Gwendolyn C. Hearns
Rossville,TENNESSEE
Summary
Transforming Cultures, Building Corporate Infrastructure and Engaging Employees Proactively Senior Human Resources Professional, shaping high performing cultures at Fortune 500 and major growth brands with progressive technical resources, prolific communications and robust development programs that results in double digit growth. Employs current human capital practices that attract and retain entry level - high potential talent. Develops executable strategy that motivates teams individually and financially to exceed the corporate objectives through various economic cycles
Overview
18
18
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Regional Human Resources Manager II
Workwear
Henning, TN
08.2022 - Current
- Partner with leadership on workforce planning and succession strategies
- Drive employee engagement initiatives and foster a positive workplace culture
- Oversee payroll, benefits administration, and performance appraisal systems
- Manage recruitment, onboarding, and retention programs to attract top talent
- Develop and implement HR strategies aligned with organizational goals during a period of growth
- Lead HR operations for Workwear, ensuring compliance with federal and state employment laws
- Developed and implemented HR strategies aligned with organizational goals.
- Led talent acquisition initiatives to enhance workforce quality across multiple locations.
- Streamlined onboarding processes to improve employee integration and retention rates.
- Facilitated training programs to elevate staff competencies and compliance standards.
- Managed employee relations issues, fostering a positive work environment and resolving conflicts effectively.
- Analyzed workforce metrics to drive strategic decision-making and improve operational efficiency.
- Oversaw HR budget allocation, ensuring optimal resource utilization for departmental initiatives.
- Developed and implemented HR policies to align with company objectives and enhance employee engagement.
- Led talent acquisition strategies, improving recruitment processes and reducing time-to-fill for key positions.
- Managed performance management systems, ensuring alignment with organizational goals and promoting employee development.
- Facilitated training programs that enhanced leadership capabilities across regional teams, fostering a culture of continuous improvement.
- Analyzed workforce data to identify trends, recommending strategic initiatives to improve retention rates and employee satisfaction.
- Collaborated with regional leaders on succession planning, ensuring a robust pipeline of talent for critical roles.
- Conducted compliance audits and ensured adherence to labor laws, mitigating potential risks for the organization.
- Drove diversity and inclusion initiatives, enhancing workplace culture and attracting a broader candidate pool.
Human Resources Manager
Ampro Industry
Memphis, TN
01.2021 - 01.2022
- Develop and implement HR strategies and initiatives aligned with the overall business strategy
- Bridging management and employee relations by addressing demands, grievances, and other issues
- Manage the recruitment and selection process
- Support current and future business needs through the development, engagement, motivation, and preservation of human capital in the fast-paced expansion phase
- Develop and monitor overall HR strategies, systems, tactics, and procedures across the organization
- Nurture a positive working environment
- Oversee and manage a payroll process and make recommendations for an appraisal system that drives high performance
- Developed and implemented performance management systems to enhance employee productivity.
- Led recruitment efforts, streamlining onboarding processes and improving candidate experience.
- Designed and facilitated training programs to promote professional development and compliance.
- Analyzed employee feedback data to inform strategic HR initiatives and improve workplace culture.
- Managed employee relations, resolving conflicts and fostering a positive work environment.
- Oversaw compensation and benefits administration, ensuring competitive offerings aligned with industry standards.
- Collaborated with leadership to align HR strategies with business objectives for organizational growth.
- Implemented HR technology solutions to automate processes, increasing operational efficiency across departments.
- Managed employee relations issues professionally, resolving conflicts efficiently while maintaining confidentiality at all times.
- Maintained accurate HR records in compliance with applicable laws, ensuring efficient data retrieval when required.
- Conducted thorough internal investigations, addressing employee concerns with fairness and transparency.
- Maintained payroll and benefits for employees in various locations, minimizing financial discrepancies through detailed program management.
- Streamlined HR processes for increased efficiency, reducing paperwork and manual tasks through automation.
- Collaborated with executive leadership to align HR initiatives with overall business goals and objectives.
- Maintained company compliance with local, state, and federal laws, in addition to established organizational standards.
- Maintained payroll and benefits for employees in various locations and diminished financial discrepancies through expert program management.
- Managed complex benefits administration, ensuring accurate enrollment and timely processing of claims.
- Organized and led staff orientation programs and training to promote collaboration.
- Facilitated onboarding sessions and on-the-job training for new hires bolstering position knowledge and skillset.
