Episode 061 – Debra A. Cafaro, Chairman and CEO, Ventas Inc.

 Episode 061 – Debra A. Cafaro, Chairman and CEO, Ventas Inc.

On this episode of the Executives’ Exchange, Debra A. Cafaro, Chairman and CEO of Ventas Inc. discusses the importance of recognizing and leveraging one's unique and professional strengths. Known as the longest-standing female CEO of an S&P 500 company, get inspired by Debra’s indelible impact on the real estate industry through her strategic foresight and long-standing track record of success in the business world.

00:00 – Intro

01:36 – Cafaro’s strong upbringing

07:30 – Decision to pursue becoming a lawyer

12:21 – Taking a risk to join the business side

16:50 – Discussing real estate investment trusts

19:40 – The journey to Ventas

23:23 – Cafaro’s perspective on specs

25:05 – Main responsibilities as CEO

25:13 – Message from our sponsor, Shure

25:44 – Career path to CEO

28:30 – Lessons learned from self-doubt

30:23 – Leading Ventas through hardships

37:41 – Tailwinds & Headwinds of Ventas

41:28 – Ventas OI (operational insights)

44:16 – Cafaro civic leadership & philanthropy in Chicago

47:57 – Prioritization to give back to your community

52:04 – Rapid fire questions

53:19 – Outro

Episode Link: Ventas Inc.

Host: Margaret Mueller, President & Chief Executive Officer, The Executives’ Club of Chicago  

Producer: Eva Penar, Chief Content & Communications Officer, The Executives’ Club of Chicago  

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