Celero is excited to recognize Cortnee Fagundes, Vice President of Technical Operations, as the Q3 2025 Duffy Award Winner. This quarterly honor celebrates team members who reflect the leadership ideals and values championed by Michael P. Duffy such as collaboration, accountability, respect, and commitment to exceptional performance.
Cortnee’s leadership over the past year has embodied all of these qualities and more.
A Transformative Force in Operations
In just one year on the Operations Leadership team, Cortnee has made a measurable and lasting impact. She approaches every challenge with focus and ownership, leading her team with clarity, consistency, and genuine care. Her ability to set expectations, follow through without supervision, and continually ask where she can contribute next has strengthened her department and influenced the broader organization.
Cortnee’s leadership was especially vital during the organization’s work to resolve Activations issues earlier this year. Her coordination between Technology, Sales, and Operations helped “right the ship,” laying the groundwork for the positive results we’re now seeing across teams. Her hands-on approach and willingness to bridge communication gaps played a central role in this turnaround.
Building Strong Teams Through Communication and Expertise
One of Cortnee’s greatest strengths is her commitment to supporting and developing her people. She starts every day by equipping her team with what they need to succeed, whether they be through reminders, process guidance, or company updates.
She coaches with empathy and practicality, encouraging her leaders to communicate thoughtfully and lead with intention.
Her extensive industry knowledge is another key to her success. Cortnee openly shares what she knows and invites new ideas from her team, creating a culture where everyone feels empowered to improve processes and eliminate confusion. Her peers, her leadership, and her team members consistently express their respect for her professionalism and leadership style.
“Cortnee approaches every challenge with focus, professionalism, and a collaborative spirit that brings the best out of everyone around her. Her impact on Celero’s Operations in such a short time has been tremendous,” said Tim Stahl, Chief Operations Officer.
“Her leadership during the Activations turnaround earlier this year is a clear example of her ability to unite teams, solve complex challenges, and drive sustainable improvement. Cortnee is the kind of leader who elevates not just performance, but people,” Stahl added.
Honoring the Duffy Tradition
The Duffy Award holds a special place within Celero, shining a light on individuals who lift others, lead with integrity, and influence our culture through everyday actions. Cortnee exemplifies what this recognition stands for. Her steady leadership, eagerness to take on more, and unwavering dedication to her team make her a standout member of the Celero family.
Congratulations to Cortnee Fagundes on being selected as the Q3 2025 Duffy Award Winner! Her contributions continue to strengthen our company, and we are grateful for the leadership, perspective, and heart she brings to Celero.