- Motivated employees through special events, incentive programs, and constructive feedback.
- Developed comprehensive onboarding programs to facilitate smooth integration of new employees into the organization.
- Optimized payroll processing procedures for accuracy and timeliness using advanced software solutions.
- Facilitated onboarding sessions and on-the-job training for new hires, bolstering employee job position knowledge and skillset.
- Provided expert guidance on labor laws and regulations, mitigating legal risks for the organization.
- Regularly analyzed workforce trends to proactively address potential skill gaps or staffing needs.
- Processed employee claims involving performance issues and harassment.
- Reduced time-to-hire metrics by optimizing recruiting processes, utilizing technology, and streamlining candidate screening methods.
- Implemented customized performance management systems, providing ongoing feedback and development opportunities for employees.
- Facilitated open communication channels between employees and management by conducting regular town hall meetings or roundtable discussions.
- Monitored and handled employee claims involving performance-based and harassment incidents.
- Implemented performance reviews and motivational strategies to elevate HR team results.
- Motivated employees through special events and incentive programs.
- Coordinated company-wide training programs to enhance workforce skills and promote professional growth.
- Championed employee wellness initiatives to improve job satisfaction and reduce absenteeism.
- Evaluated employee onboarding programs and presented strategic improvement recommendations to upper management.
- Used technologically relevant digital systems to manage payroll and benefits programs.
- Spearheaded successful recruitment campaigns, attracting top-tier talent to fill key company positions.
- Promoted diversity and inclusion within the workplace by initiating targeted training programs and implementing inclusive hiring practices.
- Enhanced employee retention by developing and implementing comprehensive onboarding programs.
- Facilitated conflict resolution sessions, fostering positive work environment and maintaining high levels of staff morale.
- Facilitated successful organizational restructuring, ensuring smooth transitions and minimal disruption to operations.
- Enhanced employee career paths through development of clear progression plans and continuous learning opportunities.
- Supported business growth by aligning HR strategies with corporate objectives, fostering adaptable and high-performing workforce.
- Increased employee satisfaction and engagement through creation and execution of targeted wellness and recognition programs.
- Developed tailored training programs to enhance team skills and performance, addressing specific organizational needs.
- Designed and executed leadership development programs, preparing high-potential employees for future management roles.
- Reduced employee turnover by analyzing exit interview data and implementing targeted retention strategies.
- Led negotiations for employee benefits packages, securing cost-effective solutions while maintaining high-quality offerings.
- Enhanced team collaboration and efficiency by introducing innovative communication tools and team-building activities.
- Streamlined recruitment processes to improve time-to-hire, employing innovative sourcing strategies and technologies.
- Improved organizational culture by initiating diversity and inclusion programs.
- Improved compliance with health and safety regulations by developing and implementing comprehensive training for all staff.
- Optimized talent acquisition strategies to attract high-caliber candidates, focusing on employer branding and competitive positioning.
- Led HR team in supporting company expansion efforts, ensuring seamless integration of new employees and preserving company culture.
- Streamlined HR reporting processes, enabling more efficient analysis and decision-making with improved data management practices.
- Implemented performance management systems that provided clear metrics for employee evaluation and development.
- Conducted comprehensive HR audits to ensure compliance with labor laws and regulations, mitigating risk of legal issues.
- Conducted salary and market benchmarking analyses to ensure competitive compensation and attract top talent.
- Worked with managers to achieve compliance with organizational policies, providing clarifying information and recommending necessary changes.
- Distributed employee engagement surveys to identify areas of improvement.
- Developed comprehensive process for new hires and reviewed new hire productivity, optimizing onboarding effectiveness.
- Facilitated successful policy implementation and enforcement to maintain legal and operational compliance.
- Discovered and resolved complex employee issues that affected management and business decisions.
- Devised hiring and recruitment policies for [Number]-employee company.
- Enhanced team workflows and employee job satisfaction by coordinating communication between managers and employees.
- Identified and implemented appropriate strategies to increase employee satisfaction and retention.
- Collaborated with legal and compliance teams to review paperwork, obtain feedback, and procure available information for new training processes.
- Recruited top talent to maximize profitability.
- Updated training processes by reviewing existing documentation, leveraging feedback from associates and working with legal and compliance teams.
- Utilized compliance tools, corrective actions and identification of deficiencies to mitigate audit risks.
