Local Profile’s 23rd annual Women in Business Summit, presented by Baylor Scott & White Health, is set for Sept. 13, 2024, at Renaissance Dallas at Plano Legacy West Hotel.
This year, over 600 powerhouse women from various sectors including global enterprise, non-profit, small business and government will gather to celebrate, unite and empower each other to turn big ideas into reality.
Tickets are selling out quickly! Buy your ticket here.
One of Local Profile's esteemed speakers, Melody Lenox is a people operations executive, an award-winning global leader and a distinguished speaker at international women’s business summits. With over two decades of unparalleled leadership across diverse industries such as technology and healthcare, she has consistently demonstrated her prowess as a visionary strategist, spearheading global transformations.
As a member of Forbes HR Council, CHIEF, the Society of Human Resources Management and several boards across the world, Lenox continues to influence and shape the future of global business. Her strategic acumen, leadership excellence and commitment to transformative leadership make her a standout figure among global leaders.
What idea has impacted you the most in your field?
The idea of transformative leadership has profoundly impacted my approach in the field of global operations and human resources. Transformative leadership is not merely about managing processes but about inspiring and empowering individuals to reach their fullest potential. This concept has guided my commitment to developing leaders, fostering inclusive cultures and driving sustainable change within organizations.
How do you deal with setbacks?
Setbacks are inevitable, but I view them as opportunities for growth and learning. When faced with challenges, I reflect on the situation, identify the lessons to be learned, and develop a strategic plan to move forward. Resilience and a positive mindset are essential. I also lean on my support network, seeking advice and perspectives from trusted colleagues and mentors.
What do you do when an idea strikes?
When an idea strikes, I immediately document it, whether in a journal, a digital note, or a voice memo. Capturing the essence of the idea ensures it isn’t lost in the busyness of daily responsibilities. I then take time to evaluate its feasibility, potential impact and alignment with our strategic goals before discussing it with key stakeholders and my team.
How do you respond when feeling held back?
Feeling held back can be frustrating, but it’s crucial to address the root causes constructively. I analyze the barriers, whether they are structural, procedural, or interpersonal. I then engage in open dialogue with relevant parties to find solutions. Advocacy and self-empowerment are vital. I believe in taking proactive steps to demonstrate my capabilities and drive initiatives forward.
What is one idea that motivates you?
The idea that motivates me the most is the power of collective impact. By harnessing the strengths and talents of diverse teams, we can achieve extraordinary results. This concept fuels my passion for women’s empowerment, philanthropy and leadership development. It reminds me that our collective efforts can create meaningful and lasting change.
What was the most difficult decision you’ve made in your career so far?
One of the most difficult decisions I’ve made was leading a significant organizational restructuring that involved difficult layoffs. Balancing the needs of the business with compassion for affected employees was challenging. I focused on transparent communication, offering support and resources for those impacted and ensuring the restructuring would lead to a more sustainable and prosperous future for the organization.
What challenges do you face as a woman in your industry?
As a woman in a leadership position, I often encounter challenges related to gender bias and the underrepresentation of women in executive roles. There are also unique pressures to constantly prove oneself and balance professional and personal responsibilities. I address these challenges by advocating for diversity and inclusion, mentoring other women and striving to lead by example.
Who is the first person you come to with an idea?
I usually first discuss new ideas with my trusted inner circle, which includes mentors, close colleagues and my executive coach. Their diverse perspectives and honest feedback help refine and strengthen the idea before presenting it to a broader audience or implementing it within the organization.
What is a recent challenge you faced? How did you overcome it?
A recent challenge involved integrating a newly acquired company with a distinct culture into our existing operations. To overcome this, I led a cross-functional team to develop a comprehensive integration plan. We prioritized open communication, cultural exchange programs and collaborative workshops to align values and practices. This approach ensured a smooth transition and fostered a unified organizational culture.
What is the biggest mistake you see women making when advancing their careers?
One common mistake is underestimating the importance of self-promotion and visibility. Many women excel in their roles but hesitate to highlight their achievements or seek recognition. It’s crucial to advocate for oneself, build a strong personal brand and actively network to advance one’s career. Confidence and strategic self-advocacy are key to overcoming this challenge.
How do you define success?
Success, to me, is about making a positive impact on people’s lives and leaving a legacy of empowerment and growth. It’s not just about achieving business goals but also about fostering a culture of inclusivity, innovation and continuous learning. Success is measured by the development of future leaders, the well-being of the community and the sustainable growth of the organization.
What is the best piece of advice you've ever received?
The best advice I’ve received is to lead with authenticity and integrity. Staying true to my values and principles, even in the face of adversity, has been instrumental in building trust and credibility. Authentic leadership fosters genuine connections and inspires others to bring their best selves to work.
What projects are you currently working on?
Currently, I am working on several initiatives aimed at enhancing leadership development and operational excellence within the organization. This includes launching a global mentorship program for emerging leaders, spearheading a women’s leadership network and implementing strategic initiatives to drive innovation and operational excellence.
What is the best book you read this year?
The best book I’ve read this year is You’ve Been Chosen: Thriving Through the Unexpected by Cynt Marshall. This memoir is an inspiring testament to resilience, leadership and overcoming adversity. Cynt Marshall's journey from a challenging upbringing to becoming the CEO of the Dallas Mavericks is a powerful narrative that resonates deeply with my own experiences in leadership and empowerment. Her insights on authenticity, fostering inclusive cultures and leading with compassion are profoundly impactful.
Additionally, there are several others that offer complementary insights into the power of vulnerability, courage and empathy in leadership. Together, these books have significantly influenced my approach to transformative leadership, encouraging me to embrace challenges as opportunities for growth and to lead with both heart and mind.
This isn't just an event — it's a movement! Join over 600 powerhouse women from various sectors including global enterprise, non-profit, small business and government as we celebrate, unite and empower each other to turn BIG IDEAS into reality.
Seize this opportunity to invest in yourself and your future. You deserve to be among the North Texas community's leading ladies, shaping BIG IDEAS and making an impact that reverberates far beyond the summit.
Speakers & Panelists
- Marianne Radley, CMO, Smoothie King
- Melody Lennox, People Operations Executive
- Ginny Kissling, Global President & COO, Ryan
- Nora Gomez, CMO, Nebraska Furniture Mart
- Hedy Popson, President & CEO, Productions Plus
- Beth Garvey, President, CEO & Chair, BGSF
- Angela Hutson, SVP, Chief Accounting Officer, BSWHealth
- Sharon Ramage, Founder, The Ramage Law Group
- Lisa Clawson, SVP, Market Manager Private Wealth, Bank of Texas
- Tatsumi Paredes, Senior Manager, Diversity & Inclusion, TOYOTA
Expect:
- Networking: Sip mimosas while forging invaluable connections during our morning networking session. Don't forget to strike a pose at our photobooth and capture the moment with watercolor portraits, painted live!
- Speaker Sessions: Hear from influential speakers and engage in thought-provoking panel discussions centered around BIG IDEAS.
- Post-Event Celebration: Wrap up the day on a high note at our post-event happy hour hosted at the trendy Bulla Gastrobar.
Schedule
10 - 11:30 a.m. Mimosas & Networking with live water color portrait artist, Kiss-N-Teller, photobooth and more!
11:30 a.m. - 3 p.m.
- Seated Lunch
- Keynote Addresses with Marianne Radley, CMO at Smoothie King and Melody Lennox, People Operations Executive
- Two Powerhouse Panels featuring esteemed local female leaders
- Coffee Break & Networking
3 p.m. Happy Hour at Bulla Gastrobar