CHRISTOPHER R. PIETT
Ocean City
Summary
People-first HR executive with a long track record of building high-performing teams, stabilizing operations, and creating scalable HR systems across diverse industries — from heavy industrial environments to high-volume retail to family-run entertainment. Known for blending compliance excellence with a warm, guest-centric approach that elevates employee experience, strengthens retention, and supports business growth. Brings a calm, grounded leadership style, a knack for building HR from the ground up, and a passion for creating workplaces where people feel welcome, supported, and ready to deliver unforgettable experiences. Ideal for hospitality environments where culture matters as much as capability.
Overview
21
21
years of professional experience
Work History
Human Resources Consultant
Zelky’s Boardwalk Arcades
Rehobeth Beach
01.2025 - Current
- Brought in to modernize and professionalize HR for a growing, guest-focused organization.
- Designed the foundational HR infrastructure needed to support expansion while preserving the company’s playful, family-friendly culture.
- Conducted a full HR audit across all locations, identifying compliance gaps, operational risks, and opportunities to strengthen employee experience.
- Built the framework for a complete HR department from scratch, including policies, workflows, onboarding, record-keeping, and culture-building practices.
- Led the evaluation and selection of a new HRIS platform tailored to a seasonal, multi-site workforce.
- Developed scalable processes for hiring, training, benefits administration, and performance management.
- Partnered directly with ownership to align HR strategy with business goals, operational realities, and brand identity.
- Created recommendations to support future growth, including staffing models, training structures, and benefits modernization.
- Multi-location family entertainment business
Regional Human Resources Manager
Sims Metal Management
Chesapeake
01.2007 - 01.2025
- Led HR operations for a large, complex, non-union region in a heavy industrial environment.
- Known for stabilizing operations, elevating compliance, and building strong relationships with leaders and frontline teams.
- Consistently rated 'Exceeds Expectations' in performance and competency evaluations.
- Completed a full HR audit that brought the region into compliance across I-9, personnel/medical files, pay scale analysis, background screening, and federal/state requirements.
- Oversaw due-diligence and integration for multiple acquisitions in North Carolina.
- Earned DDI Instructor Certification and supported rollout of monthly management training.
- Served as regional benefits administrator, providing employee support and training.
- Eliminated overreliance on staffing agencies through a comprehensive recruitment strategy.
- Implemented region-wide programs including Employee Evaluations, HR District Counsel, HR Information Day, Facility HR Audits, and New Hire Orientation.
- World’s largest recycling organization; 13 facilities across 5 states; 500+ employees
Regional Team Manager
DriveTime
01.2005 - 01.2007
- Managed HR operations for up to 200 employees across Virginia.
- Led recruitment efforts, including three dealership grand openings in 2006.
- Supported 10 dealerships and 4 service centers with full-cycle HR operations.
- Managed training delivery, HRIS compliance, development plans, audits, and succession planning.
- Offered promotion to Director of Safety & Workers’ Compensation after six months.
- Region recognized for most improved retention and leading profitability in 2006.
Human Resources Manager
The Home Depot
- Raised monthly training completion rates by 70%.
- Served as External Recruitment Captain for the Richmond District.
- Selected to turn around the district’s most challenged location in 2005.
- High-volume retail environment with 250 associates
Regional Human Resources Manager
Alcoa, Inc. (AFL Network Services)
- Built the regional HR department from the ground up.
- Passed the initial Alcoa internal HR audit for a new acquisition.
- Developed policies, compensation structures, training programs, and affirmative action plans.
- Managed recruitment, applicant flow, promotions, FMLA, disability, and employee relations.
- Grew workforce from 200 to 500 employees in 24 months.
- Integrated the acquisition of Knight Communications (110 employees).
Education
Bachelor of Science - Psychology
Virginia Commonwealth University
Richmond, VASkills
- Leadership & Culture Building
- HR Department Design & Start-Up
- HRIS Evaluation & Implementation
- Benefits Administration
- Talent Acquisition & Workforce Planning
- Training, Onboarding & Development
- Compliance, Audits & Risk Mitigation
- Employee Relations & Retention Strategy
- Multi-Location & Seasonal Workforce Management
Timeline
Human Resources Consultant
Zelky’s Boardwalk Arcades
01.2025 - Current
Regional Human Resources Manager
Sims Metal Management
01.2007 - 01.2025
Regional Team Manager
DriveTime
01.2005 - 01.2007
Human Resources Manager
The Home Depot
Regional Human Resources Manager
Alcoa, Inc. (AFL Network Services)
Bachelor of Science - Psychology
Virginia Commonwealth University