What is an influencer? Simply put, it is one who wields influence, no social media account needed. They are the people, be they civil leaders, CEOs, or media personalities, who see something they want to do and have the skills, reputation, and willpower to make sure it gets done. They are the movers and shakers, the leaders who shape the future of our state.
Arkansas Money and Politics is proud to honor this year’s influencers.
2023 AMP Influencer: William Jones, IV, COO, Sissy’s Log Cabin
What’s your secret to success?
I don’t know that I will ever feel like I’ve fully arrived at “success.” At every opportunity in my career, I do my best to prepare and finish strong. I also believe that giving back is a huge part of success. Whatever success my team has had, we do all we can to share that with the communities we belong to.
How did your education prepare you for your career?
The education that prepared me most for the role I have today was working from a young age. I don’t think there is anything that prepares you more for the world than real responsibility.
What’s an alternate path you could have taken, had things worked out differently?
I think I would have become an engineer like my grandfather. I’ve always loved creating and building things, and I am blessed that I get to do that every day with my family.
Who are your mentors or inspirations?
My inspirations have been my dad, Bill, and grandmother, Sissy. Growing up, I watched them transform a small log cabin into a multi-regional brand with six locations and a strong vision for the future. When you get to witness something like that, it makes you believe that focus and hard work can lead to anything.
What is your leadership style?
I try to lead in a way that I would like to be led: Try hard, follow through on your promises, and lead by example. I aspire to be a leader whom others can depend on and one that my children will look up to.
In your experience, what is the secret to inspiring others to take action?
I believe the best way to inspire others is to take action. You can’t tell someone to confront problems without being willing to tackle those problems yourself.
