Lisa Kay Pfannenstiel

Lisa Kay Picture

  • What does your organization do?

    We work with employers to give commuters more options for getting to work, without getting there alone in a car that’s stuck in – and part of - traffic.

    Our mission statement is: Movability is Central Texas’ transportation management association (TMA), working hand in hand with individuals and organizations to improve the region through commuter options that save time and money.

  • How did you become interested in this work?

    I needed a new challenge where I could create, grow, or fix an organization and I wanted to work simultaneously with for-profits and non-profits by creating partnerships that were meaningful to both. Additionally, the traffic congestion in the Austin area was a problem that I knew would be challenging and fulfilling for years to come.

  • What drives your passion?

    Stubbornness. When someone tells me that I can’t, I love proving to them (and to me) that they are wrong.

  • Do you have a mentor or a role model?

    Movability has an amazing board of directors. Three of them in particular have taught me how to be an Executive Director while maintaining my values and encouraging me to simply be me. Their faith in me has taught me how to be a better leader, mentor, and friend.

  • What's the biggest challenge in your work?

    Free parking, and the car-centric culture that is engrained in the Texas lifestyle .

  • What's the best advice that you have ever received?

    Trust your gut. It’s where the head and the heart meet.

  • What are your top tips for new Executive Directors?

    1. If you showed your true self in your job interview, don’t change who you are because you got the job.
    2. Always ask (a friend, foe, funder, member, volunteer, etc.) who else you should talk with.
    3. Hire well and trust your staff.