Asking the Right Questions | Tracey Black

Imagine stepping into a high-profile leadership role, just as a global pandemic hits. This was the reality for Tracey Black, President and CEO of Payments Canada. In our deeply insightful conversation, Tracey offers a candid look into her leadership style, the challenges she faced, and the lessons she learned.

Have you ever considered the power of authenticity and empathy in leadership, especially in the face of adversity? Tracey emphasizes how these traits have not only shaped her as a leader, but have also been vital in navigating the pandemic and the challenges and opportunities it provided. From addressing the struggles faced by individuals with invisible disabilities, to maintaining constructive dialogue amidst conflict, her experiences underscore the need for understanding and commitment in leadership during difficult times.

Finally, we address the undervalued importance of self-care and engaging in intentional networking. Tracey spotlights the myriad advantages that can spring from connecting with a diverse group of individuals - it's all about broadening perspectives and building relationships. She also speaks on the powerful role of mentors and sponsors in supporting one's growth, reminding us that no one climbs the ladder of success alone.

What You’ll Learn:

• The importance of authenticity and empathy in leadership

• How to create inclusive work environments, including for those with invisible disabilities

• Effective communication strategies for difficult conversations

• Questions open doors; statements close doors

• The benefits of networking and maintaining diverse interests

• The influential role of mentors and sponsors in career growth

Podcast Timestamps:

(00:00) – Imagine Your First Day as CEO is the Start of a Pandemic

(14:03) - Empathy and Understanding in Workplace Accommodations

(17:18) – Maintaining Constructive Dialogue During Disagreements

(29:25) – Self-care and the Power of Networking

(34:47) – Taking Risks and Making Decisions with Incomplete Information

(43:50) – The Impact of in-Person Connection

Key Topics Discussed:

Positive Leadership, Authenticity, Empathy, Integrity, Invisible Disabilities, Trust-Building, Inquiry, Constructive Dialogue, Managing Disagreements, Self-Care, Networking, Diverse Interests, Mentorship, Sponsors, In-Person Conversation, Meaningful Connection, Crisis Leadership, Gratitude

More of Tracey:

Tracey Black is the President and CEO of Payments Canada. Taking over the role in early 2020, Tracey saw the organization through a period of tremendous change. Payments Canada plays a vital role in supporting the Canadian economy as it ensures that our financial transactions are carried out safely and securely. In 2022, Payments Canada systems cleared and settled 119 trillion transactions. That works out to 476 billion every single business day! Tracey’s past experience includes executive roles at TD Canada Trust and RBC Royal Bank, and she's consulted extensively in the financial services industry as an independent consultant and with McKinsey Company. As President of GFH Group Inc. her responsibilities included the launch of chip cards or smart cards in Canada. 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tracey-black-2606884/ 

More of Do Good to Lead Well:

Website: https://craigdowden.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/