Vice President
of Human Resources
John I. Haas, Inc., Yakima, WA.
Vice President of Human Resources
Company Name/Location: John I. Haas, Inc. Yakima, WA.
Background:
I joined John I. Haas in 2013 as the lead HR executive. Prior to that, I worked at Boyd Gaming and The Venetian as Vice President of Human Resources both in Las Vegas, NV. I also worked at Jones Lang LaSalle, a $1 billion real estate services firm, including an assignment in Singapore as Asia Pacific Regional Director of Human Resources. In that role, I assumed HR leadership for more than 2,000 employees in 12 countries. I have also served Metropolitan Structures, an office building construction firm with more then 1,000 employees, as that company's first dedicated HR executive. My experience also includes work for a major public accounting firm, both as an auditor and as an HR professional.
Greatest Accomplishment:
I believe I can look back at each of the organizations of which I have been a part and feel I helped build a capable and well-respected HR organization (sometimes from scratch) and have helped a number of individuals, as well as these firms, meet their objectives and reach their potential.
Greatest Challenge/Obstacle:
Fear of change is a human constant. People fear letting go of the past even when they know it is toxic or that a new model is more positive. You must help people learn to be comfortable, and even embrace change, because it will happen regardless of our fears or reservations, and we must find a way to move ahead of it.
Future Goals:
I am at a stage in which I have begun thinking about legacy, and I believe it to be my role in helping to develop strong business leaders and corporate cultures that value and drive performance.
The Most Inspirational Person or Event in My Career:
I have had many strong capable teachers who have taught me the art of business, the realities of HR and the complexities of human nature. I have also had a number of wonderful mentors who have helped me develop my caring style, curious mind, bias for action and commitment to results. I have been able to work with many talented executives who have inspired me through their leadership and feedback.
If I Had to Do Over, I Would Have Done This Differently:
I am not somebody who dwells on regrets or wishes for Mulligans. If I had the opportunity, I may have asked for more assignments in "line roles" or to have tackled my global assignment earlier in my career. Perhaps both would have strengthened my developmental path.
Book I Am Currently Reading:
I never read just one book at a time, so right now I am reading Execution: “THE DISCIPLINE OF GETTING THINGS DONE”, “THE SUCCESS PRINCIPLES” and “THE 8TH HABIT”.
My Advice to People who Seek Leadership Roles in HR:
Learn the business, anticipate questions, have others critique you often to help you grow, be honest, deliver the results you promise and always keep your sense of humor.
Favorite Sayings/Slogans:
With lots of reading come lots of favorites:
FEEL THE FEAR AND DO IT ANYWAY. IN THE MIDDLE, CHANGE CAN LOOK LIKE FAILURE. GET OVER IT – YOU CAN ONLY CHANGE THE FUTURE. THE GREATER DANGER FOR MOST OF US IS NOT THAT OUR AIM IS TOO HIGH AND WE MISS IT, BUT THAT IT IS TOO LOW AND WE REACH IT.
CD that is in my CD player:
Sarah Brightman – EDEN
Any additional views on business, careers or HR:
--Push yourself and others, out of their comfort zone; this is the path to growth and development. --Seek balance in all things - work, family and friends, spiritually and the community. --Never give up. Respect others, learn from experience, play the hand you're dealt, and be passionate. --Smile.
Take a few minutes to listen to Bob's podcast on leadership and accountability