Az Big Media will be profiling one of the Most Influential Women in Arizona for 2025 each day leading up to the celebratory dinner on August 21, 2025. Today, meet Henri’ Dawes, vice president of of DE&I and learning and development at Achieve.
MORE NEWS: The Most Influential Women in Arizona for 2025
DEEPER DIVE: The Most Influential Women in Commercial Real Estate for 2025
Henri’ Dawes, Achieve
Background: With more than 30 years of leadership spanning aviation, financial service and customer operations, Dawes is a bold strategist and people-first leader. She designs inclusive programs that drive performance, elevate talent, and build cultures where learning, equity and belonging support business growth.
Source of pride: “I’m most proud of helping aspiring leaders—especially women, minorities, and underrepresented groups—discover their strengths and step into roles they once thought were outside their reach. When people recognize their potential and rise with confidence, it creates a lasting impact for them, their teams, and the communities they serve.”
Professional advice: “Lead with authenticity and courage. Believe that you belong in the room. Stay curious, mentor generously, and build bridges. Leadership isn’t just a title; it’s about growing through discomfort, showing up fully, and inspiring others. And always give yourself permission to celebrate your accomplishments.”
Surprising fact: “I began my career working overnight shifts cleaning airplanes. It wasn’t glamorous, but it taught me to learn business from the ground up, be unafraid to do any job, and that everyone deserves to be seen and valued for their contributions. I learned that leadership starts with respect and humility.”
Celebratory dinner
The 2025 honorees will be celebrated at a special awards dinner on August 21, 2025, at Chateau Luxe in Phoenix. Sponsors of the Most Influential Women in Arizona reception and dinner include presenting sponsor Phillips Law Foundation, cover photo shoot sponsor Greenberg Traurig, VIP red carpet sponsor Vertex Education and Legacy Traditional Schools, dessert sponsor Silver Cain, beverage sponsor Arizona Escrow & Financial Corporation, 360 photo booth sponsor Clayco, digital sponsor Ganem Companies, fine jewelry sponsor Osborne Jewelers, and special gift sponsor Tarbell’s. Get tickets here.
