2018 40 Under 40: Brandon Kennedy, 31 

SBJ photo by Wes Hamilton

Brandon Kennedy is climbing the corporate ladder at John Deere Reman LLC – and he’s lifting up others along with way. Currently factory warehouse supervisor, Kennedy has received four promotions since joining the company in 2010. He gained attention for founding a campaign to increase inventory accuracy.

As a supervisor, Kennedy strives to identify strong employees and help them find career satisfaction – especially members of minority groups. He meets all 30 employees quarterly for one-on-one performance assessments. Through professional mentoring, four of his employees have been promoted, including one woman who had been in the same position for nine years. Additionally, Kennedy mentors youth at Big Brothers Big Sisters and Boys & Girls Clubs of America.

What was your first job? I played jazz for Gallery 37 in Chicago.

What was your professional aha moment? When you focus on saving time, while not overlooking safety, in a manufacturing and production environment, all other metrics – cost saving, productivity, flexibility, etc. – typically will improve.

What’s your most treasured possession? A picture frame with my degrees in it because I’m a first-generation college graduate.

Have you ever met a celebrity? Yes, several in my travels and involvement – Scarlett Johansson, President Barack Obama, Sen. John McCain, Kal Penn and Magic Johnson.