1. What are the most challenging and rewarding aspects of your job and why?
They are one and the same: Our company has experienced significant growth in a relatively short period of time. The obvious challenge is growing responsibly, having enough time for professional development for our staff, adjusting processes and procedures to support the growth, and just making sure we are staffed appropriately so that we maintain a realistic work capacity and do not over-leverage our most important asset — our employees. That being said, overcoming these challenges is also what’s been the most rewarding aspect of my job. You look back at the end of the day and say, “Look how far we’ve come.” And I am inspired when I look at our employees and how much they have accomplished.
2. Who do you look up to or admire in business and why?
I’ve been fortunate to meet so many talented, accomplished people and there are so many people in business I admire. Managing commercial real estate, we have the opportunity to meet a variety of entrepreneurs. From the husband and wife team that starts a microbrewery to the CEO of a Fortune 500 company, I learn something new from each and every one. It’s really difficult to name just one; however, I can identify the characteristics each of them possesses that I admire — vision, courage, tenacity, and the vulnerability to share the mistakes they’ve made along the way that taught them the most.
3. What has been the high point of your career so far?
It’s the role I’m in now. To be perfectly honest, when this position was made available I never even considered raising my hand for it. However, after a number of discussions with peers, taking time to consider the responsibilities associated with the role, and really analyzing my strengths and weaknesses, I decided to go for it. It’s a big role with a lot of responsibility. When I finally spoke with Traci Dalsin, the president of our company, about the position I told her, “Look, I’m going to make mistakes but I’ve demonstrated that I can learn from my mistakes. And I have no doubt that you will need to wrangle me in from time to time when I’m trying to do too much — I understand I need to transition to utilizing my ability to think strategically.” Admittedly, I likely made that statement more for my benefit than hers, as I was incredibly nervous and apprehensive when I first accepted this position. And I’m so glad that I put myself out there. While I still have much to learn, I’m humbled by the fact that the organization trusts me with the responsibility.
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4. Thinking back on your career, what advice would you give your 21-year-old self?
I’d tell myself to shut up and listen. At 21 I remember feeling like I had this “adult/life thing” figured out — I’ve got this handled, no problem. Then something happened around 23 or 24. I realized I didn’t know anything. Since then, every year I realize how much I don’t know and still have to learn.
5. What would you say are the best things about living and working in Dane County?
In Madison, where I live, it’s eclectic — there’s something for everybody. On weekends, when I have no work schedule, I make my decisions based on what I feel like doing. And in Madison there’s always something that fits — the farmer’s market, Concerts on the Square, a corner pub, or a five-star restaurant. There’s an array of choices.
6. Do you have any secret talents or abilities that people would be surprised to discover?
I really like to cook and people might not know that. I can make killer barbeque chicken wings on a charcoal grill.
7. What are your guilty pleasures?
Historical fiction novels. I can get lost in them and read one in a weekend. I’ve been late for plans I’ve made and actually have cancelled plans on people just to finish a book. It’s terrible.
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