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Dwana Jones
Manager - HR Operations - Organization & Talent Development - Early Career Programs at Whirlpool Corporation
Professional Background
Dwana Jones is a highly accomplished talent development professional with a remarkable track record of optimizing relationships and spearheading campus recruiting strategies aimed at fostering high-potential talent. With over 15 years of experience in the field, Dwana has demonstrated a profound ability to collaborate with a diverse range of stakeholders including corporate partners, alumni, and key university personnel. Her career has been characterized by her dedication to developing new initiatives and nurturing team and culture development.
Currently, Dwana serves as the Manager of Human Resources Operations within the Organization and Talent Development department at Whirlpool Corporation. In this role, she leads early career programs that are pivotal in shaping the career trajectories of emerging professionals. Her strategic approach to recruiting not only enhances Whirlpool's talent pool but also contributes to building a positive and inclusive workplace culture. Dwana thrives in dynamic environments, where her skills in stakeholder management and her adaptability truly shine.
Prior to joining Whirlpool, Dwana was the Associate Director of Career Coaching & Education at the esteemed University of Michigan Ross School of Business. In this position, she played a crucial role in guiding students through their career journeys, providing them with the tools and insights needed to excel in the corporate world. Her dedication to nurturing student talent and fostering an inclusive environment at the university has had a long-lasting impact on the student community.
Her early experiences at the University of Michigan began with roles such as Assistant Director of Recruiting and Outreach, Programs Assistant at the Office of New Student Programs, and Admissions Representative at the Stephen M. Ross School of Business. These varied positions provided her with a solid foundation in higher education and talent development, setting the stage for her later success.
Education and Achievements
Dwana Jones is also well-educated, holding a Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Higher Education/Student Affairs from Eastern Michigan University, which has equipped her with a deep understanding of student needs and the complexities of university operations. This advanced degree complements her Bachelor of Business Administration (B.B.A.), where she focused on Business Administration and Management with a specialization in Human Resources at Cleary University. Her educational background has been instrumental in shaping her professional approach to talent development, as she applies a blend of business acumen and educational expertise to her work.
Throughout her career, Dwana has consistently emphasized the importance of empathy, communication, and relationship-building. These core values are evident not just in her professional achievements but also in her commitment to fostering positive communities both within corporate environments and educational institutions. Her ability to leverage social capital and networks has facilitated the development of trusting partnerships that benefit not only her organizations but also the individuals she works with.
Key Skills
Dwana's competence extends across several crucial areas in the realm of talent development and management, including:
- Stakeholder Management: Dwana excels at managing relationships with various stakeholders, creating alignment to achieve shared goals.
- Early Career Programs: She has a keen understanding of what emerging talent requires to transition successfully into the workforce and develops programs that meet these needs.
- Mentoring & Coaching: Drawing upon her extensive experience, Dwana passionately commits to mentoring students and early career professionals, ensuring they receive the guidance necessary for growth.
- Adaptability: In today’s fast-paced professional landscape, Dwana demonstrates a high degree of adaptability, allowing her to navigate and lead new initiatives effectively.
- Communication: Her ability to communicate clearly and empathetically has made her a valuable advisor and leader in her field.
- Empathy and Relational Skills: Dwana’s natural ability to connect with others forms the foundation of her excellent relationship management skills.
- Arranger: She has a knack for organizing people and resources to achieve optimal results, a skill that has proven essential in her various roles.
In view of her extensive experience and strong educational foundation, Dwana Jones remains a prominent figure in the field of talent development. Her expertise not only benefits her employer, Whirlpool Corporation, but also contributes to the broader community by nurturing talent and fostering inclusivity. Dwana is a role model for aspiring professionals in higher education and the corporate world alike, exemplifying what can be achieved through dedication and collaboration.