Kelley Edwards, Vice President of Data Center Operations, learned to lead by controlling what she could: her energy, her mindset, and her response.

A defining moment came when she realized that some battles aren’t worth fighting, but her integrity, positivity, and how she showed up always would be. Choosing to walk away from misalignment became a powerful step toward owning her path.

Her advice? Be excellent in the moment. Prioritize self-care. And surround yourself with women who share your values, not just your title.

Read more from Kelley here…

‍

What has been your career defining moment as a woman in business?

I was working in a position where I reported directly to the COO as an Operations Director at a small company. We were at the point where we were not aligning on the direction of the company nor on the team. I had an “AHA” moment when some of my favourite cliches ran through my mind.  

“You can change your perception or your situation.”

I decided to leave. I also realized that there were always be a challenge. There will always be something said that is unfair or unkind. It’s not controlling those people; it’s controlling my response to them.

I was more in control of my destiny and the situation around me by controlling my actions. Being positive and when I was at my absolute worst, redirecting my energy to help others.

Were there any obstacles you had to overcome as a woman in business?

In a male dominated industry, I have had to learn to pick my battles and only choose the ones that I know I can win. If I fight every battle then I become the problem.

What advice would you give to a younger woman looking to join your industry?

"Be excellent in the moment."

Be excellent in the moment. Be the person that other people want to work with because of your positive attitude and being easy to work with.  

If you could do one thing to accelerate the pace of change for gender equality, what would it be?

If I had a magic wand, I would eliminate the competitive nature between women. Sometimes we have a mentality that there can only be one at the top. This is our worst trait.  

What compelled you to attend a Panelle event?

My peers at Databank speaking highly of Panelle.

What advice would you give to your younger self?

Everything happens for a reason. Keep your head up and know that everything you are being exposed to you will use later in your career.  

What’s your go-to advice for preventing burnout?

Self care – find out what refills your cup and prioritize it. If you can’t take care of yourself, how can you help others?

Why do you think it’s important for women to help other women win?

To quote Madeline Ablright:

“There is a special place in hell for women who do not support other women.”  

I take this and do not assume that every women is good, deserves more, and should be prioritised over others. I think its important to “find my tribe” of women who I align with on core principles and do my best to support.

Finally, please put the spotlight on another woman in business who either inspires you or has pulled out the seat for you.

Mary-Claire Burick. She is the President of the Rosslyn Business Improvement District in Virginia. I worked with her when she was the Vice President of Washington Operations for Allbritton Communications.  

She showed me how to execute at a high-level, how to always think 3 steps ahead, and how to effectively communicate. The impactful conversations she had with me were life changing.

‍