Cathy Hargenrader spent 35 years at the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA). While there, she served as a member of the CIA’s Corporate Executive Leadership Coaching Program where she coached emerging leaders and Senior Intelligence Service officers. She now has the privilege to serve as a coach with the Army Leadership Program and is an active member of the Impact Center’s Women’s Executive Leadership Program.
TAKEAWAYS
Pioneering Flex Hours at Prestigious & High-Pressure Jobs
When Cathe joined the CIA, there were few women—and little HR support for part-time parents. After a painful experience in which she was penalized on a performance review for working three days a week, Cathe, with the support of senior mentors, began building a network of mothers to chart a different path forward.
After many years and much perseverance, the effort gained sponsorship from a senior director and achieved a critical policy change: performance evaluations were no longer tied to “tour of duty,” or days worked. The network still exists today, connecting women’s groups across the agency, piloting flex-time arrangements, and it has expanded to include men navigating caregiving responsibilities.
Promote the Work You Do & Don’t Be Afraid to Ask
Cathe credits her work ethic with earning the respect of colleagues and opening the door to advancement opportunities, even while working flexible hours. Her advice is simple: don’t be afraid to say, “I’m going to work really hard, and I believe in what I’m doing,” before asking for what you want.
This past year, Cathe has continued to support young women as well as colleagues nearing retirement who were forced out of the agency. By asking—“What are you the go-to person for?”—she helps them identify their core strengths and translate those capabilities to opportunities beyond the agency.