#292: Kecia Steelman, CEO, Ulta Beauty – Progress over perfection
About this episode
Kecia Steelman discusses her leadership approach and the importance of progress over perfection in driving business success.
Today, she is the CEO of Ulta Beauty, leading over 1500 stores worldwide, striking partnerships with Chanel and Beyonce, and creating record growth since she took over in early 2025. That kind of career momentum doesn’t happen by accident. And in this conversation, you’ll see the “progress over perfection” mentality that’s helped Kecia do it – all while building a strong team culture that’s laser focused on serving customers. If you’ve ever felt stuck overthinking a decision, here’s what it takes to beat analysis paralysis and keep pushing forward even when you don’t have all the answers. You’ll also learn: Kecia’s 80/20 rule for faster, bolder decisions Why your company strategy might not be sticking (and what to do about it) How to respond when you get passed over for a promotion The advice she wants every other woman in leadership to hear Take your learning further. Get proven leadership advice from these (free!) resources: The How Leaders Lead App: A vast library of 90-second leadership lessons to stay sharp on the go…
More episodes of How Leaders Lead with David Novak
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- #293: David Lafitte – CEO, Tecovas – Serve others with radical hospitality
- #291: Mark Smucker, Chair and CEO, The J.M. Smucker Company – Understand the soul of your brand
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