Jennifer Vahling-Wendt, PHR, SHRM-CP
Vice President, Human Resources and Training Leader at First Mid- Claim this Profile
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Bio
Chuck Frederick
Versatile, professional and collaborative are phrases that come to mind when I think about Jennifer. I’ve had the pleasure of knowing Jennifer for 4 years, during which time (among other HR duties) Jennifer and her team supported Midland States Bank's entire enterprise in recruiting, hiring and employee relations. Above all, I was impressed with Jennifer's ability to assist, lead and direct my team of 50 plus Retail Banking Center Managers and 8 District Managers through complex employee issues. In addition, Jennifer volunteered and conducted group education for my team around the fundamentals of sound hiring practices by training the team in the area of behavioral interviewing skills. Jennifer is an integral part of assessing talent through Midland's many acquisitions; and, of course, her ability to drive a collaborative culture between departments would be a true asset for any organization requiring a proven HR professional. Jennifer comes with a passion for excellence and a drive for continued organizational and self development; she as my heartfelt recommendation.
Stephanie Kessler Gurgel, MBA, PHR, SHRM-CP
I've known Jennifer for the past 4 years through my work with her as an outside consultant to the Bank, and in the last 6 months have had the pleasure of working alongside her as a co-worker in the bank's HR department. Jennifer is organized, efficient, extremely competent, and has an excellent rapport with people of all levels in and outside of the organization. Her people skills are second to none and I would highly recommend her for any business endeavor that she may seek to pursue. She is a valuable asset for any organization.
Chuck Frederick
Versatile, professional and collaborative are phrases that come to mind when I think about Jennifer. I’ve had the pleasure of knowing Jennifer for 4 years, during which time (among other HR duties) Jennifer and her team supported Midland States Bank's entire enterprise in recruiting, hiring and employee relations. Above all, I was impressed with Jennifer's ability to assist, lead and direct my team of 50 plus Retail Banking Center Managers and 8 District Managers through complex employee issues. In addition, Jennifer volunteered and conducted group education for my team around the fundamentals of sound hiring practices by training the team in the area of behavioral interviewing skills. Jennifer is an integral part of assessing talent through Midland's many acquisitions; and, of course, her ability to drive a collaborative culture between departments would be a true asset for any organization requiring a proven HR professional. Jennifer comes with a passion for excellence and a drive for continued organizational and self development; she as my heartfelt recommendation.
Stephanie Kessler Gurgel, MBA, PHR, SHRM-CP
I've known Jennifer for the past 4 years through my work with her as an outside consultant to the Bank, and in the last 6 months have had the pleasure of working alongside her as a co-worker in the bank's HR department. Jennifer is organized, efficient, extremely competent, and has an excellent rapport with people of all levels in and outside of the organization. Her people skills are second to none and I would highly recommend her for any business endeavor that she may seek to pursue. She is a valuable asset for any organization.
Chuck Frederick
Versatile, professional and collaborative are phrases that come to mind when I think about Jennifer. I’ve had the pleasure of knowing Jennifer for 4 years, during which time (among other HR duties) Jennifer and her team supported Midland States Bank's entire enterprise in recruiting, hiring and employee relations. Above all, I was impressed with Jennifer's ability to assist, lead and direct my team of 50 plus Retail Banking Center Managers and 8 District Managers through complex employee issues. In addition, Jennifer volunteered and conducted group education for my team around the fundamentals of sound hiring practices by training the team in the area of behavioral interviewing skills. Jennifer is an integral part of assessing talent through Midland's many acquisitions; and, of course, her ability to drive a collaborative culture between departments would be a true asset for any organization requiring a proven HR professional. Jennifer comes with a passion for excellence and a drive for continued organizational and self development; she as my heartfelt recommendation.
Stephanie Kessler Gurgel, MBA, PHR, SHRM-CP
I've known Jennifer for the past 4 years through my work with her as an outside consultant to the Bank, and in the last 6 months have had the pleasure of working alongside her as a co-worker in the bank's HR department. Jennifer is organized, efficient, extremely competent, and has an excellent rapport with people of all levels in and outside of the organization. Her people skills are second to none and I would highly recommend her for any business endeavor that she may seek to pursue. She is a valuable asset for any organization.
