One of the greatest things about MOMENTUM is the powerful alumnae network. Periodically we interview these amazing women about their experience.
As senior vice president and deputy general counsel, Leigh Davis is responsible for generation energy policy, legal and operations strategies for Southern Company’s operations organization, which includes generation, transmission, engineering and construction services, system planning, research and environmental affairs, and the company’s competitive generation business units. She is a graduate of MOMENTUM’s Class of 2008.
What did you gain from your MOMENTUM experience?
Lifelong friends and a growing network of professional women leaders to learn from and lean on.
What is one piece of leadership advice you have been given that has helped you in your career?
Be yourself and have confidence in your own unique strengths and abilities.
What challenges do you think the next generation of women leaders face?
Increasing the value creation to be gained by having more substantive and diverse representation in all levels of leadership, especially at the higher levels of executive management. A lot of value creation is still being left on the table in every industry that an entire workforce would benefit from.
If you knew then what you know now, what would you tell your 18 year-old self?
Relax!
What three words do you think should characterize every leader?
Integrity, Courage, Excellence.
How do you find balance in your career, home and community life?
There is no balance. Preparation and prioritization are both critical so you can more fully enjoy your busy life with all of its competing demands. Leverage resources you need to fit your own lifestyle and needs without feeling guilty or comparing yourself to others. Be disciplined with what you choose to take on and what you shed from your life.
What other advice would you like to give to women in leadership roles or to those aspiring to lead?
Collaborate, be viewed as one who includes others. Seek to be as approachable, genuine, and trustworthy as possible.
