In any partnership, trust is a key player; both the trust you find in your partner and the trust you knowingly have in yourself. Joining BJ on this episode of Inspiring People & Places is John Grady, who serves as the Northeast Region Executive and Senior Vice President of Development at Wexford Science & Technology in Philadelphia.
As a seasoned executive with a wealth of experience in real estate, finance, city building, and corporate and public affairs, John has a remarkable track record of leading successful public-private partnerships. He knows how to craft compelling messaging and drive inclusive investment and growth across various sectors.
John also dives into his career arc, the great story of the Philadelphia Navy Yard and its redevelopment. In addition to key leadership lessons that John has learned while working on projects that bring the public and private sectors together in partnership.
Don’t miss this episode for his thoughts on how leadership has changed, why work transforms people and communities, and more!
Key Points From This Episode:
• The great story of Philadelphia’s Navy Yard and its redevelopment.
• The importance of private and public partnerships.
• Key leadership lessons John has learned while bringing together the public and private sectors to accomplish projects.
• The idea that work transforms people and communities.
Quotes:
“Working with good people really [gets] me motivated.” — John Grady
“The Navy Yard is a tremendous example of Philadelphia at its best. It’s got a bright future, and at its most fundamental core, it is a day-to-day real-life public-private partnership, every day.” — John Grady
“I’m a big believer that partnerships are built on trust. You have to go into a relationship trusting your partner, trusting what they can do well, trusting them to do that, and trusting yourself, knowing what you do well, and bringing that to the table.” — John Grady
“Work transforms communities. It transforms people.” — John Grady
Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:
What is Leadership Blueprints?
Leadership Blueprints is a podcast dedicated to helping leaders align teams, navigate chaos, and accomplish the mission. Hosted by BJ Kraemer—West Point graduate, combat veteran, and President & CEO of MCFA—this show dives into the principles, stories, and strategies behind effective leadership.
With a background in military service and experience leading teams in business, infrastructure, and complex projects, BJ understands that success comes down to execution, adaptability, and leading people well. Through in-depth interviews with accomplished leaders across business, sports, the military, and beyond, Leadership Blueprints will help you bring your vision to reality on projects that shape communities and industries.
Whether you’re leading in the boardroom, on the field, in the military, or within your own organization, this podcast is designed to provide the tools and mindset needed to lead with clarity, resilience, and purpose. Subscribe now and start building your Leadership Blueprint.