Katy Holt-Larsen
Chief Impact Officer | Partner.Co
How have you leveraged your position as a C-suite executive to influence business dynamics in Utah?
While my role is highly global and requires extensive travel across the U.S., Canada and internationally, I’ve focused on influencing Utah’s business community in a different way. I have led teams and organizations headquartered in Utah and have consistently worked to build globally minded leadership from Utah outward. I have worked to elevate Utah-based talent and to develop cultures where people feel seen, developed and empowered to grow.
I have also created opportunities for women in leadership to rise and have a voice that shapes strategy and roadmaps for success. My contribution has been less about local visibility and more about helping shape companies and leaders that represent Utah business values on a global stage.
Could you share your approach to mentorship, including any advice you have for aspiring executives?
Mentorship is about helping people connect with their unique talents and purpose and then find places in the organization where they can shine. Each of us has our strengths and if we can continue to hone our skills to align with these strengths, as leaders, we can connect our employees to expand their thinking and confidence to deliver their highest good. I try to see people not only for who they are today, but for who they could become with the right support, challenge and belief.
My approach combines high standards with genuine care. I believe people grow most when they feel both supported and stretched. I spend a lot of time helping leaders improve communication, emotional intelligence, strategic thinking and self-awareness because leadership is ultimately about influence and trust.
For aspiring executives, my advice would be:
- Learn how to lead people, not just projects
- Build resilience and adaptability
- Develop the ability to communicate vision clearly
- Stay curious and coachable
- Finally, leadership is not about having the loudest voice in the room, it’s about creating clarity, alignment and momentum for others
What leadership philosophy guides your strategic vision and decision-making?
My leadership philosophy is rooted in the belief that people are always the strategy. One of my leadership mentors is Parker J. Palmer. Palmer is a writer, educator and leadership thinker best known for exploring the intersection of identity, vocation, integrity and leadership. His work emphasizes that authentic leadership begins with self-awareness and that healthy organizations are built through trust, courage, community and honoring the humanity of people.
One of his quotes on leadership that speaks to me is, “Good leadership comes from people who are inwardly secure enough to welcome the strengths and challenges of others without feeling threatened.” My background in organizational behavior reinforces something I’ve seen throughout my career: Leadership tone starts with me and as I gain wisdom, insight and security, I can foster a culture where teams take risks, explore possibilities and people can thrive together.
