The Marvel Method of Leadership

(Or "What Would Captain America Do?")

Reflecting on my internship at Marvel Entertainment , I see how profoundly it shaped my leadership philosophy. I learned the importance of uplifting others, being present, and listening with empathy—principles that guide my work today on projects like Ubisoft Paris Studio 's Ghost Recon, my work at Taliespin or my studio endeavors like High Moon and Only Living Boy.

Even during tough times, like Marvel's bankruptcy, my department's leadership shone brightly, providing direction when it mattered most. A pivotal moment came when I was struggling and my program's director pulled me aside, listened to my concerns, and addressed my issue -- underscoring to me the true value of empathy in leadership. This experience was personally very important to me and it solidified my beliefs about what great leadership looked like.

True leadership isn’t just about authority...

It’s about fostering a creative, supportive environment.

Working alongside talented editors and producers taught me the core of narrative excellence, inspiring me to create impactful experiences for my teams later in my career. I discovered that great stories aren’t forged by individuals; they’re built by diverse teams.

More importantly, I learned how to assemble the right team for each project. When leading a scrappy mission, I don’t need a squad of Hulks; sometimes, I need a Falcon, a Scarlet Witch, a Black Widow, and a Spider-Man—each bringing their unique strengths to the table.

Years after my time at Marvel, I still inspire my teams to voice their perspectives, allowing us to create rich, engaging stories. My leadership experience equips me to tackle narrative challenges, offer constructive feedback, and optimize workflows—essential for pushing the limits of quality entertainment.

Here are some key leadership lessons from Marvel that I now implement with my teams:

• Strategic Vision: Articulate a compelling vision that aligns teams with common goals. This vision serves as a guiding light, directing decisions and igniting passion, transforming individuals into vibrant contributors in a larger narrative.
• Empowering Culture: In a creative world that can feel isolating, cultivate a sense of belonging. When people feel valued, they contribute their best ideas.
• Stand Up. Stand Beside. Stand Firm: Effective leaders understand the importance of putting their team first. They listen with empathy and recognize that their colleagues have lives beyond the workplace. This kind of care creates an environment where everyone feels valued and motivated to give their best.
• Resilience and Adaptability: Great leaders know their strengths and weaknesses, and they’re not afraid to ask for help when needed. They seek feedback and are willing to make necessary adjustments. In challenging situations, they bring others into the decision-making process, fostering collaborative solutions. By staying humble, they build trust and credibility within their teams.
• Integrity: True leadership is built on integrity—being honest, owning your actions, and keeping your promises. It’s about respecting every interaction and leading by example, especially when the going gets tough. That’s the real mark of Avenger-level leadership.

As I look to the future, I’m eager to craft narratives that do more than entertain; I want to inspire change. Together, we can weave a vibrant tapestry of storytelling that uplifts every voice and honors the rich legacy of our beloved characters and franchises.

Each tale we tell has the potential to transform lives, and in this journey together, I believe we can make a real difference—one story at a time.

Let's stand together and make it happen.

Avengers Assemble!