Leadership Spotlight – Aaron Snead, COO

Today on National Leadership Day we want to acknowledge the power of leadership at TECHEAD. We recognize the impact that our leaders make in the lives of our employees each day. Here are TECHEAD, our leaders inspire our employees to achieve great things. Leaders motivate and inspire, provide direction, cultivate an environment to foster success, promote great communication and encourage team collaboration.

To showcase the incredible leadership here at TECHEAD, we are spotlighting our Chief Operating Officer (COO), Aaron Snead. We asked Aaron some questions to get to know him better and to understand what it means to be a leader here at TECHEAD:

1. How long have you been in your role? I have been TECHEAD’s COO for eight years as of this January.
2. What does a “day in the life” look like for you in your role? My days never go as planned, which keeps me on my toes – always learning and growing. The one consistent part of my days is helping solve problems, building teams and helping put people to work. This includes strategy discussions with my leadership team to ensure we have continued success.
3. What do you enjoy most about working at TECHEAD? I love my team. I built a team of compassionate, kind folks who share my passion for helping others.
4. What motivates you to get up and go to work every morning? Setting my employees up for success, many of whom I now call friends, and knowing that I am making a difference in people’s lives is what motivates me every day.
5. What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned while in your role at TECHEAD? Trust your gut – surround yourself with people you can trust and count on.
6. What is your favorite project or a memorable moment you’ve had while working at TECHEAD? My most memorable moment came recently when my team surprised me with an award – the Difference Maker Award. All the TECHEAD employees provided quotes for how I always support and encourage them. It was a very proud moment to see myself through the eyes of my team. It was definitely a day I will remember for the rest of my career and life.
7. In one sentence, how would you define true leadership? Be human by putting others above yourself.
8. How do you align your organization with your vision and mission? I live by the values created here at TECHEAD – honesty, integrity and community.
9. What is a professional motto or quote you “work” by? The motto I use is “lead by example.” Also, there is little that can’t be accomplished when using my 3Ps: persistence, patience, positivity.
10. What is a personal motto or quote you “live” by? I live by the golden rule – treat others as you’d want to be treated.
11. List five adjectives that describe your personality. Kind, determined, patient, generous, strategic.
12. If you could live in any other historical period, what would it be and why? Roman times. It would be interesting to see the feats they conquered with the tools of their time.
13. What’s your favorite place you’ve ever traveled to? Italy. It is so rich in history.
14. What’s a fun fact about you that would surprise people? I am a twin, and I married a twin.
15. If you could have any superpower, what would it be? Reading people’s minds.
16. What books are on your nightstand? The Hard Thing About Hard Things by Ben Horowitz, Shoe Dog by Phil Knight, Tribes by Seth Godin and Life is in the Transitions by Bruce Feiler.
17. Who is your hero? Michael Jordan. He is a true competitor in everything he does, while also being philanthropic.
18. What piece of advice would you go back and tell your younger self who had just entered the workforce? Get a mentor that listens and coaches. Someone who can guide without giving direct answers and who tells you what you need to hear, not what you want to hear.
19. What sports team do you cheer on the loudest? New Orleans Saints
20. If you could meet one person, dead or alive, to grab coffee with, who would it be and why? Warren Buffett. He is an incredible business and investment mind, philanthropist, and a great storyteller.
21. Who do you look up to for inspiration or mentorship? My dad because of his strong business sense. He’s worked with people from all levels and walks of life. He’s full of knowledge and helps me see things in ways I wouldn’t have otherwise.
22. What are the most important traits to look for when hiring a new employee? I always look for problem solvers with time management skills who are eager to always learn something new. Other traits would be great communicators and team players.
23. What are your current goals? I would love to retire early and enjoy my family more and have more time to volunteer and give back to the community. There are many non-profits I can provide value to.
24. What are the biggest challenges facing the staffing/recruiting/workforce planning industry? The bigger challenges to me are labor shortages, flexibility in hiring and automation. Artificial intelligence (AI) will also forever change our industry and others. Embracing it to some degree seems to be a requirement. However, you need to keep the personal touch to ensure you have trust in your clients and candidates.
25. How do you maintain your leadership development and growth? I listen to podcasts and Ted Talks from entrepreneurs, as well as speak with peers in my industry and others to get a fresh perspective.