Jenny Abernathy
Chief People Officer
Professional Overview
Jenny Abernathy is an accomplished human resources executive with over 15 years of experience driving organizational transformation and talent development initiatives. As the Chief People Officer at CRST The Transportation Solution, Inc., she is responsible for leading the company's enterprise-wide people strategy, cultivating a high-performing and engaged workforce, and aligning talent management practices to support the organization's strategic goals.
Experience Summary
Current Role
In her current role as Chief People Officer, Jenny oversees all aspects of CRST's human capital management, including talent acquisition, learning and development, compensation and benefits, employee relations, and organizational design. She has spearheaded the implementation of robust talent management systems, leadership development programs, and diversity and inclusion initiatives that have resulted in improved employee engagement, retention, and productivity across the organization.
Career Progression
Prior to her current role, Jenny held progressive leadership positions at CRST, serving as the Vice President of Enterprise Capacity Development and Vice President of Capacity Development. In these roles, she was instrumental in driving the company's talent and organizational transformation efforts, leading to significant improvements in operational efficiency, customer satisfaction, and market competitiveness.
Before joining CRST, Jenny held various management roles at Target Corporation, where she gained valuable experience in retail operations, merchandising, and human resources. As a District Team Leader, Group Merchandising Leader, and Store Team Leader, she demonstrated a strong ability to manage cross-functional teams, drive business results, and foster a positive and empowering work culture.
Academic Background
Jenny holds a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration from the University of Iowa, where she graduated with honors. Her educational background, combined with her extensive industry experience, has equipped her with a robust understanding of the strategic and operational aspects of human resources management.
Areas of Expertise
- Talent Acquisition and Retention
- Organizational Development and Change Management
- Workforce Planning and Optimization
- Learning and Development Strategies
- Compensation and Benefits Design
- Employee Engagement and Culture Initiatives
- HR Technology Integration and Optimization
Professional Impact
Under Jenny's leadership, CRST has seen a significant increase in employee engagement, a reduction in turnover rates, and a measurable improvement in the company's overall operational performance. She has been instrumental in the development and implementation of a comprehensive talent management strategy that has positioned CRST as an employer of choice within the transportation and logistics industry.
Jenny is also an active contributor to the local business community, serving on the board of the Cedar Rapids Area Chamber of Commerce and regularly speaking at industry conferences and events. Her expertise and thought leadership have earned her recognition as a respected human resources professional in the region.
Conclusion
With her proven track record of driving organizational transformation, developing high-performing teams, and aligning talent management strategies with business objectives, Jenny Abernathy is poised to continue making a significant impact as the Chief People Officer at CRST The Transportation Solution, Inc. Her deep industry knowledge, strategic mindset, and commitment to fostering a positive and inclusive work culture make her a valuable asset to the organization and its continued success.
