Darlene K. Young

About Darlene K. Young

Seasoned HR Leader | Certified Human Resources Professional | Driving Organizational Success Through Strategic People-Centered SolutionsWith over 25 years of experience, I am a seasoned HR leader committed to fostering organizational success through innovative and results-driven human resources strategies. I bring extensive expertise in recruitment, employment law, compensation and benefits, organizational development, employee relations, performance management, safety, and training & development.Throughout my career, I\'ve developed a strong track record of aligning HR initiatives with business objectives, contributing to operational efficiency, and cultivating a positive, high-performance workplace culture. My approach blends technical HR knowledge with a deep understanding of people, allowing me to provide customized solutions that support both business growth and employee engagement.Key Strengths:o Strong customer service orientation and outstanding interpersonal communication skills.o Proven leadership in driving team success through creative problem-solving and strategic guidance.o Exceptional attention to detail and the ability to effectively manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.o Advanced proficiency in HR software systems and office tools, ensuring seamless operational support.o Positive, proactive mindset that drives collaboration, motivation, and continuous improvement across teams.Core Areas of Expertise:o Talent Acquisition & Recruitment Strategieso Employment Law Compliance & Risk Managemento Compensation & Benefits Optimizationo Organizational Planning & Developmento Employee Relations & Conflict Managemento Performance Management & Employee Engagemento Workplace Safety & Compliance Initiativeso Training & Development Programs

Experience

1. Director of Human Resources

   The Gray Insurance Company

   Mar 2018 — Present · Metairie, LA, US

Education

• Concordia University

  Bachelors, Human Resources

  2005 — 2008

Skills

• Interviews
• New Hire Orientations
• Payroll
• Performance Appraisal
• U.s. Family and Medical Leave Act (Fmla)
• Performance Management
• Coaching
• Grievances
• Succession Planning
• Employee Benefits
• Deferred Compensation
• Compensation
• Job Description Development
• Policy
• Interviewing
• Benefits Administration
• Employee Handbooks
• Employment Law
• Legal Compliance
• Personnel Management
• Team Building
• Onboarding
• Training
• Workers Compensation
• Recruiting
• Fmla
• HR Policies
• Job Descriptions
• Employee Relations