Helene Applegate Email & Phone Number

United States

Provides HR leadership to 500 US-based employees, with a primary focus on supporting the Global COO and senior leaders within the Operations team. Leads employee relations, engagement, workforce planning, compensation, talent management, organizational development and frontline leadership training across North America.Champions change management initiatives and utilizes HR data and performance metrics to inform strategic decisions and create actionable insights, improving employee engagement and retention.Advises HR Ops team on process, policy, and system improvements based on customer feedback, market data, and industry best practices, ensuring alignment with organizational values and objectives.Oversees internal reorganizations, external integrations, and global alignment efforts to ensure seamless transitions and cohesion.Partners with leadership on organizational adjustments, providing guidance on talent retention, particularly during major workforce reductions.Regularly coaches managers and employees to foster development, engagement, and retention, promoting a culture of growth and high performance.Cultivates a dynamic and inclusive company culture that aligns with our growing team and competitive business model, ensuring talent retention and market competitiveness.

Union City, California, United States

Supported senior leadership and C-level executives during the acquisition and merger of a major competitor, overseeing the successful onboarding of 40 new North American employees and 300+ employees across EMEA and China.Spearheaded initiatives to align operations, job leveling, and organizational structure, driving global operations planning and team integration.Contributed to cost reduction efforts, overseeing the elimination of 60+ positions while implementing strategies to retain top talent.Helped eliminate and transform outdated practices, overhauling payroll schedules, employee file management, and revising policies to improve alignment across North America.

Union City, California

Managed rotating layoffs and issued WARN notices to ensure compliance during the COVID-19 pandemic, while leading retention strategies, resulting in a 20% reduction in turnover despite significant workforce reductions. Staying up to date on new laws and OSHA requirements, ensuring workforce safety and compliance during the pandemic.Provided leadership during 2021 union negotiations, resulting in a new 3-year collective bargaining agreement (CBA), while driving initiatives focused on recruiting and retention.

Union City, California, United States

Delivered comprehensive HR support to various departments within the CA division, aligning HR practices with organizational goals and ensuring compliance with federal, state, and union/non-union regulations.Worked closely with leadership to support business objectives, focusing on talent development, engagement, safety and compliance.Designed and executed a recruitment program that resulted in $1.5 million in annual cost savings, while enhancing employee engagement through recognition and training initiatives.Fostered a growth-oriented and competitive company culture in CA, promoting talent retention through regular employee recognition, engagement initiatives, town hall meetings, and training program.Introduced bi-monthly Sr. leadership meetings to improve cross-functional collaboration and operational efficiency while leading strategic planning sessions, supporting departmental reorganizations to adapt to evolving business needs.

Brisbane, California

Oversaw HR operations for 240+ employees across 15 locations in 5 states, including managing HR integration during acquisitions.Played a pivotal role in the startup operations for newly acquired companies (CA, NV, OR), ensuring smooth HR integration.Monitored changes in labor laws and implemented necessary policy adjustments, ensuring continuous compliance across multiple states.Acted as a key advisor to employees and management in resolving workplace conflicts, conducting investigations, and ensuring compliance with company policies. Provided ongoing training and guidance on performance management, disciplinary procedures, and documentation practices.Designed and implemented a competitive, comprehensive benefits package for employees across multiple locations. Led three open enrollment sessions and managed five distinct benefit programs.Collaborated with safety teams to maintain and update the Illness and Injury Prevention Plan (IIPP) across all branches, managing workers' compensation claims and ensuring OSHA compliance. Provided training and resources to address safety needs.Managed payroll processing in ADP, tracked employee leave benefits, and handled employee verifications. Ensured compliance with state and federal leave laws and communicated with attorneys and government agencies (EDD, SDI, Workers’ Compensation Board).

Brisbane, California

Provided HR support to all levels, addressing inquiries related to policies, benefits, and facilities.Managed recruitment process for all positions, including pre-employment screenings, new hire orientations, and documentation.Coordinated annual performance reviews, made training recommendations, and administered annual employee recognition program.Assisted with open enrollment and managed the administration of benefits programs.Organized and led wellness initiatives, compliance and safety training programs.Supported employee relations efforts by handling complaints and investigations. Provided backup support for the HR Manager and HR/Payroll Clerk, ensuring smooth operations across HR.

San Francisco, California

Managed loan programs for low-income, first-time homebuyers; eligibility assessments and program oversight.Created and maintained a tracking system for closing files within the affordable housing portfolio.Conducted one-on-one consultations with applicants, explaining program guidelines and requirements.

San Francisco, California

San Francisco, California

Bachelor'S Degree, Child And Adolescent Development (Emphasis In Youth And Family Services)

Associate'S Degree, Liberal Arts And Sciences, General Studies And Humanities