Frank Harmon, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of APP Pharmaceuticals

Over the past four years, I have had the wonderful opportunity to meet and get to know Mr. Frank Harmon, the father of a very close friend and sorority sister. He is a very kind, smart and generous individual who works extremely hard and seems to love his job. I admire is constant positive attitude and willingness to help people. I know how busy Mr. Harmon, traveling around the world, and I am greatly appreciative that he set time aside to help me with my project. He answered the following questions:

What has made you successful in your career?
“I began my career as a Production Supervisor, subsequently received promotions to Section Head, Production Manager, Plant Manger, Vice President of Manufacturing, Senior Vice President of Operations and finally to Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer - the position I hold today. Having a technical competence in each of my various positions was important, however, I firmly believe more critical to my success was maintaining a positive ‘can do’ attitude regardless of the task at hand. This also has a very contagious effect on your peers and inevitably results in you being perceived as a leader.”

“Attention to detail; this attribute defines the difference between a "B" employee and the "A" or "high potential' employee. Write down follow up action items and make certain each one is completed. Timeliness. Complete tasks early. If something is due on Tuesday, complete it on Monday. If it's needed at 3:00, make certain you have it complete prior to 3:00 not at 3:00. Maintain a ‘humble confidence’. Do not allow titles, promotions or jobs to affect your outward image. You will earn and maintain respect throughout an organization if you consistently be yourself. Be personal with all levels within the organization. You will be surprised how much credibility and respect you will develop by engaging and speaking with every level, from the sanitation employee in the hallway to the President.”

“You will notice that none of the 5 items listed above are taught in any class or curriculum. I mention this, not to disparage education, but rather to reinforce the ability for anyone, graduating from any school, can be successful, if they work hard, are focused on excellence and maintain and project a positive attitude. These traits are completely self initiated and will also contribute to a satisfying and healthy personal life if maintained outside the corporate world.”

What advice would you give to graduating seniors?
“When determining a career path or selecting a first job - do not make the decision based solely on salary, benefits or even location. These are all important aspects but initially the most important criteria is to find a vocation or career that you truly enjoy. When you are working at something you really enjoy, you will generally excel, you will be happy at work and at home and the other criteria (money & location) almost always follows success.”

Thank you so much Frank!

Steve Burke, Chief Operating Officer of Comcast Corporation and President of Comcast Cable

What was your first job out of college and how does that experience relate to your current position?
“I always had good summer jobs that taught me a lot but didn’t pay well. I worked in an advertising agency, a television station and a cable system
during summers. I then went directly to business school. When I graduated I wanted to get general management experience so I worked as an assistant product manager at General Foods. I learned about marketing and management but left after two years when my wife got into business school and we decided to move.”

What has made you successful in your career?
“I think to the degree I have been successful is because I have tried to do the right thing for the businesses I am responsible for rather than the expedient, safe or political thing. Ultimately, performance counts and there are no shortcuts. I also think you need to have good balance in life. Hiring great people and giving them credit goes a long way too.”

What advice would you give to graduating seniors?
"I would try to find a job that interests you rather than the one that pays the most. Ideally you should work for a company that is growing, too. Once you get the job try and work for people you respect and then don’t be afraid to speak up and take risks. Finally, always put your family before your job, you will be happier and more successful if you do so.”

Mr. Burke, thank you so much for your time and wonderful advice!

DeMaurice Smith, NFL Players Association Executive Director

It is such an incredible feeling to have an executive be so excited and honored to participate in my blog. Recently I had the opportunity to speak with Mr. DeMaurice Smith, the NFL Players Association’s Executive Director. From the beginning his outgoing and optimistic attitude was contagious; an absolute pleasure to speak with. Mr. Smith described to me his exhilarating but non-stop day to day schedule and I am extremely grateful that he made time to talk to me. We discussed the following questions:

What has made you successful in your career?
Mr. Smith answered, “I think I have always appreciated hard work and looking at barriers not to keep you down, but as something that can be overcome.” He went on to admit that there are some days where he doesn’t feel so successful. He then told me the inspiring story about his parents and how they are the definition of success. Mr. Smith’s father was drafted into the Marines right out of high school and when he returned from fighting in the Korean War he had to find a way to get a degree. His father then went to D.C. and earned his bachelors degree and went to work for the commerce department for forty years. Mr. Smith proudly explained how hard his parents both worked to put two children through college. He said that his parents did things he could never do and to him, that’s successful. He said he looks to his parents for motivation and I could tell how genuinely proud he was.

