In the fast-paced world of business, finding a truly exceptional leader can be a game-changer. Meet Ross, an accomplished Chief Executive Officer known for his insightful strategies and astute guidance. With an impressive track record as an organizational leader and strategic advisor, Ross is consistently sought after for his expertise in thought leadership strategy and content development, team and talent evaluation, business development, and marketing strategy.
Ross possesses a unique talent for crafting audience-specific messaging platforms that resonate with both customers and stakeholders alike. As a strategic connector, he excels at bringing together brilliant minds and fostering collaboration to find innovative solutions. His innate ability to merge talented individuals with groundbreaking ideas has made him a catalyst for transformative change within numerous organizations.
Beyond his role as a business leader, Ross is also a prolific writer who shares his wisdom on human-centered, empathic leadership and principles with company executives and founders. His articles delve into the core aspects of effective leadership, providing actionable insights that empower others to navigate the complexities of modern business.
Driving Progress
The inception of September Strategies was rooted in Ross’s realization that it was time for a change, particularly in the way work was approached. Although the exact nature of this change was unclear at that moment, Ross recognized the need for a different approach.
Having worked in various roles and organizations, Ross had the privilege of acquiring extensive knowledge and experience. Consulting with numerous companies, collaborating with colleagues of diverse backgrounds and work styles, and participating in leadership decision-making processes all contributed to shaping Ross’s perspective on what he desired for the future. It became evident that Ross had a specific vision for executing their mission, and establishing their own firm was the most suitable path to bring that vision to fruition.
The core focus of September Strategies lies within the education sector, recognizing its crucial role in shaping both the present and the future of society, particularly for individuals. Ross believes in providing genuine support and equal opportunities for children to pursue their aspirations and contribute to creating a better world for everyone. Their work encompasses various collaborative efforts with stakeholders, encompassing both expected and unexpected partnerships. However, the underlying theme remains consistent—September Strategies strives to drive progress towards ensuring access, opportunity, and excellence in education.
Turning Challenges into Opportunities
Ross recognizes that challenges, while often unpleasant in the moment, play a significant role in personal and professional growth. It is this discomfort that often leads individuals to avoid confronting challenges altogether. However, upon reflection, Ross acknowledges that the negative experiences throughout their career, particularly in the early stages, have had a more profound impact on shaping their leadership mindset than the positive ones.
Ross understands that everyone’s experiences are unique. When working with clients in leadership development coaching, this topic frequently arises for discussion. Ross does not believe in forcing individuals to find a positive side to every negative experience because sometimes there simply isn’t one. This understanding becomes even more powerful when individuals gain perspective on what aspects are within their control and how they can employ strategies to maximize their effectiveness in those areas, as well as accepting the elements that are beyond their control.
Education Through Transformation
Ross believes that transforming education requires empowering and expanding the impactful work being done across the field, which is a core principle guiding September Strategies’ endeavors.
September Strategies offers communication, marketing, and sales enablement consulting services. They specialize in brand storytelling, thought leadership strategy, and provide coaching for leadership development and high performance. Acting as a fractional Chief Marketing Officer (CMO), September Strategies directs overall strategy and deliverables in various areas such as messaging, public relations, website development, email marketing, and social media. Additionally, they undertake individual projects like case studies and multimedia initiatives.
Coaching is a particularly passionate area for Ross, and it has experienced rapid growth. It can be integrated with strategic consulting or stand alone. Ross works closely with founders, leaders, and individuals seeking personal and professional transformation, helping them uncover profound insights and achieve their aspirations. Ross aims to continue supporting more leaders on their journeys.
Another significant enterprise Ross wants to discuss is the Be Podcast Network, where they serve as a co-founder. With nearly 25 shows covering various aspects of education including K-12, higher education, corporate learning and development, and parenting, the network’s mission is to foster a collaborative community of voices that amplify each other’s impact. The Be Podcast Network collaborates with both individual creators and companies, assisting them in making a meaningful difference. They offer sponsorship opportunities and production services, enabling companies to deliver valuable content to influential decision-makers.
Jethro Jones, Ross’s co-founder, emphasizes Ross’s exceptional understanding of the challenges educators face regularly. Ross possesses the ability to delve into their problems and find effective solutions. Together, in building the podcast network, they leverage these insights to benefit individuals and organizations.
Embracing Change, Upholding Integrity
Integrity and innovation hold paramount importance for Ross and were key factors in the establishment of the company. With integrity being one of Ross’s top core values, it is an unwavering requirement in all aspects of their work. There are no exceptions for anyone who works with or partners with Ross—they are expected to uphold the highest standards of integrity.
Regarding innovation, it remains a constant presence at September Strategies. The way the company operates now is markedly different from six months ago, and it has undergone significant transformations compared to two years or even five years ago. This adaptability to change is crucial, as the speed of change in the industry demands staying ahead of the curve. Ross firmly believes that in this rapidly evolving landscape, one must either lead change or risk falling behind.
To ensure the realization of integrity and innovation, Ross emphasizes effective communication. The team at September Strategies maintains transparency regarding their values and objectives. This approach allows everyone involved to fully understand and align with these guiding principles. By fostering open communication and encouraging contributions from each team member’s expertise, September Strategies creates an environment where integrity and innovation can thrive.
Recognizing the Power of Appreciation
Ross finds the most meaningful appreciation in the “little things,” particularly the acknowledgement that comes from relationships. It’s the unsolicited referrals and recommendations from partners and network members who believe in the company’s work and character that mean the most. Ross values unplanned feedback, such as guests on their podcast praising the thoughtful questions and preparedness, or hosts on other podcasts commenting on respectful communication.
Additionally, when prospective clients acknowledge the integrity and fair pricing of the company, it reinforces that they are on the right track. Comments from Jethro Jones, recognizing Ross’s understanding of the media and education worlds and their ability to see value where others may not, carry great significance. These small gestures of recognition affirm that September Strategies is effectively achieving its goals and making a positive impact.
Finding Fulfillment through Mission, Vision, and Values
Ross understands that success is subjective, which he considers a valuable insight gained through experience. Subjectivity implies that success is personal and unique to each individual. Ross believes that it is essential for both individuals and organizations to establish their own comprehensive and integrated definition of success. They should strive for ambitious goals and constantly innovate and improve to achieve them. However, Ross cautions against falling into the trap of comparing oneself to others or allowing external influences to dictate what success should look like.
Personally, Ross only feels a sense of accomplishment in endeavors that are driven by purpose. This is why he finds satisfaction in collaborating with organizations and individuals who possess a clear understanding of their mission, vision, and values. In many cases, Ross assists in identifying, defining, and refining these guiding principles. By aligning objectives with their underlying purpose, they create a meaningful path to success.
Roadmap to Success
Ross’s advice to aspiring business leaders is to discover their driving purpose and fully engage with it. Additionally, they emphasize the significance of surrounding oneself with individuals who support their mission and being a supportive force for others in return. Ross encourages aspiring leaders not to fear their uniqueness but instead embrace it, recognizing that it can be a powerful asset. They also stress the importance of learning how things operate, understanding what works and what doesn’t, and striving to improve them. Seeking assistance when needed and being open to change are further key elements that Ross highlights for aspiring leaders to achieve success.