- Created and implemented forward-thinking initiatives to improve employee engagement.
- Liaised between multiple business divisions to improve communications.
- Structured compensation and benefits according to market conditions and budget demands.
- Maintained current knowledge of industry regulations and legislation to amend policies and promote compliance.
- Reduced process gaps while supervising employees to achieve optimal productivity.
- Fostered positive work environment through comprehensive employee relations program.
Human Resources Manager
MCP, INC
Somerville, TN
01.2019 - 01.2021
- HR Organization Leadership in staffing, recruitment, benefits, executive compensation, non-exempt training, leadership development, succession planning, HRIS, and regulatory compliance and payroll processing
- Heavy emphasis on leading through rapid HR change and transformation in the acquisition process
- Organization Transformation: Enabled operational change essential to a reduction in HR costs
- Helped to facilitate a restructuring of core business operations
- Post-Acquisition HR Integration: Streamlined integration of payroll systems and new benefit administration
- Ensured strategic alignment of HR with new business objectives and minimized business interruptions through execution of workforce integration plans
- Championed successful EH&S program design/implementation and company-wide employee communications initiative
- Developed and implemented performance management systems to enhance employee productivity.
- Led recruitment efforts, streamlining onboarding processes and improving candidate experience.
- Designed and facilitated training programs to promote professional development and compliance.
- Analyzed employee feedback data to inform strategic HR initiatives and improve workplace culture.
- Managed employee relations, resolving conflicts and fostering a positive work environment.
- Oversaw compensation and benefits administration, ensuring competitive offerings aligned with industry standards.
- Collaborated with leadership to align HR strategies with business objectives for organizational growth.
- Implemented HR technology solutions to automate processes, increasing operational efficiency across departments.
- Managed employee relations issues professionally, resolving conflicts efficiently while maintaining confidentiality at all times.
- Maintained accurate HR records in compliance with applicable laws, ensuring efficient data retrieval when required.
- Conducted thorough internal investigations, addressing employee concerns with fairness and transparency.
- Maintained payroll and benefits for employees in various locations, minimizing financial discrepancies through detailed program management.
- Streamlined HR processes for increased efficiency, reducing paperwork and manual tasks through automation.
- Collaborated with executive leadership to align HR initiatives with overall business goals and objectives.
- Maintained company compliance with local, state, and federal laws, in addition to established organizational standards.
- Maintained payroll and benefits for employees in various locations and diminished financial discrepancies through expert program management.
- Managed complex benefits administration, ensuring accurate enrollment and timely processing of claims.
- Organized and led staff orientation programs and training to promote collaboration.
- Facilitated onboarding sessions and on-the-job training for new hires bolstering position knowledge and skillset.
- Motivated employees through special events, incentive programs, and constructive feedback.
- Developed comprehensive onboarding programs to facilitate smooth integration of new employees into the organization.
- Optimized payroll processing procedures for accuracy and timeliness using advanced software solutions.
- Facilitated onboarding sessions and on-the-job training for new hires, bolstering employee job position knowledge and skillset.
- Provided expert guidance on labor laws and regulations, mitigating legal risks for the organization.
- Regularly analyzed workforce trends to proactively address potential skill gaps or staffing needs.
- Processed employee claims involving performance issues and harassment.
- Reduced time-to-hire metrics by optimizing recruiting processes, utilizing technology, and streamlining candidate screening methods.
- Implemented customized performance management systems, providing ongoing feedback and development opportunities for employees.
- Facilitated open communication channels between employees and management by conducting regular town hall meetings or roundtable discussions.
- Monitored and handled employee claims involving performance-based and harassment incidents.
- Enhanced employee retention by implementing effective talent management strategies and fostering a positive work environment.
- Implemented performance reviews and motivational strategies to elevate HR team results.
- Motivated employees through special events and incentive programs.
- Coordinated company-wide training programs to enhance workforce skills and promote professional growth.
- Championed employee wellness initiatives to improve job satisfaction and reduce absenteeism.
- Evaluated employee onboarding programs and presented strategic improvement recommendations to upper management.
- Used technologically relevant digital systems to manage payroll and benefits programs.
- Spearheaded successful recruitment campaigns, attracting top-tier talent to fill key company positions.
- Promoted diversity and inclusion within the workplace by initiating targeted training programs and implementing inclusive hiring practices.
