X
Kathryn Cunningham’s Journey to Building People, Teams, and Culture
At GEP, we’re inspired by women like Kathryn (Kat) Cunningham, whose journey proves that the path to success doesn’t always follow tradition, it’s often shaped by embracing the unexpected.
In this installment of the She Shines Series, we highlight how Kathryn went from crafting cocktails on Bourbon Street to transforming how GEP discovers and brings in top talent. Known for being a straight shooter, dedicated to supporting others, and the calm in the storm, Kathryn shines as a true champion for people and culture.
Journey to GEP
After moving to New Orleans with her husband in her late twenties, Kathryn found herself bartending in one of the busiest, most fast-paced environments imaginable. This would unexpectedly shape her future.
“I learned to talk to anyone,” she says with a laugh. “And how to read a room, fast.” Her ability to quickly put people at ease, pick up on what isn’t being said, and stay grounded in chaotic moments became defining strengths in her career.
Her pivot into recruiting was unplanned—a moment of fate. Kathryn crossed paths with the owner of a local recruiting agency, and they immediately connected. She was offered an opportunity to join the team.
“At the time, I had no idea how much those years would shape me,” she reflects. “I worked alongside the owner of the company and soaked up everything she was willing to teach me. That was the foundation for a career I didn’t know I wanted.”
Today, Kathryn leads GEP’s Global Talent Acquisition team, where she shapes how the organization attracts talent across regions.
The Small Things That Matter Most
At her core, Kathryn believes that meaningful impact isn’t created in one defining moment. It’s built over time through consistency.
“It’s the little things,” she says. “A quick note to say, ‘great job.’ Remembering to check in after a hard week. Saying someone’s name somewhere it matters.”
She calls these moments microaffirmations—small, intentional actions that make people feel seen and supported, especially when they need it most. Reflecting on her own experiences, she recognizes their importance deeply.
“Growing up, mentors and support networks weren’t really a thing. You just figured it out on your own and hoped for the best. When someone reaches out just to talk something through, I absolutely love that. And getting to be that safe space for someone else, honestly, that’s everything to me.”
Pause for Clarity
One of the most meaningful shifts in Kathryn’s career has been learning to balance thoughtful reflection with decisive action. Early on, she felt pressure to always have answers ready and move quickly. Over time, she’s embraced a more intentional approach; knowing when to slow down, and when to move forward.
“Sometimes the best thing you can do is pause, quiet the noise, think it through, and come back with a clearer head,” she says.
That mindset isn’t about slowing down for the sake of it, it’s about creating the clarity needed to take the right action.
“I don’t expect people to have all the answers,” she says. “I care about how they think, how they treat others, and whether they’re willing to figure things out. Potential over perfection.”
Her approach builds trust and creates an environment where people feel safe to stretch, take risks, and grow. And once that clarity is there, she encourages others not to overthink the next step.
“Don’t wait until everything feels perfect,” she says. “Just be the person who gets things done. Effort is visible—the right people will notice.”
Lead with Listening
As a mother to her 19-year-old daughter, this balance has taken on even deeper meaning. Parenting a young adult requires the same skills she practices at work: empathy, perspective, and the discipline to listen before reacting.
“You want to tell them, it’s going to be fine, but you don’t,” she says. “You can’t skip straight to the answer before someone feels heard. Learning to sit with people in hard moments without trying to immediately fix things—that’s what makes the difference.”
Building Community and Pulling Others Forward
For Kathryn, leadership is defined by who you uplift along the way. As an Executive Sponsor for Women@GEP and supporter of GEP PRIDE, she focuses on creating meaningful connections and inclusive spaces.
“It’s not enough to have a platform,” she notes. “You have to use it to pull people forward.”
At GEP, Kathryn focuses on creating real, meaningful connections and making sure people feel supported enough to speak up and be themselves.
“Everyone needs a net,” she says. “Not just one person – many people – showing up in different ways at different times. And while you’re building yours, make sure you’re part of someone else’s too.”
Why She Shines
Kathryn leads with intention, mentors with generosity, and creates an environment where people feel capable, supported, and seen. Her impact lives in the teams she’s shaped, the careers she’s helped grow, and the culture she continues to strengthen at GEP.
Kathryn’s story is a reminder that impact isn't defined by chasing the next title or milestone. It’s defined by how you show up and treat others.