Amanda Ekabutr
Amanda Ekabutr is a dynamic People & Culture professional with a passion for leadership development, transformational impact, and fostering psychologically courageous environments. Currently serving as the Team Member Experience Manager for the Phoenix Suns, Amanda leverages her expertise to support employees, recognize milestones, and facilitate professional growth. Her career reflects a steadfast commitment to discovering and amplifying the potential in others, creating spaces where individuals feel empowered to embrace their unique strengths.
Amanda’s professional journey spans over eight years in sports, youth development, and organizational leadership. She has held pivotal roles at Republic Services as a Leadership Development Facilitator, the Institute for Sport and Social Justice as Assistant Director of Huddle Up, and at the University of Massachusetts Amherst and Oregon State University in student-athlete development. Her experience includes designing and facilitating programs in leadership development, diversity, equity, inclusion, and gender-based violence prevention, demonstrating her dedication to empowering individuals and teams to thrive.
Amanda holds a Master of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies, focusing on College Student Services Administration, Education, and Ethnic Studies from Oregon State University, and a Bachelor of Science in Exercise and Wellness from Arizona State University. She is certified in Everything DiSC® and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in the Workplace, and remains actively involved in professional networks and community initiatives, including Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Her mission is to uncover and ignite the sparks of potential in others, helping them grow into their fullest selves while advancing organizational excellence.
• Everything DiSC® Certification
• Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in the Workplace Certificate
• Oregon State University - M.A.
• Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Incorporated
• Institute for Sport and Social Justice
• Thai American Heritage
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to the guidance and support of key mentors who have shaped my journey, including Lacey Carmen Johnson, Lamar Pottinger, Joe Walsh, Alonzo Jones, and Jeff Smith. Their wisdom, encouragement, and example have been invaluable in helping me grow both personally and professionally.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me in both my work and personal life center around mentorship and empowering others. Inspired by Custom Motto’s quote, my “why” as a mentor is to discover and nurture the sparks of potential in those around me. For young women entering the field, I emphasize the importance of building meaningful networks, delivering high-quality work, and maintaining humility—ensuring your contributions are recognized without compromising your integrity.
Locations
Phoenix Suns
Phoenix, AZ 85041