Sarah Ptacek
Plymouth,MN
Summary
Innovative leader driving efficiency, profitability, and organizational performance through strategic talent, operations, and change initiatives, delivering results that attract top talent, boost engagement, and optimize resources.
Overview
20
20
years of professional experience
Work History
Human Resources Director
Henson Efron
Minneapolis, MN
02.2022 - Current
- Spearheaded comprehensive recruitment strategies that reduced time-to-hire by 50%; built strategic partnerships with 3 local law schools to launch a law clerk program ensuring a sustainable succession pipeline.
- Streamlined performance management processes, embedding a culture of continuous feedback and professional growth across the firm.
- Designed and executed firmwide employee engagement initiatives, driving measurable increases in workplace satisfaction as reflected in improved Top Workplace survey scores.
- Directed a team of 20+ paralegals, legal administrative assistants, and office support staff, ensuring operational excellence and high performance.
- Provided targeted career development and mentorship to associate attorneys, enhancing retention and advancement.
- Led cross-functional teams to resolve complex, high-stakes employee relations issues with speed and risk mitigation.
- Partnered with executive leadership to align HR policies and talent strategies with overarching organizational goals.
- Chaired and contributed to multiple strategic committees, including Compensation & Bonus Strategy, Charitable Giving, 401(k), and DEIA, while also participating in non-HR initiatives such as Marketing, Rebranding, and technology transformations.
Executive Director of Church Operations
Trinity Lutheran Church
Long Lake, MN
04.2021 - 02.2022
- Developed HR infrastructure, including Employee Handbook, job descriptions, performance evaluation process, compensation and benefits structure, and training programs.
- Partnered with governing boards to align staffing and operational strategies with short- and long-term organizational vision.
- Implemented technology solutions for member database, giving platform, communication tools, property management, scheduling, and website management, improving efficiency and engagement.
Financial Operations Manager
Evereve
Edina, MN
03.2013 - 04.2021
- Managed financial operations for a $140M retail organization with 100+ store and corporate locations, overseeing payroll, tax compliance, and multi-location accounting procedures.
- Introduced new banking solutions and partners, creating a profit center within the finance department.
- Led company-wide implementation of new accounting software, restructuring GL accounts and processes for greater accuracy and efficiency.
- Partnered with executives to develop financial strategies holding leaders accountable for revenue and expense center performance.
- Led cross-functional culture initiatives rolled out to stores, warehouse, and corporate offices to strengthen company values and engagement.
- Directed operational improvements and process standardization across all locations, enhancing compliance, productivity, and profitability.
Executive Team Leader
Target
Blaine, MN
05.2006 - 02.2011
- Directed operations for stores generating $32M–$80M annually, leading up to 12 team leaders and 150 team members.
- Reduced overnight team turnover by 50% through improved staffing, training, and retention strategies.
- Managed profit, margin, and payroll performance to meet corporate objectives.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Retail Merchandising & Management
University of Wisconsin - Stout
Menomonie, WISkills
- Strategic Leadership
- Process Optimization
- Talent Acquisition & Development
- Workforce Planning
- Change Management
- Organizational Development
- Leadership Development
- Data-Driven Decision Making
Timeline
Human Resources Director
Henson Efron
02.2022 - Current
Executive Director of Church Operations
Trinity Lutheran Church
04.2021 - 02.2022
Financial Operations Manager
Evereve
03.2013 - 04.2021
Executive Team Leader
Target
05.2006 - 02.2011
Bachelor of Science - Retail Merchandising & Management
University of Wisconsin - Stout
Interests
Reading • Event Planning • Charcuterie Design • Cooking • Woodworking • Cycling