An incoming CEO took on a tougher less glamorous role to get to the C-suite
Pursue opportunities that align with your goals and offer the best chances for growth and learning – even if others question your decision for taking a path that you know would ultimately be the one best for you.
It’s easy to be tempted by fancy titles and flashy perks, but remember: you have one life to live, one chance to make a difference. If a less glamorous path offers deeper and more meaningful learning, I recommend taking it. Don’t underestimate the value of knowledge and where it can lead, or discount what can be learned from a road less traveled.
Early in my career, while working in finance for a Fortune 500 company, I faced a choice between a high-profile role with leadership exposure and a less glamorous position in a different part of the company. The latter offered the chance to learn new skills, lead an international team, and have direct decision-making power. Despite the prestige of the first option – one that I knew many of my peers would choose without blinking an eye – I knew it wouldn’t be as fulfilling for me. With guidance from my mentors, I chose the second role, and it was a pivotal moment in my career. That more hands-on role taught me how to lead, make an impact, and collaborate closely with upper leadership. It gave me skills that are invaluable and indispensable to the work I do today.
Ultimately, I learned that the best roles for growth aren’t always the most attractive on paper. The most valuable roles are those that challenge you professionally and open your mind to areas you haven’t previously explored. The rest of the world doesn’t need to agree with your choices—it’s your life and your impact, and you get to define your role’s worth.
From that point on, I evaluate every potential role by asking, “Will this push me outside my comfort zone?” and “Can I make an impact here?”
This mindset shift propelled my career, leading to promotions as CFO, COO, and President. These experiences have now prepared me to step into the role of Curriculum Associates’ next CEO in January 2025.
