Ashley Sears Randle is the deputy commissioner/legislative & policy director for the Mass. Department of Agricultural Resources.
Updated: November 28, 2022
10 Things
10 Things I know about ... Being a female leader in agriculture and the public sector
By Ashley Sears Randle
10) Field work. Sometimes, my days are literally spent in a field. Getting out of the office for site visits and hearing directly from stakeholders often leads to the most impactful solutions.
9) Find ways to get to yes. While the initial response may be no, explore with your colleagues how you can get to a yes solution. Find new ways of addressing problems.
8) Internships. The opportunity to gain experience is invaluable. You may learn a certain career is not the best fit for you.
7) Service mentality. Everyone should work in the service industry to better understand the human dynamic of being in a leadership position and how leading an organization should be similar to running a business. Customer feedback and engagement drive decision making and ultimately satisfaction of your organization.
6) Mentors. Whether a family member, friend, colleague, or individual you highly respect, look for strong, passionate, and dynamic individuals to serve as mentors and helped pave the way for other promising females to lead.
5) Embrace diversity. Working with people who share different viewpoints and life experiences leads us to approach tasks and problems in more impactful ways.
4) Empower others. Be an advocate for all members of the organization and show them you trust them to make meaningful contributions by providing them with the tools and support needed.
3) Remember your roots. Being raised on a fourth-generation dairy farm, I was aptly characterized as the farm kid in school. I embraced that title and have continued to carry the values instilled with me from the farm throughout my career. Be authentic and recognize where you started.
2) Foster community. Growing up in the Mass. 4-H Foundation program, the power of community was instilled in me at an early age. Whether you volunteer, join a club, or serve in government, find ways to connect with your local community.
1) Leadership is a privilege. You can impact colleagues, customers, and individuals’ lives on a daily basis. Be conscious of the power your decisions hold.
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Anonymous
November 30, 2022
Congratulations Ashley, very well done! Grateful for your leadership in Agriculture!
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