Every symphony has a conductor.
Kelly Kunst, Founder
“At first, dreams seem impossible, then improbable, and eventually inevitable.” -- Christopher Reeves
In January of 2009 in the midst of the financial crisis, Kelly moved to Dallas with her husband for his new job. She was deeply troubled by the state of the U.S. economy. After watching numerous hours of testimony in Washington, her thoughts reverted to her childhood. Kelly knew that the answer to the difficulties in the economy could only be found in the small business sector. Her grandfather, Francis “Bud” Salm, had built a simple poultry farm in the Depression into an impressive business model featured coast to coast in agricultural trade journals. A born entrepreneur with a fifth-grade education, Bud taught his grandchildren many lessons. Kelly listened; Kelly founded Your Executive Symphony, YES, in 2009.
“We believe, as a board, that not only is privately business the economic backbone of our communities, but also the fabric that weaves communities together on a macro level.” Our goal is to multiply and help small businesses thrive.
Kelly’s dream is to change the world through business ownership.
“At first, dreams seem impossible, then improbable, and eventually inevitable.” -- Christopher Reeves
In January of 2009 in the midst of the financial crisis, Kelly moved to Dallas with her husband for his new job. She was deeply troubled by the state of the U.S. economy. After watching numerous hours of testimony in Washington, her thoughts reverted to her childhood. Kelly knew that the answer to the difficulties in the economy could only be found in the small business sector. Her grandfather, Francis “Bud” Salm, had built a simple poultry farm in the Depression into an impressive business model featured coast to coast in agricultural trade journals. A born entrepreneur with a fifth-grade education, Bud taught his grandchildren many lessons. Kelly listened; Kelly founded Your Executive Symphony, YES, in 2009.
“We believe, as a board, that not only is privately business the economic backbone of our communities, but also the fabric that weaves communities together on a macro level.” Our goal is to multiply and help small businesses thrive.
Kelly’s dream is to change the world through business ownership.
Board of Directors
Amanda Beasley, CMO, YES
Amanda Beasley is the Director of Marketing for International Risk Management Institute (IRMI), a publishing company for risk management and insurance research. She and her team are responsible for marketing all IRMI content, conferences, certifications and continuing education. She also manages all elements of the IRMI brand. Prior to IRMI, Amanda was the Marketing Manager for the Network of Vertafore Users (NetVU). Previously, she was Marketing Manager for Christian Community Action (CCA) and a communications consultant for EDS and HP. She earned her BBA in Marketing from Texas A&M University and her MBA in Marketing and Strategy from Southern Methodist University.
Amanda has been in the Dallas area since 1996 and has served on the YES board since 2013 where she has managed social media, event communications, newsletters and the website.
Amanda Beasley is the Director of Marketing for International Risk Management Institute (IRMI), a publishing company for risk management and insurance research. She and her team are responsible for marketing all IRMI content, conferences, certifications and continuing education. She also manages all elements of the IRMI brand. Prior to IRMI, Amanda was the Marketing Manager for the Network of Vertafore Users (NetVU). Previously, she was Marketing Manager for Christian Community Action (CCA) and a communications consultant for EDS and HP. She earned her BBA in Marketing from Texas A&M University and her MBA in Marketing and Strategy from Southern Methodist University.
Amanda has been in the Dallas area since 1996 and has served on the YES board since 2013 where she has managed social media, event communications, newsletters and the website.
Jenny Johnson Vice President, Relationship Manager, Iberia Bank
Jenny Johnson brings over 15 years of banking experience to IBERIABANK. Her goal is to provide comprehensive financial solution and unparalleled service to her clients by helping them reach their individual and business goals. IBERIABANK is best known for exceptional client service and their experienced team of professionals. With a wide range of services, including personal banking, commercial and business banking, and treasury management, Jenny is able to fulfill any client’s needs. As she continues to grow and expand the market, her strategy remains the same—provide solid, straightforward financial solutions in the best interest of her clients.
Jenny Johnson brings over 15 years of banking experience to IBERIABANK. Her goal is to provide comprehensive financial solution and unparalleled service to her clients by helping them reach their individual and business goals. IBERIABANK is best known for exceptional client service and their experienced team of professionals. With a wide range of services, including personal banking, commercial and business banking, and treasury management, Jenny is able to fulfill any client’s needs. As she continues to grow and expand the market, her strategy remains the same—provide solid, straightforward financial solutions in the best interest of her clients.
Carl Thomas President/CEO, Courage Catalyst
Alicia Hicks Owner, Hicks Marketing and Revenue Solutions