After 35 Years in Business, One Leadership Lesson Still Matters Most

Technology, workforce expectations, and business challenges have evolved dramatically over the last three decades. Yet through every change, one leadership principle has remained constant for BenePro CEO Kris Powell:

People come first.

Recently, Kris joined the Troy Chamber of Commerce’s Members on the Mic podcast to share lessons learned from more than 35 years of building businesses and supporting employers. One theme stood out throughout the conversation: great organizations are built by people, not just processes.

Leadership Starts with Humility

As companies grow, leaders quickly learn they don’t have all the answers. Kris credits much of his success to seeking mentors, embracing continuous learning, and surrounding himself with talented people who bring different perspectives to the table.

The best leaders aren’t the ones who know everything—they’re the ones willing to keep learning.

Culture Is Built Every Day

Strong workplace cultures aren’t created by mission statements alone. They’re built through daily actions, communication, trust, and accountability.

A philosophy Kris often shares is simple:

Be the boss you would want to work for.

That mindset continues to shape how our organizations support employees, clients, and partners.

Innovation Begins with People

Whether helping employees navigate healthcare decisions, retirement transitions, or workplace change, meaningful innovation starts with understanding human needs.

Technology plays an important role, but the most successful solutions are designed around the people they serve.

Why AI Creates Opportunity

Kris views artificial intelligence as the next evolution of workplace technology—not a replacement for people, but a tool that can help them work more effectively.

By reducing administrative burdens, AI creates more time for the uniquely human skills that drive business success: creativity, judgment, empathy, and relationship-building.

Looking Ahead

After 35 years, one lesson remains clear:

Organizations succeed when they invest in their people.

As technology continues to evolve and the workplace changes, the businesses that prioritize learning, collaboration, and employee experience will be best positioned for the future.

Listen to the Full Conversation

🎙️ Members on the Mic – Season 5, Episode 6: Kris Powell

In this episode, Kris discusses leadership, company culture, innovation, AI, and the lessons he’s learned from more than three decades of building people-first organizations.

Watch the full podcast:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1o3FertVe0o