“To thrive in my journey through life and learn life’s lessons along the way.”

Kevin Pennington is a seasoned executive whose career spans more than three decades at the forefront of manufacturing, engineering, and global leadership. With a personal philosophy rooted in growth, resilience, and lifelong learning, Kevin has built a legacy defined by innovation, collaboration, and the pursuit of excellence. His professional journey, from a humble beginning as a toolmaker to becoming Vice President of Corporate Engineering at Berry Global, showcases the power of dedication, vision, and the ability to lead organizations through dynamic change.

Kevin began his professional career at B&D Mold, where he worked as a toolmaker. In those formative years, he gained firsthand experience with the intricacies of tooling, design, and production. This foundation not only honed his technical skills but also instilled in him an appreciation for precision and craftsmanship—qualities that would serve as the backbone of his leadership style in the years to come. His time at B&D Mold provided a deep respect for the trades, the workforce, and the critical role they play in building strong and sustainable companies.

In 1992, Kevin joined Berry Global, a rapidly growing manufacturer in plastics and engineered materials. What began as a role in tooling engineering quickly evolved into a career-defining tenure that lasted over 31 years. His early contributions as a tooling engineer allowed him to influence product development, streamline operations, and align technical execution with the company’s larger growth objectives. By applying his technical expertise with a strategic lens, Kevin became a trusted leader in shaping the company’s engineering standards.

As Director of Tooling, a role he held for nearly two decades, Kevin drove advancements in automation, process optimization, and global tooling strategies. Under his direction, Berry Global successfully scaled its tooling operations, supporting an aggressive acquisition strategy and product line diversification. His leadership extended beyond technology; he cultivated teams of engineers and technicians, mentoring them to think critically, act decisively, and approach their work with a mindset of continuous improvement. This period solidified Kevin’s reputation as both a technical expert and an organizational leader capable of aligning people, process, and purpose.

In 2010, Kevin ascended to the role of Vice President of Corporate Engineering, a position that marked the pinnacle of his career at Berry Global. In this role, he oversaw enterprise-level engineering strategy, automation investments, and capital projects across a global footprint. His leadership was instrumental in driving manufacturing efficiency, safety, and sustainability initiatives, ensuring that Berry Global remained competitive in a fast-changing industry. Working across Asia, Europe, and North America, Kevin navigated the complexities of international markets, supply chains, and workforce diversity, bringing a global perspective to every decision.

Throughout his tenure, Kevin became widely respected for his ability to integrate business strategy with engineering excellence. He championed lean manufacturing principles, Six Sigma practices, and long-term planning frameworks that reduced costs and increased organizational agility. His strategic foresight allowed Berry Global to anticipate industry trends, invest in the right technologies, and sustain growth even in volatile economic climates. This ability to balance innovation with practicality made him an invaluable leader within the company and a recognized voice in the broader manufacturing community.

Kevin’s leadership style has always been characterized by a strong commitment to people. He believes that while technology and processes can drive efficiency, it is people who drive true transformation. By fostering collaboration, valuing diverse perspectives, and leading by example, he created environments where teams thrived. His colleagues often describe him as approachable yet decisive, a leader who could both inspire and challenge others to perform at their highest potential.

Now retired from his executive role, Kevin remains deeply committed to giving back to the industry that shaped his life and career. He is actively seeking opportunities to serve on boards and advisory groups, where he can offer his wealth of knowledge to organizations seeking to innovate, grow, and transform. For Kevin, this new chapter is less about personal achievement and more about mentorship, stewardship, and ensuring that his decades of wisdom continue to benefit future leaders and companies.

On a personal level, Kevin values humility, integrity, and lifelong learning. His career has taken him across the globe, yet he remains grounded in the belief that leadership is as much about service as it is about results. He carries with him not only a wealth of professional experience but also a deep sense of responsibility to uplift others, support industries in transition, and contribute to the future of manufacturing and engineering.

Kevin’s journey is a testament to the idea that leadership is earned through consistent action, a commitment to excellence, and the ability to adapt in the face of change. From the shop floor to the executive boardroom, he has remained steadfast in his mission to learn, grow, and inspire others. His biography stands as both a record of accomplishment and an invitation to organizations seeking a leader with proven vision, technical depth, and unwavering dedication.

Character:
Kevin exemplifies character through his unwavering integrity, humility, and dedication to service. He is respected by colleagues for his approachable yet decisive leadership style, which balances accountability with empathy. His personal mission to thrive and learn demonstrates a life anchored in values and purpose.

Knowledge:
With over 30 years in the tooling and manufacturing industries, Kevin’s expertise spans engineering, automation, global operations, and strategic planning. His ability to align technical detail with business strategy has made him a trusted advisor and leader. His knowledge is not only technical but also holistic, encompassing people, process, and organizational dynamics.

Strategic:
Kevin has consistently demonstrated an ability to anticipate industry trends, align investments with long-term goals, and create sustainable growth strategies. His tenure at Berry Global reflects a leader who knows how to balance innovation with operational stability. He brings a global perspective, ensuring that decisions are not only effective locally but also scalable and adaptable worldwide.

Communication:
Throughout his career, Kevin has been recognized as a clear and compelling communicator. He translates complex technical concepts into actionable strategies, making him invaluable in bridging the gap between engineering teams and executive leadership. His ability to listen, mentor, and inspire has been central to his success and to the success of the organizations he has served.