Today, I’m delighted to sit down with Leslie Motter, the inspirational President and CEO of Make-A-Wish America, at a charming little coffee shop in Phoenix. Leslie, a proven leader with a rich history in enhancing corporate and non-profit missions, shares her profound insights on spearheading strategic transformations at Make-A-Wish.
Leslie, could you start by sharing what inspired the strategic transformations at Make-A-Wish?
Leslie reflects thoughtfully before responding, “Transformation is really about aligning with our core mission while staying responsive to the needs of the communities we serve. We continually refine our vision to ensure it meets these evolving needs, involving every level of our organization to foster a shared commitment.”
In terms of operational efficiency, how do you approach this at Make-A-Wish, given the typical financial constraints of non-profits?
With a nod to the complexities of non-profit management, Leslie explains, “Maximizing operational efficiency is crucial. We’ve embraced innovative technologies and streamlined our processes to enhance our day-to-day operations, allowing us to grant wishes more effectively and extend our mission’s impact.”
And regarding talent development, how important is this in your strategic planning?
“Absolutely pivotal,” Leslie states. “Investing in our people ensures we have the necessary skills and expertise to face new challenges. It’s about fostering a culture that embraces change, through personal development and leadership training, to ensure our mission’s resilience and continuity.”
Leslie, how do you ensure effective communication during these transformations?
“Communication is key,” Leslie affirms. “We maintain clear, consistent, and transparent communication across all levels of our organization. This approach not only facilitates smoother transitions but also strengthens trust in our leadership and organizational vision.”
Finally, how do you measure the success of your transformations?
Leslie sips her coffee before answering, “We use a variety of metrics to evaluate both immediate and long-term effects of our transformations. This data-driven approach is essential for continuous improvement and ensuring that our strategies effectively support our mission.”
As we wrap up our conversation, it’s clear that Leslie’s leadership is characterized by a compassionate and strategic approach to navigating the complexities of non-profit management. Her focus on operational efficiency, talent development, and robust communication strategies offers invaluable lessons for leaders aiming to make a positive impact in their organizations.
Leslie’s approach exemplifies how strategic transformation, driven by a clear mission and inclusive leadership, can significantly enhance an organization’s effectiveness and reach.
