Garry McCarthy: Leading with Grit and Grace

CEO Roundtable

In an era where leadership is often a blend of charisma and strategy, Garry McCarthy stands out as a beacon of resilience, wisdom and an unyielding commitment to service. His journey from the bustling streets of the Bronx to becoming the CEO of McCarthy Byrnes is a narrative rich with lessons on perseverance, leadership and the transformative power of facing life's challenges head-on.

Garry's story begins in New York, where his upbringing instilled in him a profound respect for the values of the "greatest generation." His father, a World War II Marine and NYPD officer and his mother, a registered nurse, shaped his world view, embedding a deep sense of duty and service. His career in law enforcement, spanning over four decades, is a testament to these values, showcasing a life dedicated not just to maintaining law and order but to making a tangible difference in the communities he served.

His ascent through the ranks of the NYPD wasn't propelled by connections but by hard-earned promotions, each step marked by a commitment to fairness and effectiveness.

Garry's approach to policing, infused with lessons from his days as a linebacker on the football field, was straightforward: confront challenges head-on, work as a team and never shy away from hard work. "It's a way of life," Garry remarks, drawing parallels between the grit required on the field and in the streets of New York.

One cannot discuss Garry's career without pausing at the profound impact of 9/11. As the deputy commissioner of operations for the NYPD, he witnessed first-hand the devastation and heroism of that day. The aftermath was a period of intense sorrow and unity, as he navigated the city through its darkest hours.

His reflections on the tragedy highlight not just the personal loss but the resilience of New York and its people. It was a pivotal moment that underscored the essence of leadership: the ability to steer through crises with courage and compassion.

Transitioning from public service to the corporate world, Garry co-founded McCarthy Byrnes, bringing his wealth of experience to the private sector. The firm, specializing in security assessments, litigation support and training, benefits from his unique insight into law enforcement and public safety. This move underscores a crucial lesson: the skills and knowledge we acquire are versatile and can pave new paths in unexpected ways.

Garry's narrative is more than a success story; it's a blueprint for impactful leadership. His journey teaches us the importance of resilience, the value of hard-earned achievements and the power of a life dedicated to serving others. For those aspiring to lead, Garry's story is a reminder that true leadership is not just about reaching the top but about how you uplift others along the way.

In every chapter of his life, Garry has demonstrated that leadership is about more than directives; it's about setting an example, facing challenges with bravery and maintaining integrity in every action. His story is a masterclass in leadership, offering invaluable lessons for anyone looking to make a difference in their community or organization. As Garry's journey from the Bronx to the boardroom shows, the path to true leadership is paved with challenges, but it's how we face those challenges that defines us.