Shari Simpson, Senior Manager of Thought Leadership at Paylocity, is a seasoned HR professional whose journey transcends traditional boundaries. With over two decades of experience, she’s evolved from managing core HR operations to becoming a strategic force in shaping the future of work.
Simpson’s career began in traditional HR roles at organizations like Streamwood Behavioral Health and Peapod, where she mastered the fundamentals of talent management, training, and employee relations. However, it was at Paylocity that she discovered her true calling, progressing through diverse roles to her current position as a thought leader.
Today, Simpson focuses on bridging the gap between HR innovation and tangible business success. Whether hosting revenue-generating webinars, spearheading the engaging HR Mixtape podcast, or speaking at SHRM events, she’s a dynamic voice in the industry. Her impact extends to shaping transformative HR programs, from reimagining performance management to championing inclusive workplaces.
Simpson’s commitment to continuous learning is fueled by a deep passion for demonstrating how strategic HR practices can elevate organizations and create better workplaces for all.
The Mentor’s Legacy
Her path to HR was unconventional. Initially, she was working at a mental health hospital, supporting teenage girls, and thought that this would be her career. However, a mentor, Marty Jordan, saw her potential in HR. He saw how she interacted with people and believed that her skills would be better used in HR.
“Initially, I balked at the suggestion,” Simpson recalls. “My perception of HR was limited to being the company police and handling complaints. But Marty helped me understand how my skills could translate to what HR actually does: helping people be their best selves, supporting business goals, and creating programs that drive better results for clients.”
Jordan’s insight led Simpson to pursue an advanced HR degree and explore various HR specialties. Tragically, Jordan later lost his life, but his legacy lives on through the careers he influenced, including Simpson’s.
“When people ask why I chose HR, I share this story of the mentor who saw potential in me that I hadn’t yet recognized. It’s a reminder of how one conversation can change the trajectory of someone’s career and the importance of remembering our origins in this field,” Simpson reflects.
In our latest Faces, meet Shari Simpson.
Who is/was your biggest influence in the industry?
One of my biggest influences has been Brené Brown. Her work on vulnerability and leadership inspires me to create workplaces where people feel safe to bring their whole selves to work. Her insights into courage and empathy resonate deeply with the heart of HR.
What’s your favorite part about working in the industry? What’s your least favorite part, and how would you change it?
My favorite part is seeing the direct impact of creating a positive employee experience—it’s incredibly fulfilling to help people feel seen, valued, and supported. My least favorite part is navigating outdated mindsets about HR as just administrative. I’d change this by continuing to demonstrate how HR drives innovation, culture, and business outcomes.
It sounds like through your experience you really care about people, and you want to help them feel safe and comfortable, which is important in the industry. Please elaborate here.
Absolutely. I believe work should be a place where people thrive, not just survive. Creating psychological safety and a culture of belonging are central to my work. When people feel safe and comfortable, they bring their best ideas and energy, which benefits not just them but the entire organization.
How can HR most effectively demonstrate its value to the leadership team?
HR can show its value by bridging people strategies with business outcomes through a deep understanding of business goals, challenges, and opportunities. This starts with developing strong business acumen—understanding financial drivers, market trends, and organizational priorities. By aligning HR initiatives with these factors and presenting data-backed insights, HR can demonstrate how people strategies directly influence key metrics like revenue growth, productivity, and customer satisfaction. Additionally, sharing the human stories behind the numbers adds depth, illustrating the real-world impact of a thriving workforce. When HR speaks the language of business while staying rooted in its people-centered mission, it solidifies its role as a trusted strategic partner.
Where do you see the industry heading in five years? Or are you seeing any current trends?
The next five years will bring even more focus on employee well-being, flexibility, and inclusive leadership. Technology will continue to reshape HR, from AI-driven analytics to personalized employee experiences. HR’s role as a strategic partner will only grow as companies realize that people truly are their greatest asset.
What are you most proud of?
I’m most proud of the lasting impact I’ve made by prioritizing people and culture in every aspect of my work. Seeing employees grow, thrive, and feel valued because of initiatives I’ve spearheaded is incredibly fulfilling. For example, rolling out programs that elevate employee engagement, drive leadership development, or create a culture of inclusion gives me a sense of purpose and accomplishment. I’m also proud of the ripple effect of my work—mentoring HR professionals, contributing to thought leadership in the industry, and influencing how organizations view HR as a strategic function.
Another point of pride is my ability to balance the strategic with the empathetic. Whether it’s advocating for an employee-facing policy that aligns with business needs or helping a team navigate a difficult change, I’m proud of bringing both heart and business acumen to the table. These moments not only reflect personal achievement but also remind me why I love working in this field.
Do you have any advice for people entering the profession?
HR is a unique blend of art and science. It’s where strategy meets heart, and that’s what makes it so rewarding. I also encourage others in HR to share their stories—our collective experiences help elevate the profession and inspire others. Always stay curious and keep learning. Build relationships, listen more than you speak, and don’t be afraid to advocate for what’s right, even when it’s hard. HR is all about people, so empathy and authenticity will take you far.
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