Business Matters :: From Athlete to the C-Suite | Michael Williams

Many C-Suite leaders grew up playing sports and have applied the principles learned in athletics to their careers. Athletes know that while each game will result in a win or loss, it doesn’t determine the outcome of their entire career. They strategize, practice and train for each game, working as a team toward a common goal every time. When we apply these principles to our businesses, we ensure each employee is working just as hard as their colleagues to reach the desired outcome. Winning is a big reward and a payoff for hard work and sacrifice, but it’s ultimately the lessons learned along the way that lead us to each new victory.

Our guest this week is Michael Williams, Chief Marketing Officer at Grand Prix of America, Formula 1. Michael is known throughout the industry as a passionate marketer and enthusiastic brand storyteller. Throughout his career, he has succeeded in helping sports brands, like the New Jersey Devils and the San Francisco 49ers, pinpoint their focus, expand their footprint and emotionally connect with fans. A former high school and college athlete, Michael says sports allows employees and executives to work better as a team and recognize how each person’s strengths can come together to support a shared passion within the organization. Each company’s story is full of wins and losses, but it’s the understanding that failures are inevitable with each success that encourages risk-taking, creativity and world-changing ideas.

A strong team full of players with different skills who enthusiastically work together toward each victory will grow their organizations. A game plan will set the tone for the future of your business, and a compelling story will keep customers engaged through change and creative risk taking.

Catch Michael on stage at the C-Suite Network Conference Nov. 16-18 in Marina del Rey, CA.