Here at Walsworth, we’re lucky to have many excellent employees. These are the people who make our company run. Some of them interact with our customers every day, but many of them don’t. We’re lucky to have these people, and are sharing a little bit about them in our Behind the Scenes series.
Ed Kennedy has been our head of Human Resources for more than 20 years. As he prepares for retirement at the end of the year, he leaves behind a legacy of support for the 1,000+ Walsworth employees. Ed took the time to answer our questions about his role and his life outside of Walsworth.
How long have you been with Walsworth?
Ed Kennedy: I joined Walsworth in June of 1996 to replace the retiring head of Human Resources department for the company. My area of education was in the field. I also had a lot of years being exposed to the different functional areas in human resources.
Take me through some of the highlights of your job.
EK: When you coach an individual and you help them succeed at their position. Also when you develop and implement programs that attract, retain and motivate high-quality employees. Another highlight has been to work for a company with Don Walsworth, who has created a culture that makes it so we all can succeed.
Your role requires “looking out” for employees, right? What are some ways you do that?
EK: I always try to be the advocate for employees, which means ensuring that we follow our policies and that we are consistent throughout the organization. I work to help employees understand the business reasons behind company actions, which means a lot to many people here at Walsworth.
What will you miss when you retire?
EK: I will miss the individuals that I work with every day in the HR department and my many friends who support me and my family.
Tell me about your life outside of Walsworth?
EK: My wife and I relocated to Brookfield when I accepted the position at Walsworth. Lori and I both grew up in small towns and felt very fortunate to raise our two youngest daughters in a rural community. It was like coming home, and now it is our home.
What do you do for fun?
EK: I enjoy participating in all types of shooting sports and hunting. I also enjoy watching team sports at the college and pro levels.
Do you participate in any clubs, congregations or organizations?
EK: In the past, I have served on several boards. Those include Pershing Memorial Hospital, YMCA and the Missouri Foundation for Health Community Advisory Council. I am currently president of the Senate Bill 40 Board of Directors and a member of the Immaculate Conception Parish.
When do you retire? What are your plans?
EK: I will retire on December 6, 2019. I plan to spend more time with my wife, children and grandchildren.
Thank you to Ed Kennedy for all he’s done for our company! While nobody could ever fill his shoes, we’re looking for a Vice President of Human Resources to make their own mark on our company.
If you know an excellent candidate, please direct them to our Careers page, where they can learn more about the position and submit an application.