What advice would you give to graduating seniors?
For this question Mr. Smith had two things, “First, do what you dig and if you don’t dig it, trust me don’t do it. Next, too many times people will try to steer you to what you should be doing instead of letting you figure out what your passion is and trying to excel at that.” Another word of advice he has was to never let anyone tell you no. “There are so many people out there who will tell you that you can never do that, especially your peers.” He explained that some people doubted that he would be the right person for his current position because he had never played or worked for any sort of football program previously. He took those odds and what it came down to was that the players figured out who was the best from them. He explained that there is not a day he doesn’t look to the past twenty years of his career and try use his past experiences to help benefit him today.

What was your first job out of college and how does that experience relate to your current position?
“I had two jobs, one at Jerry Sub Shop and the other at the department of labor.” He then went on to become a paralegal. Mr. Smith said that anytime you are in a service industry, whether you are making copies or sandwiches, you realize early on that no matter what you do it’s providing a service to someone. He gave me a negative example of working with young lawyers that were very, very good at school and graduated at the top of their class but feel that they are too good to get someone a copy. He explained that it’s a service and whether it was pushing subs or making copies, it’s really not philosophically different then what I do today. He explained that there is a not so glamorous side to what he does; taking red eye flights, only getting to lie down for 30 minutes, getting calls and text from players at two o’clock in the morning, working after he puts his kids to bed and before he gets to go to bed. “It’s a service; I am working for the people.” Mr. Smith also explained, and I could tell from all of his stories, that he truly loved his job and all of the people he represented. He encouraged me to find a career where I can continue learning and excel.

Mr. Smith’s positive attitude and great sense of humor made this interview one of my favorites. I am gracious for your time and am sincerely thankful!

John Douglas Miller, Chief Marketing Officer of the NBC Universal Television Group

After interning and learning the ropes at NBC Universal in Chicago over the summer, it was a great pleasure to get to speak with an Emmy winner and PROMAX Hall of Fame member, Mr. John Douglas Miller the Chief Marketing Officer of NBC Universal. He proved to me, once again, how optimistic and educational it can be working for such a successful and well known company. The encouragement and support that these executives have for graduates is overwhelming. Mr. Miller and I discussed the following questions:

What has made you successful in your career?
He said that the main two reasons he’s where he is today is because of both hard work and not being satisfied with “good enough”. My favorite part of the interview and a statement that I firmly believe leads to success was, “I’m always trying to look forward because the world doesn’t stop moving and neither should you.” You should enjoy what you do and do it well because doing something well has its rewards. At any job you’re at, look at what your next job might be and prepare for that position. Always continue learning.

What advice would you give to graduating seniors?
Be persistent, be upbeat, and when you go in for a job be mindful that there are probably hundreds of other candidates that are just as qualified. Stand up, differentiate and sell yourself. Let the company know why you are the best choice versus anyone else. Be remembered.

What was your first job out of college and how does that experience relate to your current position?
Coming out of college, Mr. Miller said it took him awhile to lock onto a first job. He started working for WMAQ, a television station in Chicago, as a production assistant and coordinated public service messages and did the logs during the course of the day for about eight to nine months. He was given this opportunity through a previous internship, an eight week chance to supervise the same intern program. Miller saw an opportunity for a new job and was proactive; he was then promoted to be the assistant producer of a magazine type show. What he learned from these experiences is that a first job is an opportunity to get your face seen, it doesn’t matter what your first job is as long as you are heading in the right direction. The first job is the dot and the second job is the direction.

Thank you, Mr. Miller, it was a pleasure to meet and speak with you today!

Blake Nordstrom, President of Nordstrom, Inc.

In my opinion, a humble but strong and optimistic attitude makes a great leader; that is exactly what I believe Mr. Blake Nordstrom to be. It is absolutely encouraging to know that these successful businessmen and women can still make time to advise and share their stories with someone shortly entering the real world. Mr. Nordstrom kindly took the time today to answer these questions and I am greatly appreciative.

