Franklin Electric - Experts & Thought Leaders

Franklin Electric Co., Inc. announced that Daniela Williams will join its executive leadership team as Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO), bringing a proven track record of driving growth for global organizations. In her new role, Williams will be setting the strategic direction for talent acquisition and management at Franklin Electric, overseeing all aspects of employee relations, compensation, benefits, development, and compliance. She will serve on the Company’s executive leadership team, reporting to the CEO. Managing talent “Daniela has a well-established reputation for leading and managing talent at a global scale,” said Joe Ruzynski, CEO of Franklin Electric. “Her expertise spans HR technology, talent development, analytics and global workforce strategy, and she’ll play a critical role in ensuring we are organized to serve our customers well into the future.” “We are thrilled to have Daniela join Franklin Electric and lead our Human Resource team as we invest in our people and processes to drive our growth initiatives.” Global talent acquisition Williams joins Franklin Electric with an extensive resume of leading people and culture Williams joins Franklin Electric with an extensive resume of leading people and culture at top automotive supply and manufacturing companies. In her previous role at automotive technology firm Visteon Corporation, Williams oversaw all HR functions and global talent acquisition. She also launched the company’s first Women’s Leadership Program with a focus on accelerating leadership skills across the company to ensure a pipeline of leaders ready to drive the business forward. Throughout her career, she has used her talents to lead outreach efforts, including mentoring programs as well as serving on the Advisory Council for Project Pathways, a STEM program for Detroit public schools. Building great teams “My focus has always been on supporting decisions that contribute to growth, profitability, building great teams, and long-term success,” said Williams. “Franklin Electric is clearly an organization dedicated to fostering talent, and I’m excited to bring my experience in workforce strategies to this innovative organization.”

Franklin Electric Co., Inc. announced that Jennifer Wolfenbarger has been appointed Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and Chief Accounting Officer. As a core member of the executive leadership team, Wolfenbarger will help shape the company’s financial future by enabling growth and overseeing fiscal accountability for the entire organization. Prior roles of Wolfenbarger  Wolfenbarger oversaw strategic planning, investor relations, compliance and financial reporting Jennifer Wolfenbarger has served in divisional CFO roles at some of the country’s most recognizable and growth-minded manufacturing companies, including Caterpillar, Stryker, and most recently Owens Corning. In her role at Owens Corning, Wolfenbarger oversaw strategic planning, investor relations, compliance, and financial reporting for the company’s $4 billion global insulation business. This included 50 manufacturing and distribution sites around the world. Implementing continuous improvement “Jennifer’s experience is exceptional, and we could not have selected a more well-rounded and dynamic candidate to fill this position,” said Joe Ruzynski, CEO of Franklin Electric. He adds, “She is value-driven to the core, and her passion for implementing continuous improvement will be an incredible asset to our people, our shareholders, and our customers.” Wolfenbarger’s career Throughout Wolfenbarger’s career, she has lent her financial expertise to her community Throughout Wolfenbarger’s career, she has lent her financial expertise to her community, serving as the Treasurer on three not-for-profit boards. While at Owens Corning, she was the executive sponsor for the company’s Latin America Women’s Initiative Network, and she often mentors at Indiana University’s Kelley School of Business, providing professional guidance. Her career has taken her to the United Kingdom, Brazil, the Netherlands, Maryland, Michigan, South Carolina, Georgia, Illinois, and Ohio. She is excited to be returning to her Indiana roots in her new role and will be relocating to the Fort Wayne area. Franklin Electric’s commitment “This is an incredible opportunity to support Franklin Electric’s commitment to growth and innovation,” said Jennifer Wolfenbarger. She adds, “I’m thrilled to work alongside a highly talented and dedicated global team that values collaboration, teamwork, growth, and development.”

Franklin Electric Co., Inc. proudly hosted its annual “Future Franklineers Day” on July 22, welcoming more than 60 elementary, middle school, and high school students from the community for a day of learning and career exploration. The exclusive event allowed students of Franklin Electric employees to tour corporate headquarters, gain insights into the water systems industry, and learn about STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) careers in a real-world setting. Students participated in interactive tours that allowed them to explore the company’s state-of-the-art research, development, and testing facilities. Each attendee spent time learning how motors operate and took home a kit to build their own mini motor. Company engineers, designers, and executives were on hand to answer questions and share their expertise. The event also provided networking opportunities, allowing Franklin Electric families to build lasting connections. Future Franklineers Day “Showing children a variety of STEM career possibilities is essential to the future of the industries we serve,” said Amanda Hecht, Director of Human Resources—Talent. “Future Franklineers Day is a chance for young learners to see firsthand how Franklin Electric innovation is a part of their everyday lives—from the water they drink to the cars they ride in.” Franklin Electric proudly sponsors various local programs and education-based initiatives throughout Allen County, including United Way and Junior Achievement, to support future community pioneers and beyond.