Katherine Backus
SHRM-SCP, Director of People
When you first meet Katherine, it’s evident she has many passions — plus the energy to pursue them. Helping people become the best versions of themselves and teaching financial literacy both top her list.
Prior to joining Vista, Katherine was an advisor and financial analyst who discovered a keen interest in coaching, mentoring, and developing clients and professionals. Today, she’s Vista’s manager of people and development, and she’s continuously coming up with ideas to attract, motivate, and engage current and future team members. Katherine is the powerhouse behind Vista’s mission to help people live more prosperous, happier lives — and it shows in how she collaborates, innovates, and connects with others.
A graduate of Emory University, Katherine double majored in international politics and business. She has also completed the Registered Investment Advisor Management Program through Charles Schwab and earned the Everything DiSC® certification.
Katherine brings the same level of passion and dedication to her volunteer activities and can often be found thinking of new ways to engage the community in SMART Reading’s literacy efforts as the chair of the associate board. She loves to travel with her husband and cherishes the time she gets to spend with Louie, her mostly well-behaved and well-dressed Chiweenie.
Fun fact: She studied guitar with a flamenco guitarist as a teen. She still plays today — but it’s more acoustic pop than Spanish dance music.