MARIA LOPEZ
949-***-**** LA HABRA, CA *****
***************@*****.***
HUMAN RESOURCES EXECUTIVE
TRANSFORMING CULTURES, BUILDING CORPORATE INFRASTRCTURE AND ENGAGING EMPLOYEES PROACTIVELY
Human Resources Business Partner, who has shaped high-performing cultures and major growth brands with progressive strategies, communications and robust development programs that bring double digit revenue growth. Willing to “roll up sleeves and get things done” as well as possess a can-do attitude. Employs current human capital practices that attract and retain high-potential talent. Develops executable strategy that motivates teams individually and financially to exceed the corporate objectives through various economic cycles. Able to connect with different levels in the organization through servant leadership and positively influence the end results.
Strategic Human Resources Planning Employment Law Expertise (AZ, CT & CA)
Merger & Acquisition Restructuring Succession Planning and Development
Change Management & Reengineering Field & Corporate Collaboration
Bilingual- Spanish
WORK EXPERIENCE
High Ridge Brands Buena Park, CA October 2015-Present
Human Resources Director
Function as a strategic business advisor to the executive/senior management of each business unit (Skin Care/Hair Care/Oral Care) regarding key organizational and management issues. Collaboration and consultation with the rest of the leadership team on HR and Employee Relations (ER) aspects of operations and business strategy, including design and achievement of workforce management and workforce development objectives.
Manage Human Resources capital through Acquisition, including transition plan for synergies.
Establish and implement HR efforts that effectively communicate and support organization's mission and strategic vision. Review and make recommendations to executive management for improvement of the organization's policies, procedures and practices on personnel matters.
Lead or facilitate conflict management process, including consulting, providing training and conducting investigations. According to circumstances, may provide guidance and recommendations, implementation and follow-up on conflict resolution strategies.
Lead succession planning and professional development plans, identify and assist management by recommending solutions to capability gaps within the organization. Implement action plans regarding matters related to cultural change, employee engagement, diversity, inclusion and talent management.
Develop, drive and implement the execution of each business unit's talent agenda, focusing on development initiatives, including workforce planning, performance management, selection and retention strategies, while continually upgrading the talent pool across all lines of the business.
Provide leadership teams with coaching during transitional periods consistent with the Company's objectives, core values and culture
Develop and implement comprehensive compensation and benefit plans that are competitive and cost-effective for the organization
ACS Huntington Beach, CA April 2012-October 2015
Human Resources Manager
Collaborated with upper management in converting salary employees to hourly employees according to the FLSA guidelines. Successfully partner with outside counsel to defend against wage and hour claims.
Formulated, recommended and implemented training in accordance with state and federal guidelines.
Assisted in the developing process of Performance Evaluations.
Conduct new employee orientations throughout the U.S. while fostering positive attitudes towards company goals.
Manage and audit benefits administration including Profit Sharing, 401(k), medical, dental and vision.
Lead employee investigations and ensure appropriate outcomes and follow-up.
Serve as advisor to directors and managers around people management and development.
Cardno ERI Lake Forest, CA May 2011-April 2012
Sr. Human Resources/Payroll Administrator
Prepare internal investigations reports for Sexual Harassment cases.
Review case documents and represent Corporate at unemployment hearings.
Process bi-weekly, multi-state payroll with UltiPro system.
Conduct new employee orientations while fostering positive attitudes towards company goals.
Manage and audit benefits administration including ESOP, 401(k), medical, dental and vision.
Research and present valuable company information and statistics to retain critical talent and improve morale.
Reduced company cost as an appointee of the Go Green Sustainability Committee with simple, yet effective alternatives to business practices.
Kortman Electric, Inc. Phoenix, AZ 2006-2009
Human Resources Manager
Processed weekly and semi-monthly payroll using Mas90.
In compliance with federal and state employment laws such as E-verify and AZ New Hire reporting. Monitored company policies and procedures to ensure compliance with federal and state employment laws. Educated and monitored staff to ensure policies and procedures are followed to maintain compliance.
Disputed and resolved any EEOC charges.
Responsible for investigating employee relation issues such as employee complaints, harassment allegations and recommend appropriate action.
Managed Affirmative Action program including implementation, goal alignment and compliance reviews.
Managed and strategized Worker’s Compensations to lower cost and accidents. Communicate with the Worker’s Compensation insurance provider.
Administered benefits, including health, dental, 401k, EAP and AFLAC
Lowered unemployment rate from 2.85% to 1.94% by appealing claims that did not qualify.
Streamlined and revamped job descriptions and vacation policy.
Key member of Strategic Planning assisting in developing and execution on evolving strategies designed to fulfill business objectives.
Special Event Coordinator responsible for coordinating and executing company events while staying within budget
Haydon Building Corp. Phoenix, AZ 2005-2006
Human Resources/Payroll Manager
Processed approximately $1 million dollars in payroll monthly. Processed Weekly Tax Deposits, Garnishments and Levies.
Prepared Quarterly Payroll Tax Returns, including: 941, SUTA and FUTA as well as closing the month and year.
Processed new hire packets, performed new employee orientation and termination information, including mailing COBRA paperwork.
Researched and resolved payroll discrepancies and advised management of results.
Managed Benefit Administration of: 401k, Health, Medical, FSA administration and invoice billing.
Phoenix Pipelines, Inc. Phoenix, AZ 2003-2005
Human Resources/Payroll Administrator
Responsible for updating Employee Handbook & Safety Manual. Train staff on policies and procedures.
Processed week Payroll system & Weekly Tax Deposits
Prepared Quarterly Payroll Tax Returns, including: 941, SUTA and FUTA
Implemented & Administered Safety Bingo Game.
Conducted quarterly and annual benefit meetings as well as Translate Employee Meetings
Worked with accounting to improve job costing procedures; analyzed payroll costs on jobs
Responsible for Workers Compensation administration and claims management
oEnsured Timely/ Proper Reporting of Accidents
oWorked with State fund Insurance to actively manage workers compensations
oWorkers Compensation self audit (Quarterly) to make sure claims were legit and were getting paid accordingly to avoid any fraudulent activity
oManage all processes, payments and tracking in reference to employee benefits including health, dental, holiday, vacation and 401k.
Goodrich Corporation Chandler, AZ 2000-2003
Human Resources/Payroll Administrator
Communicated with customers, management, and staff by creating exemplary customer service, demonstrating positive leadership and worked collaboratively with varying levels of employees.
Bilingual: experienced interpreter.
Assisted Human Resources Manager in all other HR functions.
Processed payroll for 350 employees using ADP and a customize internal system
Saved the company an average of $25,400 annually by reviewing the weekly payroll for any discrepancies in the software.
EDUCATION
Arizona State University
Bachelor of Science in International Business
Minor in Communications
Franklin Covey Leadership Program
VOLUNTEER WORK
2017- Hole In the Wall Gang, 2015- Corazon de Vida, 2014- Toys for Tots, 2010- Dinner in the Park, 2006 - Girls for a Change, 2000 - HandsOn Greater Phoenix