Woman of the Week – Kim Zavislak

Here at Executive Elements, we like to introduce you to fantastic women we think you should know. Some of these women are clients, some are friends, some are women we’ve only just met. But they all have this in common: they are dynamic, interesting people who have agreed to share with us their insights and secrets to success.

Kim Zavislak

My Current Job/Company:
Partner, KPMG LLP

My Birthdate:
03.02.1976

My Work:
I lead the investment management practice for KPMG’s Mid America business unit. I have an amazing team and amazing clients and I value them both tremendously. I also serve as the HR partner in Columbus and I make it a personal priority to create a compelling work environment and enhance career opportunities for our young professionals.

My Passion:
My faith, my family, and building confidence in others.

My Family:
Jon (Supportive Husband), Maryn (Amazing Daughter- 9), Griffin (Full of Life Son – 7)

My Heroes:
My parents. My parents have always been amazingly supportive and taught me good work ethic and an attitude of gratitude that is instilled in my everyday life.

My Escape:
Wine country with my husband and running each morning with my dear friends, Lindsey and Irene!

My Pet Peeve:
Negative people

My Indulgence:
Dark Chocolate and Coffee made by my husband with freshly roasted coffee beans-it is the BEST!

My Roots:
I was born and raised in Michigan and I now live in Ohio. Living in the Midwest has allowed me to connect with friends, clients and colleagues who share the same values that I do and build relationships centered around integrity, trust and strong work ethic.

My Future:
Busy, optimistic and exciting.

My Quote on Life:
“Be the one who nurtures and encourages. Be the one who has a forgiving heart. Be the one who always looks for the best in people. Be the one who always leaves people in a better place than you found them.”

My Accessories:
High heels and a smile!

My Advice to Young Women:
Focus on your wellness (health, relationships, spiritual) so that you can bring your best to your family and the workplace every day. Make it a priority to replace low-value activities with real “wants”.

How I Balance it All:
I have support from my husband, my mom, my children and my friends. My husband and I coordinate calendars all of the time and we re-synchronize calendars Sunday night to identify any conflicts that may have slipped through the cracks. This ensures we cover the important meetings, kids sporting events and school activities. I start every day with an early morning run and this gets me going for the day. It gives me energy for the day and is 30 minutes that is well worth the investment. Time management is knowing how much you can handle effectively and happily—and then designing your life around your capacity.