REI Co-op chief executive officer Mary Beth Laughton is a firm believer that it’s important for leaders to have both functional expertise and people skills.
“Build the skills that allow you to understand and run a business — and, just as importantly, develop the empathy, curiosity and authenticity that allow you to lead people well,” she said. “That combination is what will define the next generation of leadership.”
In fact, the leaders who will be most effective in the future are the ones with strong functional skills who are able to lead people in an authentic and human way, she noted.
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Laughton also said one of the most important lessons she’s learned is that great leaders don’t fit a single mold. “For me, that’s been leaning into a more collaborative, question-led approach, creating space for others, building relationships and solving problems as a team,” she said.
And given the rapid pace of change in retail — from technology to customer expectations — REI’s CEO said it’s important to keep building new capabilities. “Leaders,” she explained, “need to stay curious, keep learning and be willing to step into new opportunities, even when they feel like a stretch.”
Laughton also believes in investing in growth and connection.
“Mentorship has mattered in my career, and I encourage everyone to seek mentors and be one,” she said. “One program I love [at REI] is our recently launched Campfire Circles, where peers come together for honest conversations [about] what they’re navigating, so they can learn from each other and feel that sense of community.”
Laughton said, “When we acknowledge that life happens outside of work and make it easier for people to take care of what they need to, teams are stronger, more focused and more resilient.”
Another way of supporting each other is recognizing the need to unplug periodically.
“At REI Co-op, we believe people do their best work when they have the time and space to recharge,” she said. REI’s programs include Opt Outside, when its stores close on Black Friday so employees can spend the day outside, and Way Days, paid time off for outdoor pursuits or taking on a new activity.
“Research shows that even 15 to 20 minutes outdoors can benefit health and overall well-being, and I know it helps me stay grounded, so we encourage our people to get outside.
A version of this article appeared in the June 1 print issue of FN, as part of the “Women Who Rock” special section. On June 3, FN and Two Ten Footwear Foundation will honor these women at the annual live event in New York City.