Interview with Kati Krueger
In celebration of our many women leaders who have been instrumental in Yeo & Yeo’s success, we are proud to feature one of our remarkable leaders, Kati Krueger, CMPE.
For years, we have provided our professionals with a healthy work-life balance, supporting them in their efforts to effectively balance a growing career and fulfilling home life. Our total workforce is over 54% female, and those in leadership positions exceed 50%. We are incredibly proud of our family-friendly culture and our ability to attract and retain women.
This is Kati’s perspective on her career, leadership, and the importance of self-confidence.
Q: Tell me about your career and your role at Yeo & Yeo Medical Billing & Consulting.
I began as a co-op student with Yeo & Yeo Medical Billing & Consulting (formerly Affiliated Medical Billing) in 2002. After graduating from Saginaw Valley State University, I advanced to Marketing Assistant, Marketing Manager, Billing Manager, and then vice president. In 2017, the company changed its name to Yeo & Yeo Medical Billing & Consulting, and I took the reins as president. As president, I lead the strategic initiatives for YYMBC, working with my staff to provide medical billing, consulting, and practice management to organizations throughout Michigan and beyond.
Q: What do you enjoy most about your career?
Medical Billing is an industry that is constantly changing and keeping us on our toes. I enjoy the challenge of learning new rules and regulations and being able to help teach our staff about those changes so they can be successful with their jobs. I also find it very rewarding to watch staff grow and become talented medical billers and coders.
Q: When you began your career, did you ever imagine that you would have a leadership role?
I have been blessed to be with Yeo & Yeo Medical Billing & Consulting for over 20 years. I started as a high school co-op student, and I can honestly say I did not think this is where I would end up. I am grateful for the opportunity and the path I was able to take at Yeo & Yeo. The firm’s leaders helped guide me to where I am today.
Q: What was the best advice you ever received?
Be confident in the information you are presenting. Many times when giving a presentation or meeting with a potential client, you will be questioned about the knowledge you are providing. You must remember you are the expert in that field, and you must stay confident in what you know is accurate information.
Q: What advice would you give to the next generation of female leaders?
Don’t compare yourself to others. We all have different talents and lead in different ways. That’s what makes us unique. When we start comparing ourselves to others, it limits our own creativity and potential.
Q: Why is empathy in the workplace so important?
Empathy helps us connect with our staff and build relationships. When we have a better understanding of our staff by building those relationships, it allows us to be better leaders as it creates trust, communication, and respect within our team.