AUSTIN LORD/GATHER PORTRAIT STUDIO
Courtney Ross
Whether they’re working behind a desk, in the field, or on the road, trailblazing women are paving their own way in Music City. Now they’re taking a break from their busy schedules to share their success stories with us.
THE DAILY HUSTLE
I lead the effort of supporting and driving engagement with local stakeholders, business organizations, and civic associations on behalf of Amazon in Nashville. I work closely with local leaders and policymakers to understand what their citizens need, how we can be a good neighbor, and how to create sustainable growth, both for the Nashville community and for Amazon.
CHALLENGES FACED
I was always willing to take on whatever task or project and used that opportunity to learn something new. I have worked very hard and made a lot of sacrifices to achieve the success I have had but I wouldn’t change a thing. The most significant professional challenge in my career has been becoming a working mom. As many women encounter, I had to learn how to navigate this juggling act and manage the very real “mom guilt” that never goes away. At the end of the day, I focus on being a good example to both my son and daughter of a strong, dedicated, and hard-working woman in this modern world.
THE DEFINITION OF SUCCESS
Very simply, I define success as finding happiness. Professionally, I find fulfillment and joy in what I do every day and I cannot think of a better way to define success.
WORK PERKS
I love working with the team at Amazon and working with the incredible business and community leaders in Nashville. There are so many people and organizations doing so much good in our region; it is a pleasure to work alongside them to further their missions for the greater good of the community.
THE NASHVILLE CONNECTION
There is no place I would rather work, live, or raise our family than in Nashville. While I am from Memphis, I have lived in Nashville for 20 years. I have made lifelong friends here who are like family, I have been embraced by the incredible business community, and I love watching my children thrive here. There is something unique about the people who are not only from Nashville but have moved here as well.
ADVICE TO OTHERS
I feel fortunate to have been surrounded by strong, driven, and visionary women in my personal and professional life. I try to pay this forward with my colleagues and friends and most importantly my 10-year-old daughter. She is fierce and I hope some of that comes from my example. My advice to young women is to have patience. You won’t find success and fulfillment immediately; it is a process, and the journey is the best part.
Meet Courtney Ross and other women in the local community who are the best in their fields at our annual Women in Business event.
>>> PURCHASE TICKETS
The mix and mingle reception will be held on August 18 from 5-7:30 p.m., to network with our Women in Business honorees plus 300 other local business professionals. Throughout the evening, we will be doing live Q and A sessions with each woman!