Karla Smith

About Karla Smith

As an accomplished Human Resources leader with over 20 years of experience, I specialize in creating people-first strategies that empower employees, drive operational success, and foster a diverse, inclusive workplace. With expertise across HR operations, talent management, and executive support, I am dedicated to cultivating environments where employees feel seen, valued, and inspired to contribute their best work. I thrive in the intersection of strategic HR initiatives and hands-on problem-solving, collaborating closely with leadership teams to shape company cultures and achieve sustainable growth. Whether developing employee engagement programs, guiding DE & I efforts, or overseeing large-scale onboarding and training initiatives, my focus is on supporting people and driving organizational excellence. Core Competencies-Talent Management & Development -Employee Engagement & DE & I Programs -Executive Partnerships & Strategic Planning -Performance Management & Succession Planning -HR Analytics & Organizational Change I am passionate about bringing innovative HR solutions to forward-thinking organizations and am always looking for opportunities to create meaningful impact.

Experience

1. Human Resources Manager

   Intellian Technologies

   Jun 2022 — Present · Bethesda, MD, US

   As the Human Resources Manager, I lead the full spectrum of HR activities, including talent acquisition, onboarding, employee relations, performance management, and compliance, driving a 140% increase in our employee base over 18 months. I partner closely with leadership to implement strategic initiatives such as DE & I programs and succession planning that align with the company’s mission and growth objectives.Key Achievements:• Developed and launched a robust onboarding and training program, enabling new hires to integrate quickly and effectively. • Led diversity and inclusion initiatives at the department level to enhance workforce engagement and retention. • Streamlined HR processes and analytics, resulting in improved decision-making and budget forecasting for leadership. • Managed and mentored a team overseeing administrative and technical functions to ensure seamless daily operations for a 70+ employee engineering team.

Education

• Strayer University

  Bachelor of Business Administration (B.B.A.)

Skills

• Meeting Scheduling
• Web Applications
• Receptionist Duties
• Employee Relations
• Multiple Management Support
• Pivot Tables
• Executive Management Support
• Leadership
• Training Delivery
• Presentation Development
• Mail Merge
• Travel Management
• Program Management
• Project Management
• Project Planning
• Powerpoint
• Coordination
• Government
• Microsoft Office
• Problem Solving
• Desktop Publishing
• Business Analysis
• Meeting Planning
• Management
• Office Management
• Fundraisers
• Event Planning
• Hospitality
• Dashboard Builder
• Management Consulting
• Facilities Management