Brian Hayden’s first job as a front desk clerk helped him develop the rapport to excel in his career. “I learned the importance of empathy and thinking quickly on my feet,” he says. He holds more than a decade’s experience leading strategic planning initiatives for private, nonprofit, and public entities, with a bachelor’s degree from Georgetown University and an MBA from the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania. “I am excited for 2025 to be a year of expansion for Collaborative Strategies,” Hayden says. “We are looking to grow our team and add new capabilities for our clients.”
PROFESSIONAL ACCOMPLISHMENTS & OPPORTUNITIES
What has been your or your company’s most significant success over the last 12 months? Many of our clients are having their best year ever in 2024. We’re honored to support their growth. Our firm is also enjoying a strong year, and we’ve secured many challenging new assignments, including a high-profile strategic planning project for a global non-profit.
What has you most excited about the future of your company or industry? I am excited for 2025 to be a year of expansion for Collaborative Strategies. We are looking to grow our team and add new capabilities for our clients.
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MENTORS & PEERS
To whom or where do you go for sound business advice? My partners at Collaborative Strategies. They have decades of experience advising leaders of small businesses.
What piece of advice has had the most significant impact on your career? Asking the right questions is usually more valuable than offering answers.
What is one thing you would change about the St. Louis metro area business environment and why? I wish our region was more effective at attracting and retaining young talent. It’s a complex problem with many causes, and it’s stifling our growth.
BACKGROUND
Where were you born? St. Louis
What was your childhood aspiration? To be the Secretary of State
What was your first job, and what did you learn from it? In college I worked as a front desk clerk at the campus hotel. I learned the importance of empathy and thinking quickly on my feet!
What educational degrees do you hold, and where were they earned? BS, Georgetown University, MBA The Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania
HOBBIES & INTERESTS
What is your favorite St. Louis-area restaurant, and what do you typically order there? Mainlander. Their family-style menu is always amazing.
What is one item you recently crossed off your bucket list? Exploring the Galápagos Islands with my wife.
What’s your hobby/passion? Cycling, hiking, traveling.
What is your most prized possession? My road bike
