HR Career Journey: Lessons from Local Leaders
Real stories. Real lessons. Real inspiration for your HR career.
The HR career path is rarely a straight line—and that’s what makes it exciting! Join Metro Milwaukee SHRM for an interactive virtual program featuring three accomplished HR executives as they share the pivotal moments, challenges, and decisions that shaped their leadership journeys.
Expect candid stories, practical insights, and mentoring nuggets you can apply right away. This is your chance to ask questions, gain perspective, and connect with leaders who are shaping the future of HR in our community.
Meet our Panelists:
Rodney Jones-Tyson, Global Chief Human Resources Officer/Managing Director
Rodney is Baird’s Global Chief Human Resources Officer focusing on strategic issues, and working with senior management to further organizational effectiveness, associate development and Baird’s global inclusion & diversity strategy. Rodney oversees Human Resources, Corporate Real Estate & Workplace Solutions, Baird Travel and assists with the administration of the Baird Foundation. Rodney reports to Baird’s CEO and serves as a member of Baird’s Executive Committee. He is most proud of Baird’s recognition as one of Fortune’s 100 Best Companies to Work For since 2004.
Rodney is a member of the board of directors of Associated Bank (NYSE: ASB), Centerspace (NYSE: CSR) and United Way of Greater Milwaukee and Waukesha County.
Wendy Bushell, Chief People Officer
Wendy Bushell is the Chief People Officer for Palermo’s Pizza bringing over two decades of human resources expertise to the table. She has a master’s degree in Human Resources & Labor Relations and has honed her skills across diverse industries. Her career journey includes leadership roles at Ansay & Associates, Klement Sausage Co, and Derco Aerospace, showcasing her adaptability and strategic approach to people management. Wendy's passion for fostering positive workplace cultures and driving organizational success makes her a valuable asset in today's dynamic business landscape.
Katie Gavin, Chief Talent & Culture Officer
Katie Gavin is a dynamic and forward-thinking Human Resources executive with over two decades of experience driving strategic Human Resources initiatives. Currently serving as Chief Talent and Culture Officer at Grande Cheese Company, Katie leads with a people-first philosophy, championing culture, talent development, and organizational effectiveness.
Her career spans influential roles at Milwaukee Tool and other industry leaders, where she built high-performing HR teams and spearheaded initiatives that elevated employee engagement, leadership capability, and operational excellence. Katie is a Certified Employee Benefit Specialist (CEBS) and holds a degree from the University of Wisconsin–Whitewater, reflecting her deep commitment to both professional rigor and continuous learning.
Agenda
- 11:30 – 11:35 – Welcome and Introductions of Leaders
- 11:35 – 11:50 – Leader #1 Career Journey
- 11:50 – 11:55 – Participant Questions for Leader #1 - entered in chat or live through raising hand
- 11:55 – 12:10 – Leader #2 Career Journey
- 12:10 – 12:15 – Questions for Leader #2 - entered in chat or live through raising hand
- 12:15 – 12:30 – Leader #3 Career Journey
- 12:30 – 12:35 – Questions for Leader #3 - entered in chat or live through raising hand
- 12:35 – 12:50 – Questions from Moderator for all leaders
- 12:50 – 1:00 – Participant Questions for all or specific leaders – entered in chat or live through raising hand
Learning Objectives:
- Discover actionable strategies to develop and maintain an executive HR presence.
- Understand key learnings from today’s challenging HR environment and how to address adversity and the need to continuously grow
- Explore unique and traditional professional development investments that shaped successful HR careers—and how to leverage them for your own journey.
This session is pending HRCI & SHRM Certification. Stay Tuned!
