In this episode, Mallory Willsea speaks with Joshua Charles, Director of Web Strategy and Technology at Rutgers Business School, live from HighEdWeb. They discuss Joshua's session on advancing into senior leadership roles in higher ed, focusing on practical steps for career growth, team advancement, and personal development. If you're an aspiring leader looking for actionable strategies to take your career to the next level, this episode is packed with invaluable advice.

Key Takeaways

• Build cross-campus partnerships: Collaborate beyond your team and personalize communications to foster stronger relationships.
• Focus on outcomes, not processes: Empower your team by focusing on goals and giving them the freedom to experiment and innovate.
• Invest in personal growth: Attend conferences, network, and join professional development opportunities to build visibility and leadership skills.
• Be an advocate for your team: Champion their growth and success, even if it means encouraging them to explore opportunities outside your organization.
• Leadership visibility: Know your campus leadership and tailor your communication to each decision-maker’s priorities and style.

How do you transition to a senior leadership role in higher education?
Joshua's session at HighEdWeb focused on helping mid-career professionals, those in managerial roles for 3 to 7 years, to move into senior leadership positions. One of the key strategies he emphasizes is building partnerships across the campus. Rather than staying siloed within your team, you should reach out to colleagues from other departments, focusing on how your work impacts their day-to-day operations. Personalizing your communication and understanding their challenges is crucial for gaining support and collaboration, which can help advance your career within the institution.

What should leaders do to advocate for their teams?
Joshua shares that an important aspect of leadership is being your team's biggest advocate. He reflects on his own leadership journey and how his desire to create a supportive environment stems from wanting to be the type of leader he wished he had earlier in his career. By focusing on outcomes rather than micromanaging processes, leaders can give their teams the autonomy to innovate, experiment, and grow. Joshua stresses that advocating for your team doesn't stop at their current role—sometimes, it’s about encouraging team members to seek opportunities outside the organization if that’s what will help them grow professionally.

What advice does Joshua offer for aspiring leaders to advance their own careers?
Joshua underscores the importance of investing in oneself. He encourages leaders to join professional organizations, volunteer, attend conferences like HighEdWeb, and take opportunities to speak, present, or participate in podcasts. This, he argues, builds personal branding and visibility, both of which are critical for career advancement. Networking outside of your immediate environment can open doors to opportunities that may not even be visible otherwise. Additionally, Joshua notes that staying engaged with professional development can make you a more effective leader, both for your team and your institution.

What obstacles has Joshua encountered in his leadership journey?
Joshua shares two significant challenges he has faced in his leadership journey. First, he acknowledges that sometimes opportunities within your current institution may be limited, and it can be helpful to consider roles outside the university setting, such as in vendor or agency work, to gain a broader perspective before returning to higher ed. Secondly, he addresses the challenges of navigating leadership as a Black man in America, particularly in light of political shifts that influence higher education policies in different states. This has prompted him to be mindful of the realities that could impact both his personal and professional life, especially when considering future opportunities.

How can senior leaders support their teams in advancing their careers?
Joshua urges senior leaders to be proactive in supporting their teams’ career growth. He suggests that leaders should not only focus on their current job titles but also consider their potential. Offering experiences, such as participating in strategy meetings or gaining exposure to high-level decisions, can prepare team members for future leadership roles. He also emphasizes the importance of sharing information strategically to help team members understand the broader context of leadership challenges, which will ultimately help them grow.

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Connect With Our Host:
Mallory Willsea 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/
https://twitter.com/mallorywillsea

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