The Leadership Lessons I Learned on the Way to the Table
Leadership is not about the loudest voice in the room—it's about knowing who you are and creating pathways for others.
My career in public service has taken me from practicing law to leading policy and external affairs, serving as a chief of staff, and now working as a chief operating officer. Each role has expanded my responsibility, but some of my most important lessons have had little to do with titles.
As a woman navigating government leadership, I learned early that doing good work is only part of the equation. You also have to understand the environment around you—who makes decisions, how relationships shape outcomes, when to speak, and when to listen.
One lesson has been especially important: do not confuse being underestimated with being unprepared. There will be rooms where others do not immediately recognize your experience or authority. Resist the urge to prove yourself through every interaction. Know your subject, understand your value, and let consistency establish your credibility.
I have also learned to build relationships before you need them. Government can change quickly. Leadership changes. Priorities shift. Strong professional relationships built on trust, respect, and reliability can provide stability when everything else is moving.
Women also have to become comfortable with being visible. For years, many of us were taught that if we worked hard enough, someone would notice. Sometimes they do. Sometimes they don't. Share your expertise. Accept the speaking opportunity. Write the article. Seek the leadership position. Make sure your contributions are not invisible.
And when you gain access, create access for someone else. Recommend another woman. Mentor her. Sponsor her. Say her name when opportunities are being discussed.
I no longer think successful leadership requires becoming the loudest person in the room. It requires knowing who you are when you enter it.
My goal is not simply to occupy a leadership seat. It is to use that seat—with integrity, purpose, and service—to make the path wider for the women coming behind me.
