Nathan Yearsley Uses Chicago Booth AMP to Deepen Leadership Skills

From Charitable Aid to the Executive Suite

When Nathan Yearsley was a child, his family relied on charitable food assistance from the Blue Chip Group. Years later, he rose to become President and Chief Financial Officer of that exact company.

A High School Dropout’s Path to Leadership

Yearsley’s path to the executive suite was unconventional. “I’m a high school dropout,” Yearsley shares.

When his father became seriously ill, Yearsley went to work to support his five younger siblings. Even after achieving considerable professional success later in life, he wanted to deepen his leadership capabilities.

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The Turning Point at Chicago Booth

With his company’s support, he chose Chicago Booth’s Advanced Management Program to complement his experience with a leading business school credential, according to chicagobooth.edu. A turning point arrived during the program’s first week.

During an exercise in personal storytelling, Yearsley stood before fellow senior executives and shared his background with authenticity. His peers' positive response gave him the confidence to speak publicly about his past.

Embracing the Journey on a National Stage

When the public relations team at Blue Chip Group suggested highlighting his personal connection to the organization, he welcomed the chance. He credits the Chicago Booth exercise with giving him the courage to share his journey.

Since then, Yearsley has appeared on dozens of TV and radio programs, expanded his presence as an industry voice, and joined several national boards. The executive education program also helped him recognize his readiness for broader responsibilities by examining his organizational approach and tackling complex business challenges.