Jeff, San Jose

Jeff, a senior manager in Deloitte Consulting LLP’s Strategy and Operations service area, advises many of the world’s leading technology companies on major investment decisions which have far-reaching implications, and then helps implement those recommendations.  His business acumen is greatly valued, and not just by his high-tech clients.  A couple of local nonprofit organizations with whom he volunteers also reap the benefits of Jeff’s knowledge and expertise.  And in return, he has found unparalleled opportunities for leadership and skill development.     

As a board member of InnVision, an organization that assists homeless and at-risk families in Silicon Valley, Jeff is a regular contributor of business counsel on a wide range of issues, including strategic planning and investment, operations and general financial analyses.  He notes that while his client work often requires him to focus on one piece of a puzzle, his volunteer work offers him the chance to deal with an entire organizational system, which presents dynamic learning opportunities that have real-world applications.

In addition to his work with InnVision, Jeff, at the suggestion of a mentor, recently led a formal pro bono project for Resource Area for Teachers (RAFT), a Silicon Valley nonprofit that promotes hands-on teaching in science, math, and technology.  RAFT had recently experienced rapid growth, which meant it was struggling with a host of new business issues.  Jeff brought in a team of colleagues from Deloitte’s consulting, audit and tax functions, which resulted in a robust board presentation that dealt with a variety of issues including product management, supply chain, the identification of marketing messages and the development of expansion plans – all issues that were critical to RAFT expanding its mission locally and nationally.  

While Jeff is quick to note he would volunteer even without the training and development benefits, he is acutely aware of the advantage skills-based volunteering has provided him.  As a senior manager, he is developing his own executive-level presence and influencing skills, so serving on a nonprofit board and doing highly visible pro bono work has given him tremendous “on the job” training.

“There are many parallels between a nonprofit board room and a client’s leadership team,” Jeff explained. “With the board, there are 12 people sitting around the table, with 12 different interpretations of an issue.  I liken that to a client where there may be 12 people on the executive committee, each with their own P&L or function.  When it comes to presenting a point-of-view, influencing decisions and providing counsel that will benefit the whole system, getting that kind of practice on a monthly basis is invaluable.”