The title of Todd Archbold’s 2018 book, “Leading with the Head and Heart,” is an apt description of his management style as CEO of PrairieCare.
With a background in social work and an MBA, he admits, “I’ve never felt 100% like a social worker or 100% like an MBA, but I’m most effective as CEO wearing my social worker hat. You can display all the pretty spreadsheets you like, but ultimately, a leader has to articulate those spreadsheets into stories to inspire others.”
During his 19-year tenure at Brooklyn Park-based PrairieCare, Archbold has held a variety of roles, starting as a staff social worker and eventually landing in the role of CEO in 2020.
As CEO, Archbold has built PrairieCare into Minnesota’s largest psychiatric health system and, in 2023, the only state hospital to earn an ANCC Pathway to Excellence designation, which recognizes health care organizations committed to establishing healthy, satisfying workplaces for staff and, consequently, better outcomes for patients.
“I’ve definitely reinvented myself as a leader as PrairieCare has evolved,” he said.
Outside of PrairieCare, Archbold is involved in or leads numerous boards and nonprofits. Among them, he was instrumental in developing the statewide Psychiatric Assistance Line and the Mental Health Collaboration Hub to help youth experiencing a mental health crisis, and he is currently the executive director of both. These free services enable health care providers to quickly access psychiatric case consultation and connect kids to safe living and treatment options.
In addition to publishing his book — the proceeds of which are donated to the PrairieCare Fund, which he founded — Archbold has published more than 25 articles in medical journals and various media outlets to promote mental health and wellness. These strong communication skills have made him uniquely able to lead his team of about 800 employees and have helped create an award-winning workplace.
Of the Most Admired CEOs honor, Archbold comments, “The word ‘admired’ is not a typical metric in business, and that’s what makes this recognition so flattering. But I think it needs to be said that CEOs are catalysts for important things accomplished by a team. Nobody is admired alone in a silo.”
More about Todd
Why I chose to live in the Twin Cities, and what keeps me here: I’ve called Minnesota home my whole life! I really do love the seasons and the variety of activities that go along with them. The lakes, rivers and parks are abundant, and many of them are hidden gems that offer peace and solitude amidst the hustle. There is a little winding creek near my favorite biking path by Rice Lake with a family of ducks that makes me smile every time I ride past.
My favorite attraction in the Twin Cities is: The Stone Arch Bridge. It offers some extraordinary views of the Minneapolis skyline, Mill Ruins Park, St. Anthony Falls, and Father Hennepin Bluff Park. I have fond memories running east across the bridge taking “the shortcut to the Capitol.” The bridge is absolutely stunning when the arches are lit up at night.
A guiding philosophy I lead by: “Surround yourself with good people, and good things happen.” Life is all about who you spend our time with, how they make us feel, and the impact we have on each other. Build a team of trustworthy people with eclectic personalities, complementary talents, and various perspectives — and they will become stronger together. Be patient, and know that you don’t have to do everything yourself.
The most challenging thing I’ve faced careerwise is: Leading through a change of company ownership in 2022. It was an exhaustive and confidential process, with very few people privy to the details of the impending changes. I was deeply involved in due diligence efforts and have the privilege of getting to know people in the acquiring organization in advance. Then the announcement came, and it was news to everyone. It was an extraordinary test of my communication skills, tolerance of the unknown, and trust.
And how I managed or overcame it: It was all about preparation, everything we had done in advance of the acquisition to build trust. I made sure that I was both accessible and approachable, and demonstrated healthy candor with team members so that when the change occurred, people felt safe talking to me and being honest. Being a leader can be lonely, and I was fortunate to have great people around me to bounce ideas off of and show support.
One professional goal I have for the next 12 months: Help develop other leaders who can then help develop other leaders. I have a tendency to want to dig in and do things myself. My role is to articulate a vision and inspire others to be their best. It’s not about me, it’s about the people who will succeed me.
And one personal goal: Read more books and watch less TV.
Fast facts
- Age: 43
- Years with company: 19
- Years as CEO: 5
- Alma maters: Minnesota State University, Mankato and University of Phoenix
- Family: My lovely wife, Laura (married 18 years); Jackson, 16; Evie, 9; Willa, 7
- Hobbies: I enjoy running, biking, camping, home brewing and traveling. I love playing board games with Jackson, dancing with Willa, and “creating things” with Evie.
- Boards and committees: AspireMN Board of Directors, PrairieCare Fund adviser
- Employees at your organization: 800
Originally published in Minneapolis/St. Paul Business Journal