Penny Simmons
Director, Global People & Development (HR), Brand Image and Licensing, Employee Experience & Culture
Greensboro, North Carolina, United States
Professional Overview
Penny Simmons is an accomplished human resources executive with over 25 years of experience driving strategic people initiatives and fostering positive employee experiences. As the Director of Global People & Development, Brand Image and Licensing, and Employee Experience & Culture at Ralph Lauren, she is responsible for spearheading comprehensive HR strategies, enhancing the company's brand image, and cultivating a thriving organizational culture.
Experience Summary
Current Role
In her current role at Ralph Lauren, Penny is responsible for leading the company's global HR function, overseeing the development and implementation of people-centric programs and policies. She plays a pivotal role in shaping the brand's image through strategic licensing initiatives and fostering a dynamic, employee-focused culture. Penny's exceptional leadership and innovative approach have contributed to Ralph Lauren's recognition as a top employer of choice.
Career Progression
Penny's extensive career at Ralph Lauren spans over two decades, during which she has steadily progressed through various HR roles, accumulating a wealth of industry knowledge and expertise. She has held positions such as Senior Manager of Global People and Development, where she led initiatives to streamline HR operations and enhance the employee experience across the supply chain and logistics divisions. Penny's proven track record of success and her ability to drive positive organizational change have earned her recognition as a respected leader within the company.
Academic Background
Penny holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, where she graduated with distinction.
Areas of Expertise
- Strategic human resources management
- Talent acquisition and development
- Employee engagement and culture building
- Brand image and licensing strategy
- Supply chain and logistics optimization
- Change management and organizational transformation
Professional Impact
Throughout her career, Penny has played a pivotal role in shaping Ralph Lauren's people-centric approach, leading the implementation of innovative HR programs that have positively impacted employee satisfaction and productivity. Her contributions have been instrumental in maintaining the company's reputation as an employer of choice, attracting and retaining top talent in the industry.
Conclusion
Penny Simmons is a seasoned human resources professional with a proven track record of driving strategic, people-focused initiatives. Her exceptional leadership, coupled with her deep understanding of the fashion and retail industry, positions her as a valuable asset to Ralph Lauren. Penny remains committed to continuously enhancing the company's global HR operations, brand image, and employee experience, contributing to its long-term success and growth.
