Navigating Industries: Heidi Nadler's Odyssey Through Financial Services, Publishing, and the NBA
“Trust yourself and your instinct. You shouldn't assume that the other people in the room are smarter than you or that their opinions are more important than yours.”
Global Head of League Finance for the National Basketball Association (NBA) Heidi Nadler shared that advice during our February photoshoot.
“Early in your career, it’s easy to believe that more seasoned people are always right or that their opinions are more valid, but they might not be. Don’t be afraid to speak up and raise alternate views. And ALWAYS ask questions, fostering an intellectual curiosity to understand what’s going on around you.”
“Even though I no longer practice as an accountant, I started out my career in public accounting at a large firm. While I was excited about the experience I was getting there and the contacts I was making early in my career, I knew it wasn't my passion. I didn’t want to leave just to leave—I was looking for something that was really exciting.”
For Heidi, this started a lifelong journey of using her foundational finance skills to navigate new industries and solve new problems. “I was one of the first employees at what is now SiriusXM. I was in accounting and finance, but I was doing operational project management – setting up processes, systems, and technology. I loved being at a startup because I was able to wear a lot of hats and learn about operations, marketing, scaling the business, working with third parties, and so much more.”
From there, Heidi’s journey took her to many new industries like financial services and publishing. “Then one day the phone rang. The NBA was looking for someone with my skill set to manage overall league finance. Many interviews later, I wound up as the Head of League Finance for the NBA. You navigate different areas of your career and realize, as you advance or change industries , that we’re all trying to solve very similar questions to drive the company forward.”
“My past headshots were boring and serious so I wasn’t sure what to expect when I walked into Alissa’s studio. First and foremost, it was a really fun experience that was so positive and elevated how you felt about yourself. It was iterative and collaborative. As you went through her process and throughout the shoot, Alissa focused on the ‘why’ behind the photo and how particular shots make you feel. She spends time getting to know you so the pictures truly illustrate your personality and who you are.”
Thank you, Heidi, for sharing your journey with us.