Blair Wimbush

Senior General Counsel
Norfolk, Virginia

Dedicated to leadership by example, Blair Wimbush credits his mother with forging his character and developing the drive and integrity that helped set his course. His parents were sharecroppers when he was born in 1955, but they soon pursued a different way of life. They believed growing up on tobacco farms in the segregated South was not a very good long-term strategy for achieving the American dream. In his Martinsville, Va., high school, Blair was a member of the National Honor Society and participated in athletics and student politics. He went on to receive a bachelor's degree in political science from the University of Rochester and later graduated from the University of Virginia School of Law.

In addition to leading in his workplace, Blair was a member of the national board of directors of Big Brothers Big Sisters of America, a nonprofit youth mentoring organization, for six years, and has been president of a fine arts museum and law organizations. Below, he talks about his views on leadership.

How important are these leadership roles to you?

They have helped to make my life more fulfilling and make me feel more involved and connected with my community. I have a stake in it. These leadership roles show that my service and contributions have been valued and that my direction and viewpoints are worth sharing with others.

How do you encourage your co-workers to participate or lead in their communities or the workplace?

I encourage them by personal example, encouragement and providing them the flexibility to do so. I look for opportunities that suit their skills and personality and urge them to consider involvement.

How do you lead in your workplace?

It is an open and encouraging style with high expectations but with the understanding that people need opportunities to develop independently, but with guidance and direction. It's about attracting, developing and encouraging good people and giving them the tools they need and the opportunity to use the skills and talents that led them into the organization or structure in the first place. I try to set expectations through my own hard work, dedication and integrity so my deeds match my words.

What qualities make someone a good leader?

What I respect in leadership is vision, integrity and a willingness to listen but be decisive when necessary. A great leader can stay the course without regard for personal security and sacrifice.

Who has had the most profound affect on your life, specifically encouraging you to lead?

My mother was a strong influence on my personal development, but she was very subtle. I didn't fully realize her effect until later in life. She emphasized doing the right thing and provided the moral compass for my achievements and responsibility toward others.