She Leads – With Bridget Branham
Name: Bridget Branham
Job Title: Client Solutions Executive, CAI
What would you tell your younger self? Driven and motivated.
What was your major in college? My major in College was business. I feel my previous positions with company prepared me for the position I currently have today as a CSE, working in the auction in numerous roles provided me with a deeper understanding of the auction and the day to day operations to be able to provide my clients with the information and tools they need for success with Manheim.
What was your inspiration and what helped you become successful? How do you define success? I feel previous experience has lead to my success, working with previous leadership and current leaders. They have provided me with the proper guidance and tools I need to be able to help all of my clients in any area need within Cox Automotive. I define success as something I strive for everyday , when I am meeting a new client leaving their lot knowing that I have provided them with the proper information needed to be a successful partner with Manheim, or a client who has had a bad experience with the company but I continue to stay in contact with them and build that relationship and one day they call needing help with buying or selling a unit with Manheim. That to me is success and provides me with the feeling of accomplishment.
How do you balance your work and personal life? Often times one has more importance, and we’re curious to know how you’ve handled the balance. My wife and the time we spend together is of paramount importance to me, so being able to feel successful, engaged and aAt times it can be difficult to balance personal and work life, however I have found the best way to accomplish that is after 5 distancing yourself from emails and work lines, even turning on your out of office outside of work hours.
What is your favorite quote? “Simple can be harder than complex: You have to work hard to get your thinking clean to make it simple. But it’s worth it in the end because once you get there, you can move mountains.” ― Steve Jobs
What’s your favorite part of your job and why? Meeting with my clients and being about to help them, each day is like a new adventure.
What is your favorite hobby? Going on the boat and fishing with my son.
What advice do you want to give the next generation of women leaders? To be strong and never give up.
What does leadership mean to you? Leadership to me is when a leader works with his or her employees and motivates them, makes sure they are aware of any area they are lacking in and provides the proper guidance for success. A leader is supportive, open minded to new ideas, and values others outlooks.
What’s your advice on mentoring? A positive role model, support as well as challenge mentee , share experiences and relate to them if possible.
What’s your favorite ice cream? Vanilla