Victoria Velez, BA’10

Victoria Velez, BA’10

Victoria Velez, BA’10 manages business operations at an entertainment and business law firm as Chief of Staff at Altman & Company. She shares the importance of taking initiative and being able to understand the people around you.

Victoria Velez, BA’10 manages business operations at an entertainment and business law firm as Chief of Staff at Altman & Company. She shares the importance of taking initiative and being able to understand the people around you.

What ways do you demonstrate leadership?

Leadership is about taking initiative and thinking about short-term and long-term impact. It's easy to get carried away with exciting changes, but having the perspective and foresight that comes from experience allows you to stay grounded and see if it's not just feasible but realistic and more importantly sustainable.

What lessons have you learned as a leader or from a leader you admire?

Don't be afraid to make a mistake. It's how you own up to it and rectify it that makes the difference.

What does leadership mean to you?

Leadership means leading by example and supporting the unique needs of the team around you. It's respecting and embracing everyone's differences. Good leaders can recognize or identify their team members unique strengths and also support them through their pain points or struggles. It takes a village, and the whole is greater than the sum of its parts.

What is your best career advice?

Trust your gut and hire for character and train for skill.