​A true change-agent, Michele believes strongly in the importance of company culture to foster business and employee success and works to instill open lines of trust, communication, and change between management and employees.

Valuing the need to remain educated and on top of industry trends, Michele has prioritized education and certifications throughout the entirety of her career. She earned her Bachelor’s in Business Administration and Management from the University of Houston, as well as Master’s degrees in Organizational and Change Management and Human Resource Development from the University of Phoenix and the University of Texas at Tyler, respectively. What’s more, Michele Willis also received additional human resources training from Rice University and possesses a myriad of certifications, including certifications as a Certified Risk Manager and Certified PHR, Professional in Human Resources. A few of her core competencies include: 

• Succession Planning
• Culture Transformation
• Employee/Labor Relations
• Talent Acquisition
• Change Management
• Compensation and Benefits
• Diversity and Inclusion

A leader in her field, Michele is an active member of the Houston HR community. She regularly speaks and advises other industry professionals regarding updates in topics such as HRIS/process automation, diversity and inclusion, and talent management. Regarded as a champion of change, Michele believes and advocates to challenge current company processes in order to accelerate growth and competitiveness. For more information, review Michele Willis’ Gallup Profile!

Prior to making the move into private industries, Michele began her career working for the HGAC under the guidance of the Gulf Coast Workforce Board and Department of Labor. During her tenure, she realized she had a knack for handling talent, providing strategic direction as well as hiring individuals and handling layoffs. For the past 20 years, Michele has gained invaluable experience working for some of the largest corporations in Texas, including as the Head of Human Resources for North America at Aker BioMarine in Houston, Texas. In charge of the people and culture strategy for the national division, she also provides oversight on HR operations, designs capital initiatives, and champions organizational effectiveness. 

A large part of what makes Michele Willis so effective in her roles is her own personal life experience. Michele has actively sought out HR projects to gain hands-on experience and learn by putting her ideas into practice. Above all, Michele believes in resilience and mind over matter. The ability to buckle down and keep going results in emerging from the other side victorious and stronger. As a human resources professional, Michele is grateful for the path she’s been led on, as it helps her to better connect and empathize with the people she works with. 

When Michele finds some free time in her schedule, she can be found gardening, learning a new recipe in her kitchen, or spending quality time with her husband and their two sons. Also a dedicated member of her community, Michele is passionate about donating her time to better serve others. She has previously served on advisory boards to help support veterans and is an active member of the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo. 

Be sure to visit her blog to learn more about Michele Willis and her insight into human resources.