Thank you to the 1646 leaders who’ve generously done the 7 questions! I hope reading 7 Questions with
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Dr Cathy Rehfus-Wilsek
helps you in your leadership.
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Cheers,
Jonno
Dr Cathy Rehfus-Wilsek
Name: Dr Cathy Rehfus-Wilsek
Title: Program Director
Organisation: Mount Saint Mary College
Dr. Cathy Rehfus-Wilsek is a passionate medical doctor and healthcare professional who has dedicated her career to improving healthcare service, access, and delivery in underserved communities worldwide. With over 20 years of experience in healthcare administration and clinical medicine, a Master complements Dr. Rehfus-Wilsek's expertise in the healthcare industry.
One of her most significant accomplishments has been her involvement in global health initiatives. Dr. Rehfus-Wilsek's extensive global clinical and administrative expertise has enabled her to make a meaningful impact in healthcare. She has participated in medical missions to various countries, providing care to needy populations and developing health initiatives to improve global communities. Her volunteerism is evident in different capacities, including teaching international medical and nursing students and participating in community health education programs.
Her commitment to advancing healthcare globally is reflected in her involvement in research projects to improve healthcare outcomes in marginalized populations. Dr. Rehfus-Wilsek's dedication to academic curriculum development has led to innovative programs designed to prepare healthcare professionals for the unique challenges of healthcare delivery in underserved communities.
Her work in program development culminated in a Healthcare Management Program Development textbook due in the Fall of 2023. Additionally, Dr. Rehfus-Wilsek's contributions to the field through scientific publication reviews, interpretation of research studies, and technology development have helped advance healthcare worldwide.
1. What have you found most challenging as a leader?
This is a two-fold answer, the most challenging aspects are getting employee buy-in during change management and keeping employees during crisis situations.
2. How did you become a leader? Can you please briefly tell the story?
It began as as a need to advocate for a family member, then I went on to realize that the system of healthcare was broken and needed to be changed from within through quality leadership.
3. How do you structure your work days from waking up to going to sleep?
I wake up early to get a head-start on the day, I answer any pressing questions from the previous day, then head to the office and deal with all the little fires along the day.
4. What's a recent leadership lesson you've learned for the first time or been reminded of?
The most recent lesson was that no matter how much you try to explain change with reasons and buy-in options, there are some people who are just not going to be receptive to change.
5. What's one book that has had a profound impact on your leadership so far? Can you please briefly tell the story of how that book impacted your leadership?
Leadership Essentials by Peregrine, it has been a handbook that I pass out to new leaders and older leaders stuck in the past.
6. If you could only give one piece of advice to a young leader, what would you say to them?
Patience, flexibility, and ability to pivot on a dime. Also keep a good sense of humor.
7. What is one meaningful story that comes to mind from your time as a leader, so far?
I had an employee who had jumped around from job to job, mainly due to not feeling appreciated in their positions. When they began working for me, what I noticed is that they never asked questions about the job, I would always get "oh, ya, I know how to do 'that'". When it came time for their 30-day performance review, they had not met any of the job targets, they thought they were going to get fired and they quit. I asked them when they gave their notice why they were quitting, and they were honest and said they didn't understand the job. So instead of asking they would just quit. I did not let them quit, I taught them how to ask for assistance, how to get help when they needed it, and why no one was upset when they asked questions.
Now, they are a manager themselves and I have watched them grow into a compassionate leader. It has been so rewarding.