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Ken Judy
CEO, Stride Consulting. Build custom software guided by customer needs. Highest value on time.
Professional Background
Ken Judy is a highly accomplished Executive Manager, Coach, Product Owner, and Developer with over eighteen years of progressive experience in building and leading Agile teams. He has consistently demonstrated his ability to deliver meaningful return on investment through his leadership in iterative and collaborative environments. As the Chief Executive Officer of Stride Consulting, Ken has been instrumental in guiding the firm towards becoming a leader in custom software development, focused on meeting and exceeding client needs.
Stride Consulting specializes in various aspects of software engineering, including web and mobile application development, cloud solutions, DevOps practices, and product management. At Stride, Ken champions a mission to unlock human potential through technology, striving to engineer better software and improved people systems. He operates under a clear set of guiding principles which include supporting team development, enhancing value through client collaboration, and fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion within both the workplace and the larger community.
In his roles, Ken has cultivated a strong commitment to learning and practicing Agile methodologies, particularly Scrum and XP disciplines. He understands that success in project development hinges not solely on speed but significantly on delivering maximum value to customers. His hands-on approach and coaching style have empowered teams to find meaning in their work and achieve impactful business results.
Education and Achievements
Ken’s educational foundation is rooted in a diverse curriculum. He earned a BA in Mathematics-Physics and Theater from Whitman College, laying the groundwork for his analytical skills while nurturing his creative interests. This unique combination of disciplines has allowed Ken to approach problem-solving from multiple perspectives, enhancing his role in technology leadership.
Ken has authored several insightful papers that reflect his deep understanding of Agile practices and their impact on both innovation and workforce diversity. Notable works include:
- "Agile Values, Innovation and the Shortage of Women Software Developers" presented at HICSS in 2012.
- "Using Agile Practices to Spark Innovation" presented at HICSS in 2007.
- "Collective Product Ownership with Scrum" at Agile 2007, and
- "Great Scrums Require Great Product Owners" at HICSS 2008.
In addition to his impressive publications, Ken has delivered a range of influential presentations that contribute to the discourse surrounding Agile methodologies. Some highlights from his speaking engagements include:
- “Instilling Agile Values for Creativity, Self-Improvement and Organizational Change - A Manager's Perspective” at the Seattle Scrum Gathering in 2011.
- “CEO as Product Owner” and “Agile Development and Ethics” at the November 2007 Scrum Gathering, showcasing his thought leadership.
Certifications
Ken holds several prestigious certifications that further validate his expertise in the field:
- IAPP Certified Information Privacy Professional/United States (CIPP/US)
- Certified Scrum Professional® in ScrumMaster / Product Owner roles
- IEEE Computer Society Certified Software Development Professional (CSDP)
These credentials reflect his dedication to maintaining industry standards and best practices in software development and project management.
Career Trajectory
Ken's career is marked by an impressive array of roles that highlight his versatility and aptitude in technology and leadership. Before his current role as CEO of Stride Consulting, he served in various executive positions that shaped his approach to product development and team management:
- Formerly, Ken was the Chief Operating Officer at Stride Consulting, where he laid the groundwork for operational excellence and strategic direction.
- He held the role of Chief Technology and Product Officer at The Daily Beast, steering technology initiatives and product strategies.
- His tenure as Vice President of Technology at Simon and Schuster allowed him to enhance the digital landscape of publishing.
- Ken also served as an Agile Coach and Product Owner at NYSE Euronext Advanced Trading Solutions, applying Agile practices to elevate trading systems.
- At Oxygen Media, he ascended through the ranks from Director of Software Development to Vice President, significantly impacting the organization’s software development practices.
- Early in his career, he worked as a Sr./Lead Software Developer at Oxygen Media and as a Programmer at USWest Creative Services, solidifying his technical expertise.
- Ken’s artistic flair as an Artistic Associate at Annex Theatre underscores his creative background, enriching his holistic approach to technology and innovation.
Throughout his career, Ken Judy has not only embraced the technical aspects of software development but has also dedicated himself to nurturing talent and building healthy, productive team dynamics. Under his leadership, Stride Consulting has risen to prominence in the software development industry, committed to creating impactful solutions and fostering a culture of learning and growth. In doing so, he continues to pave the way for those who aspire to excel in the evolving landscape of technology and Agile methodologies.
