To fully embrace work-life balance integration, Riley Wittman, operations manager at Midland Equipment Finance, says companies must give employees the ability to leave work behind and be fully present in the lives of those that make them better people and professionals. As a leader, Wittman embraces this concept and lives by it, showing her team that Midland Equipment Finance values its members and their home lives while also contributing to the company’s overall success.

Ten years into her equipment finance career, Wittman says she enjoys the dynamic business, the people she works with and the opportunities for advancement present in the industry. Communicating effectively with her team and peers and putting people first makes Wittman a unique leader. Wittman focuses on building personal relationships with her team members and makes sure to keep their interests in mind as the No. 1 goal.

Managing a team of transaction coordinators, developing efficient processes and overseeing enhancements to the company’s operating system, Wittman incorporates leadership techniques from her own mentors in her own leadership style. As a leader, Wittman shares her industry knowledge through a robust training program and positive guidance. Strong leadership, to Wittman, creates a solid foundation that allows team members to work to their full potential. Wittman has discovered that each team member’s learning style and vision of success looks different, so she focuses on employee empowerment by setting clear goals and expectations and giving guidance and support to motivate each individual teammate, allowing everyone to achieve their level of success through personalization and motivation.

“Strong leadership is needed for success in any industry,” Wittman says. “A strong leader challenges, trusts and promotes their team.”