Kari Shortridge

Chief of Staff

Efficiency and continuous improvement have been central to my professional approach. I take great satisfaction in streamlining processes and reducing unnecessary effort to deliver results more effectively. At Michaels, I’m eager to deepen my industry knowledge while continuing to enhance the efficiency and impact of our daily operations.

Kari joined Michaels Energy in 2025, bringing with her a wealth of experience across consulting operations and a broad spectrum of human resources functions. Her career is distinguished by a strategic and people-focused leadership style, developed through years of working in dynamic and fast-paced environments. Prior to joining Michaels, Kari held key roles in client service, workforce management, and learning and development, then ultimately Chief of Staff at one of the “Big Four” firms. In her current role at Michaels, Kari serves as a trusted advisor and strategic partner to CEO Jeff Ihnen. As Chief of Staff, she operates as an essential liaison and thought partner to the executive office, helping to align cross-functional initiatives, enhance organizational effectiveness, and drive executive priorities forward with clarity and precision.

Kari earned her Bachelor’s degree in Political Science and Public History from Emory & Henry College and later completed her Master’s in Human Services at Liberty University.

Outside of the office, Kari enjoys spending quality time with her family—Kel and Reid (8). As a family, they love to travel, often centering their adventures around sporting events, whether cheering Reid on at his games or attending collegiate and professional games. Kari enjoys running, riding her Peloton, and baking homemade breads and sweet treats.