Corovan Appoints New President, Breaking Gender Norms in Moving Industry
Corovan Appoints Kim Kamencik as President
Corovan Moving & Storage, recognized as the largest commercial mover and storage provider in the Western United States, has made waves in the industry by appointing Kim Kamencik as its new president. This move is notable, especially considering the traditionally male-dominated context of the moving and storage sector. Kamencik's leadership comes at a pivotal time as the company transitions to an employee-owned structure.
A Groundbreaking Appointment
The announcement, made on December 9, 2024, reflects Corovan's ongoing commitment to progressive leadership. Bud Schmitz, the CEO of Corovan, expressed confidence in Kamencik’s abilities, citing her extensive experience and success within the company. Prior to her new role, she served as the Chief Financial Officer, where she played an integral role in the company’s evolution and growth.
"We've been focusing on succession planning for some time, and Kim's appointment marks a significant step forward for us," Schmitz stated. "Her track record of innovation and her understanding of our operations make her an ideal leader for this transition."
Transitioning Into Employee Ownership
Founded in 1948, Corovan has traditionally been a family-owned business until it began its shift to an employee-owned model in 2022. Under Kamencik's direction, approximately 49% of the company is now owned by its employees. This transition not only democratizes the ownership structure but also aligns with the company's objective to foster an environment where employees are even more invested in their work.
Kamencik herself emphasized the importance of employee contributions to the firm’s success. "Our team is the backbone of our operations. They exceed client expectations, and it’s only fitting that they share in the rewards of that success, which our new structure facilitates," she explained.
Continued Commitment to Innovation
Corovan prides itself on its commitment to quality and professionalism, which is underscored by its extensive service offerings, including commercial moving, warehouse storage, inventory tracking, and technology relocation. Kamencik noted that the firm would continue its investment in technology to enhance operational efficiency.
For instance, Corotrak, a cloud-based app developed by Corovan, allows for more efficient inventory management during moves, enabling clients to stay informed while streamlining processes. Moreover, Corovan's Corotech division specializes in tech relocations, ensuring that IT staff can focus on critical tasks while the company manages the logistics of moving sensitive technology.
A Focus on Diversity and Inclusion
As Corovan continues to evolve, the company's commitment extends beyond operational excellence; it actively promotes diversity and inclusion within its workforce. Approximately 85% of its employee-owners identify as minorities, reflecting a workplace that values varied backgrounds and experiences. This focus aligns with broader industry trends towards more inclusive environments, enhancing team dynamics and employee satisfaction.
The company’s initiatives parallel the internal values of its clients, establishing strong partnerships that are grounded in shared principles of growth and accessibility. By prioritizing an inclusive workplace, Corovan solidifies its position as a leading commercial mover while setting a compelling example in a historical industry landscape.
Looking Ahead
As Kim Kamencik steps into her presidency, she carries the weight of her predecessors’ legacy while also paving a new path forward. Her focus on expanding employee ownership, commitment to innovative solutions, and firm dedication to diversity within the organization signal an exciting future for Corovan Moving & Storage. By championing these changes, the company not only redefines leadership within its walls but also challenges the status quo in the moving and storage industry as a whole.
With an eye on the future, Kamencik is clearly poised to lead Corovan into a new era, one that champions equity, employee engagement, and operational excellence.