Open to opportunities

Essence Howell

@essencehowell

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Strategic HR Generalist with 7+ years of progressive experience.

United States

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What I'm looking for

I am looking for a role that values collaboration and offers opportunities for growth, where I can leverage my HR expertise to enhance employee engagement and drive organizational success.

I am a strategic HR Generalist with over 7 years of progressive experience in fast-paced environments. My expertise spans the full employee lifecycle, including recruiting, onboarding, employee engagement, benefits administration, and compliance. I have a proven ability to build high-performing teams and implement scalable people processes that foster inclusive, values-driven cultures.

Throughout my career, I have partnered with cross-functional leaders to navigate change with empathy and professionalism. At Ontex, I support HR operations across North America, focusing on employee lifecycle activities and leading cultural initiatives. My role involves developing interview guides, streamlining onboarding processes, and planning employee engagement events that enhance workplace culture.

My previous experiences as an Executive Assistant and HR Generalist have equipped me with the skills to manage high-level administrative tasks and support HR operations during transitional periods. I am passionate about creating a positive work environment and continuously improving HR processes to support organizational goals.

Experience

Work history, roles, and key accomplishments

Current

HR Generalist

Current

Ontex

Apr 2024 - Present (1 year 2 months)

Supported HR operations across North America, focusing on employee lifecycle activities including recruiting, onboarding, benefits administration, and engagement. Led cultural initiatives and served as the first point of contact for HR-related inquiries across departments.

Onboarding Benefits Administration Employee Engagement

Executive Assistant

Ontex

May 2023 - Present (2 years 1 month)

Provided high-level administrative support to the President and executive team, managing communications, travel, and strategic coordination. Ensured seamless operations across global and regional initiatives.

Administrative Support Calendar Management Travel Management Global Team Collaboration

Executive Administrative Assistant

Floor & Decor

Jun 2021 - Present (4 years)

Delivered executive support to senior leaders, managing schedules, meetings, and quarterly reporting. Played a pivotal role in team event coordination and departmental communication.

Calendar Management Event Coordination Expense Management Communication

HR Generalist

Advanced Management Solutions

Dec 2020 - Present (4 years 6 months)

Held end-to-end HR responsibilities during a transitional period, leading recruiting, compliance, payroll, and employee relations. Worked closely with leadership to develop scalable people practices.

HR Operations Recruiting Compliance Payroll Employee Relations ADP ClearCompany

HR Generalist

WestRock

Nov 2018 - Present (6 years 7 months)

Served as the primary HR contact for over 200 employees, including a unionized workforce, during a high-impact period including COVID-19 transitions. Supported recruitment, reporting, and compliance.

Employee Support Recruitment Onboarding Compliance

Client Services Manager/HR Associate

BAYADA Pediatrics

Jul 2017 - Present (7 years 11 months)

Managed complex scheduling needs of clinical staff while fostering strong client relationships. Conducted performance reviews and supported staff development in a fast-paced environment.

Client Services Performance Management Employee Development

Campus Recruiting Coordinator

WestRock

Jun 2016 - Present (9 years)

Supported recruitment efforts for early talent pipelines, coordinating campus outreach and interview logistics for multiple hiring cycles. Assisted with full-cycle internship and entry-level recruiting processes.

Campus Hiring Interview Coordination Early Talent Programs

Education

Degrees, certifications, and relevant coursework

Georgia State University

Bachelor of Business Administration, Managerial Sciences

Obtained a Bachelor of Business Administration with a major in Managerial Sciences. The program focused on developing strategic leadership and management skills.