Professional Overview
Michele Ralph-Rawls is an accomplished human resources executive with over 15 years of experience driving organizational effectiveness and workforce development. As the Chief Human Resources Officer at WBGO-88.3 FM/The Jazz Source, she is responsible for shaping the company's human capital strategy, fostering an engaged and high-performing team, and ensuring alignment between HR objectives and business goals.
Experience Summary
Current Role
As Chief Human Resources Officer at WBGO-88.3 FM/The Jazz Source, Michele is instrumental in enhancing the organization's talent management capabilities, optimizing HR processes and policies, and cultivating a diverse, inclusive, and collaborative work environment. She spearheads the development and implementation of comprehensive HR initiatives that support the station's operational and strategic priorities, including talent acquisition, employee relations, compensation and benefits administration, and organizational development.
Career Progression
Prior to her current role, Michele held progressive human resources leadership positions within several municipal governments in New Jersey. As the Director of Human Resources for the City of Paterson, she led the transformation of the HR function, implementing data-driven strategies to improve employee engagement, streamline HR operations, and ensure compliance with evolving labor laws and regulations. Earlier in her career, Michele served as the Acting City Administrator and Director of Human Resources for the City of East Orange, where she played a pivotal role in optimizing organizational structure and workforce planning. She also gained valuable experience in her role as the Deputy Chief of Staff and Operations Director in the Office of Mayor Cory A. Booker in the City of Newark.
Academic Background
Michele holds a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration from Rutgers University, where she specialized in Human Resource Management. She is a certified Professional in Human Resources (PHR) and maintains active memberships in professional organizations such as the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) and the International Public Management Association for Human Resources (IPMA-HR).
Areas of Expertise
- Strategic Human Resource Management
- Talent Acquisition and Retention
- Organizational Development and Change Management
- Employee Relations and Engagement
- Compensation and Benefits Administration
- Workforce Planning and Analytics
- Compliance and Risk Management
Professional Impact
Throughout her career, Michele has been recognized for her ability to drive positive organizational change and elevate the strategic role of human resources. She has spearheaded innovative HR initiatives that have resulted in enhanced employee satisfaction, improved operational efficiency, and stronger alignment between the HR function and the overall business objectives. As a respected industry leader, Michele has also contributed to the advancement of the HR profession through her active involvement in professional associations and her participation in various industry events and forums.
Conclusion
With her extensive experience, strategic mindset, and a genuine passion for people management, Michele Ralph-Rawls is well-positioned to continue making a meaningful impact in her role as the Chief Human Resources Officer at WBGO-88.3 FM/The Jazz Source. Her proven track record of driving organizational transformation and her commitment to fostering a thriving, high-performing workforce make her a valuable asset to the organization and the broader HR community.
