“Working for Liberty has given me the experience of working in one of the most beautiful places, and continuing to learn about the utility industry, sources of renewable energy as well as be able to be more proactive in sustainable measures in my personal life.”
As the Manager, Transformation – Customer Information System at Liberty Utilities, Kelsey Cooper works on the company’s nationwide Customers First Project, which aims to enhance customer service and provide customers with more digital options. Kelsey relocated to Tahoe in 2011 and enjoys giving back to the community she loves by volunteering with Bread & Broth and assisting with various events and organizations through Liberty Utilities.
Congratulations to this week’s 40 under 40 honoree, Kelsey Cooper!
Can you tell us a little about your responsibilities and accomplishments in your current position?
In my role as Manager, Transformation – Customer Information System with Liberty Utilities, I am working with a team of individuals from our Liberty locations nationwide on our Customer First Project. My role on the transformation team is to be a part of the critical implementation of a new customer information system throughout the entire enterprise. This project aims to ensure we have the right tools in place for Liberty employees to keep up with the technology we need to supply our customers with the best overall experience. This implementation is critical to delivering outstanding customer service by providing our customers with more digital choices and control over their account options than they previously had.
I have enjoyed having the opportunity to wear many hats at Liberty during the last eight years. From Customer Service Representative to Customer Care Manager, these roles have expanded my knowledge in the utility industry and have helped prepare me for the role I have today.
What has been your favorite professional moment in the last year?
My favorite professional moment in the last year was speaking at a utility conference in Denver about credit and collections. Public speaking has always been a fear of mine and something I have not been particularly excited about. When I was asked to present, I decided it was time to conquer this fear.
There were times while preparing and practicing my presentation, I thought about canceling and letting the fear of public speaking take over. Instead of letting that happen, I stood in front of my peers and colleagues from different utility companies across the United States and spoke about a topic which hopefully provided valuable information to others. By speaking at this conference, I was able to grow both personally and professionally, gain the respect of my peers and gain confidence in myself. It was truly a rewarding experience.
Do you have a professional/life mantra that you live by?
I have several professional and life mantras which I try to live by, however the one that comes to mind is “be a good citizen”. This is something my Dad has constantly taught me over the years. This simple phrase embodies so much about how I strive to live my personal and professional life in just a few words.
Who is your role model?
I have been lucky enough to be surrounded by strong role models both professionally and personally in my life. I feel each and every one of them has shaped me into the person I am today. My parents have both been my greatest supporters over the years. They have pushed me to be the best version of myself while instilling in me a strong work ethic and teaching me to always want to do my best.
Why choose Tahoe to make your home and career?
In 2011 I had just finished college, and my husband and I decided to relocate to South Lake Tahoe which was closer to his family who lived in the area. Coming to Tahoe I didn’t know what to expect, but I immediately fell in love with the beauty, the small town feel, the community and the lifestyle that Tahoe provides. I can get caught up in the hustle and bustle of everyday life, but every time I stop to admire the beauty, I fall in love all over again. Working for Liberty has given me the experience of working in one of the most beautiful places, as well as continuing to educate me about the utility industry, sources of renewable energy as well as be able to be more proactive in sustainable measures in my personal life.
Are you active in any volunteer roles or community groups?
In the past year I have had the opportunity to volunteer with Bread and Broth, a local non-profit providing food service for the Lake Tahoe community. I also fortunately work with a lot of great people at Liberty Utilities who are continually involved in different events and organizations and always looking for different ways to be involved in the community throughout the year. This provides me the opportunity to be involved in whatever way I can. I look forward to participating more and continuing to provide support to local organizations which ground the Lake Tahoe community.
What is your favorite thing to do outside of work?
Last fall my husband and I purchased our first home. We have been spending a lot of time focusing on homeownership and all of the tasks and DIY projects that come with it. We also enjoy spending time with our two huskies and anything outdoors such as; hiking, spending time at the lake and biking.
Where are your favorite South Shore stomping grounds?
A few of my favorite places to grab a bite or get a drink (with the husband or with friends) are Frescana, Divided Sky, South Lake Brewing Company and Freshies. Recently having moved to Meyers, I have a whole new area to hike and take our dogs exploring, which has been great.