Jim Greenwell Retires from Kent-Sussex Industries After a Distinguished Career

Jim Greenwell, the Vice President of Finance and Technology at Kent-Sussex Industries (KSI), is set to retire at the end of July, marking the end of an over 30-year illustrious career in corporate financial management. Greenwell, who retired from DuPont in 2008, embarked on a 14-year journey with KSI in 2010 after responding to an online advertisement for a comptroller position.

Throughout his career, Greenwell has been known for his transition from accounting and finance into operations, human resources, and project management, showcasing his versatile skill set. His tenure at DuPont, followed by his role at Delaware Technical and Community College and finally at KSI, highlights a career dedicated to financial excellence and operational improvement.

At KSI, Greenwell applied his extensive experience to enhance the nonprofit’s financial administration, contributing significantly to its success. Colleagues like Crystal Hughes praised his leadership style, emphasizing his trust in his team and his always-available attitude for guidance and support.

As Greenwell prepares for retirement, he looks forward to marrying his fiancée, Linda Tuttle, traveling, and exploring the field of forensic accounting. His departure marks the end of an era for KSI, but his legacy will continue to influence the organization positively.

Dr. Mark Dufendach is set to succeed Greenwell as Vice President of Finance. Dufendach, a familiar name in Milford, brings a wealth of experience in financial oversight from his years of service in local school districts, including Milford, Polytech, Smyrna, and Indian River. With a strong educational background and a proven track record in financial management, Dufendach is poised to continue the legacy of excellence at KSI.

Jim Greenwell’s retirement is not just a milestone in his career but also a testament to his significant contributions to the financial management landscape in Delaware. His journey from DuPont to KSI encapsulates a career built on integrity, leadership, and a deep commitment to operational excellence.

Jim Greenwell to Retire from Kent-Sussex Industries, Dr. Mark Dufendach Steps in as Successor

In a significant transition within Kent-Sussex Industries (KSI), Jim Greenwell, the esteemed Vice President of Finance and Technology, has announced his retirement at the end of July, marking the end of an illustrious career spanning over three decades in corporate financial management. Greenwell, who embarked on his journey with KSI in 2010, leaves behind a legacy of resilience and innovation.

Greenwell’s career trajectory is nothing short of remarkable. After graduating with a Master of Business Administration from the University of Michigan, he joined DuPont’s Wilmington office as an internal auditor. His career at DuPont was diverse, spanning various roles from accounting and finance to operations, human resources, and project management. In 2008, after retiring from DuPont, Greenwell served as Business Manager at Delaware Technical and Community College Terry Campus in Dover before joining KSI.

Reflecting on his tenure at KSI, Greenwell shared, "This began a journey of challenges and accomplishments." His decision to join KSI was influenced by his past interactions with the organization and its impactful work. Under his financial stewardship, KSI saw enhanced financial administration, enabling the nonprofit to expand its programming and support for participants through challenging times.

Colleagues and peers laud Greenwell for his leadership style, characterized by trust and accessibility. "He didn’t micromanage. He knew we knew our jobs and trusted us to be responsible," said Crystal Hughes, reflecting on Greenwell’s approach to leadership.

Post-retirement, Greenwell looks forward to marrying his fiancée, Linda Tuttle, traveling, and exploring forensic accounting, a testament to his never-ending quest for knowledge and growth.

Stepping into Greenwell’s shoes is Dr. Mark Dufendach, a familiar face in Milford with a robust background in financial oversight. Dufendach’s career is distinguished by his roles in local school districts, including Milford, Polytech, Smyrna, and Indian River, where he managed state and federal funds and held positions ranging from finance director to superintendent.

Dufendach, who holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from the University of Delaware, an MBA from the University of Notre Dame Graduate School of Business, and a Doctor of Education from the University of Delaware, is set to begin his journey with KSI this summer. His extensive experience and academic credentials position him as the ideal successor to carry forward Greenwell’s legacy of excellence and innovation at KSI.

As KSI turns the page to a new chapter, the organization looks forward to the fresh perspectives and leadership that Dr. Mark Dufendach will bring to the table, building on the solid foundation laid by Jim Greenwell.

Heath Chasanov, CEO of KSI, expressed his gratitude for Greenwell’s contributions, stating, "Jim allowed KSI to increase programming and opportunities for our participants through some of the toughest times the organization ever experienced, and he did it in such a positive and genuine manner."

As the community bids farewell to Jim Greenwell and welcomes Dr. Mark Dufendach, the enduring impact of their leadership and dedication to KSI’s mission promises to resonate for years to come.