Jenney Rees, CEO of RevRoad, is a die-hard optimist and tireless advocate for entrepreneurs and women in technology. She will join the Women in Business Impact Lab at Utah Valley University on February 19 to coach others on leading with empathy and action. I had a chance to ask Jenney a few questions on the importance of empathy in leadership.  

Could you share how your experiences in both public service and the private sector have shaped your leadership style? 

"My experiences in both public service and the private sector have shaped my leadership style to prioritize collaboration, adaptability, and long-term impact. Public service taught me the importance of engaging a variety of stakeholders and building consensus, while the private sector instilled a results-driven mindset and the value of innovation. Together, these perspectives enable me to lead with clarity and purpose, balancing humanity with accountability to inspire trust and deliver meaningful outcomes."

In your opinion, how has the role of empathy in leadership evolved in recent years, particularly with shifts in workplace culture? 

"Empathy has transitioned from being a “nice-to-have” to an essential leadership skill. As workplaces embrace flexibility and a multi-generational workforce, leaders must deeply understand their teams’ unique challenges. This shift not only strengthens trust but also creates an environment where innovation and collaboration thrive."

Your upcoming session focuses on blending empathy with strategic action. Why do you think empathy is such a critical skill for leaders, especially in male-dominated industries? 

"Empathy enables leaders to build genuine connections, breaking down barriers that might otherwise exist. By combining empathy with strategic action, leaders can make decisions that prioritize both people and results, creating a foundation for lasting impact. Younger generations, in particular, value workplace cultures that promote work-life balance and give back to the community. When employers embrace these values, they cultivate a more engaged, motivated, and fulfilled workforce."

What excites you most about the future of leadership and innovation in the industries you’re passionate about? 

"I’m excited by the increasing focus on adaptability and purpose-driven innovation. Leaders are finding new ways to integrate emerging technology into their strategies, which I believe will create more forward-thinking solutions. Watching entrepreneurs and changemakers push these boundaries inspires me every day."

You’re described as a "die-hard optimist." How has this optimism influenced your approach to leadership and problem-solving? 

"Optimism fuels my belief that challenges are opportunities in disguise. It helps me lead with resilience, creativity, and a solutions-focused mindset, even in tough situations. By maintaining a positive outlook, I hope to inspire others to embrace change, take calculated risks, and work toward meaningful progress."

As a leader and advocate for entrepreneurs and women in technology, how do you work to empower and create opportunities for other women to rise in their careers? 

"I prioritize mentorship, amplifying women’s voices, and creating opportunities where their talents can shine. My hope is to break down barriers that limit opportunity. Empowering women to lead with confidence not only benefits them individually but also strengthens organizations as a whole."

Without giving too much away, what’s one key insight or takeaway attendees can expect from your session? 

The most effective leaders balance compassion with results. 

If you could have lunch with any inspiring woman, past or present, who would it be and why? 

"I would love to have lunch with Mary Barra because she embodies bold, visionary leadership in a traditionally challenging industry. Her ability to lead General Motors through transformative change is incredibly inspiring. Early in her tenure, she faced GM’s ignition switch scandal head-on, prioritizing transparency and rebuilding trust with stakeholders. She also transformed GM's corporate culture, emphasizing agility, collaboration, and accountability, creating a workplace that thrives on innovation and shared purpose."

 

Don’t miss Jenney present at the upcoming Impact Den on February 19 at UVU. Click here to register.