Ken Ward is a distinguished corporate executive with a career marked by strategic leadership in finance and accounting across diverse industries. Based in Friendswood, TX, he has held pivotal roles in guiding organizational financial strategies, including treasury management, tax oversight, risk management, and IT systems integration. Ken’s commitment to ethical standards and transparent financial reporting has been instrumental in driving profitability and operational efficiency.
Currently serving as Chief Financial Officer at Economy Polymers & Chemicals in Houston, TX, Ken directs the company’s financial operations and serves as a key advisor to senior management and external stakeholders. His role encompasses developing and implementing business strategies, managing financial controls, and overseeing external audits and banking relationships. Under his leadership, Economy Polymers has achieved significant growth and stability in a competitive market.
Prior to his current role, Ken held the position of Chief Financial Officer at Hi-Way Equipment Company, LLC, where he played a crucial role in enhancing financial reporting and compliance with equipment suppliers. His strategic insights and financial acumen were instrumental in supporting the company’s growth objectives and optimizing operational costs.
Ken’s career also includes notable tenures as Vice President of Finance at CECO Pipeline Services Company, where he led treasury management and strategic planning efforts. He successfully implemented robust financial controls, facilitated compliance reporting, and contributed to the company’s strategic growth initiatives.
Earlier in his career, Ken served as Chief Financial Officer at Gulf Coast Analytical Lab Inc., overseeing financial operations and ensuring regulatory compliance. His proactive approach to financial management and strategic planning contributed to the company’s operational efficiency and financial stability during his tenure.
Ken’s educational background includes a Master of Accountancy from the C.T. Bauer College of Business at the University of Houston, an MBA from the University of Houston, Clear Lake, and a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from Louisiana Tech University. He holds certifications as a Certified Valuation Analyst (CVA), Chartered Global Management Accountant (CGMA), and Certified Public Accountant (CPA) in Texas and Louisiana.
Active in professional associations, Ken is a member of the National Association of Certified Valuators and Analysts, the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA), and the Texas Society of Certified Public Accountants. He remains committed to continuous professional development through ongoing education in management, finance, and business analysis to uphold his CPA licensure and enhance his leadership capabilities.
Ken Ward’s career is characterized by his dedication to driving organizational excellence through strategic financial leadership, fostering growth opportunities, and mitigating business risks effectively. His achievements underscore his reputation as a trusted advisor and leader in the finance industry.
Character: Ken Ward, CPA, CGMA, CVA, exemplifies integrity and ethical leadership in steering financial operations and fostering team cohesion.
Knowledge: With extensive expertise in finance, accounting, IT systems management, and HR functions, Ken leverages strategic insights to optimize business performance.
Strategic: Ken excels in developing and implementing robust business strategies that drive profitability, manage risk effectively, and capitalize on growth opportunities.
Communication: He demonstrates strong communication skills, adeptly articulating financial insights and fostering collaborative relationships across organizational levels.
