Kevin Yim
Vice President, Marketing & Communications
Zippy’s Restaurants
Kevin Yim is a Mentor Hawaii Cohort 11 mentor. Learn more about the program here.
About Kevin
Kevin Yim is the Vice President of Marketing & Communications for FCH Enterprises, the parent brand of Zippy’s Restaurants and its affiliated companies. He has led the process of revitalizing the Zippy’s brand through design, new digital services, like online ordering, brand collaborations, and a new loyalty program. Prior to Zippy’s, he led marketing teams at other iconic Hawaii brands, such as Hawaiian Airlines and Bank of Hawaii. At Hawaiian Airlines, he spearheaded consumer marketing efforts around the globe as Hawaiian launched routes to Japan, Korea, Australia, China, Taiwan, and the US East Coast. At Bank of Hawaii, he led the branding, advertising, events, and community affairs departments. Kevin was named the AAF Hawaii Advertising Person of the Year in 2022. Kevin is a graduate of Kamehameha Schools and the University of San Francisco.
Question and Answer with Kevin
What is your preferred communication style when mentoring (in-person, video conference, phone, informal check-ins, structured meetings, etc.)?
In-Person, Video Conference, Phone Call, Text / SMS
Why do you want to become a mentor in this program?
Many say mentorship is about giving back and empowering the next generation. I agree that serving others is essential, but I’ve found that mentoring early-career professionals transforms me as a leader and marketer. It deepens my insight into what drives younger talent and reveals what they truly value in leadership. Mentorship also broadens my perspective on culture, ensuring our brands remain relevant and resonate within the ever-evolving marketplace. Ultimately, the more I invest in others, the more I grow—mentorship is a reciprocal journey of learning and impact.
What specific skills, knowledge or experience can you share with your mentee?
I bring hard-earned lessons from navigating career crossroads—choosing employers, embracing new roles, and knowing when to move on. My experience in marketing and technology, especially leading major tech initiatives over the past seven years, equips me to guide mentees through launching and managing complex projects, selecting the right partners, and overcoming ongoing challenges. I’m committed to sharing candid stories of both setbacks and triumphs, helping mentees avoid common pitfalls and seize opportunities. Above all, I tailor my support to what each mentee truly needs, ensuring our conversations are practical, honest, and, hopefully, transformative.
What are your expectations for a mentor-mentee relationship?
I aim to empower my mentee to define their values, set bold career goals, and pursue paths that align with their purpose. I expect our dialogue to be open and honest, fostering mutual growth—where I offer guidance and feedback, and my mentee offers me fresh perspectives to see new possibilities in my work and brand.
How do you approach problem-solving and conflict resolution?
I am direct and to-the-point to define the issues. However, I always ask the other person how they see the situation and what they think might be a solution to the issues.
How do you envision success for your mentee, and how will you measure it during the program?
Success in mentorship is a shared journey. I measure success by the depth of our conversations, the quality of questions we challenge each other with, and the “a-ha moments” we both experience. When both mentor and mentee grow, gain new perspectives, and inspire each other to think differently, that’s when mentorship truly makes a lasting impact.