In this Expert Q&A, Sam Dubrinsky, the CEO of JCC Indianapolis, shares insights on leadership development in the JCC system, emphasizing the importance of providing meaningful opportunities to emerging community rec leaders.
Key strategies include treating young professionals as equal contributors, offering mentorship with a supportive safety net and allowing room for failure as a growth opportunity. Dubrinsky highlights that the next generation of leaders seeks purpose-driven work, values collaborative leadership and want clear career progression within their organization.
Enjoy!
Key Insights
Leadership Development Strategy
- Treat emerging leaders as equal contributors, not as a “kids table”.
- Provide opportunities that challenge and stretch young professionals.
- Create a supportive environment where failure is an acceptable part of growth.
Next Generation Leadership Characteristics
- Seek purpose-driven work aligned with core values.
- Want collaborative, bottom-up leadership approaches.
- Desire clear career paths within their current organization.
- Expect technology integration and digital communication strategies.
Mentorship Approach
- Offer consistent support and guidance.
- Create a “safety net” for emerging leaders.
- Recognize and reward staff who go above and beyond.
- Develop leaders from within the organization.
Organizational Culture
- Embrace technology and digital communication trends.
- Use social media and digital platforms to tell organizational stories.
- Create opportunities for internal career progression.
- Value staff potential and invest in their professional development.
Personal Growth Philosophy
- Be willing to say “yes” to challenging opportunities.
- View unexpected career paths as potential positive accidents.
- Continuously seek learning and development opportunities.
