Mike Kidwell

About Mike Kidwell

As a dynamic and growth-focused leader in people analytics, I have built and transformed analytics functions for over a decade to align workforce strategies with organizational objectives. My experience spans creating scalable frameworks, implementing cutting-edge technologies, and delivering actionable insights to optimize workforce performance and decision-making processes. As a forward-thinking strategist, I specialize in designing and implementing robust data governance frameworks, advanced visualization tools, and integrated HR technology solutions. My ability to harness data for impactful storytelling and strategic alignment has earned me a reputation for driving employee engagement and enhancing business outcomes. I strive to provide value as a trusted resource, consistently delivering measurable results through process improvements, cost-saving initiatives, and enhanced operational efficiency. My contributions have been recognized through industry accolades, promotions, and tangible business achievements. A few of my career highlights include: • Designed and implemented an HR prioritization framework that improved delivery efficiency and focus, enabling the team to thrive despite a 25% reduction in headcount at American Tire Distributors.• Spearheaded the deployment of a new enterprise recruiting platform, achieving annual cost savings of $250K.• Developed a comprehensive strategy to advance the People Analytics function, outlining technology priorities and resource planning to establish a scalable analytics framework as Director of HR Analytics.• Enhanced HR dashboards in partnership with stakeholders, boosting user engagement by 70% and aligning key metrics with strategic business objectives.

Experience

1. Executive Director, Senior Lead Analytics Consultant

   Wells Fargo

   Apr 2025 — Present · Minneapolis, MN, US

   Partner with senior stakeholders to identify strategic opportunities and define analytics-driven solutions.Translate complex data into clear, compelling narratives that inform executive decision-making.Lead initiatives to integrate AI and advanced analytics into core business processes for scalability and efficiency.Partner on development of governance standards for data integrity, compliance, and ethical data usage.Mentor peers on analytics best practices and emerging technologies to build organizational capability.Key projects have included: Leading People Analytics Transformation with AI Integration• Driving the strategic incorporation of AI tools into people analytics to enhance insights and decision-making.• Strengthened core talent routines to ensure scalability and readiness for AI-driven processes.• Developed and implemented an AI Skills Framework to build organizational capability and future-proof workforce analytics.• Spearheading initiatives to embed AI into daily operations, maximizing value and efficiency across HR and analytics functions.Provided Analytic Consultation on Expansion of Employee Monitoring Software• Consulted on how reporting should be structured to facilitate insight• Advised on visibility of reporting to limit liability and ensure no inappropriate action is taken• Advocated for analysis to understand relationships between monitoring behavior and tangible business outcomes

Education

• University of St. Thomas

  Bachelor of Arts (B.A.), Psychology

  1998 — 2002

• University of Northern Iowa

  Master of Arts (M.A.), Industrial and Organizational Psychology

  2005 — 2006

Skills

• Team Leadership
• Process Improvement
• Change Management
• Hris
• Talent Management
• Leadership
• Workforce
• Succession Planning
• Organizational Effectiveness
• Workforce Planning
• Performance Management
• Training
• Management
• Recruiting
• Analytics
• Payroll
• Analysis
• Human Resources