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News | May 17, 2022

Leadership Reflection: Joe Downey

DLA Disposition Services Ft. Campbell Area Manager

Portrait of man
Leadership Spotlight: Joe Downey
Get to know Joe Downy, the area manager of Fort Campbell, Kentucky.
Photo By: DLA Disposition Services
VIRIN: 220517-D-D0441-201
Can you tell us about yourself?

I’ve been married for 39 ½ years, and I like to travel.

Describe your job in a sentence or two.

I manage and advise five personnel on all aspects of property receipt. I work with customers on RIP, MOU’s, scrap and environmental issues. I also track administrative actions for two sites.

What is your area of responsibility? 

Tennessee, Kentucky, and part of West Virginia

How long have you worked for the federal government including military service?

35 years

How long have you worked for DLA Disposition Services?

I’ve worked for DLA Disposition Services for 15 years.

What is your favorite thing about your line of work? 

Assisting the warfighter.

What is the best piece of advice someone has given you?

Treat others as you want to be treated.

What is your favorite memory with DLA Disposition Services?

The views of Camp Leatherneck in Afghanistan as I was flying away.

What is one characteristic that you believe every leader should possess?

Adaptability

What is your leadership philosophy and how does that tie into your line of work?

My leadership philosophy is strategic – taking care of customers and employee needs so they succeed in their mission.

How would you describe your leadership style and why has it worked so well for you? Democratic/Participative – my team has a wealth of knowledge and years, and they know it is valued. 

Tell us how you approach change.

Open-mindedness – change happens every day and we must be flexible.

What keeps you motivated? 

Knowing we can make a difference when assisting others.

What do you look for when evaluating top talent?

Passion for knowledge and your job as well as doing the right thing.

What are your best practices for achieving goals or accomplishing tasks?

Set phase markings and track your progress.

What do you see as your biggest challenge right now?

Keeping the team focused on task while not knowing the future of our site.

Why is networking to build professional relationships so important in achieving success?

By networking you know who can assist with issues or questions you need advice with.

What mistakes have you seen individuals make that prevent them from being successful?

Not applying themselves.

Name your favorite/recent book(s) you have read?

The Bible

Tell us something that most people might not know about you or your directorate?

I had a farmer’s license when I was 11 years old.

What was your first job?

Farming

What is your best memory of working here?  

Listening to the radio while working in the fields. A radio was a big plus back then.

What did you want to be when you grew up?

A Soldier

What are your hobbies?

Travel with my wife and golfing along with some woodworking.