Paula Kellerman

About Paula Kellerman

As a senior human resources executive, I specialize in leading enterprise-wide HR strategy, workforce transformation, and organizational development in complex and unionized environments. My approach is grounded in strategic thinking, ethical leadership, and a strong belief in aligning people and business priorities to drive sustainable results.I’ve had the privilege of working closely with executive teams to design and implement HR initiatives that elevate performance, strengthen culture, and enhance compliance. From managing labor relations and resolving critical employee matters to modernizing HR systems and advancing DEI-driven talent strategies, I bring a people-centered, results-focused mindset to every challenge.What sets me apart is my ability to balance operational excellence with empathy—leading cross-functional teams through change while maintaining a clear focus on employee well-being and organizational success. As a SHRM-SCP certified professional, I hold myself to the highest standards of integrity, collaboration, and continuous improvement.I’m always open to connecting with professionals who value strategic HR leadership and share a commitment to building inclusive, high-performing organizations.

Experience

1. Human Resources Director Eeo Officer

   City of Pittsburgh

   Jan 2022 — Present

   In my current role, I spearhead citywide HR operations spanning talent acquisition, employee relations, training, compensation, benefits, risk management, and records administration. I manage the departmental budget, streamline expenditures, and align resources with organizational goals. I’ve led benefits administration, payroll processing, and workers\' compensation programs. Additionally, I negotiated vendor contracts and benefits packages to maximize value and service quality. I ensure full compliance with federal, state, and local employment laws, as well as EEO regulations.My Key Achievements:• Advised executive leadership on workforce planning, disciplinary actions, and compliance strategies.• Decreased workers’ compensation indemnity reserves by 25% through strategic claim oversight and injury prevention initiatives.• Achieved City’s lowest recorded injury rate by implementing targeted workplace safety initiatives.• Digitized benefits enrollment and payroll visibility by launching self-service HCM/HRIS module, cutting administrative costs and paper usage while improving employee access to real-time data.

Education

• University of Pittsburgh

  Racial Equity Consciousness Institute - Spring 2024 Cohort

• University of Pittsburgh

  Pennsylvania Instructional I Teaching Certificate

• University of Pittsburgh

  Bachelor of Arts in English Literature