Member Spotlight, Ross Henderson

Ross Henderson

Performance Consultant

Fun Fact

I've worked for the same organization for my entire career—nearly 45 years! My hobbies include spending time with family and friends, fishing, crabbing, and enjoying nature. My wife, Edie, and I are blessed with two adult sons, two daughters-in-law, and four grandchildren who all live nearby, allowing us to enjoy plenty of quality time together. We’re currently owned by two orange pets—a cat named Elvis and a Golden Retriever named Winnie.  

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Background

I'm a lifelong Washington State resident who earned my degree in Accounting from Central Washington University (I'm a recovering accountant!). I'm also certified in Prosci, hold a Lean Six Sigma Black Belt, and have been a Toastmasters member for 20 years. Throughout my life, I've called Seattle, Shelton, South Bend, and Ellensburg home, and currently I reside on beautiful Camano Island.

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Path to Change Management

While I don't work directly in the Change Management field, my career in process design and improvement allows me to collaborate closely with Change Management professionals on a regular basis. This collaboration has enabled me to deliver process improvements that are more effective and achieve stronger user adoption and experience. I'm particularly proud of my role as ACMP Pacific Northwest Chapter Secretary and Treasurer, where I can apply my accounting skills while learning from fellow board members. My current role also offers opportunities to mentor others—and be mentored—which I find deeply rewarding.

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Biggest Obstacle Getting Established in Change Management

As someone who has lived with anxiety and depression throughout my life, I've devoted considerable personal energy to better managing these challenges. This journey has not only made me a happier, more productive employee but has also improved most areas of my life. What has helped me overcome—or at least better manage—these obstacles include being vulnerable with others, accepting that anxiety is part of who I am, and seeking professional support. I know this isn't a typical accomplishment to highlight, but I wanted to share it in hopes of helping others who may face similar challenges.

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Biggest Reward from this Career

One of my greatest professional rewards is seeing a business process or team achieve transformational, sustainable benefits from a process improvement initiative I helped support. These benefits typically include enhanced public and worker safety, improved customer service, increased employee satisfaction, and economic gains. I also find deep satisfaction in contributing to Change Management strategies that ensure a smooth, trouble-free journey from current to future state.

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Bucket List Yet to Accomplish

My bucket list includes retiring (in the near future!), traveling to Patagonia, and having more opportunities to support causes I'm passionate about.