Emerging Leader Spotlight: Andrea Bond, Southwestern Energy

Name: Andrea Bond
Current title: Community Relations Manager
Company: Southwestern Energy
Favorite leadership quote: “Leaders become great, not because of their power, but because of their ability to empower others.”–John C. Maxwell

Editor’s note: While serving in Iraq, Captain Andrea Bond earned her place in history as part of the first all-female Blackhawk mission. Read all the details here.

What key steps did you take to get to the role you are in today?
I took an opportunity and ran with it! Southwestern Energy (SWN) is my first “real job” outside of the military. I have worked for the military for so many years that the thought of working in a corporate environment was intimidating to me. I was excited but nervous at the same time.

Taking this position required me to relocate from Minnesota to Texas. It was a difficult decision for me to move away from family but I believe in living my life with the concept that I would rather try and fail, than live with the regret of not trying at all.

I remain focused and dedicated to achieving my personal and professional goals by believing in myself and knowing that I have a great deal to offer SWN and the industry. Plus the company’s environment is supportive and encouraging of its employees, in regard to personal and professional development, which makes it a great place to work.

Image credit: Eric Bowen eric@scrappydog.com

 





  

What is your leadership style?
I am an involved leader. When I was deployed to Iraq, my soldiers addressed me as Ma’am or Mom (depending on the circumstances) which was an honor. It confirmed that they respected my leadership abilities and trusted me to be a supportive confidante.

Image credit: Eric Bowen eric@scrappydog.com

 “...my parents instilled the value of teamwork, hard work, getting the job done right, being creative and innovative and caring about others...”

What tools or resources have you used that have been crucial to your success?
My upbringing taught me the most about success. I grew up on a dairy farm in Southwest Minnesota where my parents instilled the value of teamwork, hard work, getting the job done right, being creative and innovative and caring about others along the way.

Also, my military background has been crucial to my success. Being in the service, trained me to trust and challenge myself, as well as, to make decisions and execute them in various levels and situations.

What is the next step you plan to take in your career to develop your leadership skills?
Due to the fact that I am just starting out in the oil and gas industry, my main goal is to educate myself on topics that are important to the business. I plan to do this by researching and studying on my own but also through networking and professional education events and courses, which has enabled me to learn more about industry and the company.

“I am energized by the thought that ‘no one can take better care of yourself or your career than YOU!!!’”

Recently, you attended Jo Miller’s session, Take Charge of Your Career Trajectory, hosted by Southwestern Energy in Houston, TX. What did you gain from the class that you will use moving forward in your career?
By attending Jo’s session I am reminded that networking is so important and that I should never stop communicating or collaborating!

Also, it was great to see people in attendance become inspired and motivated and I believe they are both vital to personal and team victories.

Finally, I am energized by the thought that “no one can take better care of yourself or your career than YOU!!!”

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