We got our steps in with Jennifer! We enjoyed Armature’s Buddy Brew for coffee and a visit near the Bob Gilbertson Central City Family Y!
Name: Jennifer Wainman
LT Class Year: LT 2015
Company Name: VP/Chief Marketing Officer, Tampa Metropolitan Area YMCA and YMCA of the Suncoast
1. Tell us, why LTA?
Leadership Tampa was such a great experience for me, it was just natural to continue on with LTA. I love how LTA represents so many diverse industries across Tampa. Being a part of LT is how I found my Y! I never thought about working for a non-profit until I met a classmate who shared her great story about the organization. She was my connection to Leadership Tampa. You find that it is really a small world when you start to attend LTA events and it makes this big city we live in much smaller and more manageable.
- For you, what separates LTA from other business leadership programs?
First, the rich history of the program and the legacy of so many amazing leaders. There is an automatic commonality with someone you meet that has been through the program and that is so nice. Also, being a part of this leadership program really gives you access to relationships that you may not have had otherwise. I have been in the marketing field my entire career, so to meet others in different careers is fascinating to me and I always learn something new when speaking with them.
- Describe a time when the LTA experience impacted your life or career?
Well, as I mentioned, LT brought me to the Y! It was a huge shift for me after being in the profit world for 20 years and I would have never had this wonderful opportunity if it weren’t for meeting some pretty special people in my class. It is always great to go to LTA events and catch up. It is also special to support my Y colleagues in their LT or LTA journey. We try and keep each other accountable to make time in our busy schedules to attend events and we are happily surprised when we do. Your network just continues to grow!
- What is a LTA benefit you wish everyone knew about?
Personally, I really enjoy the coffee chats and guest speakers. It is usually a smaller setting and I leave feeling it was time well spent.
- Describe how the leadership journey will continue to shape you?
I have found that if you are in a leadership role, your leadership journey never ends. Our world is changing and the people in the workforce are changing. In order to be an effective leader, you have to change as well. Never sacrifice your core values but certainly find ways to adapt to the needs of your team. Being a part of a business leadership program like LTA, gives you access to how other people and organizations might be evolving which is always insightful.
Fun Facts About You/Local Knowledge:
- Latest movie, book or both? I had the opportunity to go to the Non-Profit Leadership Conference last December and Nataly Kogan was the keynote speaker. Her book, “The Awesome Human Project” is wonderful. You should also follow her on Instagram and attend one of her virtual “Awesome Human Hour” zoom sessions. She has a powerful message to share.
- Favorite spot to meet friends/colleagues for coffee, lunch or happy hour… There are so many great places in Tampa. Armature Works is easy for our office since we are only a few blocks away … you might find us at Stones Throw if it is not too hot out.
- For staycation in Tampa Bay, you like to…We are a big baseball family so a Rays game is always on the agenda when there is time. Also, my daughter loves animals and ZooTampa at Lowry Park has the most animals with fun, up-close exhibits.
- When out of town guests are visiting, you plan…. We love to take friends out on the boat…maybe stop for lunch at Rick’s on the River or the Salt Shack On The Bay. Anytime we can get out on the water, we do!
- Any hidden treasures/recent discoveries you’d like to share?! If you are willing to take a drive out to Lithia, the White Oak Cottage is a gem including a boutique and bistro.
Send your #LTA Famous nomination(s) to: Laura Frost [email protected] or Amanda Jacobson [email protected]