A LIFE OF SERVICE IS A LIFE WELL-LIVED

“No job is too big or too small for any of us when needed.” It’s a belief President and Managing Partner, Philippe Jeck, of the law firm Jeck, Harris, Raynor & Jones, says is essential to his success as a leader. “A leader sets the tone of the organization. The responsibility of leadership is to represent the best characteristics to which they aspire.”

Philippe and his partners counsel a diverse clientele, including businesses, closely held companies, real estate developers, and high-net-worth individuals. His work naturally aligns with the mission of the Economic Council of Palm Beach County. “I have studied the Economic Council from afar for decades and have always been impressed by its balanced and thoughtful approaches to advancing the county’s economic environment.”

A member for the past five years, he is proud of the Council’s commitment to the betterment of the county. “The sincerity of the Council’s initiatives to put self-interest aside and raise the tide for all boats matches my leadership philosophy.”

That approach was evident as the Council worked hard to pass the housing bond, however, that is only one of many steps as housing remains a pressing issue that affects every industry. “Adequate housing is the best avenue for most people to feel secure, improve their quality of life, and plan a better future for themselves and their families. Home ownership is the best way for most people to build wealth and advance their economic security and their children’s future.”

Beyond housing, Philippe says other hurdles must be overcome. “Maintaining a strong economy requires addressing the most pressing issues facing residents and my employees. The pressing issues are transportation and traffic, resiliency, education, water availability, and pollution. By addressing these issues, the momentum of our economic growth will be sustainable. Forward-thinking solutions will help fight the forces that pull resources into short-term solutions at the expense of long-term investment. Putting effort into long-term investment while the economy is strong fuels sustained prosperity here. The Economic Council has the voice to encourage this kind of an agenda.”

As someone who shows the way by doing, Philippe strives to emulate inspirational real life models. “Showing by example how to handle pressure reduces tensions and instills confidence.” He embraces this philosophy, empowering his team of 15 employees and fostering a work culture centered around positivity. “Treating each employee as a person and not only an asset supports our culture. It helps avert small problems becoming bigger problems. My speech to all people I hire includes that two things can get you fired on the spot at the firm: saying, “It’s not my job” or violating our profession’s ethics, particularly of confidentiality or honesty.”

Absolute honesty and respect for others are lessons he learned early on by watching his most significant teacher of all, his father Lester, who had a successful military career serving in both Vietnam and Korea. “His example of how to live a life worth living imprinted many lessons my three siblings and I all aspire to apply to our lives. Hard work, a sense of duty, self-sacrifice, servant leadership, open-mindedness, lifelong learning, self-reliance, and deferred gratification are all attributes that I can honor him only by feeling confident that I have instilled them in my children.”

Philippe is the father of two daughters, Sarah, a partner at a boutique law firm in Jacksonville, and Lauren, a physician in Charlotte, North Carolina. He also has four granddaughters. “I love being a dad and seeing how the right environment can provide incredible opportunity to a kid.” That passion led him to get involved with numerous organizations, such as The Early Learning Coalition of Palm Beach County, Palm Health Foundation, and The Edna Runner Tutorial Center. “So many kids are in a challenging environment, and I want to help those kids reach their potential.”

He champions equal opportunity and embraces change. It was a big part of his upbringing. “My father, a handsome young Lieutenant in the army, married my mother, Yvonne, a cute French woman, and we lived on bases throughout the United States and Europe.” Imagine the culture shock of going from Germany and France and starting again in Arkansas and Alabama. However, the ability to adapt has served Philippe well. “Growing up with change makes me comfortable in almost any kind of setting. It allows me to pivot quickly as markets change and to find where growth exists. It allows me to feel comfortable in a room of strangers with no anxiety.”

When Philippe isn’t working or enjoying time with his wife Shauna, a renowned local dermatologist, he enjoys exhilarating sports that ignite his adrenaline. His spirit for adventure intertwines with his dedication to leadership and progress. With his calm, cool style, he navigates the unpredictable, a skill he demonstrates professionally with seamless proficiency and personally as he conquers unpredictable terrains both above sea level and below. “I enjoy rock climbing, skiing double black diamonds, and scuba diving. I love adventure. It gives me a sense of accomplishment and allows me to overcome fear and face mental and physical challenges. The risk-reward is right there, and it’s immediate.”

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Conversations with the Council was written by: Corey Saban. Corey Saban is a communications strategist working with clients on public speaking skills, corporate storytelling, and marketing initiatives that drive results.