Welcome to our WBE Spotlight Series! Today, we’re thrilled to shine the spotlight on Susan Kahn, Managing Partner of 44 Degrees North Partners. Join us as we delve into Susan’s entrepreneurial journey and uncover the driving force behind her success in the Professional Services industry.
What inspired you to start your own business?
After retiring from a corporate career that spanned more than 30 years with the same Fortune 50 company, I had three goals in starting my business: to work with people I respect, to do work I enjoyed and where I could continue to learn, and to make a difference and add value for clients.
What is a business milestone or achievement that you are most proud of?
Over the past ten years, our focus has always been on genuine collaboration with our clients to deliver outcomes that drive business results. More than any single achievement or milestone, I am proud of the trust we have earned from clients, reflecting our commitment to consistently prioritize their needs.
What challenges have you faced as a woman business owner, and how did you overcome them?
In the early years, we faced a number of challenges related to new business development and business retention. We overcame these challenges in several ways, including through trial and error and by asking others for advice. Our curiosity, learning mindset and willingness to be vulnerable have served us well – and taught us a lot.
What advice would you give to aspiring women entrepreneurs?
(1) Set clear goals, but be flexible in the face of inevitable change and mistakes.
(2) Ask for and accept help from others.
(3) Stay positive, patient and resilient – progress and success do not happen in a straight line.
44 Degrees North Partners
44 Degrees North Partners is a strategic communications, investor relations, and reputation management consultancy that has been helping organizations build stronger stakeholder relationships since December 2014. With expertise in brand awareness, strategic alignment, and stakeholder advocacy, the firm offers comprehensive communication solutions including strategic planning and implementation, executive and brand positioning, corporate social responsibility and ESG communication strategy, change communication, crisis preparedness and response, and investor relations. Over more than a decade in business, 44 Degrees North Partners has established itself as a trusted partner for organizations seeking to enhance their communication effectiveness and strengthen their reputation in today’s complex business environment.
Stay positive, patient and resilient – progress and success do not happen in a straight line.