HEATHER MELHAD
Mesa,AZ
Summary
Mission-driven Director of Learning & Development with over a decade of experience in shaping workforce strategy, leadership development, and organizational training within complex nonprofit environments. Certified Professional in Training Management (CPTM) with credentials in Training Facilitation, Integrated Talent Management, Trauma & Resilience Life Coaching, and Workforce Development. Expertise in fostering trauma-informed, growth-focused cultures that enhance staff confidence and leadership capabilities. Recognized as a trusted HR partner and executive advisor, adept at bridging people, performance, and purpose to drive compliance outcomes and long-term retention. A public-facing leader known for clarity and compassion, effectively translating organizational missions into measurable performance through impactful learning initiatives that significantly boost employee engagement.
Overview
15
15
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Director of Learning & Development
MIKID (Mentally Ill Kids In Distress)
Phoenix, AZ
01.2021 - Current
- Lead the strategic design, implementation, and governance of all organization-wide learning, onboarding, compliance, and leadership development systems statewide.
- Serve as a key HR and Executive Leadership partner, advising on workforce performance, retention risks, leadership readiness, and staff development strategy.
- Align training systems with AHCCCS, RBHA, and licensing requirements while strengthening trauma-informed practice across all departments.
- Develop board-facing training materials, leadership dashboards, and workforce development updates.
- Oversee leadership development pathways for Program Managers, Directors, and emerging leaders.
- Coach staff and leaders on facilitation, communication, emotional regulation, and mission alignment.
- Lead statewide facilitation efforts and represent the organization at public events.
Director of Fund Development
MIKID (Mentally Ill Kids In Distress)
Phoenix, AZ
01.2019 - 01.2021
- Developed and executed MIKID’s comprehensive fund development strategy.
- Led donor cultivation, corporate sponsorships, annual giving campaigns, and grant revenue expansion.
- Oversaw marketing, communications, website, and social media strategy.
Training Coordinator
MIKID (Mentally Ill Kids In Distress)
Phoenix, AZ
01.2017 - 01.2019
- Delivered behavioral health, trauma awareness, and suicide prevention trainings statewide.
- Designed grant-compliant education supporting AHCCCS and RBHA requirements.
Donor Outreach Manager
Sojourner Center
Phoenix, AZ
01.2011 - 01.2017
- Managed donation center operations, donor retention, staff training and staff supervision.
- Provided direct client support and managed volunteers.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Communications, Psychology
Eastern Michigan University
Ypsilanti, MISkills
- Strategic HR planning
- Executive leadership assistance
- Talent development
- Trauma-Informed Leadership
- Staff Engagement & Retention
- Employee compliance education
- Guidance and support
- Workflow optimization
- Nonprofit management
- Flexible learning approaches
- Change management expertise
- Diverse teaching strategies
Certification
- Certified Professional in Training Management (CPTM)
- Certified Training Facilitator
- Integrated Talent Management
- Trauma & Resilience Life Coach
- Certified Workforce Development Professional
Timeline
Director of Learning & Development
MIKID (Mentally Ill Kids In Distress)
01.2021 - Current
Director of Fund Development
MIKID (Mentally Ill Kids In Distress)
01.2019 - 01.2021
Training Coordinator
MIKID (Mentally Ill Kids In Distress)
01.2017 - 01.2019
Donor Outreach Manager
Sojourner Center
01.2011 - 01.2017
Bachelor of Arts - Communications, Psychology
Eastern Michigan University