Kari Van Curen
Vice President of Talent Acquisition and Career Mobility, BAE Systems, Inc.
Kari Van Curen’s biggest achievement in 2024 was leading the HR integration for the new Space & Mission Systems sector. Following the acquisition of Ball Aerospace, over 5,200 new employees joined the company, presenting both excitement and challenges. Her team developed tools, resources and care plans to ensure these new colleagues felt welcomed and included, from providing information on learning and rewards systems to introducing the company’s culture and diversity, equity and inclusion programs. This work has been incredibly rewarding, and the company gained a talented group of people.
“Kari’s dedication and commitment to providing every current and potential BAE Systems employee the very best experience is unmatched,” said Michelle Murphy, senior vice president and chief human resources officer for BAE Systems, Inc. “Her strategic leadership in all aspects of the human resources function provides best in class results to our employees and customers and supports our crucial mission.”
Why Watch
This year, alongside ongoing integration activities, Van Curen and her team are focused on improving the career mobility framework and supporting tools. They recently launched Career Connect, designed to help employees identify skill gaps, access resources and network with colleagues, making it easier to navigate their internal career paths.
They are also introducing a refreshed employer brand: Where Purpose Connects. This project has been particularly rewarding, as it involved thorough research to capture the authentic employee experience. The team is now collaborating with marketing and communications to bring this brand to life.
Employees expressed that caring leaders and a strong connection to company values and purpose are key reasons they stay. The team believes the purpose behind their mission – We Protect Those Who Protect Us – and the overall mindset unites everyone at BAE Systems, making it a truly great place to work.
Fun fact: Van Curen is passionate about dog rescue and is the proud mom of four rescue pugs. Three of them were rescued from Houston, Texas, where she flew to bring them home, as that area faces a significant problem with pets being abandoned as strays.