Form a team, identify a common goal and find a way to achieve it.
It's a leadership approach befitting Rob Dixon, former U.S. Marine and director of the Hollister Area Chamber of Commerce.
"By creating partnerships and empowering individuals, I have brought energy and enthusiasm to my organization and to the business community I represent," he says.
Dixon hasn't wasted any time during his 29 years.
A veteran of Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan, Dixon served as communications intelligence intercept operator and analyst in the Marine Corps. He was a team leader responsible for planning, personnel and equipment worth millions.
He briefed high-ranking officials and received numerous commendations for leadership and performance. Dixon was honorably discharged with top-secret security clearance.
He earned a bachelor's degree in political science from University of Missouri-St. Louis and served a summer internship in Washington, D.C. Dixon is studying for a master's degree in public administration with an emphasis in local government management at Missouri State University.
He joined the Hollister chamber in May 2008.
"My philosophy on leadership is to be a servant who helps others achieve their goals and who guides and directs the collective power of individuals towards a common good," he says.
Dixon created Partners in Education, a monthly meeting of government, community and education leaders.
Attendance at chamber events has doubled or tripled since Dixon began working there, and he has worked with Ozarks Technical Community College to open a campus in Taney County.
As a veteran, Dixon's role as vice chairman of the Branson Veterans Task Force is meaningful volunteer work.
"I encourage others to honor the sacrifices of veterans," he says.
"I create opportunities for citizens to learn about and remember our nation's military; and I help to plan and host events that attract thousands of veterans to Branson each year."
Dixon is public relations coordinator for the Branson Tri-Lakes Kiwanis Club, which works on behalf of children.
And he is membership committee chairman for the Blazing Trails District of the Boy Scouts of America.
"I truly believe that my purpose in life is to lead through service to others," he says.
"My goal has always been to leave my community better than I found it."[[In-content Ad]]
Under construction beside the existing Republic branch of the Springfield-Greene County Library District – which remains in operation throughout the project – is a new building that will double the size of the original, according to library officials.
