Flexibility, organization automatic for Simatic

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Before Debbie Simatic begins her workday at Quarles & Brady, the executive assistant for human resources reads an inspirational quote to put her in the right frame of mind before she begins juggling various duties for C-Suite level executives.

“The work is extremely satisfying, and I look forward to work everyday because of the people I work with,” she said. “Quarles & Brady offers a collaborative and caring work environment. It makes it very easy for me to strive for excellence when supporting people who are of the highest character and integrity.”

Simatic provides administrative support to the executive director, the executive committee and chief human-resources officer and to their direct reports. Those duties could mean anything from working on a special project and preparing meeting minutes to updating master calendars and details concerning the venues used for partner meetings. Simatic is also the point person for new-hire and departure paperwork, organizes the firm’s notary-public offerings and edits the firm’s legal manual.

Organization and flexibility are essential in keeping everything on track, Simatic said.

“I enjoy my job and the challenge of it,” she said. “I am flexible and am willing to change course mid-task to create a successful outcome even if it means redoing a time-consuming task multiple times. Keeping our clients satisfied – both internal and external – is my main focus each day.”

To do that, Simatic uses technology and sets up tack boards, task lists, reminders and appointments to help organizes various tasks.

Simatic’s attention to detail does not go unnoticed, said Karen Mazin, the firm’s chief legal-practice administrative officer.

“Despite her busy schedule, Debbie is always willing to help out wherever she can. She is detail-orientated and expects perfection from her work products, and especially in any events she is involved in coordinating,” she said. “It’s a comfort to know we don’t have to worry about the details because Debbie is all over them.”

Simatic joined Quarles & Brady 19 years ago as a part-time/temporary HR assistant. After three months, the job became permanent. Twelve years ago, she was promoted to her current role.

“One of the most impactful changes at Quarles & Brady that I have witnessed is the defined and cohesive vision for the firm,” she said. “We aren’t just seeing words on a piece of paper, we are seeing action and coordinated efforts to include each person and to hear everyone’s voice so that Quarles & Brady continues to be successful and consistently achieves a ‘10 every time’ for our clients.”