Chuck Frederick
Versatile, professional and collaborative are phrases that come to mind when I think about Jennifer. I’ve had the pleasure of knowing Jennifer for 4 years, during which time (among other HR duties) Jennifer and her team supported Midland States Bank's entire enterprise in recruiting, hiring and employee relations. Above all, I was impressed with Jennifer's ability to assist, lead and direct my team of 50 plus Retail Banking Center Managers and 8 District Managers through complex employee issues. In addition, Jennifer volunteered and conducted group education for my team around the fundamentals of sound hiring practices by training the team in the area of behavioral interviewing skills. Jennifer is an integral part of assessing talent through Midland's many acquisitions; and, of course, her ability to drive a collaborative culture between departments would be a true asset for any organization requiring a proven HR professional. Jennifer comes with a passion for excellence and a drive for continued organizational and self development; she as my heartfelt recommendation.
Stephanie Kessler Gurgel, MBA, PHR, SHRM-CP
I've known Jennifer for the past 4 years through my work with her as an outside consultant to the Bank, and in the last 6 months have had the pleasure of working alongside her as a co-worker in the bank's HR department. Jennifer is organized, efficient, extremely competent, and has an excellent rapport with people of all levels in and outside of the organization. Her people skills are second to none and I would highly recommend her for any business endeavor that she may seek to pursue. She is a valuable asset for any organization.
Credentials
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Leader of Leaders
Leadership Pipeline InstituteOct, 2019- Nov, 2024 -
Herrmann HBDI Certified Practitioner
HerrmannDec, 2018- Nov, 2024 -
Oracle Cloud Customer Connect – Bronze Medal Member
OracleOct, 2017- Nov, 2024 -
SHRM-CP
SHRMFeb, 2015- Nov, 2024 -
Professional in Human Resources (PHR®)
HR Certification Institute - HRCIJun, 2011- Nov, 2024 -
Style Insights - DISC Certified
TTI Success InsightsNov, 2015- Nov, 2024
Experience
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First Mid
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United States
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Financial Services
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200 - 300 Employee
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Vice President, Human Resources and Training Leader
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Jul 2019 - Present
•Manage and lead onsite and remote Human Resources and Training teams that can scale to the demands of the company’s growth. •Sponsor projects and contribute to functional and cross functional initiatives. Oversee project plans and multi-phase projects from inception through execution. •Conduct due diligence for mergers and acquisitions. •Consult on the design and execution of high impact action plans related to employee survey engagement results; utilizing the Gallup database to… Show more •Manage and lead onsite and remote Human Resources and Training teams that can scale to the demands of the company’s growth. •Sponsor projects and contribute to functional and cross functional initiatives. Oversee project plans and multi-phase projects from inception through execution. •Conduct due diligence for mergers and acquisitions. •Consult on the design and execution of high impact action plans related to employee survey engagement results; utilizing the Gallup database to analyze results and leaders. •Implement custom-built leadership development for all levels of management. •Develop and implement human resources procedures, processes, and KPI’s to address a multi-state footprint. •Evaluate and analyze analytics and data with a blended approach from multiple sources to determine issues impacting the business performance and design programs to further enhance our culture and values. •Partner with leaders to accelerate adoption of HR and Training solutions to effectively manage change, build leadership capability, and share best practices across the business to facilitate continuous improvement. •Develop a holistic talent acquisition strategy inclusive of employment branding, marketing, diversity/equity/inclusion, and sourcing, that can scale with fast growing organizational needs. •Function as a coach and mentor to leaders and offer creative solutions to sensitive issues using multi-disciplined approach. •Develop ongoing compensation strategies and facilitate understanding of salary administration model to enable performance and compensation differentiation. •Oversee employee relations process and monitor key metrics to proactively assess potential organizational risk. •Responsible for the optimization of HR and LMS systems to drive efficiency through technology. •Proficient in UKG (HCM system) and Paycor Recruiting (ATS). Show less •Manage and lead onsite and remote Human Resources and Training teams that can scale to the demands of the company’s growth. •Sponsor projects and contribute to functional and cross functional initiatives. Oversee project plans and multi-phase projects from inception through execution. •Conduct due diligence