For Renee Agler, selfless leadership is essential to inspire others. “Prioritizing the needs of others over your own, acknowledging the importance of collective efforts over individual contributions, and being willing to forgo personal gain for the benefit of others,” said Agler. “This fosters a culture of shared success and mutual support.”
Relying on empathy, relationship-building and inclusivity has been essential to Agler’s position as the executive director at Baker McKenzie.
Baker McKenzie helps clients overcome the challenges of competing in the global economy by solving complex legal problems across borders and practice areas. Its unique culture, developed over 70 years, enables the company of 13,000 to understand local markets and navigate multiple jurisdictions, working together as trusted colleagues and friends to instill confidence in its clients.
Before assuming the role of executive director, Agler had an impressive career as an HR leader. At Baker McKenzie, she has played a key role in building the Tampa Center from the ground floor and now leads the overall strategic direction of the global center.
“Renee possesses an innate source of energy, intensity, and influence that enables her to drive for tangible results through effective collaboration and innovative problem-solving,” said her colleagues. “She operates with a keen sense of urgency and navigates challenges with agility and adaptability.”
Her leadership skills and strategic approach have led to accolades and invites. In 2022, Agler was invited to be a panelist at USAS on return to office, and in 2023, she was asked to serve as the chair of the competitiveness committee and board member for the Economic Development Council for Tampa Bay. Agler was previously on the board for the FL Gulf Coast Chapter of Alzheimer’s and Pace Center for Girls and was the entertainment chair for the Cattle Baron’s Ball for the American Cancer Society. She is a member of the University of South Florida Women in Leadership & Philanthropy and has created a personal scholarship for the USF’s Byrd Institute.
As a leader, Agler said she prides herself on being humble. “I lead by example, admitting my mistakes and sharing what I’ve learned,” she said. “Regardless of my leadership role, I always seek to learn from others at all levels, and this approach fosters new ways of thinking and the discovery of fresh ideas while challenging me to see things from a different perspective.”
Agler said she prioritizes growth over ego and believes in sharing credit. “This may not be a conventional superpower, but I firmly believe it is the cornerstone of the leader I am today and a catalyst for personal and team development,” she said.
