STEPHEN M. CATHCART
Charlotte,NC
Summary
Executive leader operating at the intersection of employee relations, people operations, and organizational execution. Brought in to stabilize environments, resolve high-risk people issues, and convert strategy into disciplined systems, manager capability, and sustained performance. Trusted advisor to executives and boards where judgment, consistency, and follow-through matter.
HR professional with passion for driving organizational success through innovative people strategies. Extensive experience in transforming workplace cultures and aligning HR initiatives with business objectives. Collaborative and results-driven, known for adaptability and reliability. Skilled in talent acquisition, employee relations, and strategic planning.
Overview
10
10
years of professional experience
Work History
Chief People Officer
Charlotte Center for Legal Advocacy
Charlotte, NC
08.2020 - 03.2024
- Managed detailed investigations into employee relations, overseeing corrective actions and performance management processes.
- Led people operations initiatives, ensuring accurate payroll processing, comprehensive benefits administration, and adherence to HRIS governance and compliance standards.
- Guided executive leadership in implementing workforce risk policies and assessing employee impact decisions.
- Developed and implemented robust supervisory practices documentation standards and accountability systems to facilitate smooth organizational transition.
- Formulated and launched comprehensive talent acquisition initiatives focused on increasing workforce diversity and strengthening employee engagement.
- Facilitated training and development sessions aimed at cultivating talent and supporting the overarching mission of the organization.
Chief Human Resources Officer
Cabarrus Health Alliance
Cabarrus County, NC
01.2020 - 01.2024
- Led the full HR and employee relations function for a county public health authority.
- Built and implemented enterprise performance management systems, including appraisal frameworks and supervisor training.
- Resolved complex employee relations matters involving discipline, grievances, ADA, FMLA, and regulatory compliance.
- Established HR operational controls, policies, and compliance processes in a regulated environment.
- Developed strategic HR initiatives to enhance employee engagement and retention.
- Led talent acquisition efforts, optimizing recruitment processes to attract top-tier candidates.
Director, Diversity & Compliance Training
Rowan-Cabarrus Community College
Salisbury, NC
01.2014 - 01.2020
- Designed and executed institution-wide compliance and supervisory training tied to policy and regulatory requirements.
- Delivered workforce development programs for public-sector, manufacturing, and nonprofit partners.
- Converted complex policy, equity, and compliance expectations into practical manager decision-making tools.
Education
Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) - Adult & Community College Education (HRD)
North Carolina State University
Master of Science - Adult Education
North Carolina A&T State University
Bachelor of Arts - History
North Carolina A&T State University
Skills
- Employee Relations & Investigations
- HR & People Operations
- Performance Management Systems
- Policy Interpretation & Risk
- Leadership Execution
- Organizational Effectiveness
- Workforce Strategy
- Change Execution
- Compliance & Governance
- Culture transformation
- Strategic leadership
- Employee wellness
- HR analytics
- Recruitment strategy
- Organizational development
Personal Information
Title: Chief People Officer
Timeline
Chief People Officer
Charlotte Center for Legal Advocacy
08.2020 - 03.2024
Chief Human Resources Officer
Cabarrus Health Alliance
01.2020 - 01.2024
Director, Diversity & Compliance Training
Rowan-Cabarrus Community College
01.2014 - 01.2020
Bachelor of Arts - History
North Carolina A&T State University
Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) - Adult & Community College Education (HRD)
North Carolina State University
Master of Science - Adult Education
North Carolina A&T State University