PICS Employee Spotlight [Get to know Kristin Martin, Director of Strategic Initiatives]
At PICS (Partners in Community Supports), a subsidiary of Lutheran Social Service of Minnesota (LSS), much of our work is behind the scenes. Our Employee Spotlight helps you learn more about our team. This month, get to know Kristin Martin, Director of Strategic Initiatives with PICS!
Q. Tell us a little bit about your career PICS/LSS.
Kristin: I’m currently the Director of Strategic Initiatives with PICS and I’m responsible for identifying, developing and ensuring successful cross-departmental implementation of key strategic initiatives for PICS. I have been with PICS for five years, having first started as Program Manager for Consumer Directed Community Support (CDCS) Support Planning services, then as Senior Program Manager. In 2021, I was promoted to my current role.
Q. Could you tell us what attracted you to PICS/LSS and how your vision aligns with the organization’s?
Kristin: As a lifelong Minnesotan, I have always been aware of Lutheran Social Service of Minnesota as an integral part of our communities. After a career in the for-profit sector, I furthered my education and had the privilege of interning with LSS Financial Counseling. This experience deepened my understanding of LSS' commitment to helping people thrive in their lives and communities, and to fostering a supportive workplace for their employees. It also reinforced my desire to continue my career with LSS.
I love our mission at LSS/PICS: to provide services that support people in maintaining their independence in their homes and communities, being part of the LSS/PICS organization with roots in Minnesota and being a neighbor helping their neighbor.
Q. What do you enjoy most about working at PICS?
Kristin: What I enjoy the most about working at PICS is working with a team of people who consider no effort impossible and pull together to consider what is possible, and their commitment to supporting our programs and the people we serve.
Q. PICS’ Shared Values include being trustworthy, compassionate, knowledgeable, collaborative and responsive. How have you been able to implement your own personal values while working at PICS?
Kristin: I’m grateful to be doing work that aligns with my values. I’m also grateful to be working for an organization that encourages innovation, strategic thinking and collaboration to improve how we deliver services, and being a knowledgeable and trusted partner for the people we serve.
Q. What do you enjoy doing outside of work?
Kristin: Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my family, doing home décor projects, traveling, trying new restaurants, and going for walks in the fresh air.
Q. Share a fun fact about you.
Kristin: I "ran" a 5K in snowshoes and hadn't told anyone I had planned to compete in this endeavor.
Q. Where is your favorite place to be?
Kristin: Anywhere as long as I’m living life alongside my husband, Brien.
Q. If you could learn a new skill, what would it be?
Kristin: I want to learn how to play golf.
Q. Do you have any pets?
Kristin: We currently do not have a pet, but we enjoy it when our oldest son comes home to visit and brings his cat, Silo.
Q. You’re happiest when…
Kristin: I am happiest that my husband and I can support our sons in achieving their goals and dreams.
Here is what some of Kristin’s colleagues have to say about her…
“Kristin has been an incredible asset to PICS leadership. She asks tough questions and challenges us to consider different perspectives. She's articulate and great at developing communications with attention to detail. Her background and experience provide her with additional insights into our current processes and future state. We are tremendously fortunate to have Kristin on our team!”
“Kristin is a reliable resource with a wealth of knowledge, and she gracefully shares it with everyone around her. She brings in different perspectives and challenges that you may never have thought of. She leads our operation team and is always ensuring our families are receiving the best customer service.”
“Kristin is so knowledgeable and thoughtful when it comes to the services we provide. Always thinking about how changes will impact our families and staff and how we can improve our processes.”
“Kristin's calm and professional demeanor creates a focused and welcoming atmosphere for her team. Even under pressure, Kristin always maintains a positive and supportive presence. Her relentless pursuit of improvement is evident; she constantly seeks opportunities to refine processes, ultimately enhancing both our organizational performance and the services we provide. A true champion for PICS, LSS and the people we serve, Kristin consistently develops actionable plans to ensure our services meet evolving needs. Her commitment extends to staying current on legislative policy changes. She holds both herself and her team accountable for achieving organizational goals, fostering a strong sense of alignment and shared purpose. Kristin readily shares her comprehensive understanding of business priorities, key regulations and relevant partners. This outward focus has been instrumental in propelling PICS toward achieving its strategic goals.”
We are grateful to have you on the PICS team, Kristin! Thank you for all you do!