Maria Lisa Conte
North Reading,MA
Summary
Human Resources professional with robust experience in talent acquisition, employee relations, and performance management. Proven track record of fostering strong team collaboration and driving results through strategic initiatives. Skilled in conflict resolution, training and development, and organizational development. Adaptable and reliable, ensuring alignment with evolving business needs.
Experienced with managing employee relations, recruitment, and compliance. Utilizes strategic HR planning to align talent resources with organizational goals. Track record of enhancing team performance and fostering positive work culture through effective communication and conflict resolution.
Diligent Human Resources Manager/HRBP with comprehensive experience in managing all facets of human resources functions including recruitment, employee relations, and compliance. Demonstrated success in fostering positive work environment and implementing effective HR policies that support organizational goals. Proven ability to leverage communication and conflict resolution skills to enhance team dynamics and drive employee engagement.
Human resources professional with extensive background in developing and executing HR strategies that align with business objectives. Known for strong focus on team collaboration and achieving results through effective talent management and employee development. Reliable and adaptable, possessing key skills in organizational development and performance management, ensuring productive and cohesive workforce.
Conscientious and compassionate human resources professional with drive for helping employers recruit, develop and retain qualified candidates. Skilled at partnering with management teams to build employee-centric cultures promoting positive morale and optimizing productivity. Motivating and positive with excellent interpersonal, coaching and communication skills.
Well-qualified Human Resources Manager/HRBP with proven success in improving operations and solving problems. Highly proficient in building lasting relationships with key decision makers, customers, and team members to further company goals. Ready to leverage training and experience to take on new professional challenges.
Multi-talented Human Resources Executive successful at streamlining costs and maximizing company profile in job market. Versed in EEOC and other relevant compliance statutes. Excellent organizational and time management skills coupled with task prioritization.
Results-driven Human Resources Manager/HRBP offering 15+ years in achieving positive human resources results. Articulate negotiator skillful in supporting competitive company growth by sourcing top-quality applicants for critical roles. Organized planner with excellent team leadership and program management abilities.
Oversee well-organized and efficient HR operations by balancing organizational targets with compliance and employee demands. Focused on maximizing resource utilization and enhancing performance with forward-thinking approaches. Solid background of improving collaboration and consensus across contract/program environments.
Highly-effective Human Resources Manager delivering successful strategies for maximizing personnel retention and productivity.
Innovative technology professional with several years of diverse experience. Skilled in enhancing systems and aligning technical solutions with business objectives. Proven success in leading projects from start to finish and contributing to organizational growth and success.
Possesses versatile skills in project management, problem-solving, and collaboration. Brings fresh perspective and strong commitment to quality and success. Recognized for adaptability and proactive approach in delivering effective solutions.
Proactive and goal-oriented professional with excellent time management and problem-solving skills. Known for reliability and adaptability, with swift capacity to learn and apply new skills. Committed to leveraging these qualities to drive team success and contribute to organizational growth.
Experienced leader with strong background in guiding teams, managing complex projects, and achieving strategic objectives. Excels in developing efficient processes, ensuring high standards, and aligning efforts with organizational goals. Known for collaborative approach and commitment to excellence.
Thorough team contributor with strong organizational capabilities. Experienced in handling numerous projects at once while ensuring accuracy. Effective at prioritizing tasks and meeting deadlines.
Equipped with strong problem-solving abilities, willingness to learn, and excellent communication skills. Poised to contribute to team success and achieve positive results. Ready to tackle new challenges and advance organizational objectives with dedication and enthusiasm.
Detail-oriented individual with exceptional communication and project management skills. Proven ability to handle multiple tasks effectively and efficiently in fast-paced environments. Recognized for taking proactive approach to identifying and addressing issues, with focus on optimizing processes and supporting team objectives.
Results-oriented achiever with proven ability to exceed targets and drive success in fast-paced environments. Combines strategic thinking with hands-on experience to deliver impactful solutions and enhance organizational performance.
