Tonya Smart

About Tonya Smart

As a seasoned HR professional with over 15 years of experience specializing in Employee Relations (ER) and broader HR functions, I bring a unique blend of creativity, leadership, and strategic insight to fostering organizational success. My journey began not only in corporate settings but also on the stage as a slam poet and as the founder of a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering youth through spoken word and self-expression. These experiences honed my ability to connect with diverse audiences, amplify underrepresented voices, and inspire action—skills that have translated seamlessly into my HR career.In my professional roles, I’ve managed complex ER cases, driven organizational change, and designed employee engagement programs that enhance retention and satisfaction. Currently, I develop HR policies that align to Employee Relations and Total Rewards strategies.A storyteller at heart, I excel at using data to craft compelling narratives that inform strategy, guide decision-making, and strengthen cross-functional relationships. Whether rallying a room of slam poetry enthusiasts or partnering with leaders to address organizational challenges, I bring a collaborative, creative, and results-oriented approach to every endeavor.

Experience

1. Enterprise Employee Relations & Compliance Leader

   Acosta Group

   Nov 2025 — Present

   Lead enterprise HR Compliance & Employee Relations programs across the U.S. and Canada. Direct a team of HR Investigators managing complex and high-risk cases, ensuring rigor, consistency, and defensible outcomes.Drive ER governance, policy compliance, and employment risk mitigation while advising senior leaders using data-informed insights and KPI dashboards.

Education

• Salve Regina University

  B.A., American History (United States)

• Villanova University

  Master of Science - MS, Human Resources Development

• Walden University

  Master of Science - MS, Nonprofit Leadership and Management

Skills

• Employee Relations
• Team Building
• Mediation
• Fmla
• Eeo
• Dispute Resolution
• Recruiting
• Employee Benefits
• Policy
• Talent Management
• Benefits Administration
• Coaching
• Employee Engagement
• Public Speaking
• Organizational Development
• Human Resources
• Payroll
• Program Management
• Leadership
• Personnel Management
• Onboarding
• Event Management
• Training
• Contract Negotiation
• Nonprofits
• Youth Engagement
• Event Planning
• Conflict Resolution
• New Hire Orientations
• Workforce Planning
• Succession Planning
• Leadership Development
• College Recruiting
• Interviews
• Applicant Tracking Systems
• Hris
• Performance Management
• Hiring
• Talent Acquisition