Building Relationships: An Interview with Makda Fessahaye
Meet Makda Fessahaye
Professional people person
Introducing Makda Fessahaye, attorney at law and Associate Vice Chancellor for Human Resources at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. In her role, Makda oversees all human resources initiatives for UWM - which employs over 6,700 staff and serves more than 24,000 students - as well as consults to the University Chancellor's Cabinet, Deans, and shared governance on human resources related matters. Makda previously served in the cabinet of former Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barrett and Mayor Cavalier Johnson as the City of Milwaukee’s Chief Human Resources Officer, as well as served within several recent administrations of note across the state of Wisconsin. Among her many accolades, Makda has been honored with the Wisconsin Women in Government Rising Star Award, Madison365's Most Influential Black Leaders, In Business Greater Madison's 40 Under 40, and Milwaukee Business Journal’s 40 Under 40.
What is the best advice you have ever received?
Be open to different opportunities.
What is the best advice for your younger self upon beginning your career?
I wish I knew I would be alright :) I graduated law school without a full-time job on hand. I spent a lot of time concerned about what was next, only to be just fine in the long-run.
How can young professionals excel in the workplace?
You cannot succeed without the support and help of your network and community.
Don't be too prideful to ask for help or advice.
What is your best advice on how our young professionals can excel in the workplace?
Focus on improving and perfecting your craft and respective skill sets, but be sure to continue to network and meet with other professionals.
What are your best tips for those that are new to networking?
Attending large networking events may be overwhelming for some. It doesn't have to be! Reach out to someone you'd like to get to know to meet over coffee or lunch. You'll get more out of the interaction and a new person to add to your network.
Why is mentorship important?
It's incredibly important to get feedback and advice from people with different perspectives.
and finally, What do you love about Milwaukee?
Milwaukee is home, it feels like home, and it welcomes those who make it their home.
Find Makda on LinkedIn.
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