Kelli Estes
Zebulon,NC
Summary
Meet Kelli Estes, a dedicated Business Partner and Senior Human Resources Professional with a proven track record of fostering positive employee relations and cultivating thriving workplace cultures. With exceptional interpersonal, coaching, and communication skills, Kelli effectively connects with individuals at all levels, empowering them to reach their full potential. Her expertise in Gallup's strengths-based approach enhances team and individual performance, ensuring organizations have a confident and engaged workforce that drives success.
Overview
2025
2025
years of professional experience
Work History
Senior HR Business Partner
McClatchy Media
12.2019 - Current
- Serve as a trusted advisor to leadership, providing expert guidance on HR strategies, talent development, and organizational culture to align with business goals.
- Lead Gallup Strengths coaching sessions for employees and leadership teams, fostering a culture of engagement and performance excellence.
- Develop and implement HR programs such as a 12-week virtual new hire orientation covering Imposter Syndrome, Gallup Strengths, Inclusion & Diversity, and Harassment Prevention.
- Drive key HR initiatives including performance management, succession planning, and leadership development.
- Conduct employee engagement assessments, stay interviews, and exit interviews to identify trends and implement strategic solutions for retention and workplace satisfaction.
Regional HR Partner
The News & Observer, McClatchy Company
Raleigh, NC
- Provided HR partnership to regional leaders, coaching managers on team development, talent strategy, and performance improvement.
- Designed and facilitated leadership training programs to build managerial capability in people management, employee relations, and compliance.
- Advised leadership on HR policies and employment law, ensuring compliance while fostering a positive work culture.
- Spearheaded employee engagement initiatives, including special events and recognition programs to enhance morale and productivity.
Education
SPHR - Senior Professional Human Resources Management
HRCI
Gallup-Certified Strengths Coach
Gallup
Bachelor of Science -
Ball State University
Muncie, IN12-2000
Skills
- Relationship Building and Coaching
- HR Strategy and Implementation
- Learning & Development
- Performance Management & Training
- Managing employee relations
- Coaching leadership
- Exit interviews
- Advising on strategies
- Employee engagement
- Work culture enhancement
- HR policies development
Affiliations
- 2022, 2023, 2024 Women in Leadership Institute Conference Attendee
- 2022 McClatchy Women’s ERG Co-Chair
- 2023-2024 McClatchy Working Parents ERG Co-Chair
- Workday, ADP, Microsoft Office, Google Office Suite
- AI Tools: ChatGPT, Gemini, Open AI
Timeline
Senior HR Business Partner
McClatchy Media
12.2019 - Current
Regional HR Partner
The News & Observer, McClatchy Company
SPHR - Senior Professional Human Resources Management
HRCI
Gallup-Certified Strengths Coach
Gallup
Bachelor of Science -
Ball State University
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