This morning the Chamber hosted a Boston’s Future Leaders (BFL) breakfast with Charlie Baker, president & CEO of Harvard Pilgrim Health Care.

The BFL program is only a few years old – otherwise it would almost certainly count Charlie among its alumni. He joined the Weld administration at the age of 33, and by 37 was Massachusetts Secretary of Administration and Finance – serving as the state’s chief budget writer and Governor Weld’s closest advisor.

After winning wide acclaim for his work in state government, Charlie took the reigns at Harvard Pilgrim – rescuing the company from near bankruptcy and leading it to the top of national rankings for health care plans.

His address this morning was ideally suited to the BFL members and alumni in attendance.  Charlie spoke about being a leader, and used examples from his own life to illustrate the path one takes to get there:

• He noted the importance of either having a mentor or a model – someone you can watch, interact with, and learn from;
• The need to be patient and persistent – to open a 10th door if nine have been slammed in your face;
• The value of having a plan;
• The ability to learn from mistakes and not repeat them; and
• The great benefit of having a little luck.

Aside from sharing his experience and views on leadership, Charlie also offered some valuable advice to the dozens of Boston’s Future Leaders in the room:

• Leadership is more about who you are than what you do – the key is to really know yourself.
• Push past your limits, take risks, and do things that are uncomfortable, and you will expand your horizons and grow as a leader.
• Know and respect those around you. Build teams, connect with employees, and learn from both your superiors and your subordinates.

If Charlie’s career is any indication, following his advice just may present Boston’s Future Leaders with great opportunities for further development and success.