LAURYNRICE

When people ask me how long I've been working with business leaders, I often joke and say "Since I was eleven".  That is the earliest age at which I have memories of working in my family's business and beginning what has been a life-long education in business and leadership.

 

In addition to working in virtually every department/function in the business, I listened in and participated in thousands of dinner table conversations regarding employee issues, sales and marketing decisions, banking relationships, vendor and supplier challenges, real estate investments, partnership decisions, facilities management, and the struggles of making payroll and surviving a long and difficult recession.

 

I formed some basic beliefs about leadership: Good leaders are honest and trusting - even when it hurts. They lead by example and value the contributions of others. They are teachers, confidants and cheerleaders who aren't afraid to kick some butt when needed. They take risks (more than most people ever know). They make tough decisions. They make mistakes. They accept responsibility for the results... good and bad. They persevere, regardless.

 

Over my life (as daughter and business executive), I've come to truly appreciate the heart and soul of what drives great leaders - the desire to contribute to something bigger than yourself, to help others succeed, and to find personal success, fulfillment and balance along the way.