In celebration of Women’s History Month, we’re thrilled to introduce Jessica Smith, a pioneering figure in human resources with more than 13 years of experience at leading companies such as Amazon, AWS, and Meta. As Meta’s Director of Global Diversity and People Experiences, Jessica has transformed the early career journeys of over 5,100 employees, establishing new standards for inclusivity and engagement.
Jessica’s impressive academic background, including an International MBA from IESE Business School and a BS in finance from Hampton University, equips her with a global perspective that informs her innovative approach to HR. Her journey from Tupelo, MS, to major cities across the U.S. and Europe has enriched her understanding of diverse workplace cultures.
A Journey to HR
Jessica’s path to HR was unconventional. After completing her MBA at IESE Business School in Barcelona, she joined Barclays in London during the tumultuous 2008/2009 Financial Crisis. Despite the challenges, she retained her role in wealth management but soon realized she wanted to make a broader impact. This realization led her to a role in admissions for her alma mater, where she discovered the transformative power of HR. Offering a candidate from India a place in one of Europe’s top business schools not only changed his life but also the lives of his family. This pivotal moment inspired Jessica to pursue a career in HR, where she continues to impact thousands daily.
Work-Life Harmony
Jessica is a proponent of work-life harmony rather than balance. She believes that ambitious goals often preclude perfect balance, so she maximizes every minute of her day to accommodate both professional and personal commitments. Whether it’s taking calls while picking up her kids or adjusting her schedule for family needs, Jessica integrates her work and life seamlessly, ensuring she spends quality time with loved ones.
AI and HR: A Synergistic Future
Jessica advocates for the integration of AI in HR, emphasizing its potential to enhance efficiency. Her advice is clear: “Lean in. Don’t shy away.”
Diversity and Inclusion: A Focus on Belonging
In the ongoing dialogue about social justice and equity, Jessica stresses the importance of fostering a sense of belonging within organizations. For her, diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) go beyond social justice; they are about creating an environment where everyone feels included and valued.
Connect with Jessica
Readers can connect with Jessica on LinkedIn to follow her journey and insights in the field of HR.
Jessica Smith’s dedication to innovation and inclusivity is not only shaping the future of HR but also leaving a lasting impact on organizations striving for excellence. Her story is a testament to the power of perseverance, vision, and the relentless pursuit of positive change.
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