From the Community: Why this Nominee Stands Out

“Kristen Rupnik has empowered both her recruiting team at PPG as well as PPGs early talent new hires she works with by championing a culture focused on innovation, partnership, and quick adaptation to trends. Kristen leads with a people-first mindset, ensuring that everyone on the team has a chance to take on challenging projects and test the status quo.

For candidates, Kristen has redefined what an exceptional recruitment experience looks like—prioritizing transparency in the application and interview process, personalized engagement getting to know each student individually (and when possible, meet in person!), and timely communication on when decisions are made. Some events that Kristen has hosted to build a connection with talent is hosting in person coffee chats, an ice skating meet-up, site visits to our offices, and a Pittsburgh Penguins outing. 

Based on direct feedback from students, Kristen has created program guidelines consisting of timely and routine communications to new hires, connecting interns to each other prior to their start (as well as to their manager and their mentor), and providing clear expectations of interns and development program candidates. We even have incorporated some fun things like a “half way through summer happy hour”!

Kristen has also been instrumental in building stronger connections with Gen Z talent. She has helped modernized PPG’s employer brand by elevating authentic storytelling, engaging on the platforms Gen Z trusts, and highlighting the company’s commitment to diversity, innovation, and social impact. Her work has positioned PPG as an employer of choice for the next generation of talent. A few ways she has does this includes showing insights into our early talent program through photos, networking, and student vlogs. (Fun fact: 2024 Interns wanted to see inside the offices before starting, and we made it happen!)

Kristen also plays a key role in building an inclusive and innovative team culture. She integrates DEI principles across recruitment processes, from inclusive job descriptions to equitable interview practices. Her leadership has helped position PPG as not just a place to work, but a place to grow, belong, and thrive—both for her team and for future talent.

Kristen exemplifies what it means to lead with vision, empathy, and innovation in the ever-evolving world of talent acquisition. Kristen lives by PPG’s motto of #OnePPG.”