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Laurel Donnellan

Laurel Donnellan, Founder



Professional Overview



Laurel Donnellan is an accomplished human resources executive and organizational development consultant with a proven track record of driving positive change and cultivating high-performing teams. As the Founder of Compassionate Leaders Circle, she leverages her extensive expertise in talent management, employee engagement, and strategic HR to help organizations build more compassionate and inclusive work environments.

Experience Summary



Current Roles


  • Founder, Compassionate Leaders Circle (Present)

  • Established a consultancy dedicated to promoting compassionate leadership and fostering positive organizational cultures

  • Advises executive teams on strategies to enhance employee well-being, increase retention, and drive sustainable growth

  • Designs and delivers customized training programs focused on emotional intelligence, conflict resolution, and diversity & inclusion


  • Director of Consultant Development, Sloan Group International (Present)

  • Responsible for recruiting, training, and managing a nationwide network of HR and organizational development consultants

  • Develops comprehensive onboarding and professional development programs to ensure consultants deliver exceptional client service


  • VP of Human Resources, Medallion Hotels (Present)

  • Oversees all aspects of human resources for a portfolio of 15 luxury hotel properties

  • Implemented an award-winning employee engagement program that increased satisfaction by 27% and reduced turnover by 18%

  • Spearheaded the redesign of the company's performance management system, leading to a 35% improvement in employee productivity


Career Progression


Prior to her current roles, Laurel held progressive HR leadership positions at several prominent organizations, including:
  • Senior HR Manager, Acme Manufacturing (2015-2020)

  • Played a key role in the company's successful business transformation, aligning HR strategies with operational objectives

  • Designed and led the implementation of a comprehensive leadership development program that enhanced managerial effectiveness by 33%

  • HR Generalist, Riverdale Pharmaceuticals (2010-2015)

  • Provided HR support and guidance to a diverse employee population, contributing to a 22% increase in employee engagement scores


Academic Background


Laurel holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from the University of Michigan, where she graduated cum laude with a concentration in Human Resources Management.

Areas of Expertise


  • Strategic Human Resources Management

  • Talent Acquisition and Retention

  • Employee Engagement and Organizational Culture

  • Leadership Development and Coaching

  • Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Initiatives

  • Change Management and Organizational Transformation


Professional Impact


  • Recognized as a thought leader in the field of compassionate leadership, frequently invited to speak at industry conferences and events

  • Served on the advisory board of the Michigan HR Association, contributing to the development of best practices and industry standards

  • Received the "HR Leader of the Year" award from the local Chamber of Commerce for her innovative approaches to employee well-being and community engagement


Conclusion


With her exceptional track record of success and her unwavering commitment to fostering compassionate, high-performing organizations, Laurel Donnellan is poised to continue making a significant impact in the field of human resources and organizational development.