Worcester Business Journal

wbjournal.com | June 8, 2026 | Worcester Business Journal 13 Kimberly Salmon Assistant vice president of community relations The Hanover Insurance Group, in Worcester Age: 55 Employees: 4,900 Central Mass. employees: 1,600 Annual revenue: $6.59 billion Corporate philanthropy plays a significant role in shaping the quality of life in Central Massachusetts, and few people influence those investments more than Salmon. She oversees community relations and charitable giving efforts for one of the region's largest employers, helping direct millions of dollars toward nonprofits, education, workforce develop- ment, and community initiatives. Since 2025, she has helped expand e Hanover Insurance Group Foundation's impact through $2 million in capital grants and $1.6 million in foundation funding, while leading an employee giving campaign that raised $1.1 million with an 83% participation rate among Hanover employees. - B.K. What unique skill sets you apart from others? I lead with empathy, intention, and resilience while balancing strategic focus with a deep commitment to people. I build trust, foster collaboration, and invest in developing others. What is your favorite book on leadership? "Dare to Lead" by Brené Brown Joshua Lee Smith Capital partner Bowditch & Dewey, in Worcester Age: 51 Employees: 110 Central Mass. employees: 38 Over the past two decades, Smith has helped shape many of Central Massachusetts' most sig- nificant development projects. His recent work includes the 527-unit redevelopment of the Cur- tis Apartments site, the conversion of the former Fallon Health office buildings into more than 220 apartments, and the 371-unit redevelopment of the former Our Lady of Mount Carmel property. He is now involved in permitting the first development site within GreenTech Park, Worcester's emerging advanced manufacturing campus. - B.K. What unique skill sets you apart from others? I'm a skilled multitasker. I can write a legal memo, participate in a virtual meeting, watch my son's base- ball game, and do band exercises all at the same time. Why do you do business in Central Mass.? e region's diverse mix of businesses and institutions has allowed me to work on an eclectic range of projects, from housing and mixed-use developments to infrastructure, higher education, life sciences, and industrial facilities. How do you unwind? ese days, I relax in my massage chair while watching silly TikTok influencers. Valerie Zolezzi- Wyndham Founder & CEO Promoting Good, in Worcester Employees: 4 Annual revenue: $500,000 Few leaders have been more closely associated with workplace inclusion in Central Massachusetts than Zolezzi-Wyndham. As political and legal pressures have reshaped conversations around diversity, equity, and inclusion, she has adapted her business while continuing to help organizations build stronger workplace cultures and navigate a rapidly changing environment. Her ability to connect with people across differing perspectives has made her a trusted advisor to employers, nonprofits, and community leaders. - B.K. What unique skill sets you apart from others? My ability to build trust and connection with peo- ple, and to share perspectives they may not be able to hear from others. What is one habit powerful leaders should practice every day? Powerful leaders need to pause and ensure their actions align with their intentions, while remaining accountable when they fall short. Why do you do business in Central Mass.? Worcester became my home on this side of the bor- der. It's where I built a community that gives to me and that I can give back to. "ose with power have a duty .. to make positive impacts." - Joshua Lee Smith, Bowditch & Dewey P R O F E S S I O N A L S E R V I C E S P OW E R 1 0 0

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