In our last executive interview, you heard from Founder and CEO, Michael Patterson, about the past, present and future of King Solutions. This time, we’ve asked Jenni Morine, our Human Resources Manager, to share a bit more about herself, her role, and what makes King Solutions stand out from other companies.
Q: What is your role with King Solutions and how long have you been with the company?
A: My role is the Human Resources Manager and I have been at King Solutions nearly four years. I am a “department of one” so I am responsible for overseeing all recruitment and selection, compensation and benefits, employee relations, safety, training and development, wellness, and our community involvement initiative, “MaKING a Difference.”
Q: Can you name a person who has had an impact on you as a leader? Why and how did this person impact your life?
A: I have been fortunate in my career to work alongside several talented, positive and motivating people. My honest answer however, would have to be my Dad. He is well educated, worldly and always sets a good example by holding himself to high standards.
Today, at age 85, he still owns and operates his own company. He simply “gets” business! His undergrad degree is in Marketing and he attended Grad School for Aeronautical Engineering from KU. My dad is my number one fan so he definitely demonstrates unconditional love and for that I am grateful!
Q: In what ways has King changed since you started with the company?
A: The obvious answer would be the branding (logo, color schemes, messaging, etc.) but aside from that we now have both orchestrated volunteer and wellness programs. Our benefits and educations about how to be a wise consumer of benefits have elevated, as well.
There have been a number of excellent people join the organization since 2011, and we continue to try new things and expand our suite of services.
Q: How do you help a new employee understand King’s culture?
A: As early as the first interview, we cover the company values and beliefs. We talk about our philanthropic mission and explain why we exist as an organization. Our website also demonstrates our philosophy and purpose.
The culture is really something you need to experience for yourself. Our culture is reflected in a number of ways including our welcoming building, friendly messaging, generous benefits, laughter overheard in the work areas and in genuine care for one another.
Q: What keeps you passionate about the things you do at King?
A: I believe in the mission here at King! It is rewarding to see people evolve and develop into contributors and experts! Everyone wants to be here!
Q: How do you ensure activities and initiatives are aligned with King’s core values?
A: We have an anthem statement that all employees have read and agree to adhere to. In meetings or decision-making processes, we can refer back to it and if something challenges the beliefs, we are empowered to speak up.
Q: Where do you think King will be in 5 years? Where do you think the logistics industry will be in 5 years?
A: I don’t know exactly where King will be in five years of course, but I feel we will be well on our way, if not already, a 100 million dollar company! With our current construction/expansion, excellent talent pool and ambitious sales team to secure new business, we definitely will be healthy and strong!
The logistics industry is constantly focusing on speeding up delivery times and increasing efficiencies. Technology will bring logistics to new heights and the end-to-end visibility will be expected. There is quite a bit of unpredictability that occurs within logistics, so remaining flexible and having the ability to adapt easily will be key now and in the future.
