Pam Gardner, President of Business Operations, Houston Astros, currently serves as the longest-tenured female chief executive in Major League Baseball. The 2008 season is her eighth season as President of Business Operations in addition to her 20th overall with the organization. She was named to her current post in August of 2001. She oversees all revenue areas, customer service, building and financial operations, sponsorship and ticket sales, as well as community and marketing outreach programs. Pam will discuss management strategies, identify the core competencies of successful leaders, and describe key leadership characteristics/qualities.