Editor’s note: The August issue of The Lane Report features our semi-annual list of the Top Women in Business. At lanereport.com, we’re shining the spotlight on one of the honorees each day. Day 4: Kimberly Halbauer, president of Fifth Third Bank’s Kentucky region.
Our occasional feature, Top Women in Business, highlights some of the women in and around Kentucky who are making an impact in business, the professions, politics and economic development. The feature recognizes women in key roles whose work ethic and body of work are making important contributions to commerce—and life—in Kentucky.
Top Women in Business has grown to become one of The Lane Report’s most popular features. Over the years, we’ve profiled more than 100 women who shatter stereotypes, encourage other businesswomen and help their Kentucky companies reach new heights. The women featured in this issue are no exception. From airport CEO to hospital executive, and successful online retailer to construction company VP, these women are forging their own paths, proving that hard work, perseverance and creativity pays off.
RELATED – Top Women in Business Day 1: Candace McGraw
RELATED – Top Women in Business Day 2: Monica Conrad of LFUCG
RELATED – Top Women in Business Day 3: Pink Lily founder Tori Gerbig
Kimberly Halbauer
In 2020, Kimberly Halbauer was named president of Fifth Third Bank’s Kentucky region, the first woman to ever hold that title. She has spent more than 30 years with Fifth Third, leading retail banking, commercial banking, and wealth and asset management groups.
Title/company: Regional president, Kentucky at Fifth Third Bank.
How long at company/position: I have been with Fifth Third for more than 30 years; in my current role for nine months.
Previous jobs/positions: A variety of leadership roles: 10 years in retail and the remaining in commercial and wealth and asset management.
Education/training: Thomas More University; Yale Executive Leadership Program.
Top accomplishment: Happy kids.
The person(s) who most influenced or mentored me: Every day I’m inspired and mentored by people everywhere. I hope that never changes.
One of my biggest challenges and how I overcame it: There are so many challenges for all of us each day. My biggest challenge is believing in myself and having the courage to say, “I can do this!”
My advice to younger women in business: Listen to the supporters around you and don’t let the doubters get in your way. Think about the future you want to see and create it. Don’t look back and don’t wait for someone to do it for you.
Something I learned during the pandemic: I really like being with my family! Something I love: I love the sun, being outdoors and meeting great people.
I’m inspired/driven by: The desire to make the world a better place at home, at work and in my community.
One important skill I think everyone should have: Listening— we should all listen more.
The most important personal attribute I bring to my job: Adaptability.
In the next five to 10 years in my job, I hope to accomplish: Inspiring our 400-plus employees in Kentucky to make the world a better place at work, at home and in our community.
A song from my teenage years that I still rock out to when nobody else is around: Michael Jackson songs. I grew up in the ’70s and ’80s, skating and dancing to MJ. He made music fun.
If I had to delete all but three apps from my smartphone, I’d keep: Work, photos, messaging. I love the flexibility of communication with a smart phone.
Lorie Hailey is special publications editor for The Lane Report. Reach her at [email protected].
