Beyond the Title: Juan Corpus
Juan Corpus (Most Influential Latino Leaders, 2022) is executive director of the Latino Chamber of Commerce, a statewide organization supporting and promoting Latino-owned businesses and Latino entrepreneurs. He previously served as Vice President for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion at The New North, the economic development agency serving 17 counties in Northeast Wisconsin.
What does presence before performance mean to you – and how do you stay grounded when the pressure to perform is high?
It means go back to your roots, remember who you are and why you are there.
What’s the best advice you’ve received from a mentor?
Put yourself in situations to continue to create opportunities and say yes to them. At times this will be uncomfortable and that’s ok, but don’t let fear hold you back from taking a chance on yourself.
Tell us about a time you had to lead before there was consensus – when you were the only one who saw it, believed it or were willing to act. What gave you the courage to move anyway?
Helping co-found Latino Professional Association of NEW was something that I always hoped was there when I grew up. Sometimes if its not there, you have to be the change you want to see and help build it.
What’s one question every new leader should ask during their first 100 days and why?
What has worked well and what opportunities are there?
Who’s in your “corner” – that voice of wisdom you trust when things get tough? How do you build and protect that circle?
I look to those who are also walking the talk. Folks who are authentic and through their actions are investing in you as much as you invest in them.
Leadership can be exhausting. What practices or boundaries help you avoid burnout and stay aligned with your purpose?
Stepping away and ensuring you are taking time for yourself is a must. Consistently being objective and asking questions help reduce mission drift.
Clout fades. Calling lasts. How do you stay anchored in impact over recognition?
Internally I know I can’t unring the bell. Continue to leverage my platform for others to advance is what drives and motivates me.
What’s a leadership value you refuse to compromise even when its inconvenient?
Integrity. At the end of the, you will know if you truly did the right thing or the best you could do. Facing that person in the mirror is something we all have to do.
What book, quote, lyric or even scripture captures how you lead or how you live?
The Daily Stoic Quotes by Ryan Holiday, offers different and resetting quotes to help keep us grounded.
When life gets heavy or leadership feels overwhelming, what’s something you turn to: music, travel or cultural connection that helps you feel like yourself again?
Music is always the easiest answer for me. 80/90’s Hip Hop is nostalgic and brings me back. Connecting with my fellow LPA members or Estamos Aqui planning committee members also refills my bucket.
Who is your favorite sports team?
Vegas Raiders
What is your favorite holiday and why?
We host Christmas for my side of the family. I have always enjoyed providing gifts and games with prizes for the family to enjoy.