Open To Work
Dr. Sandra Simmons, PhD
Director of People and Processes
Hampton,VA
Work Preference
Desired Job Title
Director of Human ResourcesHR Operations ManagerWork Type
Full TimeContract WorkConsultingLocation Preference
On-SiteRemoteHybridLocation: Hampton, VA, US
Open to relocation: Yes
Salary Range
250000/yr - 300000/yrImportant To Me
Company CultureStock Options / Equity / Profit SharingHealthcare benefits401k matchSummary
Well-qualified Organizational Strategist with proven success in improving operations and solving problems. Highly proficient in building lasting relationships with key decision makers, customers, and team members to further company goals. Ready to leverage training and experience to take on new professional challenges.
Overview
37
37
years of professional experience
Work History
Director of Human Resources
J. Smith McDonald's
Newport News, USA
05.2019 - Current
- Directed HR strategy development and aligned systems for over 650 employees across 10 franchise locations and one service team.
- Employment Relations & General Labor Law Administrator
- Benefits, commercial insurance, and 401 (k) administration.
- Manage Direct Reports (people experience leads, Payroll manager, Recruiting Liaison, Wow orientation instructor.
- one of three members of the executive team with the Owner Operator and Director of Operations in planning and execution people and operation strategy.
- Established an agile centralized hiring team to optimize hiring and training processes within the first year. Exceeded leadership and management retention targets through effective recruiting and development.
- Payroll, Benefits, 401 (k), and Commercial insurance Administrator.
HR Operations Manager
Virginia Zoological Society
Norfolk, USA
11.1989 - 12.2018
- 20 years of transformational leadership spanning Accounts Receivable, multi‑department operations, and HR.
- Directed Gift Shops, Foodservice, catering, and guest services for 12 years, including major rebuilds and capital projects.
- Oversaw Aramark retail/food operations for six years and transitioned services back in‑house.
- Aligned hiring, succession, and compensation strategies while managing operational departments and moving into HR leadership.
- Transitioned 300+ volunteer programs from Education to HR, strengthening a long‑standing program and reducing liability.
- Managed retail and food service operations for eight years, driving cross‑functional collaboration and guest‑experience improvements.
- Led vendor procurement and contract management for logistics, food purveyors, event rentals, and beverage partnerships.
- Negotiated beverage contracts for 15 years, increasing revenue share and securing marketing support.
- Directed four major capital/operational projects, including a miniature train attraction, full‑service restaurant, rebuilt café, and pop‑up concepts.
- Coordinated participation from up to 35 upscale restaurants annually for a major fundraising event.
- Partnered with the City Administrator to implement a centralized POS system for unified visitor‑engagement tracking.
Education
Doctoral degree - Organizational Leadership / HR
05-2026
Master's - Organizational Leadership & Interdisciplinary Practices
08-2019
Bachelors of Science - Organizational Leadership & Management
05-2013
Medical Office Specialist & Transcription -
11-1990
Associates in Accounting / Business Management -
01-1987
Diploma -
01-1983
Skills
- Human resources management
- Talent Management
- Employee relations
- Performance management
- Benefits administration
- HR policy development
- Strategic & Workforce planning
- Learning tools
- Financial reporting and analysis
- Procurement and operational systems management
- Retail & Food Service management
- Payroll, Benefits, and Insurance Administrator
- Data analysis techniques
- Project management expertise
- Microsoft Office Suite proficiency
- Team leadership and building
- Conflict resolution skills
- Organizational development initiatives
Timeline
Director of Human Resources - J. Smith McDonald's
05.2019 - Current
HR Operations Manager - Virginia Zoological Society
11.1989 - 12.2018
Regent University - Doctoral degree, Organizational Leadership / HR
Regent University - Master's, Organizational Leadership & Interdisciplinary Practices
Regent University - Bachelors of Science, Organizational Leadership & Management
ECPI University - Medical Office Specialist & Transcription,
Commonwealth Community College - Associates in Accounting / Business Management,
Granby Sr. High. - Diploma,