On Tuesday, September 27, 2016, the Phoenix Business Journal recognized the Valley’s Most Admired Leaders at the Montelucia Resort in Scottsdale, AZ.

Sunland’s Chief Operating Officer, Craig Weems, was selected by a panel of judges from over 200 nominations and was among a class of twenty-six business and community leaders to receive this honor.  The award celebrates those who demonstrate leadership, values, vision and innovation throughout the Valley’s business community. When asked about the recognition, Craig said “It’s not about me, it’s about the other people that I serve.”

The Phoenix Business Journal interviewed Craig to discuss what leadership means to him.  Here is what he had to say:

What Leadership Means to You:

Leadership is not defined by executive titles, advanced college degrees, age, race or gender.  It’s about exerting influence, nurturing relationships and complete humility across an entire organization.  Great leaders never take credit for the success of an organization, but will point to themselves first when there is a failure.

Preparing the Next Generation of Leaders:

Without millennials, our organization would not be in the position we are in today. Our future executives are leading our company every day in their respective areas. They are a prideful, hardworking and intelligent group at Sunland. Most important, they possess the characteristics and values we are looking for.

Biggest Challenge Moving the Valley Forward:

Education is critical to our state on multiple fronts. First, we need to make sure our children are receiving an excellent education. Without it, our state will not be able to sustain our projected growth numbers. We also need to educate our communities on the importance of our infrastructure. Lastly, we need to educate our teenagers and young adults that there are great careers in Arizona without a college degree.

To learn more about the Valley’s Most Admired Leaders and read the full interview with Craig, click HERE.