Leaders often appear to have all the answers, projecting a confidence that rarely wavers. Kate Brewer admits that’s not what it’s really like to lead a company.
“When you are an entrepreneur, there are extreme highs and lows over the course of time,” said Brewer, president and CEO at Greenfield Rehabilitation Agency. “There are days when I feel like I am doing all the right things and executing at the top of my game. There are also days when things are chaotic or seem to be falling apart. But through it all, I am learning that regardless of the ups and downs, I need to trust my instinct and believe in my vision.”
Greenfield Rehabilitation Agency provides physical, occupational and speech therapy services to aging adults in skilled nursing facilities, senior communities, outpatient clinics and in-home services. Rehab Resources provides physical, occupational and speech therapy to pediatric clients and their families across Wisconsin.
Brewer left a corporate job to join Greenfield Rehabilitation Agency 18 years ago. When she arrived, the company had about 100 employees and 15 contracts. When the founder exited the company, Brewer took over ownership. Under Brewer’s guidance, Greenfield Rehabilitation Agency has quadrupled revenue, diversified the scope of services and acquired and integrated three companies. Greenfield Rehabilitation Agency now has 575 team members and contracts with over 100 entities to provide therapy services.
Brewer was recognized in 2020 as a Woman of Influence by the Milwaukee Business Journal in the category of Entrepreneur. In 2021, she was named a Notable Alumni in Milwaukee by Milwaukee BizTimes. In 2018, Milwaukee BizTimes gave her the Entrepreneur of the Year award.
Her business, Greenfield Rehabilitation Agency Inc., was recognized as Private Practice of the Year by the Wisconsin Physical Therapy Association in 2020. The company was named among the top places to work by the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel in 2021 and 2022.
Brewer serves on the boards of directors for the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra and Junior Achievement of Wisconsin. She is a member of the Greater Milwaukee Committee, Milwaukee Women inc. and TEMPO.
“The true secret to the success of her company is the people who work there,” Brewer’s team said. “Our therapy teams work tirelessly to provide an exceptional experience every day despite the many challenges the healthcare and the recent pandemic have presented. But creating a workplace where they can feel engaged, supported and proud to be a part of is the best recognition that can be bestowed.”
