Ali Payne

About Ali Payne

I believe success happens when we’re part of something bigger than ourselves—and that starts with the way people feel at work.I work with leaders who genuinely want to create workplaces where employees don’t just show up—they belong, contribute, and thrive. That means going beyond policies, perks, and surface-level “culture” statements to uncover the truth of what it’s really like to work in your organization.For me, doing this work means challenging the status quo. Asking the questions that rarely get asked. Listening to the voices leadership rarely hears. And then, helping you design a better way forward—one that aligns your people strategy with your business goals in a way that feels authentic to both.Over my career—whether consulting for global brands like BMW, Cook Children’s and St. Jude, or working with growing organizations ready to lead with intention—I’ve seen the same truth: when employees feel seen, valued, and supported, performance follows. Always.That’s why at The People Co, we start with your people’s reality, not assumptions. From there, we help you: • Build engagement strategies grounded in your actual culture • Improve retention and save thousands per retained role • Equip leaders with the clarity and tools to lead well—every dayThe result? Less chaos. More clarity. Teams who trust each other. Leaders who inspire. Workplaces people are proud to be part of.If you’re ready to stop guessing what your people need and start building something real, let’s talk. a•••@thepeople-co.com | Message me here on LinkedInOutside of work, I’m an avid marathon runner (40 marathons completed), 7-time Ironman finisher, Level One USATF coach, and group fitness instructor. Pushing limits, staying curious, and finding a better way aren’t just my work—they’re my life.

Experience

1. Senior Partner, People Solutions

   The People Co

   Dec 2024 — Present · US

   My passion is people so our goal is to help organizations prioritize and empower people by creating meaningful experiences tailored to what today’s workforce values. Including a focus on employee engagement, generational insights, and thoughtful purpose strategies we’re shaping workplaces where every team member feels seen, heard, and inspired to thrive from the moment they see your logo until they transition to the next. Dare to be different in a world where plain just doesn’t cut it anymore!

Education

• University of Iowa

  Bachelor of Science (BS), Exercise Physiology

  1995 — 1999

• Nebraska Methodist College

  M.S., Health Promotion and Human Resource Management

  2004 — 2006

• Harvard Business School

  Leadership

  2015 — 2016

Skills

• Management
• Team Building
• Employee Wellness
• Consulting
• Strategy Development
• Health Economics
• Disease Management
• Customer Service
• Coaching
• Corporations
• Nutrition
• Healthcare
• Health Promotion
• Behavior Change
• Fitness
• Strategic Planning
• Employee Wellness Programs
• Wellness
• Leadership
• Health Insurance
• Employee Benefits
• Exercise Physiology
• Teamwork
• Strategy
• Succession Planning
• Employee Recognition
• Wellness Coaching
• Corporate Communications
• Public Speaking
• Health
• Healthcare Consulting
• Training
• Corporate Wellness
• Workers Compensation
• Employee Training
• Insurance