CEO of Influence – Janeale Dean – Desert Creative Group

Janeale Dean learned early on while she worked for her family’s business to take pride in what she does – no matter what the job is. This is a guiding principle for her still today in her role as the president and CEO of Desert Creative Group.

“I spent time in my early career working my way up through my family’s business from the lowest level, learning every facet,” Dean recalled. “I had a really unique situation where I grew up with two entrepreneurial leaders as parents who exposed me to what business ownership and being a true leader is all about ― the good, the bad and everything in between. With the sale of that business, I knew I was ready and it was time to forge my own path and realize my own vision of what I wanted to create.”

Today, as a company leader, she prioritizes a culture of engagement within local, business and peer communities. She also works hard to make a positive impact and believes that comes from the top, with her setting an example of what giving back means and encouraging others to give to what they’re passion about.

Dean said that she wouldn’t be where she is today without the countless mentors, supporters and role models she’s had throughout her life.

She explained, “Having an entrepreneurial family gave me incredible role models to learn from and be inspired by growing up. Throughout the journey of business ownership, my life partner, family and friends have been absolute rocks through all of the highs and lows, and I wouldn’t be where I am today without the village around me.”

She also shared that being involved in local organizations has also given her unique mentorship and support.

“I can’t express enough how important building your personal and professional community is,” she said.

When asked to describe her leadership style, Dean said that it’s rooted in empowerment, trust and inspiration.

“It can often be challenging or scary to step back and let someone experiment with something completely new or different out of the fear of failure and setback,” she stated. “Such a crucial part of driving innovation is giving someone space, time, trust and ownership to develop new ideas and provide support for them to face potential failure and not let it defeat them, but instead, enable them to learn what to improve next time. Leading a successful organization isn’t just about having a strong balance sheet ― it’s about the people.”

When she’s not leading her business, Dean can be found outside hiking, biking, fly fishing or sitting in a hammock somewhere.

She said, “I have to sometimes remind myself that enjoying stillness is equally important, too.”