1. What have you found most challenging as a CEO or executive of a large enterprise?

I think making space or time for reflection is a big challenge. Finding the time to find clarity and a strategic process.

2. How did you become a CEO or executive of a large enterprise? Can you please briefly tell the story?

Well, it was over a twenty year professional career and being part of a family business. Twenty years ago, we started a Skilled nursing home, rehab, physician services business from the ground up. As the CIO presently it was not easy getting to where we ended up today. There have been tons of obstacles along the way. With a company of 2500 team members, you can imagine from systems to HR the challenges we came through.

3. How do you structure your work days from waking up to going to sleep?

One of the things many people tend to struggle with is getting up early. There are few different things that can help make your morning routine something to look forward to. One helpful tip includes planning an exciting breakfast. Also, planning your important tasks for the day the night before can increase productivity. Make a general plan for what you would like your day to look like and what you want to accomplish today. Focusing on the list of goals your set for your day every morning will keep you focused on what is most important that day. Having a productive day at work is not the only thing that will make your life easier. It is equally as important to end the day on a positive note at home.

4. What's the most recent significant leadership lesson you've learned?

My clients find it challenging to nurture their company culture in the current climate and as their company grows. They are keen on retaining their vibrant, collaborative cultures, so I advise them to capture what that means first. Their clear vision enables them to integrate culture nourishment into operations and continuously evolve.

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?

The most recent book that I have dove into is by John Maxwell and it's called Change your World. It's about anyone and anywhere can make a difference. Tells the stories of everyday people, from teenagers, moms, businesspeople, and volunteers who felt compassion and took action.

6. How do you build leadership capacity in a large enterprise?

I think several things to success are clarity on the best use of your time. Also, recognizing the value of each person that is on your team or that you come in contact with. Making requests and not demanding of people is a great leadership quality. Lastly, I think celebrating achievements and relationships between team members are key to building leadership.

7. What is one meaningful story that comes to mind from your time as a CEO or executive of a large enterprise so far?

I think the overall story from beginning to end is so beautiful, but if I had to choose a story it would be the day an outside vendor not even a team member came to me and said how glad he was to be affiliated with us and the mission statement and our core values had helped shape how he treated people on the outside like with his own family. You truly know you are making a difference in someone's life when it affects them on the outside of work. Especially a person that is not even on your payroll that tells you that. Again leadership is not about the demand, it's how you treat a human being and help guide them to become a better person in life.