Get to know AAHOA’s Interim President & CEO
by MELISSA STERN
On June 8, AAHOA announced a change in leadership, unveiling Ken Greene as Interim President & CEO. A highly respected industry veteran, he brings a wealth of experience to the role, and he will continue to hammer away on AAHOA’s initiatives as outlined in the 2021-2023 Strategic Plan. But he’s not always serious. Here’s a look at the lighter side of Ken.
Ken Greene, AAHOA Interim President & CEO
WHAT IS YOUR BIGGEST WORK PET PEEVE?
Ken Greene: My biggest work pet peeve is when there is a lack of urgency and responsiveness. To be successful, we must be motivated, respect time and deadlines, and refuse to fail.
WHAT ENERGIZES YOU OUTSIDE OF WORK?
KG: Friends and family. These days, work-life balance can sometimes seem impossible, especially since we’re all constantly plugged in, thanks to technology. Being able to connect with family and friends always helps me recharge after a busy day.
WHAT IS A MISTAKE YOU MADE EARLY ON IN YOUR CAREER, AND WHAT DID YOU LEARN FROM IT?
KG: How much time do you have? In all seriousness, I realized most mistakes come from lack of communication. Having strong interpersonal relationships and making sure people have the tools and resources needed to succeed leads to better understanding.
WHO HAS INFLUENCED YOU MOST WHEN IT COMES TO HOW YOU APPROACH YOUR WORK?
KG: I had a great mentor at age 23 right out of graduate school. He told me to always have a good strategic plan, a good team, and good competitive information.
That same mentor told me three important things:
- Be a sponge; soak everything up.
- Do things with passion, whether you enjoy doing them or not. If you do things that no one else steps up to do, it leads to bigger opportunities.
- Never forget your roots and those who helped you along the way. Always remember that as you climb the ladder. Help those who reach out to you for guidance. You were once in their shoes.
WHAT IS SOMETHING – BIG OR SMALL – YOU’RE REALLY BAD AT?
KG: Golf! I love to play, but I’m not good at it.
CAN YOU TELL US ABOUT YOUR FAMILY?
KG: My wife, Kristie, who goes by Kiki, is an artist. My son, Nathanael, who goes by Nat, is 22 and is in university studying marketing and business. We joke that he’s a global child since I had to move around a lot for work. They both live in Toronto, Canada. We took in my wife’s niece, Brooke, when she was 12, and she’s grown to be a wonderful young lady.
WHAT IS YOUR VISION FOR THE FUTURE OF AAHOA AND ITS MEMBERS?
KG: I believe AAHOA is in a strong position in the industry, and I’m excited about the opportunities to further strengthen AAHOA’s position. I’m looking forward to leading the charge and working together as Team AAHOA. We have so much more to accomplish together. I’m looking forward to reconnecting with members and ensuring they know they’re in good hands when it comes to advancing and protecting their business interests. ■
HOW DO YOU PREFER TO START YOUR DAY?
KG: I always start my day with a cup of coffee. While having my coffee, I’m usually catching up on emails and reading the news. I always try to have a conversation with my wife before starting my busy day!
