Desarie French
LOOMIS
Summary
Versatile human resources leader with over 20 years of experience in both early-stage companies and Fortune 100 organizations with proven experience leveraging HR strategy for maximum business impact. Seasoned people leader dedicated to building, motivating, and developing people and teams with a track record of managing complexity and driving results through transformational growth and change management.
Overview
24
24
years of professional experience
Work History
Chief Human Resources Officer
Invitae
San Francisco, Ca
01.2020 - Current
- Reporting to the CEO, led the global People & Culture function including HR, Communications, DEI & ESG for a high-growth, publicly traded genetic testing company.
- Developed and led Board/Committee agenda and meetings related to executive, board, and employee compensation programs
- Spearheaded diligence efforts, analysis, org planning and execution of multiple acquisitions and divestitures
- Implemented job architecture and total rewards strategy
- Developed a formal DEI program to increase diversity within the workforce by promoting inclusive hiring practices and supporting various diversity initiatives
- Implemented Workday and scaled additional HR systems & processes for increased effectiveness across the organization.
Sr. Director, Global Commercial & Group Functions
Thermo Fisher Scientific
04.2019 - 12.2019
- HR Leader responsible for Commercial and Group Functions with a focus on scalability and performance through significant growth.
- Created a program/process for company-wide talent management across Thermo Fisher corporate functions to minimize talent gaps and promote leadership opportunities globally.
- Member of the PPI Core Team, 2019 HR Engagement Team and served as leader for the Women's Field ERG.
Sr. Director, Americas Field HR Organization
Thermo Fisher Scientific
01.2011 - 04.2019
- Managed a team of 50 HR Business Partners across the region supporting every division, function and site across North and South America
- Developed high-performing teams by providing mentorship, guidance, and opportunities for professional growth
- Worked closely with executive leadership to guide operational strategy
- Established a culture of continuous improvement by fostering open communication channels and empowering employees to voice their ideas across 30+ sites
Senior HR Manager, Business Partner, Commercial
Thermo Fisher Scientific
01.2011 - 03.2014
- Advised decision-makers on complex and confidential matters ranging from organizational effectiveness, succession planning, and leadership development
- Managed employee relations, facilitated training, and provided coaching to improve culture and maintain a positive work environment
- Collaborated closely with department COE's in executing strategic workforce planning initiatives that aligned human capital resources with company goals
Senior HR Manager, Mergers & Acquisitions
Thermo Fisher Scientific
02.2006 - 12.2010
- Served as primary HR leader responsible for analyzing potential M&A transactions and facilitate smooth integration processes post-acquisition
- Created HR M&A Playbook to provide scalability of processes and promote clarity of scope, objectives and key success factors
- Advised on M&A opportunities through rigorous due diligence processes, enabling successful business integrations.
HR Business Partner, Operations
Thermo Fisher Scientific
03.2003 - 02.2006
- Onsite HR support for large manufacturing and distribution organizations to ensure alignment between business objectives and HR processes
- Partnered with legal counsel to ensure compliance with employment regulations, reducing potential liability risks and respond to employee complaints and issues
- Facilitated rollout of extensive Management Training across the site
Various Recruiting Roles
Strategic Data Systems, Aerotek
09.2000 - 03.2003
- IT/Technical Recruiter responsibility for commercial and government contracts.
Education
Master of Science - Human Resources & Employee Relations
Pennsylvania State University
University Park, PABachelor of Science - Business Administration
California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo
San Luis Obispo, CASkills
- Executive Leadership
- Board/Compensation Committee
- HR policies and procedures
- HR analytics
- Organizational Culture
- Diversity and Inclusion
- Organizational Development
- Compensation design
- Workforce Planning
- Retention Strategies
- Employee Relations
- Internal Communications
Timeline
Chief Human Resources Officer
Invitae
01.2020 - Current
Sr. Director, Global Commercial & Group Functions
Thermo Fisher Scientific
04.2019 - 12.2019
Sr. Director, Americas Field HR Organization
Thermo Fisher Scientific
01.2011 - 04.2019
Senior HR Manager, Business Partner, Commercial
Thermo Fisher Scientific
01.2011 - 03.2014
Senior HR Manager, Mergers & Acquisitions
Thermo Fisher Scientific
02.2006 - 12.2010
HR Business Partner, Operations
Thermo Fisher Scientific
03.2003 - 02.2006
Various Recruiting Roles
Strategic Data Systems, Aerotek
09.2000 - 03.2003
Master of Science - Human Resources & Employee Relations
Pennsylvania State University
Bachelor of Science - Business Administration
California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo