Pro Day: My Dream Job? It's Who You Work With, Not Where You Are

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Visit Women Talk Sports each Monday to read the weekly Pro Day column featuring interviews with women at the top of their game. The series will feature career insights and advice from women who are paving the way for a rising generation of sports business leaders.

This week, Women Talk Sports hears from Susan Peal, Associate Director of Operations, NCAA Eligibility Center. An influential mentor sought out by many an incoming intern, Susan directs the National Letter of Intent program for the NCAA.

What was an early leadership experience for you, and what lessons did you draw from it?

An early leadership experience that taught me a lot of life lessons was when I transitioned from my coaching career to a senior level athletic administrative position at the same institution.  I was thrown into the fire at a young age and had to manage staff I previously reported to and were my peers.  The lessons I learned which formed my leadership style today were: 

• Give clear direction and expectations
• Earn respect and trust
• Openly communicate (listen, ask questions and challenge)
• Recognize individual uniqueness
• Understand what motivates people
• Accept a person’s limitations and focus on his/her abilities
• Empower others in the decision making process

What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?

The manner and style you use to engage people will determine how they respond to you. 

Has your concept of a “dream job” evolved at all as you’ve advanced professionally?

As long as I can work directly with the NCAA membership, I consider that a “dream job.” I consider myself a servant leader, and I believe my current job fosters that leadership style.  If the people I work for and with have a positive outlook, are passionate, trustworthy and the environment is inclusive, it is a dream job.

What is the biggest issue facing women in sports today?

Women have experienced many achievements in sports, but it is concerning that there continues to be a low population of women in such leadership positions as conference commissioners, directors of athletics and the NCAA national office.  

What is the most rewarding part of your career?

The most rewarding part of my career is having the great opportunity to supervise and mentor interns.  I learn so much from them.  It is such an honor to be their advocate and to watch them succeed.

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