- Enhanced employee retention by developing and implementing comprehensive onboarding programs.
- Facilitated conflict resolution sessions, fostering positive work environment and maintaining high levels of staff morale.
- Facilitated successful organizational restructuring, ensuring smooth transitions and minimal disruption to operations.
- Enhanced employee career paths through development of clear progression plans and continuous learning opportunities.
- Supported business growth by aligning HR strategies with corporate objectives, fostering adaptable and high-performing workforce.
- Increased employee satisfaction and engagement through creation and execution of targeted wellness and recognition programs.
- Developed tailored training programs to enhance team skills and performance, addressing specific organizational needs.
- Designed and executed leadership development programs, preparing high-potential employees for future management roles.
- Reduced employee turnover by analyzing exit interview data and implementing targeted retention strategies.
- Led negotiations for employee benefits packages, securing cost-effective solutions while maintaining high-quality offerings.
- Enhanced team collaboration and efficiency by introducing innovative communication tools and team-building activities.
- Streamlined recruitment processes to improve time-to-hire, employing innovative sourcing strategies and technologies.
- Improved organizational culture by initiating diversity and inclusion programs.
- Improved compliance with health and safety regulations by developing and implementing comprehensive training for all staff.
- Optimized talent acquisition strategies to attract high-caliber candidates, focusing on employer branding and competitive positioning.
- Led HR team in supporting company expansion efforts, ensuring seamless integration of new employees and preserving company culture.
- Streamlined HR reporting processes, enabling more efficient analysis and decision-making with improved data management practices.
- Implemented performance management systems that provided clear metrics for employee evaluation and development.
- Conducted comprehensive HR audits to ensure compliance with labor laws and regulations, mitigating risk of legal issues.
- Conducted salary and market benchmarking analyses to ensure competitive compensation and attract top talent.
- Worked with managers to achieve compliance with organizational policies, providing clarifying information and recommending necessary changes.
- Distributed employee engagement surveys to identify areas of improvement.
- Developed comprehensive process for new hires and reviewed new hire productivity, optimizing onboarding effectiveness.
- Facilitated successful policy implementation and enforcement to maintain legal and operational compliance.
- Discovered and resolved complex employee issues that affected management and business decisions.
- Instructed senior leaders on appropriate employee corrective steps.
- Devised hiring and recruitment policies for [Number]-employee company.
- Enhanced team workflows and employee job satisfaction by coordinating communication between managers and employees.
- Identified and implemented appropriate strategies to increase employee satisfaction and retention.
- Collaborated with legal and compliance teams to review paperwork, obtain feedback, and procure available information for new training processes.
- Recruited top talent to maximize profitability.
- Updated training processes by reviewing existing documentation, leveraging feedback from associates and working with legal and compliance teams.
- Utilized compliance tools, corrective actions and identification of deficiencies to mitigate audit risks.
- Created and implemented forward-thinking initiatives to improve employee engagement.
- Liaised between multiple business divisions to improve communications.
- Structured compensation and benefits according to market conditions and budget demands.
- Maintained current knowledge of industry regulations and legislation to amend policies and promote compliance.
- Reduced process gaps while supervising employees to achieve optimal productivity.
- Fostered positive work environment through comprehensive employee relations program.
Regional Human Resources Director
JB’S FOOD CHAIN
Petal, Oak Grove and Hattiesburg, MS
01.2011 - 01.2018
- Successfully reduced cost by 50% within the 1st year
- Lowered turnover from more than 40% to below 20%
- Guided leaders and team members through performance, change management and organizational design initiatives
- Transitioned HR from traditional labor relations function into comprehensive HR organization focused on best-in-class HR
- Policies, HRIS technology, staff and management training, and support of strategic business goals.
- Provided HR leadership during a period of rapid growth with better than 16% increase in annual revenues and 10% gain in profitability.
- Captured $37K in benefit cost reductions and avoided an additional 500K in retirement plan funding.
- Introduced metrics-based performance management system with a heavy emphasis on operating results. Spearheaded
- Value-add employee recognition and awards programs.
