KANSAS CITY, MO — Mark Garrett joins Garney as its first Chief People Officer. Garrett brings decades of leadership experience in human resources and operations, having held senior roles at Hallmark Cards, Farmland Foods, Smithfield Foods, and most recently, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas City.

“Mark’s role reinforces something that’s always been true at Garney — our people are our greatest strength,” said David Burkhart, CEO of Garney. “As we take on more complex challenges across the country, his leadership will help us stay rooted in that belief and continue investing in the culture that sets Garney apart.”

In this role, Garrett will oversee Garney’s human resources, recruiting, employee relations, and training and development functions. His leadership will support the company’s people-first approach and its mission to deliver safe, reliable water and wastewater infrastructure nationwide.

Garrett earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration from the University of Kansas and a Master of Business Administration from Baker University. He serves as Board Chair for Phoenix Family Housing and Rose Brooks Center, and on the boards of The Police Foundation of Kansas City, the YMCA of Greater Kansas City, and the Kansas City Home Ownership Initiative. Garrett is also a former Board Chair of the Greater Kansas City Chamber of Commerce.

“I’m honored to join Garney as its first Chief People Officer,” Garrett said. “This is a company with a clear sense of purpose and a strong foundation built by its employee-owners. I’m excited to support the people who make Garney what it is and to help shape the next chapter of its impact on the water industry.”