A: Adaptability. I don’t let sudden requests and unforeseen detours upset me. I am a very flexible person and can stay productive even when the demands of work are pulling me in different directions.
Q: What do you do at BrightView?
A: I am a Project Director for BVLS Operational Excellence (OpX). In addition to managing my own projects, I provide project support by tracking and reporting on the many projects/initiatives the OpX team is leading or participating in, establish project management methodologies, and oversee the standardization of policies and procedures within Operations.
Q: How long have your worked for the company?
A: 5+ years. I started as an Environmental Health & Safety Director and moved into the OpX Project Director role two years ago. I also serve on the GROW Operating Board as part of the Membership Committee, which means I help ensure that we get more and more women at BrightView involved in our programs.
Q: What’s the most challenging part of your job?
A: Recently, I was referred to as “Air Traffic Control”. With the OpX team leading or participating in so many organizational projects and initiatives, it can be challenging to keep up with all the moving parts. Most importantly, to recognize who, how, and when these initiatives as well as other corporate initiatives may impact our branches and make sure the impact on the branch is communicated to the right level of leadership.
Q: You have been identified as someone who is driving many high priority initiatives across BVLS. What are a couple of things you are most excited about?
A: I am leading a cross-functional team in the development of a Capital Asset Management System. The purpose is to track and manage capital assets through each step of an asset’s life cycle, from procurement through disposal in order to minimize spend, optimize equipment utilization, and ensure accurate financial reporting.
Q: Our members have asked us to feature more Tips & Tricks that they can apply in their everyday. Do you have any to help them become better leaders?
A: Traditional wisdom tells us work is not supposed to be fun, that’s why it’s called work. But all work and no play makes us crabby. When I look back over my career, my most challenging yet satisfying work was accomplished when I was having fun with my team. Having fun, whether it’s having a sense of humor, celebrating wins, or playing golf on a Friday afternoon with the team, builds camaraderie, increases productivity, and enhances employee satisfaction and loyalty.
Q: What was the best career advice you’ve ever received?
A: The front line team members may be at the bottom of the organization chart, but they are the most important people in the organization. They are the backbone of the organization. Not only should you treat them with respect, don’t fail to thank them, recognize their work, ASK for input and feedback and LISTEN; both to their concerns and their ideas and recommendations.
Q: What gets you out of bed in the morning (related to BV)?
A: The competition. I want BV to be recognized as world class, best of the best, an organization that others want to emulate. I want to do my part to help ensure it happens.
Q: What advice would you give a younger version of you?
A: In the words of Richard Branson “If someone offers you an amazing opportunity and you’re not sure you can do it, say yes – then learn how to do it later”.
Q: What is your superpower?
The following two positions are currently in need of volunteers:
