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Utah Business

Recognizing the executives shaping Utah’s business future.

Nicole Carlisle Squires | 2024 Executive Excellence

Recognizing the executives shaping Utah’s business future.
Nicole Carlisle Squires | Photographed by Amir Jackson

Chief Counsel, U.S. | Rio Tinto

/in/nicolecarlislesquires/ 

What leadership philosophy guides your strategic vision and decision-making?

As a leader, I believe in embodying authenticity, striving for excellence, courageously voicing hard truths and fostering empathy. Authenticity forms the bedrock of effective leadership. Leading by example, embracing transparency and being true to yourself all build trust in others; trust is essential in cultivating strong and enduring relationships.

How do you approach mentorship?

I’ve sought to create a safe space for the people I mentor to share their fears, doubts and aspirations without judgment. I try to actively listen, show empathy and maintain confidentiality. So many of us experience imposter syndrome in our careers, and it’s critical to find a safe place to express those feelings and receive reassurance that we deserve to be where we are.

Savannah Beth Withers Taylor is the assistant editor of Utah Business and a graduate of the editing and publishing program at Brigham Young University. Beth has written content about travel, academics, and mental health for Stowaway magazine, BYU College of Humanities and United Way. She enjoys traveling, reading, eating, and mercilessly defeating loved ones in anything competitive.