for mergers and acquisitions. •Consult on the design and execution of high impact action plans related to employee survey engagement results; utilizing the Gallup database to… Show more •Manage and lead onsite and remote Human Resources and Training teams that can scale to the demands of the company’s growth. •Sponsor projects and contribute to functional and cross functional initiatives. Oversee project plans and multi-phase projects from inception through execution. •Conduct due diligence for mergers and acquisitions. •Consult on the design and execution of high impact action plans related to employee survey engagement results; utilizing the Gallup database to analyze results and leaders. •Implement custom-built leadership development for all levels of management. •Develop and implement human resources procedures, processes, and KPI’s to address a multi-state footprint. •Evaluate and analyze analytics and data with a blended approach from multiple sources to determine issues impacting the business performance and design programs to further enhance our culture and values. •Partner with leaders to accelerate adoption of HR and Training solutions to effectively manage change, build leadership capability, and share best practices across the business to facilitate continuous improvement. •Develop a holistic talent acquisition strategy inclusive of employment branding, marketing, diversity/equity/inclusion, and sourcing, that can scale with fast growing organizational needs. •Function as a coach and mentor to leaders and offer creative solutions to sensitive issues using multi-disciplined approach. •Develop ongoing compensation strategies and facilitate understanding of salary administration model to enable performance and compensation differentiation. •Oversee employee relations process and monitor key metrics to proactively assess potential organizational risk. •Responsible for the optimization of HR and LMS systems to drive efficiency through technology. •Proficient in UKG (HCM system) and Paycor Recruiting (ATS). Show less
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Midland States Bank
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United States
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Banking
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500 - 600 Employee
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Manager of Talent Development
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Apr 2016 - Jul 2019
Managed a team to develop and implement proven talent acquisition strategies to address staffing, sourcing talent attraction and retention; including job analysis. Performed evaluation of job roles and compensation by ensuring the integrity of the Bank’s salary administration model through maintenance of the job value matrix, job descriptions, role profiles, competencies, and equity audits. Developed and implemented human resources procedures, processes, and KPI’s to address a multi-state… Show more Managed a team to develop and implement proven talent acquisition strategies to address staffing, sourcing talent attraction and retention; including job analysis. Performed evaluation of job roles and compensation by ensuring the integrity of the Bank’s salary administration model through maintenance of the job value matrix, job descriptions, role profiles, competencies, and equity audits. Developed and implemented human resources procedures, processes, and KPI’s to address a multi-state footprint. Partnered with corporate and business unit leaders to forecast and develop plans for key staffing initiatives. Creation, design, and implementation of HR training programs for all levels of management to address recruiting, policy administration, performance coaching, and legal compliance. Set recruitment budget and forecast for the department while continuously monitoring performance associated with job board strategies and staffing. Consulted and coached leaders on employee relations, performance management, reorganization, and organizational effectiveness. Managed severance analysis, adverse impact analysis, and transition plans. Assisted in managing the process for performance appraisals and annual merit increases. Educated employees on company benefits plans (including health, dental, vision, life, FSA, HSA, and COBRA), and ensure legal compliance. Prepared and analyzed data analytics for KPI's within the Bank. Oversaw diversity initiatives and the affirmative action plan (current EEO Officer for the bank). Served as executive sponsor for Midland WOMEN, a diversity and inclusion initiative focused on bringing additional women presence in the higher management roles at the company. Accurately managed all aspects of ATS, including branding, workflow optimization, and data. Oversaw administration of sponsorship and Visa status. Assisted in the implementation of human resources initiatives or projects. Proficient in ADP (HRIS system) and Taleo TBE (ATS).
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Human Resources Generalist III
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Apr 2015 - Apr 2016
Utilize employee database, interface with ADP. COBRA administration. Assist in implementation of human resources procedures and processes. Safe Act Officer for the bank.
