Kristin Smart

About Kristin Smart

As a Human Resources professional, I specialize in building people-focused strategies that drive organizational performance and long-term success. With expertise in performance management, succession planning, onboarding, and learning & development, I bring a holistic approach to talent management that ensures individuals and organizations thrive together.My background includes a Master’s degree in Psychology and over a decade of experience designing and leading programs that strengthen employee engagement, develop leadership pipelines, and align people practices with business goals. I am particularly passionate about performance management—leveraging data, feedback, and coaching to create fair, transparent, and motivating systems that help employees excel and leaders make informed decisions.Throughout my career, I’ve led initiatives to enhance onboarding experiences, develop career pathways, and implement succession planning frameworks that support growth at every level. I combine strategic thinking with data-driven insights to ensure HR programs not only meet immediate needs but also prepare organizations for the future.Above all, I believe that effective HR is about people-first leadership, intentional strategy, and creating environments where employees feel valued, supported, and motivated to do their best work.

Experience

1. HR Manager

   Kraft Heinz

   Jan 2026 — Present · Chicago, IL, US

Education

• Baylor University

  Bachelor of Arts

• The University of Texas at Austin

  Master’s Degree