ELLIE MAE
CREATIVE DIRECTOR AND CEO, ELLIE MAE STUDIOS
What is your definition of leadership?
Leadership means showing up: For the good, the bad, and pushing through the uncomfortable regardless of the uncertainty that comes with having your own business. Through all of the ups and downs being a leader means making sure you have a team that feels supported throughout.
What are the most important values and ethics you demonstrate as a leader?
Self-awareness, respect, kindness and courage.
How do you encourage the development of your employees?
I’m anti-micromanagement. I believe you hire someone because they’re the best for that role. Let them be the best by trusting in their experience and expertise, while also providing the support they need for self-development and success.
What is your advice to Canadian business owners during the COVID-19 Pandemic?
Try to find the silver lining in the suckiness. Before the pandemic, the world was moving at such a rapid pace, I felt like I could hardly keep up. As awful as everything is right now, it’s an opportunity to re-evaluate, simplify and remind us that we are so much more than what we do.
