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Mike Jacobson
SVP, Human Resources at Public Broadcasting Service
Professional Background
Mike Jacobson is a seasoned Human Resources professional, bringing to the table over 15 years of extensive experience in leading renowned brand organizations. His solid business acumen is coupled with expertise in a variety of key areas such as executive development, diversity, performance management, transition and change management, and organizational effectiveness. Mike has cultivated a reputation for being a strategic partner who can effectively align human resource practices with business goals, thereby fostering an environment where organizational culture thrives.
Currently, Mike is leveraging his wealth of experience in a senior role as the Senior Vice President of Human Resources at PBS, where he oversees talent development and organizational strategy to meet the evolving needs of the network. Before joining PBS, he held several pivotal roles at distinguished organizations, including serving as Vice President of Human Resources at both Visa and Wells Fargo, where he was instrumental in shaping HR policies that enhance employee engagement and performance. Moreover, he has also made a significant impact in the tech sector as the Director of Talent at TED Conferences and as the Senior Director of Talent, Culture, & Communications at Advent Software. His multifaceted experience with these organizations has equipped him with a versatile skill set that makes him an invaluable asset to any team.
In addition to his corporate roles, Mike has contributed to the academic world through an adjunct faculty position in organization development at the University of San Francisco. His dual experience in academia and corporate settings enables him to bring a unique perspective to the subject of organizational leadership, effectively bridging theory and practice.
Education and Achievements
Mike Jacobson’s academic background further underscores his commitment to lifelong learning and personal development. He earned his Bachelor of Arts in Economics from the prestigious University of California, Davis, which laid the groundwork for his analytical and effective decision-making skills in business contexts. Pursuing further education, Mike obtained a Master’s degree in Educational Technology from the University of San Francisco—an indication of his forward-thinking approach to learning and technology integration in organizational development.
To solidify his expertise in leadership and organizational dynamics, Mike pursued a Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in Organization and Leadership, also from the University of San Francisco. His doctoral research focused on exploring innovative practices in leadership and organizational effectiveness, further ensuring he stays ahead in the dynamic field of HR.
Specialties
Mike Jacobson possesses a diverse range of specialties within the human resources discipline, showcasing his multifaceted expertise. His key areas of specialization include:
- Talent Management: Mike is adept at identifying, developing, and retaining top talent to ensure that organizations remain competitive and capable of meeting their strategic objectives.
- Learning and Development: He emphasizes creating learning environments that foster employee development, advancing both individual career goals and organizational growth.
- Succession Planning: Mike implements effective succession planning strategies to ensure leadership continuity and organizational resilience, preparing for the future in a proactive manner.
- HR Business Consulting: He provides strategic HR consulting services to organizations, helping them align their human resource practices with overarching business strategies for optimal results.
- Diversity Management: Committed to creating inclusive workplaces, Mike advocates for diversity in recruitment and development practices, recognizing the value that varied perspectives bring to organizational culture.
- Staffing and Talent Resourcing: With a keen eye for talent, he excels at developing staffing strategies that attract the right individuals for organizational success.
Achievements
Throughout his career, Mike Jacobson has accomplished numerous milestones that reflect his dedication and expertise in the field of human resources. His leadership has led to the successful implementation of impactful HR initiatives and programs that have significantly improved employee engagement, retention rates, and overall organizational performance. Notably, under his stewardship at previous organizations, numerous talent management initiatives received accolades for their innovative approaches to human capital management.
In his role at PBS, Mike has spearheaded a series of successful diversity initiatives that have not only enhanced the organizational culture but also positioned PBS as a leader in inclusive practices within the media industry. His commitment to promoting a diverse workforce continues to shape policy and encourage engagement among employees at all levels.
Mike's work has been recognized with various awards and honors, reaffirming his status as a leader in the human resources sector. He frequently shares his insights through speaking engagements at industry conferences and workshops, becoming a sought-after voice on topics related to workforce management, organizational development, and leadership.
In summary, Mike Jacobson is a highly accomplished senior Human Resources professional whose vast experience and comprehensive education make him a crucial partner in driving organizational success. His commitment to fostering positive work environments, developing talent, and implementing innovative HR practices distinguishes him as a leader in the field. As he continues his journey, Mike remains passionate about learning and collaborating with others to enhance organizational effectiveness and achieve meaningful change.