MY CAREER IN SIX SPOTLIGHT

AMY KIM

VP, Global Head of Policy and GR for Blockchain, Crypto, and Digital currencies (BCDC)

PayPal

Sharing her career journey by answering the six questions below.

Who or what has been your biggest source of inspiration throughout your career?

My kids inspire me. Whenever I’m slightly nervous about a big presentation or meeting, I pretend that they are in the room. I want them to see their mom as a confident, smart, engaged person so that they believe they can be that kind of person (and better!). It helps me get over any nerves.

Would you say your success is primarily due to luck or hard work?

I believe hard work and consistently showing up create the opportunities for luck to break your way. But you have to do the work.

What is the driving force behind your career aspirations?

I’m motivated to help the crypto industry break through the barriers it has faced over the past 10 years and more. It has faced headwinds and skepticism for a long time. Now that it has policy support at the national level around the globe, more businesses feel that they can develop longer-term strategies and build.

If given the chance to do one thing differently in your career, what would it be and why?

I actually look at this question differently: the one thing I did in my career that I’m so glad I did was to make the leap from a private law firm to the crypto industry. I’ve made so many meaningful friendships among a group of truly dedicated and smart colleagues, and feel that I’ve made an important contribution in my section of the world.

What was your most favourite job/role and why?

My most fun job was serving as a cocktail waitress in Malibu during college!

Do you have a favourite motto or quote that guides your professional life?

There are so many! But the one that guides me currently is to see change or mistakes as opportunity. We can always find a way to learn and improve from the challenges in our work and our lives. Rather than dwell on what could have been better, focus on what went right and how you can improve in the current circumstances. I use this for myself, but also with my team when we hit a roadblock or challenge.