Goodwill of Central Iowa

Mary Hunter, CEO and President. Photographer: Duane Tinkey.

Q: What do you love most about Greater Des Moines?
A: We have everything a big city would have, but everywhere you go, you know somebody! I love that we are a small, big city with great locally-owned restaurants, culture, sports and anything you could want for entertainment.

Q: What do you love about your career?
A: I love PEOPLE and I love to serve. I have taken donations at our stores, stocked shelves and helped in our mission services programs. I have worked alongside employees in almost every aspect of this organization, which has been a great learning experience and made me a better servant leader.

Q: What are some guiding principles you’ve used in your career?
A: My faith has guided me throughout my life. In addition, family comes first. Too often, we get carried away in our jobs and forget that we’re people with our own lives. So, I communicate that family is important and, as a team, we will help keep things moving when employees are needed at home.

Q: Who do you consider a mentor and why?
A: My daughter Emilee is one of my biggest teachers and supporters. I admire how she navigates our world. I also need to credit Greg Thomson and Ron Pearson, who were great leaders and examples for me at Hy-Vee. Mari Bunney is a mentor of mine as a professional working woman in a leadership capacity.

5355 NW 86th Street | Johnston, IA 50131 | (515) 265-5323 | www.dmgoodwill.org

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