For today’s Meet the Team blog, we get to meet Penelope. Penelope Bates recently joined LeadingResponse as our Senior Leadership Coordinator, bringing years of experience keeping teams organized, aligned, and running smoothly to a role where the bigger picture never gets lost in the day-to-day.
Even in a short time, she’s already built a reputation for being the person everyone can count on, whether it’s keeping projects on track, anticipating what’s needed before it’s asked for, or simply making sure the right people have the right information at the right time. Her role reflects both sharp organizational skill and a genuine care for helping the whole team succeed.
Give me your 30-second elevator speech. Who are you, what do you do, and what are your goals?
My name is Penelope Bates, a Puerto Rican Jew, born and raised on the island, a wife, and a mother of two amazing girls. Professionally, I’ve spent over 15 years as an Executive Assistant, learning and growing a little more with every challenge along the way. My goal is simple: live an honest, dignified life and, along the way, hopefully leave a positive mark on those I meet.
Who is your hero?
Jesus. To me, He’s the ultimate hero, the most loving, most loyal friend anyone could ask for.
What is your biggest fear?
Heights and big waves. Blame it on The Perfect Storm; I watched it once and never fully recovered.
What would you change about yourself if you could?
Believe it or not, overcoming fear. I used to hold back from sharing my thoughts, intimidated by other people’s experience or knowledge. Now I’ve learned we all have plenty to learn, and just as much to contribute.
What is your favorite thing about your career?
No two days look alike. I love the chance to make a real impact and the satisfaction of getting things done well.
What is your proudest accomplishment?
There are a few, but bringing people together tops the list. Growing up as the youngest of four siblings, surrounded by different cultures, taught me how to understand people. I once walked into a room full of C-suite executives from wildly different backgrounds and mindsets; you could feel the tension. So, I started a genuinely human conversation, and it broke the ice. By the end, we’d stopped seeing titles and cultures and just saw each other as people.
It might sound cheesy, but what motivates me to work hard is my love for people. Nothing makes me happier than helping someone feel at ease, comfortable, and less stressed. When people feel supported and have what they need, they’re inspired to do more, and I love being part of that.
What is your favorite book?
The Bible. It’s not just a book; it changes lives.
What makes you laugh the most?
My husband and my kids. They drive me absolutely crazy and make me laugh harder than anyone else on the planet, often at the same time.
What did you want to be when you were small?
A cashier, believe it or not! Then I grew up a bit and wanted to be a chef, then a designer. Honestly… I still do, ha!
If you could choose to do anything for a day, what would it be?
End People’s suffering.
What is your favorite game or sport to watch and play?
I love playing pool!
What would you sing at Karaoke night?
A heartbreaking Spanish mariachi ballad, hands down. I absolutely love karaoke!
Who is your favorite author?
Can it be a songwriter? Rubén Blades, Alejandro Sanz & R. Arjona.
Have you ever had a nickname?
Penny, but only the people who’ve known me since I was three get to use that one. Everyone else can call me P for short.
Do you like or dislike surprises?
I like them because they’re unexpected; I just don’t love them if I’m not “outfit ready”!
If you could go back in time, what year would you travel to?
1994, don’t ask why.
Aside from necessities, what one thing could you not go a day without?
COFFEE!
If you could share a meal with any 4 individuals, living or dead, who would they be?
Jesus C., Rubén Blades, Jordan Peterson, and Sofía Vergara.
What’s the most daring thing you’ve ever done?
Taken a car ride with a complete stranger, and jumped off a bridge into the sea.
Who would you want to play you in a movie of your life?
Penélope Cruz; we’d at least have the name half figured out.
What’s your favorite movie?
The Lost City, starring Andy Garcia; Silver Linings Playbook; and, of course, The Notebook
Is your glass half full or half empty?
Definitely half full.
What three items would you take with you on a deserted island?
Water, coffee, and eyeliner. Priorities.
Are you related or distantly related to anyone famous?
Not that I know of, but with a last name like De León, Christopher Columbus might be a distant relative!
If you had a warning label, what would yours say?
“Don’t be fooled by the face, she’s a softie.”
What song would you say best sums you up?
Preciosa (Mark Anthony).
Thank you!
Thank you so much for taking the time to chat with us today, Penelope. It’s been great getting to know you better. If you would like to learn more about our team, you can view more LeadingResponse Meet the Team blogs or visit our Team page.
