Vaveca M.

About Vaveca M.

As an experienced transformational HR executive with over 32 years of leadership in human resources, serving as a trusted advisor, strategic business partner and results-driven leader dedicated to supporting organizational objectives, engaging employees, and leveraging strengths. My expertise encompasses employee relations, talent acquisition, professional development, employee engagement, diversity and inclusion, and event management.Currently, I serve as the Director of Employee Relations and Talent Acquisition at Shook, Hardy & Bacon, a prestigious law firm recognized for its global presence and commitment to excellence and innovation. In this role, I oversee employee relations, talent acquisition, firm events, and professional staff and leadership development, while also contributing to the diversity and inclusion committee.As a trusted advisor to executive leadership teams, I provide guidance and support across all business lines. I design and lead initiatives in professional staff recruiting, leadership development, coaching, and employee engagement. My achievements include enhancing employee retention, satisfaction, and performance, as well as fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace culture. I utilize my skills in HR policies, coaching and conflict mediation, and leadership and professional staff development to empower the success of the firm and its employees.In 2023, I was honored to receive the Mosaic Award.Driven by purpose and guided by empathy, I lead with a commitment to people, progress and results.

Experience

1. Director of Employee Relations, Talent Acquisition

   Shook, Hardy & Bacon L.L.P.

   Oct 2010 — Present · Kansas City, MO, US

   Strategic Partner, results driven leader of professional staff recruiting and employee relations/engagement. Development and implementation of firm events. Experienced Human Resources Executive who provides focused leadership in defining strategy and supporting firm objectives, engaging employees, and capitalizing on organizational strengths, guiding leaders to obtain optimal performance. Experienced in the design, development and leadership of professional staff recruiting, coaching and counseling, employee engagement and inclusion. Manages the overall functions of Employee Relations, Talent Acquisition, Firm Events and Serves on the Diversity & Inclusion Committee.Trusted advisor to executive leadership teams, provides guidance, consultation, and support to all lines of business. Provides direction, guidance, and assistance to all levels of the Firm. Advises and guides leaders in coaching, counseling and disciplinary actions while enforcing and communicating Firm policy and procedures. Works with all levels of the Firm to ensure fair and consistent practices. Supports administrative and supervisory staff with conflict resolution and performance management. Provides support with staff recruitment processes and monitors retention and turnover. Manages a team of skill HR professionals. Organizes events to enhance the Firm Culture. Led a team of 20 Staff Diversity Ambassadors and Staff Diversity Committee in implementing programs, and processes fostering acceptance of diversity and drives inclusion among professional staff. Serves as a member of the HR Leadership team and supports the achievement of departmental functions and goals. Directs and emphasizes a team approach with a positive solution orientated leadership.

Education

• Webster University

  Master of Arts - MA

• University of Missouri-Kansas City

  Accounting and Computer Science

• MidAmerica Nazarene University

  Bachelor of Arts - BA