NYSAE Leaders Spotlight

We asked our members three important questions as leaders of associations. Today we feature Kimberly Unger, CEO and Executive Director, STANY‎.

1. What are the three values that are most important to you as a leader (of an association)—that is, the consistent behaviors that everyone can rely on from you?

The three values that are most important to me as an association leader, and that inform all my decisions and behaviors are integrity, respect, and commitment to service. Integrity is paramount because leading with integrity integrates so many other core values—for example trustworthiness, honesty and accountability. Likewise, respect includes empowering others, transparency and empathy in all dealings, recognizing and acknowledging others’ abilities and honoring diverse viewpoints. Service is at the core of a membership association. We exist to serve our members and our community. For a small association, commitment to the mission and to those we serve is essential to continued success.

2. How have you lived those values in your career?

As I said, integrity is fundamental to me. I have been forming relationships with members, partners and sponsors for many years and my reputation and that of our association rests on my trustworthiness and reliability. In the securities industry we often say, “my word is my bond” and I have always done everything in my power to deliver on promises, fulfill commitments, and treat people equitably.

3. If you were recruiting someone to join your team, what would you say to them about your leadership approach and philosophy?

I firmly believe in leading by example and have never asked anyone to do something that I won’t do or haven’t done. As I often work with volunteers, it is important to involve team members in decision-making processes so that they feel included, engaged and motivated to contribute. My style with leading staff is situational. While I prefer taking a participative approach, at times expediency and accountability to board directives require a more authoritarian approach. No matter what style of leadership, I strive for transparency, honesty and accountability in myself and in staff. People make mistakes, I certainly do, but on my team, we own up to errors and work together to resolve problems and achieve our mission.
 

-Kimberly Unger, CEO and Executive Director, STANY