Senior Regional Human Resources Manager Level I & II (promoted)
SERVICEMASTER CLEAN, AMERISPEC, FURNITURE MEDIC, MERRY MAID, INSTAR
Memphis, TN
01.2008 - 01.2011
- Served as key member of Leadership team & HR leader to corporate headquarters with dual reporting to Pres. & HR-VP
- Executed day to day HR operational activities such as, payroll, benefits, policy administration, FMLA, employee relations
- EEOC maintenance, partnered w/HRIS forecasting and reporting
- Established rapport with employees; balance client-relationship needs with organizational goals, cost controls, and
- Compliance requirements to create a positive work environment
- Lead teams by applying human resource knowledge and strategies, intentionally driving inclusion
- Partnered with global leaders on company worldwide initiatives
- Co - facilitated annual succession planning and organization review sessions with the management team, advised on
- Change management initiatives and initiated a 360 – feedback session for senior leadership and field teammates
- Contributed to the business strategy, leveraging knowledge on operations talent.
- Focused on driving a distinctive focus on Talent & Leadership Development for operations, partnering closely with
- Department heads
- Initiated successful workforce planning, job realignment, employee involvement, and team-building projects including
- International teams
- Member of executive management strategic planning team
- Guided and advised branch managers on budget preparation and approvals
- HR point of contact for field Operations and Fleet Maintenance needs offering guidance to over 500 + service centers
- Managers and employees
- Fulfilled a broad range of HR functions, including recruiting and training employees, administering benefits, overseeing
- Disciplinary action and managing HR records. Co-chaired annual flex-enrollment meetings, resolved conflicts between
- Employees and insurance carriers, coordinated health fairs to promote employee wellness and performed exit interviews.
Education
B.S - Health and Human Science (Education)
University of Southern MS
Hattiesburg, MSBS -
University of Southern MS
Hattiesburg, MS08.2005
Skills
Compensation structuring
Employee engagement
Workforce planning
Talent acquisition
Performance appraisal
Benefits administration
HR compliance
Training program development
Onboarding process optimization
Employee relations management
Strategic HR alignment
Payroll processing management
Organizational change management
Diversity and inclusion initiatives
Succession planning strategies
HR analytics and reporting
Conflict resolution facilitation
Compensation strategy development
Leadership development programs
Regulatory compliance audits
Team collaboration enhancement
HR policies and procedures
HR analytics
Diversity and inclusion
Training development
Employee relations
Project management
Candidate sourcing
Organizational development
Pre-employment screening
Recruitment strategies
Compensation strategy
Performance management
Onboarding programs
Wages and salary
Succession planning
Retention strategies
Employment law
Labor relations
Payroll completion
Workplace diversity cultivation
Human resources operations
Training and mentoring
Team building
Microsoft office proficiency
Leadership development
Employee onboarding
Recruitment and hiring
Staff management
Benefits and compensation management
Microsoft office and docusign
Exit interviews
Recruitment and selection
Policy enforcement
New employee orientation
Employee handbook development
Background checks
Payroll coordination
Risk management
Records management
Employee retention
Talent management
Internal communications
Payroll administration
Onboarding and orientation
Recordkeeping
Recruitment
Workforce improvements
Legal compliance
Job analysis
Training programs
Online position posting
Career development
Performance assessment
Recruitment oversight
Corrective action planning
Company organization
Contract negotiation
Personnel recruitment
Regulatory compliance
Compensation and benefits
Labor negotiations
Dispute mediation
System development
Personnel information systems
Union relations
HRIS management
Benefits programs
Policy making and enforcement
Grievance handling and redressal
Labor law compliance
Staff compensation
Orientation preparation
HR leadership
Employee support
Post-hire check-ins
HR guidance
Staffing and recruiting professional
Unemployment claims management
Certification
- Human Resources DDI Certified Trainer
- SHRM Certified Professional (SHRM member)
- HRIS Systems Expertise: Workday, SAP, PeopleSoft, Kronos, Taleo, Oracle
- Application Tracking Systems (ATS) proficiency
- ISO Process Implementation Training
Timeline
Regional Human Resources Manager II
Workwear
08.2022 - Current
Human Resources Manager
Ampro Industry
01.2021 - 01.2022
Human Resources Manager
MCP, INC
01.2019 - 01.2021
Regional Human Resources Director
JB’S FOOD CHAIN
01.2011 - 01.2018
Senior Regional Human Resources Manager Level I & II (promoted)
SERVICEMASTER CLEAN, AMERISPEC, FURNITURE MEDIC, MERRY MAID, INSTAR
01.2008 - 01.2011
B.S - Health and Human Science (Education)
University of Southern MS
BS -
University of Southern MS