“Employee engagement can be understood through academic resources, such as books and seminars, as well as through direct experience. My background ranges from the plant floor to the executive suite, equipping me with a comprehensive perspective on how successful organizations operate. I offer your organization insights drawn from observing best practices at every level, from frontline employees to senior leadership. I would like to share some of these lessons, which may address challenges your organization is currently encountering?”
Paul Empey – Founder, In-Gaged Leadership
My career began on the plant floor as a lead hand in the late 1970s, leading a small group of operators and advancing to Plant Manager, responsible for more than 130 employees. I played a key role in cultivating the mindset, skill set, and tool set essential for effective leadership. Under my leadership, Sippican Ocean Systems was recognized as one of New England’s fastest-growing and most successful companies, developing advanced electronics for the US submarine fleet and oceanographic industry.
I subsequently led the transfer of these technologies to Hermes Electronics Canada, now Ultra Electronics, supporting the company in becoming the third largest producer of sonobuoys worldwide. As a senior team member, I worked directly with operators to establish two major production lines within a year, enabling the company to fulfil commitments and secure major contracts with NATO countries.
As VP Operations and Engineering at a Nova Scotia start-up, I helped build and manage teams for two major manufacturing facilities in New Brunswick and Nova Scotia, propelling Acadian Seaplants to global leadership in seaweed bio-stimulants for agriculture.
I then assisted Ocean Nutrition Canada’s development as Vice President of Operations and Supply Chain, focusing on strengthening a young management team and expanding production capacity. My international leadership included establishing oil procurement and production infrastructure in Peru and collaborating with government and producers to build a robust supply chain, preceding the creation of in-gaged Leadership.
As President of in-gaged Leadership, I offer my knowledge and expertise to organizations striving to maximize their potential. With more than thirty years in senior and executive roles, I have helped organizations transition from disengagement to full engagement, driving measurable improvements in workforce performance.
In this capacity, I also served as acting COO for nearly two years at one of Atlantic Canada’s fastest-growing companies, facilitating the national integration of divisions. My focus was on developing leadership skills in key managers and strengthening their business acumen to support organizational success.
I have coached and mentored employees, developing effective communication and establishing trust rapidly. My ability to work with senior management to foster strong leadership has enabled organizations to achieve significant growth and profitability. I emphasize execution, fiscal responsibility, and ROI, fully understanding the impact of outstanding leadership.
Certified in Leadership Development, Disciplines of Execution, and as a Certified Professional Coach, I draw on broad cross-functional senior management and executive experience to guide organizations through high growth and major change. I consistently use Employee Engagement as a strategic management lever, having established programs that directly drive growth and profitability. My ability to bridge the gap between senior management and employees addresses one of today’s most pressing business challenges.