation ground support equipment, and cutting-edge service solutions. Headquartered in Hunt Valley, Md., AAI offers rewarding career opportunities for engineers and business professionals in all disciplines, including: � Varied, employee-driven advancement tracks � Full tuition reimbursement for continuing education � In-house professional development courses Voted one of Baltimore Business Journal’s “Best Places to Work” in 2006 & 2007, AAI provides an exceptional benefits package for full-time employees. Visit www.aaicorp.com to apply. EOEM/F/D/V
Innovation That Works is a registered trademark of AAI Corporation.
aaicorp.com
No matter what your specialty, you’ll do more at Waste Management by working on projects that have a positive impact on the environment. Saving the world – now there’s a good reason to come to work.
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Waste Management is an equal opportunity employer and is commited to an environment free of unlawful discrimination.
Also Featuring an Introduction by Bill George, Harvard Business School â&#x20AC;˘ A Celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month â&#x20AC;˘ Catalyst
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