A leader’s success is directly tied to their ability to set an example to those they’re leading and manage their own sense of discipline.
Today on Leadership Blueprints, we wrap up our DOD series with a special guest, Dan Bailey. Dan is a former naval officer and the current vice president of commercial operations at Quanta Services. Tuning in, you’ll hear about Dan’s time in the Navy, moving from active duty to Quanta Services, what the company does, and why leaders need to be enablers.
We delve into Dan’s role at Quanta Services and how he brings value to the business as a whole, before discussing the biggest lessons he learned from his transition from active duty, what led him to decide to leave, and how he determined what he wanted to focus on next. Dan discusses the leadership lessons he has learned from his military experience, how they have benefited him in his new career path, and what he hopes to achieve.
As always, Dan answers our rapid-fire questions and, to close, leaves listeners with some pearls of wisdom and tells us all about the Honor Foundation.
Be sure to press play now!
Key Points From This Episode:
- What drew our guest to the Naval Academy.
- Dan tells us about his role at Quanta Services and how he brings value to the company.
- Lessons he learned from his transition from active duty and how he decided what to do next.
- How being in the military has served Dan as a leader in the private sector.
- How to apply to the Honor Foundation and Dan’s advice for transitioning officers.
Quotes:
“As a leader in any company, you have the opportunity to be an enabler to the degree that you want to be.” — Dan Bailey
“If I’m doing my job right, we’re able to move faster, bring more value, and help the customer succeed in their projects and their goals.” — Dan Bailey
“A leader doesn’t succeed by using force, they succeed by using example.” — Dan Bailey
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.