Her Story
About Julie
Julie Kavanaugh serves as Operations Director at Home Front Military Network, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting service members, veterans, and their families. She transitioned into the role in July 2026 after previously serving on the organization’s Board of Directors. With more than 25 years of experience as a strategic, legacy-driven administrative executive, Kavanaugh has built a distinguished career spanning Fortune 500 companies, private sector, professional sports, defense, and philanthropic organizations. Her expertise includes executive operations, Board governance, CEO partnership, operational excellence, organizational growth, stakeholder engagement, and community impact. Her career highlights include leadership roles with V2X, a premier U.S. defense contractor, and the Chicago Blackhawks of the NHL, where her operational leadership contributed to a Stanley Cup championship, recipient of a Stanley Cup ring and a visit to the White House. Throughout her career, Kavanaugh has been recognized for her ability to bring clarity, structure, and trusted relationship management to complex, high-visibility environments. At V2X, she led enterprise-wide philanthropic and community investment initiatives, served as a trusted advisor to senior leadership, supported Board operations, and recruited, led, and developed a multi-state team of 17 executive assistants. Through Kavanaugh Executive Solutions, LLC, she provides executive advisory, and relationship-development support while mentoring administrative professionals on executive presence, communication, and leadership effectiveness. A significant influence in her professional journey has been her mentor, Bonnie Low-Kramen, a respected administrative professional trainer, author, speaker, and leadership advisor. Kavanaugh credits mentorship and meaningful professional relationships as important components of her continued growth and commitment to elevating others. Kavanaugh’s professional and community contributions have earned numerous honors, including the Founders Award from Admin Awards for team development, the Troubadour Award for Community Awareness, designations as a Kentucky Colonel and Admiral, and the Key to a City in Kentucky. She also established the "Julie Kavanaugh Scholarship" to support the educational aspirations of a graduating high school student. Her community leadership includes serving as a Community Ambassador for Mt. Carmel Veterans Service Center and former USO Colorado/Wyoming/Montana Board Advisor. She is also a member of the Colorado Springs Chamber & EDC, Southern Colorado Women's Chamber and Tri-Lakes Chamber. Kavanaugh attributes her success to confidence, having the courage to use her voice, and cultivating a strong professional network throughout her career. Her core values include integrity, steadiness, calmness, loyalty, and elevating others, and she is passionate about giving back by sharing the knowledge and lessons she has gained throughout her career through mentorship, leadership, and community service.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Julie
01What do you attribute your success to?
My success is rooted in confidence, a purposeful voice, and a powerful professional network I’ve built and sustained over decades. These strengths have enabled me to seize opportunities, advocate boldly, and cultivate relationships that continue to accelerate my growth and impact.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received came from my mentor who reminded me that a career and life is a marathon, not a sprint. Over time, I’ve learned to be patient, trust the process, and recognize that the right opportunities unfold exactly when they should. Even when the path doesn’t match my original plans, resilience, adaptability, and faith in the journey have led me to outcomes far better than I could have anticipated.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I encourage young women entering this field to lead with confidence, know their worth, and trust that they belong in every room they step into. The right path may take time, and challenges will happen, but their abilities will carry them forward even when the journey looks different than expected. Leadership isn’t a title; it’s reflected in daily actions, decisions, and how we show up for others. Every moment is an opportunity to grow, lead, and make an impact.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the greatest challenges and opportunities in the administrative profession is earning a seat at the table and then proving the strategic value you bring once you’re there. It requires confidence, a clear voice, and the willingness to share your perspective, especially in moments when women may hesitate. I believe deeply in trusting our expertise, standing firm in the value we add, and approaching high‑pressure situations with calm, composure, and steadiness rather than letting stress turn into frustration or exhaustion.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that guide me both professionally and personally are integrity, steadiness, calmness, loyalty, and a genuine commitment to elevating others. I also believe deeply in the power of mentorship and the perspective, confidence, and encouragement it provides throughout a career. At this stage in my journey, giving back matters more than ever. Sharing what I’ve learned, supporting others in their growth, and helping them succeed is one of the most meaningful parts of my work.
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