Kathleen Symes

About Kathleen Symes

I thrive on discovering and driving business solutions by integrating technology, data and human capital. With my insatiable curiosity to analyze issues and find better ways to improve business processes, I have a record of success using systems technology and all kinds of data to manage and boost human resources’ functions across industries, specifically the entertainment, education and nonprofit sectors. Additionally, I have a unique blend of skills that includes not only analyzing, interpreting, developing and implementing HRIS technology, but also delivering impactful training sessions to broad audiences – from the C Suite to the individual contributor. My passion for training lies in the assurance that employees are fully embracing and optimizing the technology which supports business continuous improvement.I am known as a trusted liaison between IT and HR departments as I speak both “languages” by serving as a technology translator to human resources and an HR advocate to IT leaders. Using this unique blend of skills ensures companies receive the best practice technology tools needed for managing data to continuously improve critical human resources business functions including employee relations, recruiting, hiring, training, compensation, onboarding, workplace metrics, marketplace analysis and meeting DEI goals. Core Technical Skills: Systems Training & Development HRIS Implementations WorkDay HCM & Reporting Workday Advanced Compensation People Operations Analytical Problem-Solver Performance Management Advanced Compensation Adobe Creative Cloud Workday ATS & iCIMS ADP Report Writer PeopleSoft 9.1 Sharefile Applicant Tracking System (ATS) HR Profile MS Visio ADP Enterprise V5 ADP HR Toolbox PC PayrollWhen not playing with numbers, solving complex systems issues or helping data and people get along, I enjoy doing voice-over work, speaking Creole and teaching people new skills in language or technology. You may reach me at k••••••••@gmail.com

Experience

1. Senior Manager, Total Rewards (Workday)

   The Pew Charitable Trusts

   Jan 2015 — Present · DC, US

   I serve as a liaison between the HR and IT departments and am responsible for leading, managing and developing projects surrounding systems, technical processes, analytical reporting, workforce metrics, market pricing analysis, compensation planning as well as advising senior leaders on business process improvements by leveraging system capabilities and designing enhancements. I have successfully implemented and managed Workday’s HCM and Advanced Compensation module, Total Rewards Statements and DC Wage Theft Statements, and managed all projects by conducting systems testing, planning and training of employees and executives. A few highlights: Implemented the Advanced Compensation module in Workday, saving 42 senior leaders’ time by shifting away from manual input on excel spreadsheets to an automated direct system input yielding real-time data accessibility. Led the Human Capital Management (HCM) effort to integrate the iCIMS Applicant Tracking System (ATS) to Workday using data mapping, removing technical barriers to ensure a seamless application process for recruiting top talent. As IT and Talent Acquisition SME, led the effort to create a one-stop system for internal and external candidates, disentangling iCIMS from Workday and customizing the system mechanics. Collaborated with IT to automate manual processes into Workday for up to 900+ employees to secure employee privacy and safe deliverability. Co-led training sessions on compensation practices and policies to 900+ global workforce, increasing employee trust, creating a more transparent culture, and using data creatively to better motivate employees. Led transformation of the recognition and rewards program by collaborating with other departments to research and devise creative best practices to incentivize employees. Liaised with multiple consulting firms to ensure currency transfers were accurate to local market data, resulting in a more competitive global recruiting effort.

Education

• University of Virginia

  Bachelor of Arts - BA, Anthropology

  1998 — 2001

• Baruch College

  Master of Science - MS, Industrial Labor Relations

  2005 — 2007