Each year, the Corridor Business Journal shines a spotlight on young professionals who have made a meaningful impact on the region early in their careers. We are proud to introduce you to the 20th class of Forty Under 40 honorees, chosen by a committee of past honorees. Mitch Leahy Vice President and General Manager, Office […]
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Mitch Leahy
Vice President and General Manager, Office Equipment Group | GreatAmerica Financial Services
Age: 39
Residence: Cedar Rapids, Iowa
Hometown: West Union, Iowa
Education: Bachelor's degree from University of Northern Iowa
What was your first job? Duckwall-Alco (think Dollar General).
How long have you been in your current job? I have been with GreatAmerica 16 years in a variety of roles.
What do you consider your "big break" in your career, so far? Finding a career within a family-owned and employee-focused company – GreatAmerica. All of the individuals and leaders that have been mentors to me over my 16 years since joining as an intern have a special place in my heart, and I'm grateful to them. I hope to continue to pay it forward.
What’s the biggest issue facing the Corridor, and why? Attracting and retaining talented and quality people who wish to be part of and contribute to improve our Corridor communities. If we continue to invest in our communities, we will see exponential positive results.
If you had $1 million to give, what causes would you support? Multiple organizations that support children today – mentorship, special needs, and food insecurity are top of the list.
Who do you consider your local mentors? Stan Herkelman – former CEO (retired) at GreatAmerica;
Geery Howe – Morningstar Associates - friend, mentor and coach;
my wife, Lindsay – best part of my world
Best advice you ever received?
Two messages come to mind:
– One of my very first leaders at GreatAmerica told me, "We can help you put together a plan for your future development. You have to do the 99% to make it happen." I share that with each team member I work with.
– From a leadership perspective, I was told once, "Two things you should always do as a leader: Make sure your team knows (1) what they should be focused on and (2) why it is important. Communicate those often."
What do you want to accomplish by the time you are 50? Perhaps creating a 50 under 50 award – so many additional opportunities left to contribute!
