Henderson Companies is proud to welcome Penny Spence as chief financial officer (CFO). A 27-year finance veteran, Spence will oversee financial operations including budgeting, compliance, forecasting, reporting and financial planning and analysis strategies for Henderson Companies and subsidiaries Henderson Engineers and Henderson Building Solutions.  

Spence most recently served as executive vice president – chief financial officer at Stowers Institute for Medical Research in Kansas City, Mo., one of the nation’s largest privately funded medical research facilities. In addition to providing strategic guidance, she directed the finance, operations, and IT functions, leading a team of approximately 120, which included the majority of the Institute’s non-scientific staff. Her career has also included successful tenures at other leading global firms including Lockton, Hallmark, and Black & Veatch, where she kickstarted her professional journey. 

“We’re thrilled to welcome Penny to Team Henderson,” said Kevin Lewis, CEO and president of Henderson Engineers and president of Henderson Companies. “She has an impressive professional background paired with a growth mindset and a collaborative spirit that align with our leadership philosophy. We’re excited to have her expertise as we implement additional growth initiatives and develop plans to execute on the opportunities in front of us.”

Spence succeeds former Henderson CFO Dana Kettle, who retired in early 2025 after 30 years with the firm. 

“I began my career in the engineering and construction industry so it’s an exciting full circle moment to join the leadership team at Henderson,” said Spence. “I admire Henderson’s 55-year history of continuous growth as well as its people-first culture and employee-owned structure, which provides strong motivation to deliver great work for our clients. I am honored to join the leadership team as we build on the legacy of success that has made Henderson a leader in consulting, engineering, and construction.” 

Spence holds an MBA from Avila University in Kansas City, Mo., and a bachelor’s degree in finance from Emporia State University in Emporia, Kan. She’s a Certified Treasury Professional.