As assistant vice president of human resources at RLI Corp., Katie Kappes is responsible for HR activities company-wide, including compensation and benefits design and administration, recruiting, employee relations and HR policy administration. Described as a true “homegrown talent,” she grew up on a family farm near Brimfield that was founded by her great-grandparents, and graduated from Bradley University with bachelor’s and master’s degrees in accounting. She spent four years at State Farm before beginning her career at RLI in 2006, having earned her CPA designation two years prior.
In nearly a decade at RLI, Kappes has earned multiple promotions and professional designations, recognizing her industry expertise and knowledge. A dedicated human resources professional, she has built a strong team of HR professionals, and her commitment to lifelong learning and ambition to take on challenging assignments have set a strong example for her colleagues.
An active volunteer in college, Kappes was treasurer of her sorority and finance chair for the “Up Til’ Dawn” event, raising funds for the St. Jude Midwest Affiliate. She also tutored elementary schoolchildren through the Adopt-A-School program and served meals to the homeless through the Loaves and Fish program.
Today, she continues her commitment to serving others in the community in a range of areas. She is a regular participant in St. Jude relay runs, raising funds for the event each summer, and serves as board vice chair for Crittenton Centers. Most recently, her HR expertise was instrumental in the search process for Crittenton’s new CEO. Amidst her busy schedule, she also finds time to organize volunteers from the RLI HR department to help prepare and serve lunch each month at The Salvation Army. iBi
