She Leads – With Leslie Spurka
Name: Leslie Spurka
Job Title: Human Resource Business Partner, CEI
What would you tell your younger self? People are exhausting – but oh so worth the investment!
What was your major in college and how did you get to the position you are in today? Psychology – Industrial Psychology was a new area of study back then, that linked psychology to a business setting. I was in graduate school when Macy’s came knocking on my door for a leadership program in NY City for HR Professionals. It was a great opportunity to launch in HR.
What was your inspiration and what helped you become successful? How do you define success? I knew that I wanted to work with people and was fascinated by what made people tick. What made people do their best work. In grad school I did a study with a professor that looked at sports psychology with a professional hockey team. I was intrigued. Success: Being able to work in an environment that allows you to do your best work & with people you enjoy working with. For me, It’s NOT a title, or an extra couple of $00 on the paycheck.
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. Not being afraid to make decisions to take lateral or even “backward” moves that may allow better balance at different points in life.
What is your favorite quote? 1- If you focus too much on the ending, you will miss the whole story. 2- Be where your feet are
What’s your favorite part of your job and why? – People are fascinating – I like to partner with leaders in supporting their #1 asset – their people. – Working for a great company that lives it values & mission in everything we do – to leave the world a better place for the next generation
What is your favorite hobby? Refinishing old furniture – making something it’s best “self” again!
What advice do you want to give the next generation of women leaders? Be bold, be fearless & be kind
What does leadership mean to you? Influencing your team beyond work productivity – we spend a great deal of our alive hours working – our reach should go beyond the workplace.
What’s your advice on mentoring? To Invest in people starts with being a good listener – Ask a lot of questions – really listen to the answers and then ask more!
What’s your favorite ice cream? Mint Chocolate Chip definitely!!