Paula Tenuta
Senior Vice President, Policy & Advocacy, Building Industry & Land Development Association
Year: 2021
Magic Moment: This industry and my career have been full of magic moments, but if they can all be housed in one space, it would be the annual BILD Awards where we profile all the extraordinary work that home builders and all those involved in creating communities are showcased. Being a part of how they house the residents of this vibrant region, and contributing to those meaningful dialogues to move the policy needles to help make things happen – – they continue to inspire and shape my journey to this day.
Key Influence: Julie DiLorenzo from Diamante Developments and My Father.
Key Lesson: Julie taught me early on that giving up is not an option, that there is a solution to every challenge, and if you think hard enough and are committed to the task, and if you pull from the strength of those that surround you, there is always a way forward.
The first lesson my Father taught me: ‘If you don’t have anything nice to say about someone, don’t say anything at all.’ The second was to listen with my eyes as much as my ears, and to listen before I speak.
Next Big Challenge As An Industry: Biases, stigmas, assumptions — getting away from those and having fact based discussions where all stakeholders are willing to listen and understand each other…. If we can get to that place, any city-region challenges can be met.
On Championing Others… Championing others requires recognizing their strengths, and allowing them to grow… leading from behind and allowing their voice to be heard in a meaningful way.
One word that captures you: Although questionable, I’ve been described as a puma – – adaptable, elusive and always hunting for information and ways to navigate situations before striking on a solution…
Secret Talent: I can make anyone smile.