Linda Rutherford Believes True Diversity in Leadership Sparks Innovation and Effectiveness
In recognition of National Women Support Women's Day, George Washington University's Center for Excellence in Public Leadership and CommPRO are showcasing the voices and wisdom of trailblazing women who have left an indelible mark on the business landscape. Insights from female business thought leaders contribute a unique perspective on the current state of women's leadership in the business world and in the workforce.
In the following series, we present the thoughtful responses of these influential women, offering a glimpse into their experiences, challenges, and aspirations for the future of women in leadership. As we delve into their insights, we aim to uncover actionable strategies and illuminate the path forward for businesses striving to cultivate an inclusive and empowering environment for women. You can download the full report, “Nurturing Women's Leadership: Insights From Distinguished Thought Leaders,” here.
"True diversity in our leadership ranks will lead to better problem-solving, more clever innovation, and increased effectiveness." - Linda Rutherford
Linda Rutherford, Chief Administration & Communications Officer, Southwest Airlines
Linda Rutherford is the Chief Administration & Communications Officer for Southwest Airlines, overseeing diverse aspects of communication, engagement, and leadership development.
COMMPRO: In your experience, what leadership development and management training opportunities have been effective in retaining female talent and helping women move up into leadership roles?
Training that focuses on personal brand has been effective at helping female leaders crystalize their value and contributions in a way that helps them gain confidence among male-dominated leadership teams, find their voices and build confidence along with competence in their growing remits.
COMMPRO: What do you believe is still needed to further support and advance women in leadership positions?
I believe that a high tide raises all boats and that we ALL must continue the work of identifying, mentoring, and developing underrepresented groups (including female leaders). True diversity in our leadership ranks will lead to better problem solving, more clever innovation and increased effectiveness in leading people from all walks of life toward a common set of organizational goals.
Women Leaders on the Rise is a 2-day inaugural program, specifically designed for first-time women managers and women who have the aptitude and interest in taking on management roles. The experience supports women in developing leadership and management skills to enable career success while addressing obstacles they may face early in their careers.
The program is presented by Leslie Grossman, Senior Fellow and Executive Coach at GW CEPL, and founder of the Women’s Leadership Exchange. She is the author of "LINK OUT: How to Turn Your Network into a Chain of Lasting Connections".
Executive Women's Leadership Program
Propel your career forward with this highly interactive 3-day program presented by The George Washington University Center for Excellence in Public Leadership. Designed for women leaders in the private and public sectors who aspire to positions of greater influence and impact or have been identified as high-potential in their organizations, this breakthrough program will provide new strategies and tactics for you to take the lead and succeed at higher levels.
Participants will have the opportunity to network and build community with guest speakers and participating women leaders throughout the three days. We offer the option to continue the learnings of the 3-day program with a monthly ‘virtual’ Mastermind Group accessed online for 6 months following completion of the EWLP program.
Members share insights, ideas and get support for newly learned best practices and address challenges in the workplace and their careers. Facilitated by executive coach Leslie Grossman, members can set goals, request accountability partners, and continue to move forward expanding their leadership abilities and goals.
Global Women's Leadership Program
While gender diversity is recognized as a hallmark of the most successful organizations, studies - including “Women Rising: The Unseen Barriers” reported in HBR* - reveal that gender bias continues to exist in most organizations. This program provides participants with transformational communication skills, executive presence, and powerful leadership strategies while transforming mindsets and behaviors that may hold women back from both contributing fully and moving up in the organization. In a global pandemic, women leaders have been recognized for their positive outcomes from COVID-19 more than most male-led countries. The program identifies the leadership skills shown by these women leaders and many others who have exceeded all expectations.
