After 11 years as Goff Public’s Office Manager, Sue Kuncio, has announced her well-deserved plans for retirement in January. Sue has been a central figure of Goff Public, often the first person people hear or see when connecting with our firm. Her institutional knowledge, meticulous problem-solving, big-picture perspective and unwavering dedication to keeping our ship sailing smoothly have been fundamental to our success. To honor her time with us, we sat down with Sue for a special Q&A to reflect on her career at Goff, discuss how the industry’s changed over the decade and what she’s looking forward to most in her next chapter.
What’s one of your most memorable moments at Goff Public?
Goff Public’s 50th anniversary party in 2016. I was a relatively new hire at the time, and it was huge celebration with clients from across every industry, friends and family members. I remember looking out across the room and thinking, “Wow! Look at how many people we impact and the legacy we’ve established here.” It was really something to see and felt like the whole state had come out to party with us. Now, a decade later, it feels like the perfect way to close out my time with Goff as we look forward to our 60th anniversary next year!
How have you seen Goff change over the years?
The biggest change, unsurprisingly, happened during Covid — it changed everything about how we communicate and operate as a business. With the widespread adoption of instant, virtual communication platforms like Teams, Zooms and chat, it’s easier to get a hold of each other, ask quick questions and work out problems in real time. On the flip side, it’s also made our in-person interactions feel more meaningful. It’s been interesting to see how our team has gravitated toward each other more during our in-office days. It’s also made us more aware about which discussions really need to be done face-to-face. The efficiency of virtual communications has magnified the importance of keeping certain interactions in-person between each other and our clients.
Your title is “Office Manager,” but everyone knows you wear countless hats. How would you describe your role at Goff Public?
I like to say my role has been herding tigers, not cats. It’s exhilarating, unpredictable, sometimes exhausting but always exciting to be in the ring with them! And most importantly, it requires your head to be on a swivel.
What’s the most unexpected skill you’ve had to develop as your role has evolved?
Becoming our in-house IT specialist. I know more about computers, troubleshooting and cybersecurity now than I ever thought I would – or could!
What’s one office tradition or memory that makes you smile?
I love when it’s time to break out our handmade and deeply treasured “Father Goff” figurine that we put in the office kitchen every year around the holidays to remind us of our founder, Bob Goff. His presence rings in Goff’s seasonal festivities and always elicits peels of laughter and surprise when he “magically” appears.
What are you looking forward to the most about retiring?
Being able to say “yes” more often with no more time restraints, and finally getting my turn to be “that” person who forgets what day of the week it is! I’ll also be spending more time volunteering at my favorite nonprofit, Pet Haven – Minnesota’s oldest foster-based rescue. I’m looking forward to expanding my role there, putting my organizational skills to good use in their warehouse.
What do you hope the team remembers you for the most?
My commitment to authenticity and inclusive, thoughtful decision-making — even when it goes against popular opinion. The world is nuanced, and I know our work is better when we take the time to make sure it reflects that. My least favorite phrase these days is “plug-and-play.” Nothing is that simple – there’s no one-size-fits-all solution to every problem. I hope I’m remembered for my efforts to keep us accountable and committed to finding solutions that address the big picture.
What will you miss most about Goff Public?
My answer is easy, cliché and 100% true: The people. I’m so proud to have had the privilege to call this remarkable group of talented, kind and hard-working individuals my team for 11 years. Even though I won’t be officially clipping media mentions as a retiree, you can bet I’ll still be keeping my eyes peeled and eagerly following how this incredible team continues to make waves across our state.