Strategy alum Mackey Smith has always been a people person. He expanded on this personality trait in the strategy program at BYU Marriott, where he learned to facilitate conversation and manage conflict, leading to a successful professional career.
“Strategy has taught me that there isn’t one right answer,” Smith says. “I’m someone who wants to work with other people and figure out ways to have high impact.” Smith works for Tanner LLC in Salt Lake City in the company’s strategy and leadership development department. He helps both small businesses and local governments develop strategic plans for matters such as company leadership succession and city planning. “Oftentimes, consulting firms develop great ideas that aren’t implemented by companies,” Smith says. “We build the strategy with our clients. They take ownership of the ideas and implement them almost one hundred percent of the time.” Smith got his start in strategy after transferring to BYU from Southern Virginia University in 2014. He applied to the strategy program on the recommendation of a professor. “As a kid, I used to beat adults at the board game Risk,” Smith recalls. “I’ve always loved plotting and planning and thinking strategically. I didn’t know much about the strategy program, but I applied, and it’s been the perfect fit.” In the strategy program, Smith found more than just a major—he found people to connect with. He enjoyed learning and working alongside like-minded people who inspired him with their passions. His interactions with his classmates also motivated him to run for president of the Strategy Society. In April 2017, Smith was elected by his peers to serve as president of the society. As president, he aimed to develop closer relationships between the program’s junior and senior classes. He also wanted women in business, strategy minors, and student parents to feel they had a place in the Strategy Society. To achieve these goals, he organized quality events to bring people together. Smith served as president of the Strategy Society until he graduated in December 2017. Now Smith’s daily responsibilities vary from planning city council retreats to hosting focus groups. He also facilitates open discussions aimed to resolve conflict. “My job is rewarding,” Smith says. “I love seeing people go home with burdens lifted off their shoulders.”
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Writer: Maggie Kuta
