Catherine Ross’ perception of success has certainly evolved over the course of her career.
“Early on, I defined myself largely through the lens of others,” said Aldo Group‘s chief people officer and general counsel. “I was what you would call a ‘good student,’ used to measuring my worth through positive feedback — first in school and later at work. Success meant proving myself, hitting milestones and checking the right boxes.”
With time, the executive noted that she “realized the limits” of that approach. “It made success fragile, too dependent on external validation,” she said. “I gradually reframed my perspective. Today, what matters most to me is the impact I create, the quality of the relationships I build, and the sense of purpose I find in what I do.”
One of the biggest challenges in Ross’ career that shaped how she views success came when her company president at the time asked her to expand her role by adding human resources and communication functions to her legal responsibilities.
“Overnight, I went from being an expert to a beginner in a critical area of the organization,” Ross explained. “Just a few months later, the pandemic hit. I was not only stepping into a new role but doing so in a context where everything was evolving. I truly felt like I was building the plane while flying it.”
Ross admitted that the transition was “destabilizing,” but the experience taught her that leadership is not about mastering everything. “It’s about creating value through diverse perspectives, mobilizing collective intelligence and moving forward with courage despite discomfort,” Ross said. “It is this ability to operate in unfamiliar territory that has most transformed the way I lead.”
For those women who wish to break out in the industry today, Ross said that her best advice would be simple – don’t wait until you feel ready, growth rarely happens there.
“It’s okay to try, fail, and change your mind. You don’t have to have everything figured out from the start,” the executive added. “Often, the opportunities that feel the biggest, or even a little overwhelming, are the ones that open doors you didn’t expect. So be curious. Take the leap. Trust what you are learning along the way, even when it feels messy.”
A version of this article appeared in the June 1 print issue of FN, as part of the “Women Who Rock” special section. On June 3, FN and Two Ten Footwear Foundation honored these women at the annual live event in New York City.
