Lauren Ortner Knepp
Sarasota
Summary
Versatile Senior Human Resources leader skilled in developing and implementing HR strategies that enhance organizational culture and drive compliance. Expert in M&A integration, workforce planning, and analytics, contributing to significant workforce expansion and improved operational performance. Proficient in fostering positive workplace environments and ensuring regulatory adherence.
Overview
27
27
years of professional experience
Work History
Senior Director of Human Resources
Veransa Group, Inc.
Sarasota
02.2020 - 04.2026
- Established and directed scalable HR infrastructure, enhancing operational efficiency for private equity-backed recycling and composting company.
- Collaborated with executive leadership on organizational design and workforce planning, driving culture strategy development.
- Expanded workforce from 30 to over 100 employees through organic growth and M&A integration.
- Spearheaded the implementation of new PEO and HRIS systems, standardizing benefits, payroll, and compliance protocols.
- Optimized onboarding, offboarding, and recruiting workflows, streamlining internal mobility, promotions, and performance cycles.
- Developed and managed People analytics dashboards to provide insights on capacity, headcount, attrition, and hiring timelines.
- Ensured adherence to data security, privacy, and relevant regulatory frameworks.
- Reduced workplace incidents and improved Workers' Compensation ratings through proactive safety initiatives, decreasing the Lost Time Injury Rate (LTIR) from 4.68 to 0.78 over a three-year period.
- Private equity-backed recycling and composting company.
Human Resources Director & Controller
Totally Wicked, Inc.
Bradenton
01.2017 - 01.2020
- Directed comprehensive HR, accounting, and compliance operations for a UK-based retail organization, ensuring accuracy, regulatory adherence, and operational efficiency.
- Managed HR operations for UK-based retail organization, ensuring alignment with business objectives and regulatory requirements.
- Oversaw U.S. payroll, vendor management, and benefits administration, supporting compliance and operational needs of multi-state workforce.
- Cultivated employee engagement through targeted communication strategies and experience-focused programs, fostering a positive workplace culture.
- Instituted new benefits packages and automated previously manual processes, significantly increasing efficiency and reducing administrative workload.
- Streamlined financial workflows and introduced strategic cost-control measures, enhancing reporting accuracy and minimizing operational waste.
Corporate Administrator (Human Resources, Business Administration & Accounting)
Conspecture, Inc.
North Port
04.2001 - 12.2016
- Administered HR, payroll, and accounting functions, ensuring compliance and efficiency for global software organization.
- Orchestrated full-cycle recruiting, policy development, and employee relations initiatives across multiple international locations.
- Advised executives on critical HR strategies, organizational planning, and process optimization.
- Supervised operations and human resource functions for large workforce of 100 developers, 75 software testers, and 350 customer service agents, streamlining administrative processes.
- Managed team of 25 senior developers, coordinating daily SCRUM meetings and project deadlines to ensure timely delivery of software products.
- Led the project management for a significant software implementation timeline.
- Supported HR initiatives for a global software organization.
Freelance Writer & Editor
Freelance Writer & Editor
Ashburn
12.1998 - 04.2001
- Specialized in technical and policy writing to streamline communication and enhance understanding across diverse industries.
- Crafted engaging content for diverse clients across various industries.
- Edited and proofread manuscripts to ensure clarity and readability.
- Researched topics thoroughly to provide accurate and relevant information.
- Authored corporate handbooks and compliance manuals to ensure regulatory adherence and provide clear guidance.
Education
B.A. - Accounting, Psychology (90% Completed)
University of Northern Virginia (UNVA)
Manassas, VA, United States05-1995
Skills
- Human resources management
- Strategic HR planning
- M&A integration
- HRIS management
- Compliance oversight
- Payroll administration
- Compensation administration
- Performance evaluation
- Change management
- DEI initiatives
- Culture enhancement
- Leadership in HR
- People-first leadership
- Interpersonal communication
- Global communication skills
- Analytical thinking
- Problem solving
- Coaching and mentoring
- Risk assessment
- Inclusive leadership
Timeline
Senior Director of Human Resources
Veransa Group, Inc.
02.2020 - 04.2026
Human Resources Director & Controller
Totally Wicked, Inc.
01.2017 - 01.2020
Corporate Administrator (Human Resources, Business Administration & Accounting)
Conspecture, Inc.
04.2001 - 12.2016
Freelance Writer & Editor
Freelance Writer & Editor
12.1998 - 04.2001
B.A. - Accounting, Psychology (90% Completed)
University of Northern Virginia (UNVA)