David Zarzecki, Executive Director of Kindred.co
David Zarzecki is Executive Director of Kindred.co, a company that aims to become the largest donor to charitable organisations globally. David tells The Industry Leaders how he became the face of his company during the Covid-19 pandemic and how he would become a mini St. Nick if given the opportunity!
How did you end up sitting where you are today?
Having worked in the luxury sector as the Global Sales Director for Quintessentially for many years, I wanted to do more to help others. Many people are suffering in the world, so if I can use my skills and personality to help others do good, then I have a purpose. I believe in a positive mindset which in turn has helped me become far more spiritual in how I behave and look upon life.
What kind of work does your role involve?
I have, to an extent, become the face of the company. In particular, the Rainbow Thank You T-Shirt campaign I launched during this pandemic allowed me to talk about what we do via radio and news channels, helping us raise hundreds of thousands of pounds for NHS Charities together. I am fortunate to work with charities and corporations, helping them raise money through our solution whilst enabling people to become more conscious of how they consume. I spend a lot of time on video calls and furthering my reach using LinkedIn and other social media platforms.
What gets you excited about your industry?
Helping others, together with the vision and belief that we will become the largest donor to charitable organisations in the world. I adore listening and speaking to all, in particular new charities and corporations. Our solution is free, which I love to shout about. There are not many companies offering a solution that's free to help others.
What's the best advice anyone ever gave you?
Listen, empathy, be kind, never give up and, most importantly, forgive.
What, or who inspires you?
People who are not afraid to speak their mind and stand up for what they believe in. I worked with two key figures for many years. One of which I work with at Kindred. Both of these gents (Ben and Aaron) I have always admired and looked up to. Both are kind, hard-working and inspiring people.
How do you keep up to speed with what's happening in your industry?
I like to read a lot (newspapers), watch the news, browse LinkedIn and other social media, listen to podcasts, and most importantly listening to others I meet.
What was the most challenging project or situation you've overcome?
When we launched Kindred, the on-boarding process was a very long manual task; however, through speaking with those we met at a trade show, we found a solution that enabled us to speed this process up. The same applied when we launched our solution to laptops; it's highly frustrating trying to encourage people you have never met to trust you. However, over time, our brand has become far more trusted, enabling us to amplify our solution to those that wish to shop online whilst supporting their charitable cause.
You finish work today and step outside the office to find a lottery ticket that ends up winning $10 million. What would you do?
Try to find out who it belonged to.
Failing that and it remained un-claimed, I would use a large amount of the money to help charitable causes and those who have struggled in life. I would almost like to become a mini St Nicholas.
How do you switch off after a day at work?
When the gyms re-open, I like to go for a workout or swim. Failing that, I currently play music and go on a long walk. I thoroughly enjoy cooking and, on weekends, enjoy a good bottle of red with my wife.
If you had one wish for the future of your industry, what would it be?
My wish would be across all industries:
For everyone to be honest and do more to help others - whether individuals or charitable causes. Either way: help others.
What book or podcast should everyone know about?
I am currently reading Jay Shetty, "Think like a Monk".
In terms of Podcasts, I listen to many; it depends on my mood. I love comedy, so Nicole Byer and Sasheer Zamata.
How should people connect with you?
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