Meet Kay Bartek, senior vice president, Lincoln retail market manager at West Gate Bank (westgate.bank).
Tell us a little about your business. – West Gate Bank is a family owned and operated bank that has been serving the Lincoln community for over 50 years.
How did you get started in the business? – I have worked in banking for my entire career and really enjoy helping people understand and manage their finances in a way that is convenient for them.
What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? – This past year with the COVID-19 pandemic was a challenge like no other. Trying to take care of our customers and our employees when we could not connect face to face at times, pushed us all to learn new ways. Even though we encountered challenges, I was extremely proud of how we utilized existing technology to keep moving forward.
Tell us a little about your family. – My husband Doug is a computer programmer and does contract work with the State of Nebraska. We have two boys. Ryan is a 2021 graduate of Pius X High School and is planning to attend UNL this fall to major in business administration. Matthew will be a junior at Pius X High School and enjoys golf and basketball.
What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? – Having lunch or connecting with a friend or family member, taking some time for myself, or attending one of my kids’ events would be my top priorities.
Who inspires you? – My niece and goddaughter Kelsey. She is currently going to school to become an eye doctor. She is incredibly driven, kindhearted, and faith-filled. I am so excited to watch her future unfold.
What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? – Asking questions is the greatest way to direct and understand people. In management roles, we often feel it is best to advise and provide the answers. This reverse concept has proven to be so much more valuable for me.
If you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be? – Grateful.
If you could have a super power, what would it be? – The ability to teleport.
What local nonprofit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? – I have served on the Board for the Southeast Nebraska Chapter of the American Red Cross for three years. This organization is so committed and supportive to people in their greatest time of need. I am also involved in Junior Achievement and commit to teaching a few financial classes to students every year.
What is your favorite book or the last good book you read? – I AM ___. The Untold Story of Success by Klyn Elsbury.
What is your favorite movie? – The Notebook.
What is your favorite TV show? – I am not a big TV watcher but do enjoy Friends reruns.
What is your favorite local restaurant? – Vincenzo’s Ristorante.
If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be? – Kate Middleton.
If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? – (402) 323-8970; kbartek@westgate.bank; westgate.bank.