In 2020, CREDE faced a significant setback. When COVID started the hospitality world stopped. Overnight we lost 1/3 of our business—an event that could have easily spelled the end for us.
But I wasn’t willing to accept defeat.
Instead of stepping back, I dove in headfirst. I reconnected with every client, every partner, and every contact who might need our help. Late nights were the norm, sending hundreds of personal emails, rebuilding relationships, and showing people that CREDE’s commitment hadn’t wavered. Our team stepped up, volunteering to be registered as essential workers and making sure that projects continued on track.
We didn’t just survive—we came back stronger. We grew, protected our team, and fulfilled every promise we’d made.
That chapter redefined who I am and how I lead. To me, resilience is about how you respond when everything feels like it’s slipping away. Many people might think that this is about me; leading is the act or directing others and being in front of your team.
I have to say none of what I did would have made a difference if it wasn’t for the team that I had backing up my efforts. Dave Heric used to laugh at me when his email inbox would be full in the morning, but never once did he complain when he followed up with hundreds of people to make sure they got what they needed. Joe Kilar and our PM team never hesitated about putting our clients first, getting on planes, and staying in hotels to make sure that everyone knew that CREDE would lead the way.
Today, we’re thriving, and I’m proud to say that CREDE has doubled since those tough times.
Sometimes, you find out who you are only when you’re pushed to your limit.
#CREDEGroup #CREDE #RebuildingCREDE
SVP, Head of Wealth Solutions Client Engagement at Voya Financial
1moAmazing event and we are thrilled to partner with NDSS.