Kenny Gardner
About Kenny Gardner
Kenny Gardner serves as the Director of Operations at Imperial Dade, bringing over two decades of experience in sales and operations management, including significant roles at Keurig Dr Pepper Inc. He is skilled in compliance, continuous improvement, and financial management, with certifications in OSHA, Lean Six Sigma, and material handling training.
Work at Imperial Dade
Kenny Gardner has been serving as the Director of Operations at Imperial Dade since 2020. In this role, he oversees operational processes and ensures efficient management within the organization. His responsibilities include implementing strategies for continuous improvement and enhancing operational efficiency. Gardner's leadership style focuses on employee engagement and team collaboration, which aligns with the company's goals of fostering a productive work environment.
Previous Experience at Keurig Dr Pepper Inc.
Prior to his current position, Kenny Gardner spent 12 years at Keurig Dr Pepper Inc. in various roles. He began as an Operations Manager from 2000 to 2005, then progressed to Area Sales Director and Branch Manager until 2017. Following that, he served as Regional Director of Sales Operations for three years. His extensive experience in sales and operations management contributed to his expertise in capital expenditures budgeting and compliance with transportation regulations.
Education and Expertise
Kenny Gardner holds certifications that reflect his expertise in operational management. He is certified in Lean Six Sigma and is an RCI certified professional, indicating his proficiency in process improvement methodologies. Additionally, he possesses OSHA 10 certification, demonstrating his commitment to workplace safety standards. Gardner is also certified as an MHE/PIT Trainer, showcasing his knowledge in material handling equipment and powered industrial trucks.
Skills and Proficiencies
Kenny Gardner is skilled in various operational and financial processes. He has a strong background in DOT/FMCSA compliance, ensuring adherence to transportation regulations. Gardner is proficient in advanced business software and databases, including SAP, Business Intelligence, and Salient Margin Minder. His financial acumen is evident in his ability to manage capital expenditures budgeting effectively, which is essential for operational success.
Leadership Style and Philosophy
Kenny Gardner is known for his servant leadership style, which emphasizes employee engagement and collaboration within teams. He advocates for rapid continuous improvement by challenging the status quo, fostering an environment where innovation and efficiency are prioritized. This approach not only enhances team performance but also contributes to the overall success of the organizations he has been a part of.