Katrina Mitchell
Alexandria
Summary
Dynamic HR leader with over 15 years of expertise in managing employee relations, conducting investigations, and developing policies within high-growth, regulated environments. Proven ability to advise senior leadership and lead teams while implementing proactive strategies that cultivate trust, compliance, and a positive workplace culture. Committed to ensuring organizational resilience and effective risk mitigation through innovative HR practices. Results-driven professional dedicated to enhancing employee engagement and driving organizational success.
Overview
20
20
years of professional experience
Work History
HUMAN RESOURCES SPECIALIST (LER)
U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
03.2019 - 07.2025
- Deliver expert guidance to managers and employees on personnel policies, procedures, and guidelines, ensuring compliance and fostering a transparent organizational culture in alignment with best practices in employee relations.
- Strategic advisor and representative for the Agency before the Merit System Protection Board, effectively preparing and presenting responses to appeals that safeguard organizational integrity and employee rights.
- Craft and refine disciplinary and adverse action documentation, grievance responses, and appeal letters, enhancing the clarity and effectiveness of communication while mitigating potential legal risks.
- Design and implement comprehensive employee relations programs and initiatives that resonate agency-wide, promoting a cohesive work environment and addressing diverse employee needs.
- Lead the development and facilitation of targeted training sessions, equipping stakeholders with the necessary tools and knowledge to navigate complex employee relations scenarios and improve overall workforce performance.
- Support restructuring initiatives, analyzing complex legal issues related to employee conduct, resulting in actionable recommendations that boost compliance and organizational integrity during transitions.
- Conduct thorough, impartial investigations into complex employee relations matters including harassment, discrimination, misconduct, and policy violations, resulting in timely resolution and mitigation of organizational risk.
HUMAN RESOURCES SPECIALIST (ER/LR)
Department of Veterans Affairs
10.2016 - 03.2019
- Advised leadership on labor and employee relations, tackling complex challenges to enhance workplace dynamics and boost performance.
- Led training programs for management and staff on employee rights and conflict resolution, promoting a more positive work environment.
- Reviewed and improved employee relations procedures to ensure compliance with regulations and union agreements, streamlining responses to grievances.
- Built strong relationships with labor unions and management, proactively resolving personnel issues, and employee grievances, preventing disputes that could disrupt the organization.
- Offered tailored advisory services on sensitive personnel matters and accommodation programs, helping management navigate their HR responsibilities effectively.
HUMAN RESOURCES PERSONNEL
United States Air Force
05.2005 - 12.2015
- Led a comprehensive HR service program supporting 70K technical training students, collaborating with Headquarters Air Force Personnel Center to streamline over 2,500 Permanent Change of Station (PCS) assignments annually.
- Implemented and enforced robust policies on recruitment, employee training, and retention, providing expert counsel to staff and management that fostered a culture of compliance and improved employee satisfaction.
- Spearheaded efforts to improve HR processes, optimizing resource management and boosting program effectiveness while setting standards to address equal opportunity and employee relations challenges.
- Directed specialized education programs in human relations, effectively promoting awareness and understanding, contributing to a harmonious work environment and the resolution of social issues within the unit.
Education
MASTER CERTIFICATION IN PROJECT MANAGEMENT - undefined
Columbia Southern University
Orange Beach, ALMASTER OF SCIENCE - ORGANIZATIONAL LEADERSHIP
Columbia Southern University
Orange Beach, ALMASTER OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION (MBA) - undefined
Columbia Southern University
Orange Beach, ALBACHELOR'S DEGREE - HUMAN RESOURCE MANAGEMENT
Columbia Southern University
Orange Beach, ALASSOCIATE'S DEGREE - BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION
Columbia Southern University
Orange Beach, ALASSOCIATE'S DEGREE - HUMAN RESOURCE MANAGEMENT
Community College of the Air Force
Montgomery, ALSkills
- HR Management
- HR Consulting
- HR Operations
- Employee Relations Strategy
- Labor Relations
- HR Policy Development
- Team Leadership and Staff Management
- Training Facilitation
- Complaint Management
- Employee Relations Investigations
- Data Reporting
- Position Statements / Legal Documents Preparation
- Conflict Resolution
- People & Communication Skills
Awards
- AF Outstanding Unit Award (5)
- AF Good Conduct Medal (2)
- National Defense Service Medal
- Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal
- Global War on Terrorism Service Medal
- Korean Defense Service Medal
- AF Overseas Ribbon Short
- Air Force Expeditionary Service Ribbon with Gold Border
- AF Longevity Service (2)
- USAF Noncommissioned Officer Professional Military Education Graduate Ribbon
- Air Force Training Ribbon
- Squadron-Level Noncommissioned Officer of the Quarter 2013
- Group-Level Noncommissioned Officer of the Quarter 2013
Timeline
HUMAN RESOURCES SPECIALIST (LER)
U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
03.2019 - 07.2025
HUMAN RESOURCES SPECIALIST (ER/LR)
Department of Veterans Affairs
10.2016 - 03.2019
HUMAN RESOURCES PERSONNEL
United States Air Force
05.2005 - 12.2015
MASTER CERTIFICATION IN PROJECT MANAGEMENT - undefined
Columbia Southern University
MASTER OF SCIENCE - ORGANIZATIONAL LEADERSHIP
Columbia Southern University
MASTER OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION (MBA) - undefined
Columbia Southern University
BACHELOR'S DEGREE - HUMAN RESOURCE MANAGEMENT
Columbia Southern University
ASSOCIATE'S DEGREE - BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION
Columbia Southern University
ASSOCIATE'S DEGREE - HUMAN RESOURCE MANAGEMENT
Community College of the Air Force
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