Helene Applegate
*** ******* ***. *** *****, CA
Cell #: 650-***-**** * E-mail: *********@*****.***
HIGHLIGHTS OF QUALIFICATIONS
Human Resources professional with a career (5+ years) distinguished by commended performance and proven results.
Extensive background in Human Resources generalist affairs, including but not limited to experience in recruitment and retention, staff training and development, mediation and conflict resolution, performance management, benefits administration, worker’s compensation, wage and hour compensation, payroll and HRIS systems, records management, Human Resource policies and legal compliance, and facilities management.
Played a key role in startup operations in California, Nevada and Oregon for the different companies/acquisitions. PROFESIONAL EXPERIENCE
Director of Human Resources June 2013 – March 2016 Norman S. Wright Mechanical Equipment Corporation
Managed all Human Resources matters for all of Norman S. Wright’s branches and affiliate companies (NSW - Southern Nevada, NSW-Duckworth, and NSW-Northwest). This includes employees (240+) located in fifteen different locations throughout the state of California, Nevada, Oregon, Hawaii, and Guam. Major areas of responsibilities include, but are not limited to the following:
Worked closely with the CEO, partners, branch managers, supervisors and employees to resolve conflicts and find resolution to all interoffice related issues. Conducted investigations when needed and provided support, guidance, interpretation, and training to employees and managers to teach proper employment practices and procedures; ensuring compliance with company policy. As well as provided direction to supervisors on performance management issues, necessary training, disciplinary processes, and effective documentation.
Stayed on top of emerging changes in labor laws that effected the different entities and branches within the company. Made proper recommendations for changes to existing policy and supported implementation of numerous policy adjustments when needed. Always keeping in mind the necessary goal to ensure compliance with federal, state and local regulations in all aspects of employment areas.
Strategized to creatively construct a competitive and comprehensive benefits package for NSW employees and the affiliate companies. Hosted three different open enrollment meetings each year and administered five different benefit packages for employees in all of the different branches and companies.
Worked with the safety compliance teams to ensure that the Illness and Injury Prevention Plan was current, up to date and executed by each branch. Also managed worker’s compensations claims, OSHA compliance and provided support to all branches to help identify training needs, resources and tools as needed.
Processed all payroll changes for employees in ADP, tracked leave benefits, and produced employee verifications, as needed. Processed and monitored all employee leaves as in accordance to state and federal law and handled correspondence for attorneys and federal and state agencies (EDD, SDI and worker’s compensation board). Human Resources Assistant January 2012 – May 2013
Norman S. Wright Mechanical Equipment Corporation
Supported employees at all levels with questions and/or issues regarding company policy, benefits, and facilities
Handled the recruitment and hiring phase for all positions (exempt, non-exempt, part-time, temporary, etc.). Plus, processed pre-placement screenings (reference checks, background checks, etc.) and was responsible for all new hire orientations, new hire documents and the creation of all personnel files
Sent out annual performance reviews to managers, provided recommendations for training as needed, and administered the company's annual employee recognition program
Assisted with annual open enrollment meetings and administered all of the company’s health plans during open enrollment and throughout the year
Administered annual flu shot clinic, first aid trainings and other wellness programs the company offers
Assisted with employee complaints, investigations, and Human Resources training on sexual harassment, abusive conduct, preventing violence in the workplace, multiple safety trainings, etc.
Provided support and back up as necessary to the Human Resources Manager and HR/Payroll clerk Development Specialist March 2009 – January 2012
San Francisco Redevelopment Agency
Coordinated loan programs to assist low and moderate income first-time home buyers (eligibility & program management)
Managed affordable home ownership applications (1000+) and provided detailed feedback to staff on program eligibility
Developed and implemented policy to address the needs of a developing urban community
Assisted with the creation of project specific plans for each development
Administered reporting to the State of California $8.9 million in Begin funds (subsidy allotted to low – and moderate – income families)
Managed closing files in affordable homeownership portfolio through the creation of a detailed spreadsheet
Met one on one with applicants to explain program guidelines and/or discuss program requirements
Completed and issued all loan and program documents for all of the approved new home owners Human Resources Assistant October 2008-June 2009
San Francisco Redevelopment Agency
Administered benefit information and employee compensation for employees (122 +)
Researched “Redevelopment Agencies” throughout CA and compared job titles, descriptions, and compensation details for consultant company
Organized human resources events, employee trainings, and benefit information gatherings as needed
Responsible for reviewing employment applications (1,000 +) for numerous positions to determine applicant’s minimum qualifications and forwarded to supervisor for final review
Created new-hire packets, employee hard copy files, and developed electronic file system with Access database HIGHLIGHTED SKILLS
Highly organized, detail oriented with effective time management skills and an ability to multi-task
Excellent communication and customer service skills in both verbal and written form
Eager for growth and challenge while always putting forth a positive approach
Proficiency in Microsoft (Outlook, Word, Excel, Access, and PowerPoint) EDUCATION
American Management Association Summer/2013
Fundamentals of Human Resource Management, Employment Law Course: Avoiding legal pitfalls, and Business Writing Certificate of Completion
San Francisco State University, CA August/2010
Bachelor’s Degree in Child and Adolescent Development (Emphasis - Youth and Family Services)