As Manager of Payroll Operations, Kacey Pennington excels at navigating the interconnected nature of payroll and its meaningful impact on everyday campus life. Pennington, who has been with WashU since 2020, understands how important and significant her team’s work is at the university and individual level.
“Every day my team works to ensure the system and operations in place support compliance, accuracy and efficiency throughout the payroll process,” Pennington said. “I enjoy the challenges that come with my role because no two days are exactly the same, and I know my work helps support programs, university functions, community initiatives, faculty, staff, and ultimately, the students.”
As a people manager, Pennington believes that active leadership and presence are essential to fostering an engaged and effective team.
“Even with a busy schedule, I try to be available to my team, listen to any issues or concerns and work alongside them to troubleshoot issues and find solutions for whatever may arise,” Pennington said. “Being present and showing I care goes a long way.”
Pennington’s deep belief in the university’s mission and the community of colleagues keep her at WashU.
I truly believe in what WashU works to accomplish in education and research, and I think that work attracts great people who are committed to continuous learning and progress for themselves and their field as a whole. The university’s motto, ‘Strength through truth,’ applies to the university’s research, teaching, patient care and service, but I even see it on each level of daily operations, including payroll. Across the board and in our own ways, we are all working towards an agreed-upon truth, which influences the decisions we make, the relationships we form and the impacts we have on those around us.
Kacey Pennington, manager of payroll operations
For those considering joining the university, she offers straightforward advice: “If you’re looking for meaningful and challenging work, WashU is a great place to be.”
When she isn’t supporting her team or payroll functions, you may find Pennington spending time with her son and pets as well as exploring theater, hiking, trail running, gardening and caring for plants.