Sonja Baron

About Sonja Baron

My extensive experience in human resources management allowed me to establish a track…

Experience

1. HR and Payroll Manager

   AstraZeneca

   Jun 2024 — Present · Seattle, WA, US

   I was retained on contract to serve as the sole HR professional for the Seattle office, specifically to guide the organization\'s successful integration into AstraZeneca following an M&A transaction. As the local point person for this transition, I manage complex data migrations and harmonize job descriptions to align with the new corporate structure. I also partner with Legal on drafting retention agreements and handling terminations, focusing on maintaining high levels of morale and engagement during the acquisition. Additionally, I stepped up to manage extra financial and contract responsibilities as team members exited, ensuring zero disruption to critical business functions. On the operational side, I execute the full spectrum of HR duties, including conducting all recruiting, hiring, training, and performance management for the company. My responsibilities extend to complex compensation and benefits administration, where I process multi-state payroll for a workforce of 50 staff across 12 states. I also manage the firm\'s 401(k) program and coordinate open enrollment, actively educating staff about their benefits coverage options to ensure they are supported throughout their employment.

Education

• LWHR

  SHRM Certification

  2015 — 2016

• University of Washington

  Certificate

  2011 — 2012

• The Ohio State University

  Bachelor of Arts (B.A.)

  1990 — 1994