Chicago VP Believes In A Collaborative Working Environment

What are the scope and responsibilities of your current role?

"I am responsible for functional and technical delivery of enterprise applications across all our global offices. This includes systems like ERP, CRM, PLM, EPM and other digital assets."

What is your favorite part of your daily duties?

"My role is to execute business strategy by developing business processes and using information technology. The favorite part of my daily duties is Portfolio level project meetings where the team examines the RAID log (Risks, Actions, Issues and Decisions). This is where we make decisions collaboratively, solve problems and try to keep a laser focus on the finish line."

Do you feel your education prepared you for your current role?

"My role requires a deep understanding of business problems and how technology, process and organizational alignment can be used to solve issues. My engineering education provided my analytical and quantitative skills. My M.B.A education provided a solid understanding of finance and operations and helped develop my general management and leadership skills. Both of these programs inculcated a solid foundation for application of technology economically, for solving problems and for improving productivity."

Do you have any advice for people who desire to pursue a similar career?

"In this career you don't have one boss. You work for everybody. Technology is ubiquitous, and everyone needs your services. Technical skills are important and will certainly get you a job. However, in order for your career to progress, you will need softer skills and good business acumen. You will need to understand your associates' business problems and develop plans to provide assistance. Good listening, being collaborative and empathetic lowers barriers and helps you develop better partnerships."