As someone who is seemingly always calling and asking for favors, be it for an article or a webinar, I am always awed by the fact that people say yes to my requests, time and again. Alicia McKeighan is someone who has always responded to my calls and emails, and reading her answers to the questions below, it is now very easy to see why. Her insight into the application of servant leadership should be a mantra for everyone. I’m a big believer in the maxim that a rising tide lifts all boats. And Alicia McKeighan is someone who is trying to lift boats.
Name: Alicia McKeighan
Company: Afni, Inc.
Length of time at current company: Nine years
Length of time in industry: Nine years
How did you get your start in the industry?
I applied for a job as a litigation specialist immediately after my college internship with a city legal department. I was offered the litigation specialist position at Afni and I’ve been obsessed with the industry ever since.
What is your career highlight so far?
The best moment in my career was when I was given the honor and the privilege of leading an amazing compliance team.
Which industry professional do you admire most?
Debra Ciskey. She has been my mentor since day one, and she’s one of the best in the industry.
What is one thing you do better than everyone else?
I don’t try to do things better than everyone else. I try to do things better than I did the day before; to keep building on my own strengths, and to become more aware of my weaknesses. Sandra Day O’Connor has a wealth of quotes that are perfect for this question, but here is one of the best. “Be aware that even before you have reached your ultimate professional destination, if you always strive for excellence, you can and should have a substantial impact on the world in which you live.”
When or how are you most productive?
I’m most productive in the morning after a trip to the gym or an outdoor run.
What do you like most about this industry?
The pace and change within the industry. I’ve enjoyed keeping up with the regulatory landscape and trying to find solutions. One of Afni’s core values is pursue change, and I stand by that.
What is one thing you wish you could change about this industry?
I would change the reputation of the industry. There are so many wonderful people and businesses that help consumers and want to create a positive experience.
If you weren’t in this industry, what would you be doing?
I enjoy figuring out how to apply regulatory rules and expectations, as well as state and federal statutes, to business operations. I would be doing that in some capacity.
Describe a typical work day.
Every day is just a bit different, that’s why I enjoy it. The thing I look forward to most in my work day is meeting with my co-workers and employees and discussing challenges and solutions.
What is your guilty pleasure?
I like to binge watch Netflix. Right now I am hooked on Reign. Please don’t ruin it for me, I know I’m a bit behind!
What is the best advice you’ve ever received?
The application of servant leadership. The servant-leader is a servant first. It creates a position of humility and an approach that is inviting and displays care. I care about my employees, my co-workers, and my friends and family. I want to make sure they know that through my actions, rather than my words.
What are you currently reading?
Waking Up White by Debby Irving, and Zero to One by Peter Thiel
What is one fact you’d like everyone in the industry to know about you?
I’m open to new ideas, new ways of doing things, and innovation. Please share your opinions with me, collectively, we can only get better!
Who else would you like to see answer these questions?
Of course, Ms. Debra Ciskey
