5 Questions With

Kenneth D. Allen
Director, Strategic Accounts
NSK America Corp.

1. Tell us about one of your “big wins” recently.

Recently, I led a team of NSK America managers who were selected by the Tufts University School of Dental Medicine (TUSDM) faculty to become the exclusive partners with the school for the introduction of electric micromotors and electric attachments throughout all the graduate and undergraduate clinics and the simulation lab. TUSDM is currently the second largest dental school in the nation. This project presents my company with an opportunity to demonstrate our world-class “after the sale” customer experience to their entire school.

2. What’s the best career advice you ever received?

Steve Sloane, who was my very first Regional Manager when I started my dental career, taught me the importance of being confident and always focusing on adding value to each sales opportunity. He always stressed being organized and to keep improving your communication skills. This led me to be able to connect with people from all walks of life through my career.

3. In 10 years, the biggest change about dental education (or dentistry) will be …

I believe that the overwhelming cost of dental education in the United States will be reduced and that will lead to a more manageable debt level for students when they graduate. We have to force this initiative throughout the dental school leaders, corporate partners, government officials and all the dental service organizations in the country for the continued growth of overall oral health care nationwide.

4. What do you look forward to outside of work?

I am very lucky to live in Savannah, GA, which offers residents and their families many resort-like options including boating on the intercoastal waterway; world-class golf courses; beautiful beaches; a historic walkable downtown area; wonderful dining; several fine arts entertainment options, which are on the campus of Savannah College of Arts and Design; and the world-famous Savannah Bananas baseball team!

5. What’s your favorite vacation spot—and why?

My family and I most enjoy renting a house during the summer at Humarock Beach, located in Scituate, MA, which is a beautiful three-mile-long barrier beach between the Atlantic Ocean and the South River. It offers a great family atmosphere for all. Humarock Beach has casual shops, marina facilities and unique restaurants that we enjoy with our friends and extended family.