Leading with Love

Cha Arriola works as Business Unit Head of Customs Kuehne Nagel Global Services. She is mindful of Jesus’ command to “love one another” as she leads her team. In her own words, here’s how she does it…

As a leader, loving others begins with truly knowing them. I make it a point to understand my team through what I call their 3D:

• Discovery (their recent realizations),

• Difficulty (the challenges they face), and

• Drive (what keeps them moving forward).

By discerning these dimensions, I can connect with everyone more deeply and walk alongside them as they navigate their journey. This allows me to mentor, support, and guide them in ways that are meaningful and relevant to their lives.

I hold a firm belief that every human being starts with good intentions. It is often circumstances, experiences, or misguidance that led them astray. With this mindset, I approach my team with empathy and patience, choosing to see the best in them even when mistakes happen. This perspective helps me foster trust, encourage growth, and create an environment where people feel safe to learn and improve.

But above all, my leadership is anchored in faith. I draw strength and guidance from Scripture, which reminds me that love is the highest calling in both life and work. ” Philippians 2:4 reminds me: “Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.”

John 13:14‑15 inspires servant leadership: “Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet. I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you.

These verses guide me to lead with humility, service, and love—placing the needs of others above my own and modeling Christ‑like leadership in the workplace.

The values that guide me are

• Empathy — listening without judgment,

• Patience — allowing time and space for growth,

• Integrity — modeling consistency and fairness,

• Mentorship — investing time to help others,

• Growth — encouraging others to expand their potential,

• Self-reflection — embracing lessons from both successes and failures, and

• Faith — grounding my leadership in God’s word.

The behaviors I practice daily include being present, asking thoughtful questions, and offering guidance that empowers rather than dictates. My attitude is rooted in humility—acknowledging that leadership is not about perfection but about service. To me, seeking the good of others means creating opportunities for them to thrive, even beyond the boundaries of their current roles.

Ultimately, loving others through my work is about seeing their potential, believing in their best intentions, and walking with them as they grow into the leaders they are meant to be—guided not only by values but by faith and the timeless wisdom of Scripture.