Shanelle Fernandez
Don’t Panic.”Douglas Adams
Shanelle strives to understand each organization’s unique needs, crafts relevant and efficient solutions, and brings the “human” of human resources to life. She gains insight into an organization by connecting with staff on a personal level, leading to richer business results. Shanelle will never panic. While working on a mixture of business issues, human relations, and legal requirements, she enjoys flexing her social, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
Expertise
A Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR) and SHRM Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP), Shanelle draws from over 15 years of human resources experience with manufacturers of items ranging from small medical devices to heavy equipment. She provides human resources expertise to MRA clients in recruiting, benefits, employee relations, organizational development, compensation, and safety. Having lived and worked in Spanish-speaking countries, Shanelle interacts naturally with native Spanish speakers.
Key Accomplishments
- Managed a full range of HR services for 160 employees while implementing new programs.
- Directed recruitment and selection of 60 concurrent openings in clinical research, administration, operations, engineering, and sales.
- Led development and execution of a clinical research department resource review for over 50 employees, identifying short- and long-term staffing needs to ensure appropriate succession planning.
- Reviewed and streamlined HR processes in recruiting, benefits, payroll, and employee relations to ensure functionality for current and future needs.
Education
Shanelle received a master’s degree in business administration and a graduate certificate in human resources-international human resources management, both from the University of St. Thomas, St. Paul, Minnesota. She holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire, Wisconsin, graduating magna cum laude in secondary education--Spanish, English, teaching English to speakers of other languages.
Professional and Community Activities
- Member, Society of Human Resource Management (SHRM)
- University of Minnesota Extension Master Gardener volunteer
- Hennepin County Master Gardeners leadership team