I’m Leaving
David Freund, Chief Leadership Officer

You read that title right; I’m leaving, but not forever, I’ll be back in a couple of weeks. As I wrap up my 10th year as MACNY’s Chief Leadership Officer, I’m reflecting on how incredible the last decade has been. When I made the transition from running a manufacturing company to becoming a full-time trainer and leadership coach at MACNY, I was filled with excitement and energy. Midway through that first year, my wife repeatedly asked me when I could take some time off for a vacation but I told her my calendar was full. While I would’ve liked to take time off, I was fully engaged in training, coaching, and building new training programs. I was having so much fun that I didn’t realize I needed some time away. Thankfully, I wised up during my second year, and scheduled my vacation time at the beginning of the year.

Last January, Randy Wolken, our President & CEO, suggested that I take some time away to recharge. While I thought the idea was great, I told him I didn’t have time. Too many classes, too many coaching meetings; there was no time for a recharge. Even after I broke my shoulder skiing, I kept saying the same thing: “I have too many classes to teach, too many coaching sessions to hold, and I need to make my budget for the year.” However now, with Steve Maloney coming on board, my excuses have faded away, so by the time you read this, I’ll be at the beginning of a four-week sabbatical.

I feel thrilled and blessed to work for an organization that cares enough about its employees to give them a break and the time to recharge. Last week I had a meeting with my own leadership coach as well as Randy’s leadership coach to walk through the process I’m currently engaged in. I need to tell you that I approach this time away with both excitement and some trepidation, not knowing exactly what’s going to take place. The objective is for me to recharge and reconnect with what I’m truly passionate about while I plan the next phase of my career here at MACNY.

The title is accurate, I’m leaving, but only for a time. The next time I write to you, I’ll be able to share with you what this experience was like. I want to thank each and every one of you that’s read my posts, attended my classes, and has been dedicated to leading well. I hope you all have an amazing July.

Stay tuned, I’ll be back soon.