Member Spotlight, Margaret Smith
Margaret Smith
Founder & CEO of Changemaker, LLC
Background
I grew up in Manhattan and attended George Washington University for graduate school, earning a master’s degree in organizational behavior.
Path to Change Management
I’ve been in the change management business for 25 years. I chose this field during graduate school after taking courses in organizational diagnosis, business, change management, adult learning, and team dynamics. My first job was in the Strategic Change practice at PricewaterhouseCoopers in Washington, DC, where I consulted with government agencies, including the CIA.
Biggest Obstacle Getting Established in Change Management
My biggest obstacle was my self-confidence. How could I, as a twenty-something, advise senior executives on how to manage their organizations?
I overcame this over time through experiences where I delivered results for clients and received positive feedback. I also enrolled in personal growth and development courses and have worked with many professional coaches to support my development over the years.
Biggest Reward from this Career
Having an impact on the most strategic, critical projects where the stakes are high. One that stands out is helping design and build a new $500 million program for a cancer center at Oregon Health & Science University.
Bucket List Yet to Accomplish
On my bucket list is giving a talk that inspires women to seek the support they need to thrive in life.
Fun Fact
I met Kevin Bacon while filming a commercial at my high school.
I live in Portland, Oregon, with my partner, Mark, and son, Will, who is off to college soon. I enjoy biking, golf, and skiing, along with international travel.
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