Total Rewards M A

MARJI CASTELLANO, CCP, CBP, PHR, CPP

***** ** **** *** ********, IA 50131

515-***-**** ️ ***************@*****.***

PROFESSIONAL SUMMARY

Dynamic and results-driven HR and Total Rewards Executive with extensive experience in compensation and benefits strategy, payroll administration, HR systems implementation, and M&A integration. Proven track record of developing and executing innovative HR solutions that drive organizational success. Adept at leading high-performing teams, fostering employee engagement, and partnering with executive leadership to align HR initiatives with business goals. Recognized for analytical problem-solving, effective communication, and commitment to continuous improvement. Savings realized of over $3 million for former employers.

CORE COMPETENCIES

• Workday, HR Soft, ADP, UKG, Dayforce, PeopleSoft, Paycor, PayCom, Gusto

• Total Rewards Strategy & Administration

• Mergers & Acquisitions (Due Diligence & Integration)

• Executive Compensation & Proxy CD&A Oversight

• Compensation Committee Board Support

• Compensation Design & Benchmarking

• Benefits Plan Design & Compliance (COBRA, FLSA, FMLA)

• Equity Compensation & Incentive Plans

• Payroll Management (Multi-State & International)

• HRIS Implementation & Optimization

• Budget Planning & Cost Control

• Team Leadership & Development

• Strategic Communications & Change Management

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

Sr. HR and Total Rewards Consultant

Human Resource Dimensions – Atlanta, GA Sep 2024 – Present

• Design and execute rewards and HR policy strategies tailored to client needs.

• Lead M&A due diligence and Total Rewards harmonization.

• Administer compensation, benefits, and communications programs.

• Develop internal controls, HR operating procedures, and planning tools.

Total Rewards Director

Universal Technical Institute Inc – Phoenix, AZ Apr 2022 – Sep 2024

• Oversaw compensation and benefits programs, equity plans, and annual budgeting.

• Directed open enrollment, merit cycles, and CD&A reporting.

• Led M&A due diligence, rewards harmonization, and stakeholder engagement.

• Presented board materials and participated in Compensation Committee meetings.

Director of Total Rewards

PurFoods (Mom’s Meals) – Ankeny, IA Jun 2020 – Apr 2022

• Directed benefits negotiation, compliance, and communications.

• Managed workers comp claims, open enrollment, and compensation audits.

• Implemented reward strategies leading to high employee retention.

• Reduced cost through data-driven compensation analysis.

Compensation, Benefits & Payroll Manager

Musco Sports Lighting – Oskaloosa, IA Jul 2019 – Aug 2020

• Managed global payroll, compensation, and benefit processes.

• Deployed international HRIS for labor cost tracking and efficiency.

• Introduced HRSoft to enhance bonus and merit processes by 110%.

Director of HR Operations

American Equity Investment Life Insurance – West Des Moines, IA Jan 2014 – Jun 2019

• Directed all HR functions including Total Rewards and Executive Comp.

• Managed mergers, acquisitions, ESOP, and incentive plans.

• Oversaw Proxy CD&A, compensation board materials, and HR budgeting.

• Delivered strategic HR programs aligned to corporate goals.

EDUCATION

Bachelor of Arts in Human Resources Management

Upper Iowa University – Fayette, IA

Currently Pursuing: Master of Business Administration

CERTIFICATIONS

• CCP – Certified Compensation Professional

• CBP – Certified Benefits Professional

• CPP – Certified Payroll Professional

• PHR – Professional in Human Resources

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