Organized and dependable candidate successful at managing multiple priorities with a positive attitude. Willingness to take on added responsibilities to meet team goals.
Demonstrates strong analytical, communication, and teamwork skills, with proven ability to quickly adapt to new environments. Eager to contribute to team success and further develop professional skills. Brings positive attitude and commitment to continuous learning and growth.
Overview
20
20
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Human Resources Manager
KBR (formerly SGT), U.S. DOT Volpe Center
Cambridge, MA
05.2011 - Current
- Ensures efficient management and administration of all HR functions for over 200 employees, including recruitment, retention, training, salary and benefit administration, statutory requirements compliance, and execution of employee relations activities in support of contract business objectives. Coordinates actions with the Financial Manager and outside legal counsel, as necessary, to obtain H-1B visas, Green Cards, or other employment authorizations for KBR staff or prospective new hires. Primary interface for Volpe security and facility managers to complete employee security background checks, IT Rules of Behavior, government-furnished property, office space parking, and other logistics. Addresses the complex personnel aspects of the continuity of operations plan.
- Developed and implemented HR policies aligned with organizational goals.
- Identifies appropriately skilled, highly motivated resources to support Volpe Center projects. Collaborates with line managers to recruit and maintain a workforce with capabilities and experience related to existing technologies and methodologies that address current transportation systems issues, as well as cutting-edge technologies and methodologies that show promise in transforming the future of the transportation systems enterprise.
- Initiated and maintained a robust, location-specific recruiting program to fill open positions in a timely manner, and continually improved the staff's overall technical capabilities and experience level. Monitors evolving program requirements and potential staffing needs, including those to be filled by KBR and our team members. Manages the end-to-end recruitment process, from identifying, recruiting, screening, interviewing, and onboarding applicants. Manages the screening, labor category mapping, and evaluation of subcontractor candidates. Prepares experience, education, and qualification waiver requests as necessary.
- Implements a rigorous organizational development program tied to KBR’s workforce management process that increases staff technical capabilities in relevant emerging technologies and processes, such as AWS, Pega, Low Code/No Code, and AI.
- Serves as the primary onsite resource for Volpe/DOT customers, the Contracting Officer, and the Contracting Officer Representative, as well as all KBR and Teaming Partner personnel, providing guidance, career development support, and addressing work-affecting issues. Ensures compliance with the Volpe Center, KBR, and contract policies and procedures. Coaches, counsels, advises, and supports the contract management team in human performance management, company policies, procedures, and training, development needs, and represents KBR’s culture and values through behaviors and actions.
- Led recruitment efforts, streamlining processes to attract top talent.
- Coordinated training programs enhancing staff skills and performance.
- Managed employee relations initiatives to foster a positive workplace culture.
- Conducted performance evaluations ensuring consistency and fairness across departments.
- Analyzed HR metrics to inform strategic decision-making and improve processes.
- Facilitated conflict resolution, enhancing communication among employees and management.
- Mentored junior HR staff, promoting professional development within the team.
- Managed employee relations issues professionally, resolving conflicts efficiently while maintaining confidentiality at all times.
- Maintained accurate HR records in compliance with applicable laws, ensuring efficient data retrieval when required.
- Conducted thorough internal investigations, addressing employee concerns with fairness and transparency.
- Streamlined HR processes for increased efficiency, reducing paperwork and manual tasks through automation.
- Collaborated with executive leadership to align HR initiatives with overall business goals and objectives.
- Maintained company compliance with local, state, and federal laws, in addition to established organizational standards.
- Organized and led staff orientation programs and training to promote collaboration.
- Facilitated onboarding sessions and on-the-job training for new hires bolstering position knowledge and skillset.
- Motivated employees through special events, incentive programs, and constructive feedback.
- Facilitated onboarding sessions and on-the-job training for new hires, bolstering employee job position knowledge and skillset.
