Ten Leaders To Know: Connor Harrington [Full Profile]

Company: Kuder

Title: CEO

Birth City: Des Moines

Current City: Clive

Q: How did you get where you are today?
A: I transitioned into the CEO role at Kuder in November 2023 after working with my father who founded and held the role for 25 years. Prior to joining Kuder, I progressed through several roles at a fast-growing education technology company in Minneapolis. My wife, Sam, was a key driver in the decision to move back to Iowa and join the family business and has been a key supporter for me along the way. The combination of witnessing my father navigate the responsibilities of business ownership paired with the experience working for an exciting growth-oriented technology company, gave me a positive foundation to lead Kuder. I was lucky to have many great mentors and people looking out for me along the way. As I reflect, many of the key opportunities in my life came from someone’s willingness to spend time with me and share their insights.

Q: What excites you the most about the business you work in?
A: We are one of the very few privately held companies in the career development technology space. This private status allows us to pursue a longer-term vision than most other companies. It can be challenging but it’s incredibly rewarding to grow our business solely because of happy clients that value our partnership. Our team loves the entrepreneurial spirit we offer coupled with the safety and security of a well-established organization.

Our goal is to be the best partner to organizations looking to support youth and adults in their career journey. What makes our model unique is the blend of career development expertise and scalable technology solutions. I’m excited to be a part of a mission that is intended to stand the test of time rather than look for fast, and shallow returns.

Q: What is your favorite thing about Iowa?
A: Parking spots and whitetail deer. Joking aside, it’s the people. Iowa has great people that don’t take themselves too seriously but have incredible work ethic. My wife and I are excited and thankful to be raising our kids in a great community.

Q: Why are you a member of ABI?
A: ABI was an organization that committed to spending time with us, heard what we were trying to accomplish, and provided meaningful connections and insights that benefited our business. I saw from Nicole and others, a level of sincerity around ensuring our success that felt unique. The people at ABI are incredibly hard-working and put Iowa businesses at the center of their work.