Valda King, BSBM, MBA

I attribute my success to my dedication to continuous growth, my passion for helping others develop, and my ability to adapt and lead in every stage of my career. My professional journey began with a Medicaid plan, and later I transitioned to a competitor, where I truly discovered my calling. Today, I focus on addressing transportation issues for members with behavioral health needs—investigating grievances, ensuring safe transport, and participating in Joint Leadership Council meetings to stay ahead of performance standards and service trends. I collaborate closely with both UnitedHealthcare and the Ohio Department of Medicaid to ensure our members receive the highest quality of care and support. Helping others grow has been one of the most rewarding aspects of my career. Watching someone gain confidence and solve challenges that once felt impossible continues to inspire me. Earning my MBA was not only a professional milestone but also a personal achievement. I pursued it to show my grandchildren that it’s never too late to learn, grow, or reach for new goals. Every day, I apply what I’m learning from the MBA program to enhance both my work and personal life. In 2014, I earned my Yellow Belt in Six Sigma, which gave me a strong foundation in process improvement and operational excellence. That knowledge now serves me well as I manage my own business, Kings Precise Cleaning Services LLC, which I launched in November 2024. Initially focused on commercial cleaning, I’m now expanding into residential services as well. It’s been a significant and fulfilling step forward—one that reflects my commitment to excellence, growth, and making a positive impact in every endeavor I pursue.

My advice to young women entering this industry is to do your research, set clear goals, and build a strong network. These three steps may seem simple, but they are incredibly powerful in shaping a successful career path. Take the time to truly understand the field you’re stepping into—learn about its expectations, challenges, and opportunities. Preparation is key; don’t rush the process. Move forward with intention and confidence. Once you have a clear vision, write down your goals. Be specific about what you want to achieve and hold yourself accountable. Regularly check in with yourself to make sure you’re staying aligned with those goals, and don’t be afraid to adjust them as you grow. Finally, never underestimate the power of your network. The people you surround yourself with can have a lasting impact on your career. Seek out mentors, peers, and colleagues who inspire and challenge you. Build genuine relationships—your network can open doors that hard work alone may not. No matter where you are in your journey—whether you’re just starting out, making a career pivot, or stepping into a leadership role—these three principles will always serve you well.

The biggest challenges and opportunities in my field are often two sides of the same coin. Early in my career, one of my greatest challenges was simply being seen. I started as an administrative assistant, and like many women in entry-level roles, I had to work twice as hard to prove that I belonged at the table. I knew I had more to contribute, but breaking free from that box required persistence, patience, and unwavering self-belief. Over time, those experiences built the resilience and determination that continue to drive me today. As I transitioned into advocacy work, I became a voice for individuals with behavioral health needs who often struggle to be heard within complex systems. That role is both deeply rewarding and emotionally demanding. Every decision and policy affects real people and real lives, and navigating broken processes or systemic challenges can be frustrating. But the opportunity to make a tangible difference—to help someone find stability, dignity, or hope—makes every difficult day worthwhile. Another challenge has been balancing growth across multiple fronts. Earning my MBA while working full-time and managing family responsibilities tested my limits. It was exhausting at times, but I pursued it to inspire my grandchildren—to show them that learning never stops, no matter your age or stage in life. Starting my business, Kings Precise Cleaning Services LLC, in late 2024 brought its own learning curve—licensing, marketing, and operations—all while maintaining my commitment to healthcare. Each obstacle has sharpened my focus and strengthened my resilience. I’ve learned that challenges don’t define you; your response to them does. Every hurdle has been an opportunity to evolve, and that growth is what makes the journey so meaningful.

The values that guide me—both in my work and personal life—are the foundation of who I am and how I lead. Dedication I commit fully to everything I do—whether it’s advocating for members, building my business, or pursuing personal growth. I believe true success comes from consistency, accountability, and showing up every single day with purpose and intention. Integrity Honesty and transparency are non-negotiable for me. Whether in healthcare, business, or personal relationships, I strive to do what’s right—even when no one is watching. Integrity builds trust, and trust is the cornerstone of every meaningful connection. Service to Others Helping others grow—both professionally and personally—is one of my greatest joys. I believe in lifting others as I rise, sharing knowledge, and creating opportunities that empower those around me to succeed. Lifelong Learning From earning my MBA to joining leadership organizations, I see learning as a lifelong journey. Growth doesn’t end with a diploma—it’s a daily choice. I pursue knowledge not just for myself but to inspire future generations, especially my grandchildren, to keep learning and evolving. Resilience After more than 25 years in healthcare, I’ve learned that challenges are inevitable, but giving up is not an option. Resilience keeps me grounded, helps me adapt, and reminds me that every setback is an opportunity to grow stronger. Excellence Whether I’m resolving complex transportation issues or managing Kings Precise Cleaning Services, I aim to exceed expectations in everything I do. I take pride in delivering results with professionalism, precision, and care. Faith and Family My faith and family keep me centered. My church community and time spent with my grandchildren remind me of what truly matters—love, purpose, and gratitude. They are my constant motivation to keep striving for better, both in my career and in life.