Who knew that a career that began in residential real estate sales would lead Kathy to Lyondell’s legal department?
Location: Houston, Texas
Year joined Lyondell: 2001
Education: B.B.A. Finance, Texas A&M University, 1985; J.D., University of Houston Law Center, 1991
After hours: Bikram yoga, interior design, wine tasting and collecting, traveling, and Astros baseball
TV pick: The Office
On her cone: Chocolate
Of course, Kathy hasn’t strayed too far from where she began – she now works as Senior Counsel in the Mergers and Acquisitions group, handling all legal matters relating to real estate, pipelines and various commercial transactions.
Immediately after college, Kathy worked three years in residential real estate sales. She managed to fit her law school studies into an already busy schedule selling high-end properties “inside the Loop” in Houston. While juggling the demands of working and attending law school full time, she learned to use her time efficiently as well as a few other lessons she brought with her to Lyondell.
“I learned to listen well before beginning an analysis – legal or commercial,” she said. “This has proved critical in my work experience because every matter is different, and I can’t assume the matter I am working on at the time is like the last deal. Listening and then following up with the right questions helps me better understand my client’s objectives.”
How would I describe Lyondell employees? High-caliber professionals with the highest standards and ethics.
While selling real estate, part of Kathy’s goal was to educate her clients about potential issues with a deal so as to avoid any surprises later. Her goal is still much the same in her work here at Lyondell.
“I strive to put our company in the best position legally, while also accomplishing the commercial goals,” she said. “I work hard to make sure that our company is not surprised by anything after the deal is closed.”
What may come as a surprise, however, is Kathy’s response to the proverbial “what would you do if you won the lottery?” question.
“I wouldn’t resign,” she said. “That should say it all.”