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Tom Stankus
Director, HR Business Partners at REI
Professional Background
Tom Stankus is a seasoned Human Resource professional whose extensive experience spans across various industries and organizations. With a foundation in fast-paced and rapidly evolving environments, Tom has a proven track record of driving results and enhancing organizational effectiveness. His strategic approach to Human Resources involves not only understanding the intricacies of compliance and policy but also actively working to align human capital strategies with the broader business goals.
Tom's career began in the retail sector, where he served as a Human Resource Manager at Nordstrom, before contributing significantly to the organizational culture and employee engagement initiatives at GAP Inc. (Old Navy). His early roles laid the groundwork for a successful career in HR, equipping him with the skills to manage diverse teams and foster employee relations in high-traffic environments. Following his tenure at GAP, Tom advanced to the position of District Human Resource Manager at Home Depot, where he refined his expertise in talent acquisition and workforce management.
His journey led him to the creative industry, where he made impactful contributions as the HR Director and Recruiting Director at DDB Seattle. Here, Tom honed his skills in performance management and innovative learning solutions, playing a critical role in developing talent pipelines and enhancing employee engagement across the agency.
Tom continued to build on his success as he transitioned to roles at SMITH, where he served as the Director of Human Resources for the U.S., Canada, and London divisions. His global perspective allows him to implement human resource processes that are not just compliant with local regulations but also culturally relevant across borders.
Tom's dedication and strategic insight culminated in his leadership role at ArenaNet LLC, where he was entrusted to shape the HR landscape in a company closely tied to the gaming industry. His ability to create a thriving work environment while managing change is a testament to his adaptability and deep understanding of employee needs and business objectives. At NCSOFT, Tom held the position of Director, Human Resource Business Partners, further consolidating his reputation as a trusted strategic partner.
Currently, Tom serves as the Director of HR Business Partners at REI, a role that allows him to create innovative HR systems and processes while ensuring employee satisfaction and engagement. His hands-on, analytical decision-making style empowers teams and drives organizational success.
Education and Achievements
Tom Stankus's academic journey began at Fenwick, where he developed a solid foundation for his professional aspirations. He went on to further his education at Loyola University of Chicago, a prestigious institution known for its commitment to excellence and leadership development. The skills and insights gained during his studies have been instrumental in shaping his approach to human resources and organizational management.
In addition to his formal education, Tom has consistently pursued professional development opportunities, attending various workshops and seminars that enhance his skills in HR systems, change management, and employee engagement. His continuous dedication to learning ensures he remains at the forefront of industry best practices and innovations.
Notable Achievements
Throughout his career, Tom Stankus has achieved numerous milestones that showcase his abilities as a dynamic HR leader. He has implemented innovative learning and development solutions that have significantly improved employee performance across various organizations. By fostering a culture of continuous learning, Tom has contributed to heightened employee engagement and retention, which ultimately leads to enhanced business performance.
Tom excels in strategic planning, particularly in areas like succession planning and organizational structure. His ability to foresee organizational needs and create pathways for talent development has been transformative in every organization he has worked with. As a solutions-driven strategic partner, Tom has effectively navigated complex organizational challenges, translating them into actionable strategies that align with core business objectives.
With a reputation for creativity and innovation, Tom continually finds ways to enhance HR initiatives and processes, ensuring that they are not only effective but also resonate with the workforce. His skills in performance management and total rewards have helped organizations attract and retain top talent, further cementing his status as an invaluable asset to any team.
In summary, Tom Stankus is a highly effective and strategic HR professional whose extensive experience and innovative mindset have driven significant outcomes across various sectors. His commitment to employee engagement, performance management, and organizational effectiveness highlights his role as a key player in the realm of human resources. Tom's journey reflects a blend of education, hands-on experience, and a passion for fostering healthy workplace cultures, making him a respected leader in the HR community.
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