The Brown & White

Tim Westergren founded Pandora in January 2000 and now serves as its Chief Strategy Officer. Tim is an award-winning composer, an accomplished musician and a record producer with 20 years of experience in the music industry. Tim received his B.A. from Stanford University, where he studied computer acoustics and recording technology. A musician's musician, he is obsessed with helping talented emerging artists connect with the music fans most likely to appreciate their music. In addition to guiding Pandora's overall strategy and vision, Tim now spends most of his time as Pandora's chief evangelist - traveling the country to meet with listeners to collect feedback, research local music, and spread the word of the Music Genome Project.

What is one critical lesson you have learned in the process of becoming an executive?

Don't do it alone. Find partners, and make them a part of your core team, and give them ownership. Be generous.

What people have had the greatest impact on your leadership and management style?

Hard to pick one person in particular. I've taken lots of little things, from lots of people.

What is your career highlight?

With Pandora there are so many, but perhaps the highlight has been the town halls I've held around the country where I've witnessed the genuine enthusiasm and joy of Pandora's listeners. That's tremendously fulfilling.

Have you had any career disappointments?

Many, many. But as a longtime working musician, that's something that I've accepted as part of the process.

What is your favorite book?

Currently, I'm enjoying "Stumbling on Happiness" by Daniel Gilbert.

What is your favorite quote?

Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.

Do you have any hobbies?

Piano, reading, and exercise.

What is the most important leadership quality to have in business?

Humility. This gives you the openness to know what you don't know and get the most out of people around you.

What advice do you have for college students on choosing a major and finding a job?

Keep a keen eye out for what really excites you - and when you notice it, chase it.