Dennis Cooleys entrepreneurial story began in 1996 when he joined forces with his brother to launch Prostaff Human Resources. However, after one year in business, Cooleys life changed completely when the business was sold, and shortly after, his brother was killed in a motorcycle accident. While his intentions were to continue with the company that acquired the firm, he wasnt sure if it was the right move for him at the time.
Cooley found himself working at other professional employer organizations instead, including a startup where the company grew from 2,000 worksite employees to nearly 20,000. By 2013, with like-minded partners, Cooley found his fit when he formed Bridgely Key Options. He and his partners went on to found Secure HR, a payroll services company, too.
Bridgely Key Options LLC, is an insurance agency specializing in the PEO (professional employer organization) industry. In addition to direct sales, the firm works with PEO brokers and insurance agents to reach customers and help business owners with their payroll, human resources, workers compensation, health benefits, 401(k) and other supplemental services by leveraging the services of a PEO.
Under Cooleys guidance, Secure HR expanded its offering last year with Secure HR Pro to include advanced human resources consulting. Leveraging our broad scope of experience with comprehensive, integrated HR solutions, we began offering professional services for large, complex organizations, including municipalities, he said. We found that large organizations find it challenging to re-organize, leverage technology and utilize partners without outside expertise to help them along the way.
Helping others has been a key part of Cooleys leadership style during his 30 years in the industry and as an active board and committee member within the community.
Integrity is more than just doing the right thing when no one is looking; its also about helping others when its the right thing to do, even without personal gain, he said. I believe this philosophy is what has led to my companys longevity; without integrity and trust, my business would not survive.
Empathy is a necessary skill for a leader, Cooley said. Understanding and addressing the needs of employees and the community is crucial, he said. As an engaged member of my community and a small business champion, I have seen firsthand the positive impact of empathetic leadership. Leaders must listen actively and foster a supportive environment.
