As we start the new year, we are enormously grateful for the craziness of 2019 that is leading us not only into a new year but a new decade full of promise and change. We can’t wait to see what we can accomplish together in 2020 and beyond. 

The premise of CEOX relies on an ecosystem of people and organizations advocating for women. Without a complete circle, none of what CEOX is working towards can be achieved.

First, we have our allies who are willing to take time out of their busy and full lives to make thoughtful nominations of CEO-ready women who they have worked with and will continue to support. We can’t minimize the critical value of these nominations. Our allies know that their name will be associated with the women they are nominating. Saying someone will make a great CEO is not your average, everyday job reference. These senior leaders are putting their reputations on the line with their advocacy. For that we are grateful.  

Second, we have our supporters. Organizations that believe so much in our mission of elevating women that they allow us to use their logo and their names to gain additional support. We don’t take these endorsements lightly. We are truly grateful for the groups that are stepping up and supporting gender parity in leadership.

Third, are the advisors, friends, and colleagues who have reached out after our launch to offer guidance, ideas, advocacy and time. Without a doubt, time is our most valuable asset and I have been overwhelmed with people who have offered theirs to help our cause. 

Fourth, are the companies, recruiters, VCs and PEs who are open-minded enough to evaluate the data that shows how valuable women leaders can be. They are throwing out the status quo and changing their norms to include CEOX in their executive searches. This is where real change happens.

Fifth are the nominees. Hands down the most rewarding part of CEOX has been connecting with the amazing women nominees. I am honored to be talking with and supporting them. I went into this thinking CEOX was here to help them, but truly after every conversation, I am the one taking away something valuable from them. These women are highly qualified superstars and are making positive impacts in their current roles. Their future leadership is not only going to change the companies they are leading, but will transform our economy and culture at large. 

And with all of that our ecosystem doesn’t feel complete. We want to add one more arc to our circle, so we are looking for a charity that CEOX can contribute to for every CEO placement that is made. We want to focus on organizations helping women and are starting our search for impactful, female-focused charities that we can support. Let us know your favorite charity and what you find compelling about them by emailing us at hello@projectceox.com. Thank you for completing our circle!