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| Vice President Human Capital |
McKell Purnell joined OPPD in March 2018 as Director of Total Rewards. She was promoted to vice president of Human Capital in May 2022.
In her current role, McKell is responsible for defining and executing a long-term vision for OPPD’s workforce. She provides strategic leadership across all facets of human resources, ensuring the district attracts, develops, and retains talent to support its mission of delivering affordable, reliable, and environmentally responsible energy services. Under her guidance, OPPD continues to advance a resilient, future-ready workforce while maintaining a strong corporate culture that prioritizes employee engagement, development, and well-being. Additionally, she oversees labor relations, including the administration and negotiation of bargaining unit contracts, reinforcing a collaborative workplace.
With almost three decades of experience in human resources and consulting, McKell has worked across manufacturing, healthcare, and consumer products industries, attributing her expertise to global accounting firms and a Fortune 100 company.
Beyond her corporate role, McKell is deeply committed to leadership development and community impact. Among others, she serves on the boards of the Institute for Career Advancement Needs (ICAN) and the University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC) Board of Counselors, supporting initiatives that advance professional growth and education. She also facilitates transformational leadership development sessions, sharing her expertise both locally and internationally.
McKell earned a master’s degree in actuarial science from Georgia State University’s Robinson College of Business, a bachelor’s degree in mathematics and computer science, a utility management certificate and several other professional certifications.
Contact Information
To contact McKell Purnell, please use our Contact Board Members and Executive Leadership Team form or call 531-226-3200.