Kitara

About Kitara

As the Chief People Officer at Excelsior Wellness, I am passionate about maximizing human…

Experience

1. Chief People Officer

   Excelsior Wellness

   Oct 2023 — Present

   I am a Chief People Officer (CPO) in a top strategic leadership role, reporting directly to the CEO. My objective is to maximize human potential through data-driven strategies that attract and develop a world-class team, support the next generation of leaders, and drive sustainable growth. In addition to overseeing administrative HR functions, I am responsible for organizational design, implementing learning and development programs, providing executive coaching, and more. As a CPO, I play a crucial role in creating an environment that fosters growth and success for our employees. In my role as a Chief People Officer, I lead People Operations for the organization with an additional focus on Public Relations (PR) and Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB), I am dedicated to building a thriving organization that values both its employees and its reputation. By integrating PR strategies into our operations, I ensure that our company\'s image aligns with our core values and resonates with our stakeholders. Simultaneously, I am committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive environment through DEIB initiatives, creating a workplace where everyone feels valued and empowered to contribute their unique perspectives. Through these combined efforts, I drive both internal and external engagement, positioning our organization as a leader in social responsibility and values-driven practices.

Education

• Southern Illinois University, Carbondale

  Bachelor of Applied Science (B.A.Sc.), Workforce Development and Training

  2002 — 2007

• Webster University

  MA, Organizational Leadership & Management

  2007 — 2009

Skills

• Employee Training
• Leadership Development
• Public Speaking
• Strategic Communications
• Fundraising
• Teacher Training
• Grants
• Youth Engagement
• Universities
• Leadership
• Student Development
• Team Building
• Workforce Development
• Student Affairs
• Nonprofits
• Cultural Awareness
• Student Leadership
• Training
• Community Organizing
• Public Relations
• Curriculum Design
• Workshop Facilitation
• Staff Development
• Qualitative Research
• Cultural Diversity
• Entrepreneurship
• Event Management
• Event Planning
• Community Development
• Curriculum Development
• Non-Profits
• Adult Education
• Volunteer Management
• Diversity Training
• Youth Programs
• Tutoring
• Consulting
• Research
• Project Management
• Program Evaluation