What has made you successful in your career?
“I've been most fortunate to have worked with a number of terrific people and leaders over the years. I believe we're the sum of our experiences and sometimes the biggest learning’s come from the most difficult situations. There have been a number of mentors who have gone above and beyond to be of support for me in my career.”

What advice would you give to graduating seniors?
“We're probably guilty as a society of asking people when they graduate what they're going to do for the rest of their lives, when in reality most people will try numerous things and maybe in some cases end up in a career they didn't even envision or one that may not have even existed when they embarked on their journey. Therefore, I think the best advice is to be open to try things, always give it your best effort because it's reflective of your reputation, and associate yourself with people and organizations that you're proud of.”

What was your first job out of college and how does that experience relate to your current position?
“Throughout school and immediately afterwards, I worked both part-time and full-time in the shoe department. Upon leaving the University of Washington, I became a full-time shoe salesperson and a few months later became an assistant manager in the department. I'm fortunate to have worked in many of the jobs throughout our company. It helps me today to support our folks, understand what they're going through, and base decisions upon those experiences.”

His advice and story reminds me of an inspirational quote by Ralph Marston, “Effort gets things done. Patience sees things them through. Both are crucial to success.” Thank you again, Mr. Nordstrom, for being a great role model to student’s worldwide!

Mary Dillon, Executive Vice President and Global Chief Marketing Officer of McDonald's

I can honestly say that this blog has taught me more than any college course ever could. I have had the opportunity to speak with several “C-Level” executives who have given me such valuable advice on my future endeavors based on what has made them so successful. Ms. Mary Dillon, the Global Chief Marketing Officer for McDonald’s, was no exception. Her bright and positive attitude combined with her humble advice proved that working for a company you believe in is a truly unbeatable experience. I am extremely grateful for our interview!

As McDonald's Executive Vice President and Global Chief Marketing Officer, Mary Dillon leads the company's worldwide marketing efforts and global brand strategy across 118 countries.

Her areas of focus include ongoing innovation in marketing planning and execution, brand evolution and creative strategy, children's well-being initiatives, global sports alliances and marketing talent development.

Since joining McDonald's in the fall of 2005, Dillon has prioritized the use of consumer-based insights and research to drive marketing strategy. Among her accomplishments, Dillon has increased marketing effectiveness through greater diversification of media mix and use of tools to improve return on marketing spend. In addition, she has directed innovative strategies in the area of children's well-being, including formation of the company's first Global Moms Advisory Panel. Dillon also oversees the holistic activation of the company's entertainment and sports properties and has played a lead role in McDonald's Olympic partnership initiatives.

Prior to joining McDonald's, Dillon was President of the Quaker Foods division of PepsiCo Corporation. She began her career in Marketing for Quaker Oats in 1984 and held positions of increasing responsibility across several food and beverage categories, including serving as the VP-Marketing for Gatorade.

A native of Chicago, Dillon earned a bachelor's degree in Marketing and Asian Studies at the University of Illinois. In 2006, she was named to the Wall Street Journal's "Top 50 Women to Watch" list and in 2008 was named one of Ad Age's "Marketing Power Players." She is on the Board of Directors of the Target Corporation and NorthShore University Health Care System.

Dillon and her husband Terry live with their four children in the Chicago suburbs.

We discussed the following questions:

What has made you successful in your career?

Ms. Dillon said, “I think for me, the things that have best helped me to achieve what I want is a combination of work ethic and personal ethic.” She further explained that she works very hard and is constantly looking for ways to build (McDonald’s) business. She encourages readers to explore why a company is doing with well or poorly, and learn from that. “What’s right for the business and also for the people”, is another statement that Ms. Dillon continues to live by. “I am lucky that I work for a company I adore. I feel good about working for this company.” She continued to say that McDonald’s is a global brand with strong values who cares about the community as well as their employees. We also discussed a topic that I believe many people, whether in the work force or in college, struggle with… a healthy balance. Ms. Dillon believes that it is extremely important to figure out how to maintain a balance between business and personal life and I completely agree. She explained that without a good balance it is hard to be successful in both aspects.

What was your first job out of college and how does that experience relate to your current position?

Even before graduation, Ms. Dillon found herself continually learning from her college, waitressing job. “I learned about people and how to treat them in a service environment.” She learned that it is “critical” to treat everyone you encounter in a respectful way. After graduation she continued her learning experiences with each position she held, taking what she learned and applying them to new positions. She believes that this is what helped her move rapidly up the ladder of success.

