Acosta Group & NextUp: Empowering Women in Leadership, Together

A Partnership Rooted in Progress

Since 2009, Acosta Group has proudly partnered with NextUp (formerly the Network of Executive Women), an organization dedicated to advancing all women in business. This partnership has grown significantly over the years, underscoring Acosta Group’s commitment to fostering a dynamic workforce. 

We recently spoke with Vicki, HR Business Partner, and Melinda, Sr. Manager, Business Intelligence, who serve as co-chair ambassadors for NextUp within Acosta Group. They shared their personal experiences, insights on leadership, and the impact of NextUp on advancing women in the workplace. 

The Impact of Acosta Group’s Involvement

Reflecting on how this partnership has evolved, Vicki shared: 

“NextUp’s mission to provide their community with learning and hands-on leadership experiences to build the next generation of leaders inspired us to ramp up our partnership level in 2023. It aligns well with Acosta Group’s strategy to build and retain high-performing and diverse teams of change agents.” 

Acosta Group associates serve in leadership roles on NextUp regional boards and volunteer in their communities. The organization offers career development programs tailored for all levels, from individual contributors to new leaders, mid-level leaders, and director-level professionals. 

Vicki elaborated on the benefits of NextUp’s development programs: 

“We’ve been fortunate to have some of our associates be a part of these programs and have reaped the benefits of their involvement. Their offerings also expand into region events and national virtual events which are perfect opportunities to expand your network, connect with clients and customers, or explore new business opportunities.” 

Melinda’s NextUp Journey

Melinda discovered the power of networking and leadership development through NextUp shortly after joining Acosta nearly eight years ago. Her journey began when she relocated to Boulder, CO, and attended a NextUp Denver event. 

“They were a small but mighty group, and I volunteered on the Programming Committee. I learned very quickly that NextUp was great for networking, but there was so much more. The opportunity to volunteer created an arena where I could practice and expand my leadership skills as well as the ability to connect with incredible leaders from across the country and internally at Acosta.”

Her involvement with NextUp shaped her view on advancing women in the workplace: 

“Working with NextUp has amplified the importance of building other women up. It isn’t enough to climb the mountain—I need to bring others up with me.” 

The Power of Mentorship & Community

A strong support system is essential for women striving for leadership roles. Vicki emphasized the importance of mentorship and community: 

“For the moments when I think I am alone, being part of NextUp reassures me that I am not. The topics presented in their Career Accelerator University courses often align with the personal or professional challenges I am facing. When there is a place to share and learn, you want to come back more and more.” 

She also reflected on how community has influenced her career: 

“I’m learning to not feel as if I’m ‘bothering’ someone when I need help or an ear. I connect regularly with one of my peers and we just talk. Sometimes about work, sometimes not. It’s probably one of my favorite meetings because I know we’ve created a space to be vulnerable, to share, and to help if needed.” 

Advice for the Next Generation of Women Leaders

Vicki and Melinda offered these words of wisdom for women aspiring for advancement: 

• Vicki: “Observe the leaders you admire. Understand what it is that you admire about them. Get to know their stories. Assume nothing and ask questions. SHARE what you’ve learned.” 
• Melinda: “Take the risks and do things scared because there is always something to learn in the end.” 

We asked both leaders to name the first chapter of a rewritten leadership playbook for women: 

• Vicki: “BeYOUtiful: Be You – Strategies to Fill Your Heart, Mind, and Soul.” 
• Melinda: “Rising Together: Amplifying Women’s Impact (Because Who Runs the World?).” 

Moving Forward Together 

Through our partnership with NextUp, we continue to empower and uplift women at all stages of their careers. Together, we are paving the way for a more inclusive and dynamic future for women in business. 

Interested in learning more? Check out Life at Acosta Group.