Recruited to help open several locations, guiding the startup and management of a full spectrum of HR operations, systems and programs. Worked with senior management to create HR procedures; recruit employees; create new hire databases; and develop orientation, training, and incentive programs. Manage leave-of-absence programs and personnel records; support HR objectives; and handle HR manager workplace issues; develop temporary recruiting strategies to support seasonal and contractual needs.Key Results: Played a key role in ensuring the successful staffing of several new locations. Implemented programs and policies in the areas of training, compensation structures, incentives and new-employee orientation. Fostered a teamwork/open-door environment conducive to positive dialogue across the organization.  Negotiated contracts for exchange students to ensure proper staffing in seasonal markets.  Assisted in negotiating associate contracts for the Delaware and in-store bake shop divisions Implemented a workforce assessment review within market area to ensure bench strength for future growth. Trained Assistant Managers on interviewing techniques and best practices, conducting workshops and one-on-one coaching sessions that contributed to sound hiring decisions. Reworked new-hire orientation program to include HR information and company resources. Monitor Federal and State payroll compliance guidelines and conduct store level audits. Review and follow up on all exempt managers’ performance and determine training plans to achieve results. Partner with operations to ensure managers are equipped with the skill sets to drive sales and control costs through teambuilding and excellent customer service. Consistently deliver professional and thorough recommendations to address performance and compliance opportunities.

Oversee HR activities within Maryland and Delaware. Ensured compliance to policies and procedures with a focus on associate development. Driven to improve bench strength by internal and external recruitment and development strategies.

Recruited to help open several locations, guiding the startup and management of a full spectrum of HR operations, systems and programs. Worked with senior management to create HR procedures; recruit employees; create new hire databases; and develop orientation, training, and incentive programs. Manage leave-of-absence programs and personnel records; support HR budget; and handle HR manager workplace issues.Key Results:Played a key role in ensuring the successful staffing of several new locations. Implemented programs and policies in the areas of training, compensation structures, incentives and new-employee orientation.Fostered a teamwork/open-door environment conducive to positive dialogue across the organization. Negotiated contracts for approximately 50 exchange students to ensure proper staffing in seasonal markets. Negotiated associate contracts for the Delaware and in-store bake shop divisionsImplemented a workforce assessment review within market area to ensure bench strength for future growth.Trained 30 Assistant Managers on interviewing techniques and best practices, conducting workshops and one-on-one coaching sessions that contributed to sound hiring decisions.Reworked new-hire orientation program to include HR information and company resources.Monitor Federal and State payroll compliance guidelines and conduct store level audits.Review and follow up on all exempt managers’ performance and determine training plans to achieve results.Partner with operations to ensure managers are equipped with the skill sets to drive sales and control costs through teambuilding and excellent customer service.

Implemented computer based training programs across the organization. Developed trainer team to deliver and train all associates on loyalty card initiative. Updated and reviewed all entry – level training programs to ensure core values were imbedded at all levels. Key Results:Partnered with vendors to create a robust computer based training program to ensure a consistent delivery of content.Completed bata testing within budget and project timeline and ensured proper training for end users.Reviewed and updated all training material to ensure value added resources were available to all associates.Ensured core company values were evident throughout entry-level programs to reinforce the culture.

Reached out to all new hire associates to ensure proper on-boarding and orientation. Followed up with store management teams to ensure the delivery of value driven orientation and training. Tracked retention; proposed and implemented strategic initiatives to improve results. Key Results:Contacted each new hire and reviewed orientation content and on-boarding procedures.Conducted exit interviews to capture trends and organizational opportunities.Created reports to determine market areas needing additional focus on retention and proposed objectives to address areas of concern.

Retail grocery stores and warehouse facilities; Acting as interim HRD to oversee regional HR activities; managing HR Manager Team to ensure compliance and management development. Collaborating with divisional leadership to align objectives with operational goals. Work through stage gate checkpoints to transform associate performance on deliverables. Play a strategic role in developing and implementing HR objectives and analytics. Implement metrics to ensure goals and objectives are met through consistent follow up and oversight. Monitoring performance of HR Team and assigning projects and tasks to develop talent Maintaining an approach of open communication and feedback to develop a team of high performing HR professionals