WITI Spotlight: Kim Curley - Championing People and Organizational Change at NTT DATA

From Industry to Consulting: A Journey of Innovation
Q: How did your journey to NTT DATA begin?

Kim Curley’s career at NTT DATA has been marked by her dedication to the "messy human side" of business. With over a decade at the company, she currently leads the People and Organization Consulting Practice, emphasizing the importance of understanding and managing human dynamics in a corporate setting. "I've always been fascinated by people and their behaviors, and this role allows me to merge that interest with my professional life," she shares.

Kim's pivotal role began in 2017 when she helped establish WIN (Women Inspire NTT DATA), the company's first employee resource group focused on gender diversity. "Starting WIN was a labor of love, a way to ensure that women at NTT DATA have a voice and a platform," she recalls.

Balancing Career and Personal Life
Q: How do you manage the balance between your demanding career and personal life?

For Kim, work-life balance is more about integration than separation. "I see work and life as a portfolio, not separate entities. They often intertwine, and I make intentional efforts to take advantage of work opportunities for personal growth," she explains. A recent business trip to Las Vegas became a chance for Kim and her husband to visit the Grand Canyon, blending professional duties with personal aspirations.

Embracing Authenticity and Overcoming Challenges
Q: What has been the most significant challenge in your career, and how did you overcome it?

Trusting herself has been an ongoing challenge for Kim. "I often face crises of confidence, especially in high-stakes situations. Learning to trust my instincts and stay true to myself has been a journey," she admits. This self-trust was crucial as she navigated roles in various industries and eventually found her niche in organizational psychology.

Advocating for Diversity and Inclusion
Q: What does diversity and inclusion mean to you at NTT DATA?

Kim is a staunch advocate for diversity and inclusion, striving for gender diversity and broader inclusivity at NTT DATA. "We aim for 50% gender diversity and are currently at 36%. It's essential for people to see leaders who look like them," she asserts. Just as significantly, diversity is about talent and competitiveness; NTT DATA seeks to prevent exclusion of top talent by intentionally promoting inclusion. Her leadership style fosters a culture of support and empowerment, encouraging her team to thrive and innovate.

Inspiration and Advice
Q: What advice do you have for young professionals entering the field of technology?

"The best advice I've ever received is to 'do me.' Trying to fit into a mold or wear a costume drains energy that could be used for more productive endeavors. Be true to yourself and authentic in your actions. Authenticity is key to effective leadership," Kim advises. "It took me a long time to realize that I didn't need to play by someone else's rules to succeed. By being true to myself, I've been able to lead in a way that feels genuine and empowering."

Q: Who inspires you and why?

Kim's hero is a former boss who passed away young but left a profound impact on her life. "She was unapologetically herself and made everyone around her feel valued and capable. Her legacy of presence and support continues to inspire me every day," Kim reminisces.

Kim Curley’s journey at NTT DATA exemplifies resilience, innovation, and authentic leadership. Her contributions to the field of organizational change, coupled with her commitment to diversity and community engagement, make her a remarkable figure in the tech industry. As she continues to lead and inspire, Kim proves that with authenticity and perseverance, the possibilities are endless.
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