Cynthia Simpson’s career notes: Empowerment is key

Cynthia Simpson, executive vice president and chief administrative officer of UMB Institutional Banking, was recently named to Kansas City Business Journal's list of 20 to know in banking‡. We sat down with her to discuss her role at UMB, her leadership style and her community involvement.

Describe your role with UMB

In my role, I wear many hats. I am responsible for overseeing a variety of functions across the line of business, including marketing, client support and sales enablement, product development, properties, special projects, agent bank products and strategic planning.

I also serve as a liaison for the division to the technology teams and work closely with commercial banking and UMB's leadership to align the company's corporate strategy and improve cross-selling opportunities across the bank.

In my role, collaboration is critical, and our teams' shared commitment to collaboration has proven to be a formula for success - In fiscal year 2023, the institutional banking group generated $150 million in net income, which represented 43% of UMB Financial Corporation's net income.

How else are you engaged with UMB?

Beyond my daily responsibilities, I am a proud graduate of UMB's esteemed Accelerate program. The year-long program targets associates within the bank who have demonstrated the potential to continue elevating their careers at the C-suite level, with an emphasis on honing leadership skills.

Internally, I am also part of UMB's Women business resource group (BRG), in which I offer leadership and guidance to women at the bank to help them reach their goals and feel empowered to progress in their careers.

In addition to UMB's programs, are you involved with any community organizations?

I currently serve on the board of directors for KVC Foundation‡, an organization focused on children's wellbeing. I recently rolled off the board of Big Brothers Big Sisters Kansas City (BBBSKC)‡, a role I held for six years, but remain active in the organization through the EmpowHER giving circle. This is an organization made up of women professionals in Kansas City that focus on supporting the single moms that are a part of the Big Brothers Big Sisters program.

Within my local community, I have been an active member of Village Presbyterian Church in Prairie Village, where I've taught Sunday school courses for nearly a decade.

How would you describe your leadership style?

I have held a variety of roles throughout my career, and every step of the way I have developed leadership skills through unique experiences.

I love being directly involved with the entire institutional banking business. It allows me to act as a resource to a wide range of associates-not just those who are under my direct supervision. To be a great leader, I need to empower my team. That starts with making sure I am a mentor and not an authority figure; I strive to be viewed as an ally and a member of the team.

As a leader, my primary goal is to encourage associates to use their skills and follow their passions. I am dedicated to learning their personalities and preferences so I can uniquely support them as they elevate their careers. With this strategic approach, I am constantly learning how to be a better leader.

I have an open-door policy for anyone seeking mentorship or guidance at the bank. I remember the challenging times during my career and want to help others find success and love for their work.

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