Genny Heikka has always loved the power of storytelling and helping people grow. And as director of leadership development and marketing at CBH Homes, she is able to do both. With ad agency experience and leadership coach certification, she works to equip leaders with knowledge and strategy in the home building industry.
Finding her way into the industry doing two things she loves, she says, “It means so much to work in one of the most impactful industries out there – building homes. I’m always reminding my team that we don’t just build houses. We build communities, memories, futures, and so much more.”
She shares more on the qualities needed to lead and how to get started below.
Are there any traits you consider ‘good signs’ of someone becoming a leader?
Definitely. Initiative and a team-first attitude. People who take ownership and genuinely want to make others better stand out to me. We believe everyone at CBH is a leader (we even have “Leader” after our titles on our email signatures), and it’s really all about how you show up. When someone starts raising their hand for the harder things and encouraging others along the way, I always feel like I’m seeing a future leader in action.
What does it take to be a good leader in the home building industry today?
I think great leadership in home building today is really about adaptability, vision, and action. Our industry is constantly changing and that’s exciting. To lead well, we need to stay grounded in our purpose, but flexible in our approach. It’s about being people-first, and hyper focused on our mission as a team. At CBH Homes, we say all the time that we build dreams—and that really starts with building up the people who make those dreams happen.
What’s your go-to advice for younger individuals who want to lead?
Start now! Leadership isn’t a destination; it’s a daily choice. I believe what you’re doing today is paving the way for your future success. You don’t need a promotion to start building your leadership muscle—there are opportunities around you every day, especially if you have a willingness to serve others, work hard, and stick with it when things get tough (because they will!). Find a leader you admire, learn some of their best practices and emulate them… the more you lead today, right where you’re at, the more confident and equipped you’ll be when your moment to step into a leadership position comes.
Does CBH offer leadership programs for its employees?
We do—and we’re so excited about the emphasis we’ve always put on equipping our team to lead. It’s actually something that drew me to CBH and is a really special part of our culture. Personally, I think our priority on leadership development is one of our key differentiators, and one of the reasons we’re consistently voted a #1 Best Place to Work in Idaho. We have regular, ongoing Leadership Coffees and other events for our employees that are created to inspire our team and help everyone grow. We truly believe in cultivating a positive mindset and helping our team develop skills to be able to lead with impact.
What’s your take on the shortage of women in the home building industry?
We’re huge supporters of women in construction. Our VP, Ronda Conger, is a dynamo in the industry and has been for years, and CBH is proud to be powered by 70% women. It’s exciting to see more and more girls and women considering a path in the industry, and we love supporting and partnering with local organizations that help women realize they can pursue their passions, no matter the industry. I was personally part of an event we hosted for Girl Scouts, where we provided young girls a day of hands-on fun and exposure to the world of construction, and it was amazing to see them learn about possible career paths and meet our team.
