For more than a decade, KKR has been a committed advocate for CPR education for its employees worldwide, recognizing the lifesaving potential of these critical skills. By offering in-person CPR education and training every two years, KKR ensures its global workforce is prepared to respond effectively in cardiac emergencies. These trainings are not just operational; they reflect KKR’s core organizational values, demonstrating a strong commitment to employee well-being.
Amid the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, KKR and the American Heart Association co-created and pilot tested a groundbreaking virtual hands-only CPR training program. This innovation allowed the company to extend lifesaving CPR instruction to all employees, offering a flexible, high-quality Zoom-based training.
The KKR-AHA pilot revealed an unmet need for virtual CPR hands-only training programs for employers. Today, the AHA provides this unique training to companies worldwide. Meanwhile, in response to the virtual trainings’ success, KKR adopted and continues to offer a hybrid instruction model, giving employees the choice between in-person and virtual trainings.
KKR’s innovative partnership with the AHA is just one example of how KKR’s leaders are prioritizing employee health. Beyond an operational priority, KKR’s attentiveness to employee health and safety is modeled by and championed by top executives. KKR co-founder and co-chairman Henry Kravis actively supports these initiatives.
The messages of encouragement shared by KKR’s leadership inspire full participation. Kravis, who is also a co-founder of the AHA CEO Roundtable, has been a vocal champion of efforts to create healthier workplaces and communities.
Fostering a culture of care and preparedness
The hybrid CPR training model reflects KKR’s ongoing commitment to employee engagement. With the option to participate in person or virtually, employees can choose the format that suits them best. While many appreciate the immersive experience of in-person training, the virtual option offers convenience. KKR’s ability to balance thorough instruction with respect for employees’ time and comfort with different learning modes has made these programs highly effective and well received.
As another testament to KKR’s forward-thinking approach, its CPR curriculum covers both adult and infant CPR training, offering expectant parents or caregivers’ lifesaving skills. This comprehensive approach ensures the company is meeting the immediate needs of its workforce while also extending critical knowledge that benefits families and communities.
Christopher Kim, who manages KKR’s global benefits and wellness programs, elaborates on the company’s efforts: “At KKR, we believe that investing in CPR training is about more than equipping our employees with potential lifesaving skills — it’s about fostering a culture of holistic care and preparedness. By engaging our team in these trainings, we reinforce our commitment to their well-being, both at work and in their personal lives.”
KKR is a supporter of the AHAs Nation of Lifesavers. Employees are prepared to act confidently to save the life of a friend, colleague, family member or community member, if needed. KKR continues to push the boundaries of innovation in employee education, ensuring that CPR remains a top priority in a comprehensive suite of health and wellness offerings.
Editor’s Note: Nation of Lifesavers highlights efforts underway at companies in the CEO Roundtable. However, the American Heart Association does not endorse or promote products or services from KKR or any other organization. Comments and opinions expressed in this editorial by people outside the Association do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the American Heart Association.