About PartnerHR
Senior HR Leadership for Complex People Decisions
PartnerHR is a solo practice built for organizations that need experienced HR and labour relations support without building internal headcount. The work is practical, business-aligned, and designed to hold up under pressure.
Based in Edmonton. Supporting organizations across Alberta.
Meet Kent Penner
Kent Penner is a senior human resources professional with over 20 years of progressive experience across diverse industries. He works with organizations to resolve people and labour relations issues with clear direction, disciplined execution, and outcomes that last.
Kent’s style is analytical and results-oriented. He focuses on solutions that connect to operational realities and business goals, not generic best practices.
What PartnerHR is Known For
Labour Relations
Employer-side labour relations support for unionized environments, including bargaining, grievances, investigations support, leader coaching, and post-agreement implementation.
M&A HR Integration
HR integration leadership for mergers, acquisitions, reorganizations, and day-one transitions, including systems alignment, policy harmonization, communications support, and respectful change execution.
Fractional HR Leadership
Senior HR leadership on a fractional or interim basis for organizations that need steady guidance, stronger HR standards, and calm decision support without hiring full-time.
Experience Across Unionized and Non-Unionized Environments
- Energy
- Healthcare
- Manufacturing and industrial operations
- Municipal and public sector
- Transportation and supply chain
- Insurance
He has also led large manufacturing and industrial teams in an operational leadership capacity, which informs a direct, practical approach to HR and labour relations work.
How Kent Approaches the Work
Listen First, Then Act
The first step is understanding the situation, stakeholders, constraints, and what success actually looks like.
Interest-Based, Fair Outcomes
Kent’s approach emphasizes fair, balanced, and sustainable outcomes that protect the organization while maintaining professionalism and respect.
Build Capability, Not Dependency
When appropriate, PartnerHR provides tools, structure, and coaching that leave leaders stronger after the engagement.
Credentials
- Chartered Professional in Human Resources (CPHR)
- Certified with Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM)
- BA (Hons) in Psychology, University of Manitoba
- Labour Relations certification, Queen's University
Get Started
If you need senior HR support that is clear, practical, and accountable, request a consultation.