- Regularly analyzed workforce trends to proactively address potential skill gaps or staffing needs.
- Processed employee claims involving performance issues and harassment.
- Reduced time-to-hire metrics by optimizing recruiting processes, utilizing technology, and streamlining candidate screening methods.
- Facilitated open communication channels between employees and management by conducting regular town hall meetings or roundtable discussions.
- Monitored and handled employee claims involving performance-based and harassment incidents.
- Enhanced employee retention by implementing effective talent management strategies and fostering a positive work environment.
- Motivated employees through special events and incentive programs.
- Supported business growth by aligning HR strategies with corporate objectives, fostering adaptable and high-performing workforce.
- Facilitated successful organizational restructuring, ensuring smooth transitions and minimal disruption to operations.
- Facilitated conflict resolution sessions, fostering positive work environment and maintaining high levels of staff morale.
- Worked with managers to achieve compliance with organizational policies, providing clarifying information and recommending necessary changes.
- Instructed senior leaders on appropriate employee corrective steps and actions.
- Enhanced team workflows and employee job satisfaction by coordinating communication between managers and employees.
- Recruited top talent to maximize profitability.
- Reduced skill gaps while supervising employees to achieve optimal productivity, and successfully maintained a 95% retention rate for the last four years.
- Grew the contract by 20% over the last three years, and won the last two re-competes.
Sr. Human Resources Generalist
Weston and Sampson Engineers, Services and CMR Inc. (W&S)
02.2009 - 05.2011
- Managed all aspects of a full-service HR Department for 300+ employees across several locations, including recruiting, personnel development, benefits and compensation, and employee relations. Successfully managed the EEO-1 and Affirmative Action filing and reporting for three business units. Managed on-campus recruiting events. Conducted weekly meetings with unit leaders to discuss project requirements, alignment of current workforce skills, and training requests for new skills. Responsible for monthly Lunch and Learn program using speakers from the American Society for Civil Engineers (ASCE) and local town hall representatives; coordinated on-site Professional Engineering (PE) training for licensing requirements through Northeastern University.
- Led recruitment initiatives to source top talent and streamline onboarding processes.
- Managed employee relations, resolving conflicts and fostering a positive work environment.
- Developed and implemented employee training programs to enhance performance and retention.
- Conducted performance evaluations, providing feedback that informed career development plans.
- Analyzed HR metrics to identify trends and improve workforce planning strategies.
- Collaborated with management on policy development, ensuring compliance with labor laws.
- Facilitated annual performance reviews that offered constructive feedback, setting goals for professional growth and development among staff members.
- Conducted thorough investigations into workplace complaints, resolving conflicts fairly and efficiently while maintaining confidentiality.
- Maintained up-to-date knowledge of labor laws and regulations to ensure company-wide compliance with industry standards.
- Mediated employee disputes to find mutually beneficial resolutions while maintaining positive relationships between parties involved.
- Streamlined HR processes for efficiency, simplifying paperwork procedures and enhancing the overall employee experience.
- Served as a liaison between employees and management teams, addressing concerns, answering questions, and providing guidance on policies/procedures when needed.
- Actively participated in the recruitment process by screening resumes, conducting interviews, and evaluating candidates for various positions within the company.
- Managed benefits administration, ensuring compliance with federal regulations while optimizing employee satisfaction through competitive offerings.
- Collaborated with legal counsel on employment law issues, reducing potential liabilities for the organization.
- Fielded employee inquiries related to insurance, pension plan, vacation, sick leave and employee assistance.
Sr. Human Resources Generalist
Charles River Laboratories
Wilmington, MA
01.2006 - 02.2009
- Directly involved in all aspects of HR, including recruiting, training, salary, benefits, and compliance with Government regulations for all US locations. Collaborated with legal department for issues pertaining to Visas, H1 sponsorship, and Green Cards.
- Managed employee relations, resolving conflicts and fostering a positive work environment.
