406: Relatable Leadership: William’s Journey from High School Dropout to CFO

What does it take to go from the mail room to the C-suite? And how does someone stay grounded in empathy while holding one of the highest positions in a global firm?

In this episode of Leadership with Heart, William McKinley Washington II, Global CFO at Baker McKenzie, shares a journey that challenges assumptions about leadership, success, and what it means to rise.

His story begins far from corner offices and executive meetings. William is open about being a high school and college dropout, a young father navigating food stamps and homelessness, and someone who never expected to one day lead a global finance team across 46 countries.

This conversation is not about titles. It is about growth, ownership, and leadership that begins with a human connection. William speaks candidly about the moment he was told he was not ready for the role he wanted and how he turned that into a turning point. Rather than push back, he leaned in, brought in a coach, embraced the harsh feedback, and reshaped his leadership. The result was not just a promotion. It was a transformation.

What stands out most is his commitment to authenticity. When he stepped into the CFO role, his priority was not strategy or performance metrics. It was a connection. At one of his earliest team meetings, a colleague shared a powerful personal story that brought the room to tears. That openness has become the foundation of how he leads.

This episode will offer insight and inspiration if you are in the early stages of your career or facing a leadership crossroads. William’s path is a reminder that doors may open unexpectedly, but what matters most is the courage to walk through them and bring others with you.

How do you lead when no one is watching? And what would it take for you to show up more fully, not just as a professional, but as a person? Let me know what resonates with you.