Magazine Names Watco SVP to Its “40 Under Forty” List

Andy Nielsen Senior Vice President of Finance and Accounting

Andy Nielsen, Senior Vice President of Finance and Accounting based in Overland Park, Kansas, recently was named to a select group of young leaders in the region.

Nielsen was chosen for the annual “40 Under Forty” list by Ingram’s, a monthly digital and print publication that covers business, industry, and economic development in Kansas and Missouri. This is the 23rd year for the award, which recognizes the achievements and promise of professionals who are younger than 40.

“I was surprised and just proud to be part of the Watco story,” Nielsen said about learning of the honor. “Watco has such a strong team culture that any personal acknowledgment doesn’t appropriately represent the great team that we have, who are all pushing in the same direction every day with the same goals in mind.”

Nielsen came to Watco in late 2015, and an early impact was dramatically reducing departmental turnover. Under Andy’s leadership, the turnover rate among the team has dropped from a concerning high of 54% in 2016 to 7% in 2020. His many contributions have included consolidating and streamlining some financial reporting and budgeting processes, and he was deeply involved during construction of the San Luis Potosi Distribution Terminal.

Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer Rick Baden nominated Nielsen for the award, which is based on leadership skills, achievements in business, and character, among other criteria.

“In my experience,” Baden said, “what makes Andy notable as a younger leader is that he consistently demonstrates a strong capacity to understand a wide range business challenges. He embraces our servant leadership approach and is good teammate, ready to jump in wherever he may be able to help.

“Not only does Andy develop strong internal relationships within Watco, but he quickly develops strong relationships with our customers, investors, bankers, advisors, suppliers, and many other relationships.

“The best part about Andy is that he is just a great person and someone you like to be around.”