- Led recruitment initiatives to source top talent and streamline onboarding processes.
- Conducted performance evaluations, providing feedback that informed career development plans.
- Analyzed HR metrics to identify trends and improve workforce planning strategies.
- Collaborated with management on policy development, ensuring compliance with labor laws.
- Facilitated annual performance reviews that offered constructive feedback, setting goals for professional growth and development among staff members.
- Conducted thorough investigations into workplace complaints, resolving conflicts fairly and efficiently while maintaining confidentiality.
- Maintained up-to-date knowledge of labor laws and regulations to ensure company-wide compliance with industry standards.
- Led special training courses such as yearly sexual harassment seminars.
- Mediated employee disputes to find mutually beneficial resolutions while maintaining positive relationships between parties involved.
- Served as a liaison between employees and management teams, addressing concerns, answering questions, and providing guidance on policies/procedures when needed.
- Managed benefits administration, ensuring compliance with federal regulations while optimizing employee satisfaction through competitive offerings.
- Collaborated with legal counsel on employment law issues, reducing potential liabilities for the organization.
Education
Associate of Arts - Business
Aquinas College
NewtonSkills
- Recruiting in highly competitive job markets, benefits, HRIS systems, visa processing, employee management, task/project management
- Employee recruitment
- Talent management
- Performance evaluation
- Employee relations
- HR policy development
- Compliance management
- Organizational development
- Training programs coordination
- Conflict resolution
- Data analysis and reporting
- Workforce planning
- Onboarding processes
- Strategic HR alignment
- Succession planning
- Visa sponsorship management
- Technical skills enhancement
- Internal investigations
- Staff mentoring and coaching
- Process automation
- HR policies and procedures
- Microsoft office proficiency
- Records management
- Training and mentoring
- Compensation and benefits
- Recruitment and hiring
- Human resources operations
- Talent acquisition
- Onboarding and orientation
- Legal compliance
- Employee onboarding
- Staff management
- Performance appraisal
- Employee retention
- Recruitment and selection
- Recordkeeping
- Background checks
- Recruitment
- Training development
- Policy enforcement
- New employee orientation
- Leadership development
- Risk management
- Benefits administration
- Online position posting
- Internal communications
- Career development
- Job analysis
- Exit interviews
- Microsoft office and docusign
- Contract negotiation
- Employee engagement
- Post-hire check-ins
- Staff compensation
- HRIS management
- Employee support
- HR guidance
- HR leadership
- Labor law compliance
- Unemployment claims management
- Employee morale management
- Recruitment life cycle
- Staffing and recruiting professional
- Problem-solving
- Onboarding, training, and development
- Hiring and onboarding
- Relationship building
- Human resources department processes
Accomplishments
- Recruited 150 personnel for MITS predecessor contracts
- Decreased average time-to-fill open positions to 27 days, well below the national average for highly competitive job markets
- Led roll-out & training for Workday HRIS system
- Addressed staff single-point-of-failure issues by implementing succession planning, targeted workforce management, and specialized technical training programs
Certification
- HIPPA Certification, 2013
- Red Belt Recruiter Certification, 2015
- Human Resources Business Partner 2021
Satisfaction of Section J, Attachment J.2 Amendment 3 Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree from an accredited school in any business-related subject area
- Associates in Administration
- A minimum of five years Human Resource Management
- 20+ years of experience including 10.5 years at Volpe Center as incumbent Human Resources Manager
Languages
English
Native or Bilingual
Italian
Native or Bilingual
Timeline
Human Resources Manager
KBR (formerly SGT), U.S. DOT Volpe Center
05.2011 - Current
Sr. Human Resources Generalist
Weston and Sampson Engineers, Services and CMR Inc. (W&S)
02.2009 - 05.2011
Sr. Human Resources Generalist
Charles River Laboratories
01.2006 - 02.2009
Associate of Arts - Business
Aquinas College