As we continue celebrating Asian American Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Heritage Month , we’re proud to highlight Founder and Managing Partner of Clarity Partners and Illinois EDC Board Member David Namkung, who has lived and worked in Illinois for 30 years.
What inspired your career path and industry involvement?
I started my career in technology consulting in the 90s as computers and the internet began to transform business and society. Being a part of this major revolution has been an amazing journey and founding Clarity Partners over 20 years ago has given me a front-row seat.
As an AANHPI leader in your field, what challenges have you faced, and how have you overcome them?
As an AANHPI leader in technology, the challenges are no different than being a leader in other industries. Leading can be lonely; it requires skills and qualities that are not always apparent, plus many sacrifices along the way. It helps to have partners in the business as well as other peers that have similar experiences.
Can you share a key moment in your career that shaped who you are today?
There have been many key moments in my career, some good and some bad, that have shaped who I am today. Leading the project that transformed the City of Chicago—the Chicago City Sticker Program—stands out as a project that shaped me and Clarity. The positive impact on the millions of people, as well as the additional revenue generated for the city, of the technology project was very rewarding for the entire team.
Who are (or have been) some of your mentors, role models, or inspirations?
So many people I have met and worked with along the way: My parents that brought me to the U.S. as a two-year-old from South Korea and did all they could be give me a path to success; founding partners in Clarity—Rodney Zech and Ellen Turner; and elected officials at different levels—Susana Mendoza, Tammy Duckworth, and Josina Morita.
What does success look like to you—professionally and/or personally?
At this stage, success is measured in continuing to grow and develop personally and professionally. Any early goals have been met and exceeded; now the focus shifts to maintaining and transitioning and helping others reach their goals as well.
How does being in Illinois contribute to your success as an AANHPI leader (if it does)?
Clarity was built in Illinois and the state has created the environment and support programs for us to thrive. I have witnessed AANHPI leaders in all industries grow and be included at the highest levels.
What do you love most about living and working in Illinois?
I live in Chicago and in the Loop and get to experience the best and worst the state has to offer. The list of ‘bests’ is so much longer.
What makes Illinois a strong place for AANHPI business leaders?
What makes Illinois a strong place for AANHPI business leaders is the blend of leaders across so many aspects of business, politics, culture, and society. There are so many leaders in each, which contributes to Illinois being the best state in the nation.
What policies, programs, or networks in Illinois have supported your professional growth or your organization’s mission?
The various MBA programs have opened doors to business opportunities. Illinois EDC has allowed us to broaden our relationships and experiences. The many non-profits that Clarity has partnered with have let us grow and give back.
How do you or your organization support your local community or underrepresented groups?
Clarity Cares was launched many years ago with the mission of supporting local community organizations, many of which support underrepresented groups. This is an employee-led organization of diverse team members that direct the firm’s giving.
Are there any initiatives or organizations in Illinois that you’re proud to support?
There are so many, but Hanul Family Alliance is one that we have supported for many years.
What inspires you to continue to affect change in your world?
The world is every changing, and I would rather it change for the better.
What does AANHPI Heritage Month mean to you personally?
It is a time to celebrate but also reflect and focus. The AANHPI community has come a long way, but more can be done so that we are positioned to do our part to make Illinois the best it can be.
What would you say to a young AANHPI professional considering launching or relocating their career to Illinois?
Talk to Christy George and the team at Illinois EDC soon!
Favorite Illinois historical figure:
Senator Tammy Duckworth
Favorite book of all time:
Million Dollar Blackjack by Ken Uston
Best business advice you’ve ever given (or received):
Hope is not a strategy.
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