2023 Top Consultants: Jeff Stephenson

Jeff Stephenson is a Managing Director at Slalom Chicago, where he oversees industry, client service, marketing and customer excellence functions. He has over 20 years of experience in business and IT consulting, leading and delivering transformational programs in the areas of sales, marketing, e-commerce, pricing, promotions, and analytics from conception through implementation for startups and multiple Fortune 500 companies.

Jeff provides oversight and direction for delivery of programs and projects for key clients. He partners with client executives, client sponsors, and integrated delivery teams to bring thought leadership, make connections across industries, identify risks and issues, and develop strategies for success for Slalom's clients.

Jeff is a graduate of Miami University in Ohio. When he's not at work, he enjoys spending time with his family and friends, visiting Napa Valley, cycling and skiing.

What has motivated you to excel over the course of your career?

The ability to make an impact has truly motivated me throughout my career, which has meant taking on larger challenges to make bigger impacts for my clients and the community. The bigger the challenge, the greater the opportunity to make someone's work and life better. From individual projects to global transformations, each step was an opportunity in my career to make a larger impact and greater contribution.

What do you enjoy most about your career in the consulting industry?

I enjoy the constant growth and challenge that comes with having built a career in the consulting industry. Much of this growth has come from working with clients to understand their specific business challenges, defining the benefits of solving those challenges, and applying the collective experience of our clients and colleagues to provide meaningful solutions. The process of bringing solutions to life creates opportunities for our clients and colleagues to learn and grow. It's deeply rewarding to invest back into future leaders, create solutions that are well-adopted, and truly make a positive impact on our clients and the world.

What is your proudest achievement to date?

I've mentored numerous clients and consultants over my career. I am proudest when I get to see them achieve their personal and professional goals, such as successfully delivering a pivotal outcome, developing as a leader, earning a promotion, and/or achieving a greater degree of work-life balance. Seeing others succeed, and knowing you helped, is truly the greatest reward.

What's the best advice you've ever been given?

As a leader, you now have more to juggle than you can handle at one time. Learn how to tell the difference between glass balls and rubber balls. When dropped, glass balls shatter but you can always pick the rubber balls back up later.