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Ceci MachucaCM
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Ceci Machuca

@cecimachuca

People leader at Alto Potencial who built startup HR functions and helped a biotech earn Great Place to Work certification.

United States
Message

At Alto Potencial, I build People functions from the ground up for venture-backed tech, AI, biotech and pharma companies. I’ve established HR infrastructure, designed compensation and leveling programs, and built recruiting systems that cut time-to-hire by up to 40%.

At Neurona Therapeutics, I led a 33% reduction in force with legal rigor and compassion, then helped rebuild trust and earn Great Place to Work certification the same year. I’m trained as a psychologist and hold an MBA, and I bring experience across People operations, employee relations, compliance and rewards.

Experience

Work history, roles, and key accomplishments

AP
Current

Co-Founder & Fractional Head of People

Alto Potencial

Jan 2014 - Present (12 years 9 months)

Built People functions from the ground up for venture-backed tech, AI, biotech and pharma companies, including HRIS and PEO selection, handbooks, policies, onboarding, payroll coordination and benefits. Designed compensation bands, leveling and total rewards with CFOs, and managed multi-state and 4+ country compliance.

NT

Head of People & Culture

Neurona Therapeutics

Jan 2022 - Dec 2023 (1 year 11 months)

Senior People leader reporting to the CEO, presenting quarterly to the Board on talent, compensation and organizational decisions. Built HR infrastructure, led HRIS implementation, owned Total Rewards, and led a 33% reduction in force with legal rigor, earning Great Place to Work certification the same year.

AU

Regional HR Project Leader, Compensation

Ausenco

Jan 2012 - Dec 2013 (1 year 11 months)

Restructured LatAm compensation and launched total rewards and flexible benefits.

Education

Degrees, certifications, and relevant coursework

Melbourne Business School logoMS

Melbourne Business School

MBA, Leadership and Strategy

MBA in Leadership and Strategy, completed with a full-ride scholarship.

Universidad de Chile logoUC

Universidad de Chile

MS, Global Management

Master of Science in Global Management.

Universidad Diego Portales logoUP

Universidad Diego Portales

Licenciatura en Psicología, Psychology

Licenciatura in Psychology, providing foundational training in psychology.

SHRM logoSH

SHRM

SHRM Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP), Human Resources

Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP) certification.

Tech stack

Software and tools used professionally

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