The Wichita Business Journal has announced the individuals who will be recognized in its annual Human Resources (HR) Professionals awards program. 2017 marks the fifth year the publication has honored the HR talent behind the most successful companies in Wichita, and this year’s honorees include Brandi Richardson MBA, SHRM-CP, PHR, senior human resources generalist at Johnson Controls.

Richardson has been with Johnson Controls for six years and working as an HR professional for 11 years. At Johnson Controls, Richardson is involved with leadership, communication, consultation, and relationship management on a regular basis. “We are pleased to have Brandi be recognized as an HR professional who helps drive our company to success,” said Liz Haggerty, vice president and general manager, unitary products group, Johnson Controls. “Brandi consistently demonstrates an ability to drive results in support of organizational objectives while maintaining a focus on the personnel whom she supports.”

This award is not the first time Brandi’s value has been recognized outside of the organization. In another example, Johnson Controls recently partnered with the Kansas Leadership Center and based on her future growth potential, Brandi was selected to participate in the first series of training sessions.

During Richardson’s time in the HR department, job growth has been a key focus. Employment at the Johnson Controls Wichita location has grown by 37.9 percent over the past 24 months, including a 21.8 percent increase between May 2016 and April 2017. This brings total employment at the facility to more than 1,600 people, who design, engineer and assemble residential heating and cooling products for distribution throughout the United States.

“Being on a team that helps create jobs that support people in the Wichita community is both rewarding and fulfilling,” said Richardson. “I also try to continue my support of the community outside of work through involvement with local charities like the United Methodist Open Door, Habitat for Humanity and The Health and Wellness Coalition of Wichita.”

Richardson encourages healthy competition at the Wichita worksite through events such as the Steppers Challenge and Walk at Work Day. Brandi has also been an Ambassador and Leader for Wichita Weight Watchers for the past eight years, serving as a mentor and coach while teaching weight management skills to community members.

In addition to Richardson, two-dozen total Wichita-area human resources professionals have been named to the Top HR professionals list and were recognized at a luncheon for honorees. The 2017 class represents a variety of industries and company sizes.

Publication date: 10/17/2017

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