Relationships, Resilience, and Leadership Built Through Loyalty

Steve Allmen’s journey, from selling industrial sewing thread to becoming EVP of Strategy and Partnerships at CAA, reveals a leader shaped by resilience, reinvention, and the power of relationships. He shares candidly how early missteps led him to data, business development, and eventually loyalty, where he discovered his true passion. From CompuSearch to Air Miles, Aeroplan, and his own consulting firm, Steve built a career fueled not by linear planning but by listening, learning, and being a storyteller for the evolving world of data and customer value.

He reflects openly on adversity, including being reorganized out of companies and navigating stressful career pivots. Instead of reacting emotionally, Steve learned to see each setback as a catalyst, using those moments to rethink his direction, eventually launching a successful consulting practice built entirely on referrals. Now at CAA, he thrives by empowering his team, embracing change, and shifting a 110‑year‑old business toward a more consultative, member‑first mindset.

Steve’s reflections on mentorship, emotional discipline, family, and owning one’s journey offer powerful reminders that careers are built piece by piece, and that only you can assemble the picture.

Notable Quotes/Highlights

• "I truly fell in love with loyalty."
• "The only one who’s going to look after you is you."
• "Don’t take everything so personally."
• "Every decision you make is part of your journey."
• "Life is short, you’ve got to take everything in stride."

Closing Reflection

Steve Allmen’s story reminds us that success comes from curiosity, courage, and a commitment to learning, a journey built through relationships, reinvention, and owning every step forward.