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Human Resources Generalist II
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Nov 2011 - Apr 2015
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Human Resources Generalist I
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Jun 2010 - Nov 2011
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Athletico
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United States
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Wellness and Fitness Services
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700 & Above Employee
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Human Resources Recruiter
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Aug 2008 - May 2010
Complied with and provided in depth knowledge of all relevant legislation including but not limited to EEO laws, COBRA laws, OSHA laws, unemployment laws, workmen's compensation laws, Short Term Disability, and FMLA laws. Sent out proper documentation for FMLA requests and ensured the company was in compliance with state and federal laws and guidelines. Full cycle recruitment of non – exempt, exempt, student, and temporary positions (specification meetings, job posting, sourcing… Show more Complied with and provided in depth knowledge of all relevant legislation including but not limited to EEO laws, COBRA laws, OSHA laws, unemployment laws, workmen's compensation laws, Short Term Disability, and FMLA laws. Sent out proper documentation for FMLA requests and ensured the company was in compliance with state and federal laws and guidelines. Full cycle recruitment of non – exempt, exempt, student, and temporary positions (specification meetings, job posting, sourcing, screening, testing, interviewing, selection, post offer). Organized multiple public and company events including career fairs, new hire orientation, and company activities. Conducted new employee orientation and administered new hire paperwork. Approved benefits for new hires and current employees that experienced a qualifying event or status change. Implemented new internal transfer policy and background check procedure for entire company. Implemented new employment testing and best practices for the hiring of administrative positions throughout the company. Assisted with the development and roll out of the 2008 employee opinion survey. Assisted with HR hotline to answer benefit, 401K, payroll, recruiting, etc. questions. Experienced in working with self insured group plan and provider. Familiar with Ultimate Software and E-recruit. Show less Complied with and provided in depth knowledge of all relevant legislation including but not limited to EEO laws, COBRA laws, OSHA laws, unemployment laws, workmen's compensation laws, Short Term Disability, and FMLA laws. Sent out proper documentation for FMLA requests and ensured the company was in compliance with state and federal laws and guidelines. Full cycle recruitment of non – exempt, exempt, student, and temporary positions (specification meetings, job posting, sourcing… Show more Complied with and provided in depth knowledge of all relevant legislation including but not limited to EEO laws, COBRA laws, OSHA laws, unemployment laws, workmen's compensation laws, Short Term Disability, and FMLA laws. Sent out proper documentation for FMLA requests and ensured the company was in compliance with state and federal laws and guidelines. Full cycle recruitment of non – exempt, exempt, student, and temporary positions (specification meetings, job posting, sourcing, screening, testing, interviewing, selection, post offer). Organized multiple public and company events including career fairs, new hire orientation, and company activities. Conducted new employee orientation and administered new hire paperwork. Approved benefits for new hires and current employees that experienced a qualifying event or status change. Implemented new internal transfer policy and background check procedure for entire company. Implemented new employment testing and best practices for the hiring of administrative positions throughout the company. Assisted with the development and roll out of the 2008 employee opinion survey. Assisted with HR hotline to answer benefit, 401K, payroll, recruiting, etc. questions. Experienced in working with self insured group plan and provider. Familiar with Ultimate Software and E-recruit. Show less
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Comcast
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United States
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Telecommunications
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700 & Above Employee
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Human Resources Intern
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Jan 2007 - May 2008
Conducted skill evaluation testing for technical candidates. Assisted Recruiting Department with new hire paperwork, drug screens, and background checks. Coordinated interviews and provide candidates with timely feedback and follow-through. Assisted with employee relations, FMLA, ADA, Long Term Disability, Short Term Disability, Worker's Compensation, and unemployment claims. Prepared statistics on the recruitment process for reporting needs. Specifically responsible for ensuring… Show more Conducted skill evaluation testing for technical candidates. Assisted Recruiting Department with new hire paperwork, drug screens, and background checks. Coordinated interviews and provide candidates with timely feedback and follow-through. Assisted with employee relations, FMLA, ADA, Long Term Disability, Short Term Disability, Worker's Compensation, and unemployment claims. Prepared statistics on the recruitment process for reporting needs. Specifically responsible for ensuring recruitment files are complete and in support of FCC and EEOC compliance. Managed employee's personnel, medical, and termination files. Familiar with HRIS, BrassRing, Cargo, E-Screen, and FADV. Show less Conducted skill evaluation testing for technical candidates. Assisted Recruiting Department with new hire paperwork, drug screens, and background checks. Coordinated interviews and provide candidates with timely feedback and follow-through. Assisted with employee relations, FMLA, ADA, Long Term Disability, Short Term Disability, Worker's Compensation, and unemployment claims. Prepared statistics on the recruitment process for reporting needs. Specifically responsible for ensuring… Show more Conducted skill evaluation testing for technical candidates. Assisted Recruiting Department with new hire paperwork, drug screens, and background checks. Coordinated interviews and provide candidates with timely feedback and follow-through. Assisted with employee relations, FMLA, ADA, Long Term Disability, Short Term Disability, Worker's Compensation, and unemployment claims. Prepared statistics on the recruitment process for reporting needs. Specifically responsible for ensuring recruitment files are complete and in support of FCC and EEOC compliance. Managed employee's personnel, medical, and termination files. Familiar with HRIS, BrassRing, Cargo, E-Screen, and FADV. Show less
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Education
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Saint Xavier University
Bachelor of Arts, Industrial Organizational Psychology, Minor in Organizational Communications -
Lake Land Community College
Associate of Arts, Psychology