I’ve been leading technology teams for over 20 years and have learned through hands-on experience how to create an environment where people can achieve their peak performance.
I started my career as a software engineer, an individual contributor. I loved the creativity I found in coding. It felt like magic. Typing in an arcane language that few understood and whose physical manifestation could be seen, in real-time, on my screen! Amazing! As my expertise grew I was asked to architect enterprise systems and then to build the teams that would deliver on that scale.
Transitioning from individual contributor to team lead was difficult for me. I saw everything as an engineering problem. I thought everyone had to perform to a specific standard, my standard, and if they did not I was sure to let them know. It was a career ending blind spot. Fortunately I was given a choice. Keep doing what I was doing and be terminated or take an executive coaching course and consider changing my behavior.
I took the coaching. Not to keep my job but to better understand why I was being such an asshat in the office without realizing it. I knew from personal experience that coworkers and leads make or break a team. I wanted to be the guy who was a positive force on the team! So there began my journey to be a better version of me. It’s been filled with so many cool experiences that I would not have otherwise had. Self reflection and patience are key.
Since them I have gone on to lead teams at Sony Pictures, Toyota, Hulu, and others. I’ve managed budgets from $20M to $100M and oversaw multiple corporate acquisitions. Continuing to develop my leadership skills I pursued and was awarded a Master of Arts in Spiritual Psychology. to better understand human behaviors. I love working with people and seeing them thrive.
Do you feel stuck in your career? Looking for that next promotion? Just want help leading that big project?
I want to see YOU thrive! Book a free 30 minute consultation and let’s see what magic we can create together!
In my off time I explore cities through running and lead the Angel City Run Club in Los Angeles. You can also find me on the pitch as an AYSO referee.