“Food is about making an interaction with the ingredients. If you talk to them, they will always tell you a story.” Jose AndresA community leader in college, I was known to cook Sunday dinner to gather community members. I may have tripped a circuit breaker, but we shared some delicious meals. Early on, I understood that from seed to market, pan to plate, the lessons I learned through the journey of bringing food to the table would influence my philosophy on leadership. Individuals and organizations are like ingredients; if you engage and listen, they will tell you a story. Food moves through complex and interdependent ecosystems and I have discovered that leading strategies, policies, and programs for a non-profit organization is also an expansive ecosystem. It is comprised of diverse clients with differing values and expectations, complex operational and project logistics, budgetary and regulatory constraints, stakeholders with competing agendas, an unwavering focus on elevating customer experience, engagement, and retention. As a strategic “systems and design” thinker, I bridge creativity with data to deliver innovative opportunities for improvement, growth, and end-to-end client success.Creating new recipes involves flexibility and creativity. My professional history includes newly created positions where I leveraged my ability to “figure it out” and build a new roadmap to achieve mission aligned goals and increase revenue. Teaching cooking classes for beginners requires effective communication and patient coaching. With a background in counseling and crisis management, I relate to others with empathy and sensitivity. I facilitate workshops/presentations focused on leadership development and DEI&B.Making room at the table for all to participate. I bring a genuine respect for others and hire/train/develop richly diverse talent to meet and exceed business and career goals.I love collaborating and building a work culture defined by authentic partnerships where people enjoy what they do and where they do it. I am a natural integrator and work best at the intersection of strategic planning, system building, and people development to create value.When I think back, I can still smell the sauce simmering and hear the voices of the community sharing their stories.Want to compare farmers’ markets? Swap recipes? Discuss strategic planning, people development, and designing systems that work for your organization? Let’s connect: nmcgrath72@gmail.comMaybe you’ll hear the story of the radio show I co-anchored: “Life Au Gratin”….