Faces Of NPR is a weekly feature that showcases the people behind NPR, from the voices you hear every day on the radio to the ones who work outside of the recording studio. You'll find out about what they do and what they're inspired by on the daily. This week's post features Operations Manager, Kathleen Hoang.
The Basics:
Name: Kathleen Hoang
Twitter Handle: I don't have Twitter but my Instagram name is hoangkathleent
Job Title: Operations Manager, Business Partnerships & Strategy
Where You're From: Rockville, MD
An Inside Look:
You're an Operations Manager in the Business Partnerships and Strategy Division. What does that mean?
My role includes partnerships management, business process development, and Salesforce leadership. I support our team in managing and maintaining over 1,000 relationships with external business partners, develop new processes and tools to support strategic partnerships and business development within NPR, and lead the Salesforce Technical Committee.
How did you get started here? Or what advice do you have for someone who wants a job like yours?
I first started as an intern in my department in June 2013. When my internship was over, I was looking for other internships and jobs but got an email from my manager asking me to come temp for 6 months. I was so happy! After temping for 6 months, I got offered a permanent job.
What's your favorite #nprlife moment?
My favorite #nprlife moment was when I was eating lunch in the 4th floor kitchen and randomly saw Macklemore walk by. I quickly ran up to him and asked for a picture. He was so nice! Another favorite #nprlife moment was when I was at my desk and saw Killer Mike down the hall. I waved at him and started to walk towards him and he asked if I wanted to take a picture with him. He was also so nice!
First thing you do when you get to the office?
The first thing I do when I get to the office is go down to Sound Bites to get my breakfast. I usually get a veggie omelette with cheddar and mozzarella cheese and a turkey bacon.
What's on your desk?
I have a zen garden, Jim Morrison and Saul Goodman (from Breaking Bad) bobble heads, and a Seinfeld daily calendar. I also have pictures from my Vietnam and Thailand trip, pictures of my dogs, and a signed Carl Kasell pillow.
Favorite Tiny Desk?
I love all the tiny desk concerts but my favorite and most memorable tiny desk would be the one with Dan Deacon because we had a dance party at the office and I got to be a dance captain.
Favorite places in Washington D.C.?
I love to visit the Hirshhorn museum whenever they have new exhibits. I also enjoy watching live shows at the 9:30 club and the Black Cat. Some of my favorite restaurants are Comet Ping Pong, Donburi, and Shake Shack.
What are your guilty pleasures?
Eating Popeyes and watching Big Brother
What do you love about public radio?
I love that I'm always learning something new.
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