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Brian Kash
Enterprise Engineering and Program Leader | Develop and Deliver Products and Experiences at Scale that Exceed Consumer Expectations
Brian Kash is a skilled enterprise engineering and program leader with a strong background in innovation and product development, specializing in electro-mechanical systems, wearables, connected products, and consumer electronics.
His expertise lies in phase gate product development processes, process optimization, and team leadership to ensure products exceed consumer expectations.
Brian excels in collaborative environments, managing cross-functional teams to solve complex problems and achieve strategic objectives.
He is dedicated to individual growth and development, leading with empathy to coach and inspire teams to achieve their full potential.
Brian's skill set includes product development, engineering management, cross-functional leadership, program management, design for manufacturability, technical problem-solving, and customer-focused innovation.
He is open to discussing new opportunities in the Portland area or remote work.
Brian holds a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from Oregon State University and has held various leadership positions at organizations like Nike, Dell, Kyocera, and Hughes Network Systems.
Highlights
Over the last several months, I've reflected on my learning and growth as a leader and manager of cross-functional product development teams over my career. The framework of Lead, Coach, Drive and Inspire resonated with me and are the four pillars I used to develop my leadership philosophy outlined below. Team First My team and the people on my team come first. I focus on the holistic wellbeing of each member of my team because happy people tend to be the most engaged and most productive people. Lead …with empathy, truly seeking to understand where others are coming from. ...by being authentic, knowing and being honest about my own strengths and blind spots. …by example. How I show up every day as a leader is important for the team because I can't always control my circumstances, but I can control how I react to them. …by being present and accessible, engaging in the moment and welcoming discussion. …with collaboration and communication. The best way to promote a healthy culture of cross-functional collaboration and communication is to model it with my peers at the leadership level. Coach …with honest and timely feedback. Manage with courage through difficult conversations. …by listening. I spend more time listening than talking and tailor my approach to the individual based on their needs and communication style. ..with a growth mindset. I never stop learning, and I partner with each member of my team to develop plans so they continue to grow professionally. …by using failures as opportunities for coaching, learning, and growth. I seek to create a safe, positive, and nurturing environment that breeds creativity. Drive …by aligning the team around a common goal. I communicate "what" to do but provide resources and autonomy for individuals to figure out "how" to do it. …by empowering the team. They take ownership and drive towards positive outcomes. …with clear expectations and priorities, then let the team deliver. …by embracing change, encouraging progress through new technologies, methodologies, and processes. Inspire …by articulating the vision and purpose. Understanding the "why" of a project or initiative is motivating and can be used as a rally cry for the team. …by promoting diversity. Different backgrounds, experiences, and thoughts cultivate an environment of innovation, helping teams find creative solutions to the most challenging problems. …with strong opinions loosely held. Strong points of view are encouraged but it's equally important to be open-minded and receptive to feedback. …by celebrating wins and having fun! What resonates with you? What would you add?
My journey at Nike has come to an end. Over the past 12 years I have been very fortunate and proud to have launched innovative, industry defining products, worked with incredibly talented and creative teammates and leaders, engaged with world class development partners, and forged genuine friendships. I will miss the swoosh, but I'm ready for the next opportunity. #OpenToWork
