Her Story
About Kimberly
Kimberly Baker serves as Vice President of Enterprise Software Operations at Insperity. With 26 years in the technology field, she began her career after earning a B.S. in Computer Science from Baylor University, starting in a support role that transitioned into quality assurance testing. She later obtained an MBA from Texas Women's University and has spent the majority of her career in leadership, overseeing multiple groups including those focused on risk management, auditing and controls, and DevSecOps. Baker emphasizes balancing innovation with appropriate risk levels to enable safe code deployment and customer satisfaction. She attributes her success to mentoring and developing team members, fostering high-performing teams, and leading with integrity and empathy, lessons drawn from both positive and negative management experiences. She is actively involved in Women in Tech and the Sugar Land Women Empowerment Network, and contributes to Fort Bend Seniors.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Kimberly
01What do you attribute your success to?
My motivation for success is seeing other people be successful through mentoring, coaching, and developing them. I desire to lead and help whatever company I'm with to be the greatest by adding value. I learned the type of leader I wanted to be by knowing who I did not want to be from bad managers.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
Everyone has a brand and it's important to care about how you are perceived and spoken about in rooms you're not in. Know your brand, how you're perceived, and work on that mindfully without being a people pleaser.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Recognize imposter syndrome but don't let it hold you back. Lean into the belief that you belong. Use your voice, especially as an African-American woman. Self-talk is important to build confidence.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
AI and the changes it is bringing to software development and leadership roles. Balancing moving fast enough without too much risk, along with change management, training, and awareness.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Integrity and empathy. Leading with integrity from my testing background, high emotional intelligence to remain calm, handle situations professionally, and understand where others are coming from.
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