As part of NATIONAL Toronto’s Innovators in Action series, Brian Pearl, Managing Partner of NATIONAL Toronto, sat down with Rick Murray, Partner at SHIFT and Executive Vice-President of Corporate Strategic Advisory at Padilla, to discuss how he navigates leadership and innovation. Their conversation delved into the intricacies of leadership, where Rick emphasized the importance of learning from your mistakes, staying curious throughout your career, and staying up to date with technological advancements like AI.
Throughout the discussion, Rick offered five key pieces of advice for members of the AVENIR GLOBAL network:
1. Embrace mistakes and take risks. Rick believes that mistakes are invaluable learning experiences, and he encourages professionals to take risks and make decisions without the fear of failure. Drawing from his early career, Rick shared that even decisions that fail can lead to significant successes—and that, in his experience, this philosophy of embracing mistakes fosters growth and enhances decision-making over time.
2. Prioritize work-life balance. According to Rick, a well-balanced life is crucial for optimal work performance. He emphasized the importance of nurturing relationships with friends and family, as these connections can contribute positively to professional success. Rick advocates for drawing inspiration from all aspects of life—not just the professional realm.
3. Cultivate leadership skills. As a leader—or burgeoning leader—Rick advises surrounding yourself with talented individuals who can be trusted to perform well without the need for micromanagement. But what makes a good leader? Rick values humility, empowerment, and trust, and highlighted that those skills—and more—can be developed by learning from those around you.
4. Stay curious and current. In today's fast-paced world, staying informed on changes in the industry is essential when it comes to staying relevant. Rick emphasized the importance of embracing new technologies, like AI, to drive innovation and expand client portfolios. While the unpredictability of AI both excites and terrifies him, Rick sees immense opportunity for growth for those willing to learn quickly and adapt.
5. Draw inspiration from personal values. Rick's family is a significant source of inspiration for him. He shared how his wife's grounding influence complements his personality, and how his daughters' dedication to public service reflects their shared values aimed at improving society. This deep commitment to public service is a source of pride and motivation for Rick—and more proof than you can glean professional inspiration from day-to-day life, not just a work setting.
Rick offered valuable insight for those looking to navigate the complexities of leadership and how to stay current in a changing world. Stay tuned for the next instalment of Innovators in Action, where we'll continue to explore the minds of industry leaders driving change and innovation.
