As part of The MBA’s continuing series on next-generation leaders, we are shining the spotlight on Kayla Fatica Himes, age 33, marketing manager for MacDonald Illig Attorneys, a law firm based in Erie, Pennsylvania. Fatica Himes, who is also a member of The MBA’s Next Gen Advisory Board, talks about her professional journey and insights on leadership.
Please share a bit about your professional background and what led you to your current role as marketing manager at MacDonald Illig Attorneys.
I’ve always been drawn to marketing for its blend of creativity, communication and strategy, and I’ve pursued roles that allowed me to grow in each area. I began my career in banking as a teller, where I set a clear goal to join the marketing team and achieved it within nine months. In that role, I built a strong foundation in community engagement and brand communication. That growth-oriented mindset led me to MacDonald Illig, where I advanced from marketing coordinator to marketing manager within nine months and now lead strategic initiatives that strengthen the firm’s brand and community presence.
How have your experiences in marketing, along with your involvement in groups like The MBA Next Gen Advisory Board, Erie Art Museum’s Board of Directors, ATHENA Erie’s Marketing & Events Committees, and the Emerging Erie Fund, shaped your approach to leadership?
My experience in marketing has shaped my approach to leadership with clear communication, collaboration and purpose-driven work. My involvement in community and professional organizations has reinforced the importance of listening, respecting diverse perspectives and contributing in meaningful ways. Together, these experiences influence how I lead by putting people first and making decisions with long-term impact in mind.
What leadership skills or mindsets have been most important to your success as your career has progressed?
Servant leadership has been the most important mindset guiding my growth as a leader, both professionally and personally. I believe strong leadership starts with listening, supporting others and creating an environment where people feel valued and empowered to do their best work. By focusing on service and accountability, I’ve been able to build trust, strengthen collaboration and lead with intention as my career has progressed.
How have mentorship, professional networks or leadership development programs influenced your growth, both personally and professionally?
I wouldn’t be where I am today without the mentors and professional network that have supported, challenged and believed in me along the way. Those relationships have shaped my confidence, expanded my perspective, and continue to play a critical role in my personal and professional growth.
The MBA’s Women in Leadership Conference is taking place on March 26 at the Bayfront Convention Center in Erie. Why do you believe this event is valuable not only for women, but for anyone looking to grow as a leader?
This is one of my favorite events each year because it creates space to connect with aspiring leaders while learning from those with experience. The conference brings people together around a shared commitment to advancing women in leadership and strengthening leadership at every level.
What do you hope attendees will take away from the Women in Leadership Conference, and how can it support leaders at different stages of their careers?
I hope attendees leave with meaningful insights they can apply in their daily lives to improve not only their own growth, but also those around them. I offer a friendly challenge to meet someone new at the conference and continue that connection well beyond the event.
What advice would you give to young professionals who are just beginning their careers and want to build strong leadership skills early on?
Focus on building relationships early and seek out mentors who will challenge and support you as you grow. Lead with a servant mindset, stay curious and be intentional about learning from every experience no matter where you start. Your network is your net worth.
