Larissa Johnson
The Plains,VA
Summary
Global Learning & Development Leader with 12+ years of experience designing and scaling corporate training programs, leadership development, and talent strategies across geographically dispersed teams. Proven ability to architect inclusive learning experiences, leverage AI to optimize delivery, and drive measurable performance improvement. Gallup-Certified Strengths Coach skilled in fostering high-impact cultures and aligning people strategy with business outcomes.
Overview
25
25
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Gallup-Certified Strengths Coach (Independent)
Gallup
01.2025 - Current
- Coaching individuals using the CliftonStrengths framework to increase self-awareness, confidence, and professional impact.
- Developing a strengths-based coaching toolkit integrating generative AI platforms such as ChatGPT and Canva.
- Applying insights to leadership development, DEI, and culture initiatives.
Head of Training and Development
Elme Communities
01.2022 - 01.2024
- Spearheaded the end-to-end build of the company’s training infrastructure using ADDIE methodology, delivering blended learning (ILT, VILT, e-learning, and video-based content) across the Mid-Atlantic and Atlanta regions.
- Led training strategy for 250+ associates by redesigning onboarding, elevating service standards, and implementing performance-driven programs that accelerated organizational effectiveness.
- Designed and operationalized a career mobility framework in collaboration with HR, leveraging career tech tools, skills gap analysis, and succession planning to promote internal advancement.
- Partnered cross-functionally to launch scalable, inclusive DEIA, onboarding, and compliance programs, aligning with industry best practices and company-wide growth initiatives.
- Reduced third-party vendor costs by 55% and established ROI dashboards for learning technologies and systems.
- Championed people-first development strategies by aligning policy, performance, and cultural transformation goals across departments.
Sales Training Manager
Gates Hudson
01.2012 - 01.2022
- Partnered cross-functionally with HRBPs, DEI, and senior business leaders to design and implement scalable training and leadership development programs across multiple geographies.
- Led performance management initiatives and career mobility coaching, incorporating compliance training and strengths-based methodologies.
- Developed and delivered blended learning experiences, including professional skills curricula and seasonal workshops, through both virtual and in-person formats, tailored for executive and front-line audiences.
- Conducted needs assessments and presented performance analytics to drive data-informed decisions, targeted training interventions, and continuous team growth.
- Mentored associates through individualized coaching, sales enablement strategies, and strengths-based development to improve capability, engagement, and retention.
Regional & Leadership Roles
01.2000 - 01.2012
- Managed and directed organization operations, sales, and marketing functions across regional multifamily portfolios in NC, MD, DC, VA, WV, and ATL.
- Drove revenue growth through team development and client satisfaction, achieving the organization's targeted goals.
- Built and scaled high-performance teams aligned with growth and cultural transformation goals.
Education
ULACIT Latin American University of Science & Technology
Panama05-1995
ORT University
Uruguay05-1991
Sacred Heart Convent / Ursuline Convent / Saint Mary’s Catholic School
England06-1989
Skills
- Leadership development
- Data analysis
- Training design
- DEI initiatives
- Presentation skills
- Communication skills
- Training methodologies
- Adult learning theories
- Learning technologies
- Generative AI
- Learning Platforms: LMS
- Learning Platforms: Microsoft Teams
- Learning Platforms: Zoom
- Microsoft Office Suite
- Excel
- PowerPoint
- Outlook
- Strengths-Based Coaching
- Change Leadership
- Performance management
- Blended learning
- Operations management
- Career mobility
- Cross-functional collaboration
- Cultural transformation
Websites
Certification
- Gallup-Certified Strengths Coach, 02/01/25, 43600
- Previously held NAA credentials, NALP, CAM, CAPS
Professional Development
- Generative AI Mastermind Certificate, GrowthSchool, Applied AI tools for coaching, learning, and leadership.
- Customer Success Certification, In Progress, 2025
Languages
Spanish
Native/ Bilingual
References
References available upon request.
Timeline
Gallup-Certified Strengths Coach (Independent)
Gallup
01.2025 - Current
Head of Training and Development
Elme Communities
01.2022 - 01.2024
Sales Training Manager
Gates Hudson
01.2012 - 01.2022
Regional & Leadership Roles
01.2000 - 01.2012
ULACIT Latin American University of Science & Technology
ORT University
Sacred Heart Convent / Ursuline Convent / Saint Mary’s Catholic School
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