Introducing Management Fellow, Kevin Bauer

Name: Kevin Bauer
Hometown: Iowa City, Iowa
Current Organization:  Year Up Inc

What inspired you to apply for ProInspire’s Managing for Success Program?

I was impressed by the ProInspire program fellows with whom I worked at the Latin American Youth Center. Although I knew the Managing for Success program would be different than the original fellowship program, I still hoped some of the ProInspire magic would rub off on me by being a participant.

What has surprised you about being a manager in the non-profit sector? 

Depending on where you work, training and/or mentoring for new managers is not required and is frequently not even available.

What is a typical day like for you on the job?

I meet directly with several students to provide support through goal-setting and problem-solving, conduct small group or large group life skills activities, have regular cross-departmental meetings to ensure communication and alignment, and manage regular administrative tasks related to documenting our efforts.

What attributes or short story can you share about the best manger you’ve ever had? 

The best manager I’ve ever had encouraged me to assume greater responsibilities, seek opportunities to lead, and to embrace and celebrate the relative and different strengths of team members.

What do you enjoy doing outside of work?

Whenever possible, I enjoy spending time with my friends and family in the outdoors — hiking, canoeing, and camping.

Where do you see yourself in 5, 10, and 20 years?

I will be a leader in my organization who has the opportunity to manage other staff but also work directly with the young adults and families whom we serve. I will still be a social worker, but may have sought additional education in law or business to further strengthen my ability to provide services and support to my clients.

What blogs or news sources do you follow?

Politico and the New York Times.

What advice do you have for a new non-profit manger?

Seek out feedback and challenge yourself to find new ways to effectively manage your work, delegate tasks, and communicate with colleagues and direct-reports.

If Hollywood made a movie about your life, who would play you? 

Don Cheadle