NE North Dakota News

Sarah Horak, a business owner and University of North Dakota (UND) alumna, shared her leadership insights during the university's 18:83 Speaker’s Series. Horak, who co-owns Brick and Barley, Level 10, and O’Really’s Irish Pub in Grand Forks with her husband, emphasized the importance of managing assets as if they were one's own.

“Consider if this was your money, your savings or your livelihood – what would you do if it was all yours?” she asked attendees.

Horak holds three degrees from UND and has recently taken on a role at Brady Martz & Associates. During her talk, she recounted an influential moment from a job interview during her senior year at UND. The interviewer told her they were looking for people who would “run it like they own it,” a principle that has guided Horak throughout her career.

“There’s this ripple effect that happens when employees start to think like owners – the whole business thrives,” Horak explained.

She also spoke about the challenges faced during the COVID-19 pandemic when she had to close businesses and lay off staff. This situation forced creativity and risk-taking, leading to the launch of a cookie business that thrived due to its alignment with social distancing norms.

“Leading means evolving — finding ways to pivot and continue on,” Horak stated.

In conclusion, Horak stressed that talent alone is insufficient for leadership success; work ethic and personality are crucial. She encouraged reflecting on leaders who have made positive impacts through consistency and value addition rather than superficial attributes.

Leadership is not merely a title but achieved through mindset, hard work, and results. Accountability is key as leaders must make tough decisions and communicate effectively with their teams to build trust.