Here is the story of a VP who has held the titles of Chief Marketing Officer as well as Chief Communications Officer for two different companies. How did that make sense? How did all the pieces fall into place for him to be in the transportation business? Did he always know what the right job was for him?
Even before college Nathan was focused on the transportation industry and the media. He never expected that his two passions would take him to where he is today. To lead and inspire takes a genuine passion for the organization and what it produces.

Nathan began his work life with a passion for the transportation industry. Lacking career goals, he took any job he could in the industry. That put him where he could be “discovered.” He was also fascinated by the media. His energy, focus and curiosity were impressive and obvious.

Here is the link to the PDF with the full article that tells Nathan’s story including commentary from author Judy Cushman that analyzes his capabilities and special gifts.
Life After PR Series – “Nathan’s Story”

Each question that follows below has a link to the related blog post.

• Introduction – What are the pieces that must be in place for an outstanding communications professional to move beyond a Senior VP CorpComm role and transition into leading and inspiring an organization?
• What was special about Nathan in addition to his skill and professionalism as a leader of the Corporate Communications function? What were the reasons for his early success despite a lack of focus?
• What accounted for Nathan’s early career success that prepared him for where he is today? If he didn’t have a plan, how did he land in the right place at the right time?
• It is not easy to be promoted to a VP of Communications. How was Nathan able to break through mid-level ranks to leadership of the function?
• What career decision did Nathan make that took him into a new industry and did he stay in this new industry? Did he qualify for a Senior VP role?
• How did Nathan’s career transition from a head of Corporate Communications to a broader management and marketing role? What talents are required to make that transition?
• What was Nathan’s non-traditional career decision after he had worked so hard to reach the top?
• What were the factors that led Nathan to move from his position as VP and Chief Marketing Officer to assume the responsibilities of a Corporate Communications Global VP at a leading Fortune 500 transportation company?
• How do I analyze Nathan’s decision to take on one of the top 5 jobs in the industry as Chief Communications Officer? What are the risks?
• Did Nathan follow a career path? What were his reasons for making major moves? How much did instinct play a part in his career decisions?

Judy

Judith Cushman & Associates