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Larry Vales
Director of Talent
Professional Background
Larry Vales is an accomplished and driven Talent Director known for his extraordinary contributions to the philanthropy sector. With a wealth of experience spanning over several years, Larry has honed his skills in labor relations, organizational development, and strategic recruiting. His career journey underscores his commitment to facilitating effective human resource operations while fostering dynamic workplace environments. As the current Director of Talent at The James Irvine Foundation, he plays a pivotal role in shaping the foundation's recruitment strategies while improving employee engagement practices. His endeavors in this role reflect his dedication to ensuring that both the organization and its workforce thrive together, promoting a culture of inclusivity and excellence.
Prior to his current position, Larry demonstrated his expertise at the North Carolina Office of State Human Resources, where he managed recruitment and staffing initiatives. This role allowed him to cultivate a workforce that not only meets the state's needs but also aligns with its diverse community. Larry's earlier stints at the North Carolina Department of State Treasurer, where he served at various levels from Assistant Director to Director of Human Resources, further solidified his proficiency in managing organizational changes and enhancing employee support mechanisms.
Education and Achievements
Larry Vales holds a Master's degree focused in Drama from ABT - San Francisco State University, which showcases his unique blend of artistic skills and practical applications in human resources. His educational background also includes a Bachelor's degree in English with an emphasis on Drama from San Diego State University. This rich educational foundation empowers him to approach talent management with a creative and nuanced perspective, particularly beneficial in environments that value diversity and innovation.
In his earlier career, Larry's experience in the arts and his role as Theater Manager at American Conservatory Theater underscore his diverse abilities. His tenure at the theater company, which included positions as Associate General Manager and HR/Finance Associate, highlighted his capability in harmonizing talent management with artistic projects, thus enriching the cultural fabric of the organization. Such roles not only enhanced his HR skills but also emphasized the importance of integrating passion with professionalism in the workplace.
Achievements
Larry's career is marked by significant achievements that advocate for employee welfare and development. His expertise in U.S. Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) administration exemplifies his dedication to ensuring compliance and providing support for employees during critical life events. Furthermore, through his roles in organizational development, Larry has successfully implemented initiatives that foster a collaborative culture, leading to improved morale and productivity among team members.
His work as an HR Consultant at the North Carolina Office of State Personnel allowed him to leverage his skills in providing strategic HR guidance that optimized employee operations and engagement across various state departments. Larry's ability to navigate complex labor relations scenarios has made him a valuable asset in negotiating agreements that align employee needs with organizational goals.
In summary, Larry Vales is a seasoned Talent Director whose rich background in both human resources and drama uniquely positions him to lead with creativity and empathy. His experience across various organizations speaks to his commitment to enhancing workplace culture and advocating for employee engagement within the philanthropy sector.