What advice would you give to graduating seniors?

“Be aggressive, be yourself, distinguish yourself from others, and be confident yet humble.” She explained that in today’s environment is it tremendously important to work hard to differentiate yourself from others. Show a company what you can do for them, and why you would be the best person for that job.

Thank you so much, Ms. Dillon, for your kind words and encouraging advice. It was an absolute pleasure speaking with you, best of luck with everything!

Troy Alstead, Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer, Chief Administrative Officer of Starbucks

It is executives like Mr. Troy Alstead that make this blog such a wonderful learning experience. The passion that he has for his career and company is inspiring, especially to college students entering the real world. I am extremely grateful for his positive attitude and beneficial advice. Our interview surprisingly made me look forward to graduation and working for a company where I can also be passionate about their mission statement and goals.

Troy Alstead was named executive vice president and chief financial officer in November 2008. In his position, Alstead is focused on the business and financial strategies, decisions, and execution that will deliver on Starbucks short and long term strategies.

Alstead joined Starbucks in January 1992 when it was a privately held company with just more than 100 stores. Over the years, he has held numerous roles in finance and general management for Starbucks, both domestic and international. Alstead was one of the original members of the Starbucks International team, contributing to the development of the international business from the beginning. In his role as senior vice president, International Finance and Business Development, Alstead was responsible for the financial leadership as well as strategic planning and business development for the international business.

Subsequently, he led the operations and development of the international business as senior vice president and senior lead for Starbucks Coffee International, and later led the company’s business in Europe, Middle East, and Africa as interim president of that regional business unit. Alstead recently held the position of chief operating officer, Starbucks Greater China.

Alstead moved from the international business to the position of senior vice president, Corporate Finance, responsible for accounting and financial reporting, corporate development, investor relations, business planning and analysis, finance systems, global tax, treasury, risk management, and partner and asset protection. He most recently served as senior vice president, Global Finance, responsible for the financial management, decision support, planning, and business development for Starbucks operating units in the United States and international markets.

Alstead graduated from the University of Washington in 1985 with a Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration, concentrating in Finance. Before joining the company, Alstead worked for several years in various finance, accounting, and auditing roles, domestically and internationally, for NCR Corporation and Egghead Software. Outside of work he enjoys spending time with his wife, Connie, and their four children.

Mr. Alstead answered the following questions:

What has made you successful in your career?
“A mentor in my life made it clear to me a long time ago that people are what matter most. Not whatever product the company sells, not how much money the company makes. Take care of people, and the rest becomes much easier. Embracing this fact, and working to grow and develop myself with that in mind, has been the single most important contributor to my success.”

“And importantly -- I found a place to work where I love the product, the people, and the impact we have on communities and on the world. Even on bad days, being able to do the work I want to do, in a place I feel good about, has made me want to continue to grow, develop, and help Starbucks be successful.”

What advice would you give to graduating seniors?
“Recognize that your learning does not end with graduation. I encourage you to approach each position you will hold, each project you will be part of, each working relationship you will have, as opportunities to learn and grow. Continue to be students throughout your career.”

Was there a turning point in your career that made you who you are today?
“There was not a single turning point for my career that I would point to, but rather a series of events and experiences that have shaped my growth and development over the years. Those events and experiences have always been driven by a leader I have worked with. One who pushed and challenged me to get out of my comfort zone, to stretch to uncomfortable places in terms of my own leadership style. One who quietly trusted me and gave me exposure and opportunities, before I was ready for them, then supported me to success. One who went out on a limb to advocate for me for a big role.”

What was your first job out of college and how does that experience relate to your current position?
“My first job out of school (with a BA, concentrating in finance) was an entry-level financial analyst position in a Fortune 500 company. The first several years of my career were various developmental finance roles – internal audit, financial planning & analysis, international accounting, special finance projects. These early roles, combined with a series of finance and general management positions over the years, have all contributed to preparing me for my current position as CFO.”

During our phone interview Mr. Alstead said, “When someone loves what they’re doing, they do it a whole lot better. That love is what gives me the energy and the drive.” It was such an inspiring interview and I am truly grateful for his time. Thank you so much, Mr. Alstead, it was a pleasure speaking with you!