Times are changing – fast. Accelerated technology means adapting to AL, ML and new processes from the manufacturing floor to workflow systems. A diverse workforce invites inclusion of cultures, abilities and much more. Hybrid workplaces are on the rise, along with input from the labour force on what they want to see in today’s modern workplaces.
What has not changed is that the most successful companies are helmed by visionaries who are not afraid to embrace it all. Today’s entrepreneurs don’t see challenges. They see changes and are inspired by them to create and run businesses that lift up their team and the community.
The Leaders Awards, created and hosted by Business in Edmonton magazine, has celebrated this spirit for more than a decade.
Nominees of the Leaders Awards are independently judged by a panel of industry experts. The judges are Shawn Mevel, managing director, Corporate Client at ATB Business; Dennis Sheppard, dean, JR Shaw School of Business at NAIT; and Jenn Miller, partner, Private Enterprise at MNP.
Mevel says, “A leader will motivate and lead their team toward a shared goal. They deserve to be celebrated because in words and actions, they create positive change within their companies and communities. Edmonton has a strong business community that continues to move forward because leaders share ideas and successes within the community, and the next generation of leaders picks up on those shared stories and carries the momentum forward.”
Sheppard notes that a leader is a team player. “Patrick Lencioni describes in his book, The Ideal Team Player, three characteristics which embody the spirit of those privileged to be part of a high functioning team: hungry, humble, and smart. An ideal business leader needs to not only possess those same characteristics but also possess the ability to nurture them across all members of their team. The ideal business leader builds a strong team, then empowers their staff to do whatever it is they do best.”
He also knows how important it is to give back.
“Great leaders give tirelessly of themselves in ways that most who surround them are rarely aware. They do so without expectation of recognition because they are passionate for, and committed to, the organization and its people. It is for this reason we recognize great leaders, to shine a light on the incredible results of their sacrifices.”
Miller says, “Leaders are people who step up and take responsibility to improve their community. They deserve to be celebrated for their effort and dedication.”
“Edmonton is truly an entrepreneurial city,” she adds, “and we had a wonderfully diverse group of business leaders allow their names to be put forward for consideration this year. I genuinely believe the future of this city will continue to be vibrant and dynamic, primarily driven by the successful leaders who foster innovation and positive change in our community.”
Sheppard sums it up well by saying, “As with previous years, the caliber of folks being put forward never ceases to impress; I am encouraged by the breadth and depth of nominations submitted. Our community is the beneficiary of these efforts by incredible individuals. One thing I see beginning to emerge is a growing number of newer businesses and leaders. Related to that, we see several nominations resubmitted for those who maybe were not quite ready in the past. We see reflection and growth in their businesses and in them as leaders which, in itself, is a true sign of leadership and passion.”
The Leaders will be celebrated with an awards gala on November 12.
