Leslie Cray

Professional Background

Leslie Cray is a passionate and results-driven HR leader with a robust background in global human resources management. With extensive experience across various sectors, including manufacturing, distribution, and retail, Leslie has solidified a reputation for excellence in human resources practices. She has excelled in roles requiring strong interpersonal skills and has been notably recognized for her ability to influence, collaborate, and communicate effectively within corporate landscapes. Her extensive history as an HR business partner reflects her strategic approach to enhancing workforce effectiveness and aligning HR practices with organizational goals.

Leslie’s broad array of professional experience includes leadership roles at renowned organizations, where she has been instrumental in driving key HR initiatives and transformations. As the Senior Director of Human Resources at York Solutions, LLC, Leslie has implemented strategic HR processes that support organizational growth and employee engagement. Previously, as Vice President of Human Resources at Logistics Property Company, LLC, she played a pivotal role in supporting operations through effective human resources strategies.

Her tenure as Global Head of Human Resources at PureCircle USA / Ingredion showcases her capability to navigate complex M&A integrations, overseeing HR functions during transformative periods. As a result of her achievements in these transformative environments, Leslie has been recognized for her deft management of change and her expertise in succession planning, training, and performance management.

Education and Achievements

Leslie possesses a strong educational background that complements her professional experience. She studied for her Master’s program in Human Resources Management at the Keller Graduate School of Management, where she gained invaluable insights into effective HR practices and strategic management. Prior to this, she earned her undergraduate degree from East Carolina University - College of Business, which laid the foundation for her successful career in human resources.

Her educational credentials, combined with her extensive industry experience, have equipped Leslie with functional skills in various vital HR areas. These include talent management, organizational development and design, employee relations, and compensation and benefits. These expertise areas contribute significantly to her effectiveness as a strategic HR leader.

Career Milestones and Positions

Leslie’s career trajectory reflects a progressive accumulation of knowledge and leadership within the human resources discipline. Some of her notable previous positions include:

• Human Resources Manager and HR Business Partner at ConAgra Foods: Here, she managed a diverse range of HR responsibilities that contributed to employee satisfaction and effective operations.
• Director of Human Resources at Alberto Culver: In this role, Leslie implemented pivotal HR strategies that supported the company’s objectives and enhanced organizational culture.
• Manager of Human Resources at Alberto Culver: This role allowed her to develop foundational HR expertise benefiting both employees and leadership alike.
• Senior Human Resources Business Partner at ComEd: Leslie supported business objectives by driving HR initiatives that align closely with operational goals.
• Human Resources Manager at McCain Foods: She was influential in promoting a positive workplace environment and effectively managing employee relations.
• Senior Human Resources Specialist at Oce USA, Inc: This position involved critical responsibilities in managing HR functions across various departments.
• Retail Operations HR Manager at ELEK-TEK: Leslie’s experience in retail operations equipped her with firsthand knowledge of the challenges and opportunities in the retail sector.

Throughout her career, Leslie has demonstrated a remarkable ability to adapt HR strategies to meet shifting organizational needs, particularly during periods of transformation such as mergers and acquisitions and restructuring. Her expertise in change management ensures that she can lead teams through transitions effectively, fostering resiliency and engagement amongst employees.

A Vision for the Future

In a continually evolving business climate, Leslie Cray remains committed to driving strategic talent management initiatives and organizational development that caters to both current and future workforce needs. Her vision emphasizes creating inclusive workplaces that value diversity and promote employee engagement, ensuring that organizations not only meet their business goals but also support the well-being and development of their employees. With a career dedicated to excellence in human resources, Leslie looks forward to the new challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in her professional journey.