Every month we ask an emerging leader we admire to share what she is doing to take the lead in her career. We invite her to share how she achieved her current position, what obstacles she encountered on her climb, as well as tips for how to be a rising woman of influence.

This month we shine the Emerging Leader Spotlight on Christina Lewis, MBA, Director/BU Controller, Enterprise Finance with Western Digital.

Why did you choose your current career path?

It was a natural progression to move from accounting to finance.  After years in accounting, I moved toward roles that were based more on predictive analytics versus roles that described what happened.

What is your leadership style?

My leadership philosophy is built on my personal belief that we should live life on purpose.  One of my roles as a leader is to create a positive environment that allows people to maximize the value they bring to the organization.  As they’re adding value to the organization and growing professionally, they’re also able to support their families and communities which makes the world better.

What steps are you currently taking to develop yourself, professionally?

I believe in learning, and I always have an active learning plan in place to support my personal growth and development. This includes learning from my current work environment, mentors and coaches. I also believe that mentoring others is a great way to foster personal and professional growth so I mentor with various community organizations.

What are some top tips you can recommend to other women who want to be recognized as high-potential emerging leaders?

It’s more about the journey than the destination so never stop learning. If you focus on learning and growing as a leader, you’ll develop the agility needed to be ready for various opportunities that come across your path.

Connect with Christina Lewis on LinkedIn.