Paul Hencoski serves as the National Operations Leader for Consulting, responsible for driving profitable growth across KPMG’s US Consulting business. In his role, Paul leverages data, strategic insights, and advanced technologies to evolve delivery models, enhance the employee experience, and ensure the firm’s continued success. Paul oversees planning processes, closely monitoring financial performance and guiding the firm’s strategic investment strategy. His leadership ensures that the firm’s solutions consistently exceed clients’ expectations, fostering a culture of excellence and innovation. Leading the Consulting Operations team, Paul bridges the gap between strategic vision and its implementation, driving initiatives that align with the firm’s goals and market demands. He also serves in leadership capacities on some of KPMG’s most significant clients including serving as the Senior Client Executive for the State of California, State of New York, Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, and Cities of New York and Los Angeles.
Paul brings deep experience from the healthcare and government sectors. Previously, he served as the Consulting Leader for Healthcare and Government within the Advisory Services practice and as the firm’s Chief Subject Matter Expert for Government Healthcare and Social Services. In this capacity, he oversaw over 500 professionals delivering services across KPMG’s commercial healthcare, state and local government, not-for-profit, and higher education clients. Paul has extensive experience with programs including TANF, SNAP, Medicaid, Child Welfare, Child Support, and Subsidized Child Care, and is nationally recognized for his expertise in implementing the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA) of 2010.
Recently, in an exclusive interview with CIO Magazine, Paul shared insights on the role of technology in driving consulting innovation, personal hobbies and interests, future plans, words of wisdom, and much more. The following excerpts are taken from the interview.
Hi Paul. What drives your passion for consulting and leadership?
My passion for consulting and leadership stems from the profound impact we can make on organizations and individuals. My parents, who were the first in their families to attend college, instilled in me a strong value for education and hard work. This foundation drives me to seek opportunities that push boundaries and enable significant growth for myself and those around me. Consulting offers a unique platform to tackle complex problems, create meaningful change, and continuously learn and adapt. Leading teams allows me to amplify this impact by fostering an environment where talented individuals can thrive and achieve their full potential. This dual role of problem-solving and mentoring is incredibly fulfilling and keeps my passion ignited every day.
What do you love the most about your current role?
I love driving impactful change and leading high-performing teams. Throughout my career, I’ve had the opportunity to work with governments and healthcare providers, helping to implement and modernize programs that directly benefit people’s lives. It’s deeply satisfying to know that our work improves access to care and enhances the effectiveness of social programs. Equally rewarding is building and motivating exceptional teams. The diverse talents and backgrounds of our team members create a dynamic and collaborative environment where we can achieve extraordinary results together.
What role do you think technology plays in driving consulting innovation?
Technology is a central driver of innovation in consulting. It provides us with the tools and platforms to analyze data, streamline processes, and develop solutions that were previously unimaginable. By leveraging advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, and cloud computing, we can offer insights and efficiencies that fundamentally transform how organizations operate. Technology also enables us to stay ahead of industry trends and anticipate the needs of our clients, ensuring that we deliver cutting-edge solutions that keep them competitive in an ever-evolving landscape.
What personal or professional philosophies have contributed to your success, and how have you applied these principles in your career?
Several core philosophies have guided my success. First, the commitment to continuous learning and growth has been pivotal. I seek out challenges that push me beyond my comfort zone, recognizing that true growth comes from overcoming obstacles. Second, I believe in the power of mentorship, both as a mentor and a mentee. Learning from my mentors has been invaluable, and passing on that knowledge to others has been equally rewarding. Last, maintaining compassion and empathy in leadership has helped build strong, trusting relationships with colleagues and clients, driving collaborative success.
Is there a particular person you are grateful for who helped get you to where you are?
I am grateful to many individuals who have guided and supported me, but one particular mentor stands out. Early in my career, Tom Wilde, who was both our Line of Business Leader for Government and also occupied my current role as National Operations Leader for Consulting, was a key mentor. Tom taught me how to navigate complex situations, think strategically, and communicate effectively. His advice and support were instrumental during critical moments of my career, including one instance where his guidance helped resolve a challenging disagreement with another team by encouraging open dialogue and collaboration. This approach not only helped resolve the issue but also established a strong working relationship moving forward.
How do you stay current with the latest trends and advancements in consulting?
Staying current with the latest trends and advancements in consulting requires a multi-faceted approach. I regularly engage with industry publications, research reports, and thought leadership to remain informed of emerging trends and best practices. Attending conferences, networking with other professionals, and participating in continuous education programs are also crucial for keeping my knowledge and skills up-to-date. Additionally, I prioritize learning from my colleagues and team members, who bring diverse perspectives and expertise to our work, ensuring that we stay at the forefront of innovation in our field.
What are some of your passions outside of work? What do you like to do in your time off?
Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my family and staying active in outdoor activities. My wife Juli, my daughter Ella, who is a student at the University of Alabama, and my son Jake, who is a sophomore in high school, and I enjoy traveling and experiencing new places, cultures, and especially food. I am also an avid skier and during the summer can often be found at the beach or on a golf course. Staying physically and mentally fit is also an important priority for me, and I finished my second New York City Half Marathon earlier this year. When taking a break from work, I try to read as much as I can and lately have been interested in Presidential biographies.
Which technology are you investing in now to prepare for the future?
We are currently investing in several cutting-edge technologies to prepare for the future, with a strong focus on artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning. These technologies have the potential to revolutionize how we analyze data and develop solutions, enabling us to offer more precise and efficient services to our clients. I am particularly proud of KPMG’s unique approach to AI, which focuses not just on tools but on embedding the capabilities of AI in our delivery methods and the solutions we deploy for clients. We are also exploring advancements in cloud computing and cybersecurity to ensure that our operations and those of our clients are secure and scalable. Continual investment in these areas positions us to stay ahead in a rapidly evolving industry.
What is your biggest goal? Where do you see yourself 5 years from now?
My biggest goal is to continue leading initiatives that drive growth and value for KPMG and our clients. In the next five years, I see myself further expanding our consulting practice, focusing on harnessing the latest technologies to tackle new and emerging challenges. Additionally, I aim to deepen our commitment to mentorship and professional development, ensuring that we cultivate the next generation of leaders who will drive our field forward. By fostering a culture of excellence and innovation, I hope to leave a lasting legacy that continues to influence and improve our industry.
What advice would you give to professionals looking to transition into consulting?
My key advice would be to embrace a mindset of continuous learning and adaptability. Consulting is a dynamic field that requires staying current with industry trends and developing a broad skill set. Networking and seeking out mentorship can provide invaluable insights and guidance during your transition. Additionally, be prepared to tackle diverse and challenging projects with a collaborative approach, as teamwork and effective communication are essential for success in consulting. Focus on building strong relationships, demonstrating your value through results, and always be open to feedback and growth.