Andy MinSeok Kim, DTM

Relevant work experience and how it relates to Toastmasters and your role as a Board Member:

I have had the privilege of working in some of the largest global IT companies in roles such as software engineer, developer advocate, relations manager, and technical writing coach. Throughout my career, I have led numerous new initiatives from launching software solutions to building a technology community that supported a company's transition to cloud computing and AI. As a founding member of an AI startup, I guided the company culture, and I currently serve as an executive tech advisor for a small company, while also working as a Developer Strength Coach.

These roles have consistently challenged me to build projects from the ground up, enhancing my ability to learn quickly, listen to clients' needs, and effectively adapt solutions. I believe these skills are directly applicable to Toastmasters International, where understanding the needs of a diverse, global membership is crucial to delivering value.

Additionally, my experience in managing and advocating for developer communities gives me a unique perspective on community engagement. I look forward to leveraging this background on the Board of Directors to enhance member experiences, drive strategic growth, and ensure that Toastmasters continues to foster personal and professional development worldwide.

What experience do you have in strategic planning?

Strategic planning is essential for building sustainable organizations, and I have honed this expertise across various IT roles. My focus has always been on maintaining relevance within an evolving market landscape. A significant part of my strategic role has involved community building and talent immersion, which has been critical in adapting to changes and ensuring long-term growth.

In these roles, I have analyzed evolving developer interests, identified diverse talent, and connected individuals to share their expertise impacting both internal teams and broader communities. My efforts have also extended to equipping teams to deliver value in line with strategic objectives, fostering an environment that supports growth and innovation.

What experience do you have in the area of finance?

As a District Director, I was responsible for planning and overseeing our finances to ensure our resources were used effectively to achieve our goals. In my professional roles, I have managed budgets for university and developer outreach programs, building, monitoring, and optimizing them to maximize impact. Additionally, I oversaw the research budget for a year-long project, requiring detailed financial planning and continuous oversight.

What experience do you have in developing policies?

While at an AI startup, I developed work and welfare policies for our developer team, focusing on personal growth and organizational agility. I aimed to create a work environment that encouraged developers to maximize their potential, aligning individual development with company success.

This experience taught me the importance of balancing employee well-being with organizational needs, a crucial perspective for effective policy development. It also helped me understand how to create an inclusive and productive work culture that nurtures talent.

What lessons did you learn from previous leadership positions?

One key lesson from my leadership experience is that every individual has unique talents, and no leader excels in all areas. To effectively harness these strengths, it is vital to cultivate strong relationships through active listening, that is, truly understanding each team member's contributions and aspirations.

By aligning individual goals with a shared vision, I have been able to empower my team members, provide support, and help them thrive. This approach not only drives personal growth but also ensures cohesive team progress. My commitment to listening, creating a shared vision, and offering support has become the foundation of my leadership style, and I intend to bring these qualities to the Board of Directors to foster an empowering and collaborative environment within Toastmasters.

What experience and key strengths would you bring to the Board of Directors?

Through my work with IT-focused clients, I have developed deep insights into technology's evolving nature. Working closely with developers and students has shown me the importance of adaptability, an agile mindset, and connecting with diverse individuals.

I am passionate about learning and staying at the forefront of technological changes, which allows me to adapt strategies to meet new challenges effectively. I take pride in nurturing others' growth and enjoy tackling complex problems with a positive, solution-oriented attitude. These strengths will help me contribute to the Board by fostering a culture of growth, positivity, and adaptability, ensuring that Toastmasters continues to evolve and serve its members effectively.

Why do you want to serve as an International Officer/Director?

I am motivated by both personal and altruistic reasons for wanting to serve as an International Director. Personally, I envision a world where people communicate effectively and understand each other deeply. I believe education is a powerful catalyst for positive change, and among all educational pursuits, communication and leadership are essential for sparking that change.

Toastmasters offers an exceptional platform for this transformation. Throughout my journey in Toastmasters, I have witnessed the remarkable growth of our members and experienced this transformative process myself. It is this impact that inspires me to serve. I aim to contribute to the growth of Toastmasters and extend the benefits of effective communication and leadership development to more people around the globe. My goal is to foster a community where every member can realize their potential, ultimately contributing to a better world for us all.

What volunteer experience do you have outside of Toastmasters?

From an early age, I have been passionate about understanding and experiencing different cultures, which has shaped much of my volunteer work. As a university student, I mentored international exchange students and participated in a program through the Korean National Commission of UNESCO, fostering cultural understanding and cooperation.

I also joined a volunteer program in Vietnam, helping to build a school for underprivileged children while promoting cultural exchange. Additionally, I learned Korean Sign Language to assist deaf children, which deepened my appreciation for inclusion and accessibility. Currently, I focus on career mentoring for university students and junior developers.

Have you worked with other Boards of Directors outside of Toastmasters? If so, describe your experience.

I have advised several university boards on short-term projects, including developing new curricula tailored to evolving job market needs. This work required navigating multiple protocols and coordinating with diverse stakeholders, including university, corporate, and government bodies.

Additionally, as the Editor-in-Chief of a local developer website, I have collaborated with a board of directors to develop marketing strategies and increase awareness of products and solutions across different business units. These experiences have provided me with valuable insights into governance, strategic collaboration, and aligning diverse perspectives.

In your opinion, what are Toastmasters International’s major objectives and how would you work to achieve them?

The major objectives of Toastmasters International revolve around empowering individuals to become more effective communicators and leaders in both their personal and professional lives. To achieve this, we must remain adaptable, innovative, and inclusive to meet the needs of our diverse membership.

With my expertise in needs analysis, IT background, and experience working across age groups, I can support the Board in crafting strategic plans that position Toastmasters as the premier choice for communication and leadership development. Leveraging my skills, I would work to ensure our programs remain relevant, accessible, and technologically enhanced to meet the evolving needs of members at every stage of their lives and careers.

Additional information about candidate:

Traveling is one of my greatest passions, as it allows me to experience different cultures, savor new cuisines, and understand diverse customs. I especially enjoy visiting new places to reconnect with friends and forge new connections. So far, I have traveled to over 40 countries, which has given me a deep appreciation for a variety of perspectives which is an essential quality for serving an international organization like Toastmasters.

I am also passionate about learning new skills, whether it is exploring new languages, practicing calligraphy, or urban sketching. These activities not only fuel my creativity but also provide an opportunity to connect with others and expand my understanding of the world.