ABOUT US
Recognized by Inc. Magazine as one of America’s fastest growing private companies for the past two years, we are a team of HR, Payroll, Compliance, and Recruiting experts with multi-industry and multi-state experience.
HR Pals is a strategic human resources partner to organizations across the country, providing experienced, hands-on HR expertise and operational support without the need to build a full internal HR department. Acting as an extension of leadership teams, HR Pals helps organizations strengthen people practices, maintain compliance, and manage day-to-day HR operations. This embedded approach provides companies with access to seasoned HR leadership while allowing management teams to remain focused on running and growing their businesses.
Our most popular solutions include:
- The Virtual HR Department. Sometimes paired with an internal resource who needs help, this solution feels similar to having your own in-house HR department, but at a lower cost.
- Recruiting Services. We replace expensive headhunters and the “Post & Pray” method of finding talent, with a unique recruiting fee structure
- Payroll Management. We manage and process your payroll.
Jamie Yang
Co-founder & Managing Partner
Jamie’s career started as an entrepreneur and small business owner over 25 years ago, when she took her savings and bought a struggling restaurant. After turning the business around, Jamie went on to run a doughnut shop, a flower shop and a video store. After getting her Bachelor’s degree in HR from Cal Poly University, Pomona, Jamie embarked on her career in HR starting out at an HR outsourcing firm that catered to small businesses and professional services firms. Following that assignment, Jamie worked as an HR Generalist in manufacturing before moving to Vivendi Universal as the HR Manager for the Games Division. Following Vivendi, Jamie was recruited to Public Storage (an $8 billion real estate management company) as their Employee Relations Manager before being promoted to Compliance Officer. From there, Jamie moved on to key HR leadership roles at Scripps Networks (Parent Company of The Food Network) and TBA Global, a 350 employee marketing firm. Jamie also spent time at AECOM Technology and Verengo Solar in key leadership roles. Jamie is fluent in Mandarin and Cantonese.
Rob shneer
Co-founder & Managing Partner
Rob has over 25 years of Human Resources and Recruiting experience in mid-sized fast-growing companies, large global corporations, and small privately held businesses. Prior to co-founding HR Pals, Rob was a Senior HR Executive for a rapid-growth solar energy business where he built a recruiting function that filled over 100 positions per month. Earlier in his career, Rob spent several years as the VP of HR at MedAssets, a 3,000 employee healthcare services and technology company, where he oversaw 600% growth in the Company’s employee population and helped guide the Company through several acquisitions and its IPO process. His additional experience includes five years as an HR leader at EarthLink during the dot.com era, Fortune 500 experience at Toyota and AECOM Technology, and head of HR for a 150 employee privately-held software company. Rob holds a Bachelors in Psychology from UC Berkeley and a Masters from the Anderson School of Management at UCLA. He has also been certified as a Senior Professional in Human Resources since 2001.
The Pals Team
ADRIAN RUIZ
Senior Human Resources Generalist
Adrian is a bilingual HR professional that brings 12+ years of experience to the HR Pals team. Prior to joining Pals, he worked as an HR Generalist at LA Times, where he provided HR support for over 400 union and non-union employees. In is current role, Adrian is responsible for employee relations, compliance, employee benefits, leave of absence, workers compensation, and payroll. Adrian is working towards a Bachelors in Business with a focus in Human Resouces Managment from University of Phoenix.
ADRIANA BLAKE
Senior Human Resources Director
In her current role as Senior HR Director, Adriana is responsible for leading a team of HR professionals who manage the entire employee life-cycle for our clients, including onboarding, HR compliance, employee relations, benefits, and performance management. Prior to HR Pals, Adriana managed a highly successful 10-person recruiting team in the renewable energy industry. Adriana holds a Bachelors in Communications from CSU, Long Beach, is a Certified Professional in Human Resources (PHR), and holds the Fundamental Payroll Certification (FPC) designation.
ALEXA MILLER
Human Resources Coordinator
Alexa brings experience in recruiting, human resources, and customer service to the HR Pals team. Prior to joining Pals, Alexa worked as a Technical Recruiter, sourcing top talent and supporting HR functions like onboarding and internal communication. She also has experience in the hospitality industry, where she developed strong client relations, multitasking, and administrative skills. Alexa’s background has strengthened her passion for people operations and her ability to adapt in fast-paced environments. Alexa holds a Bachelors in Psychology from Arizona State University.
ALISSA HICKS
Recruiter
Alissa brings a strong background in talent acquisition to the team. Prior to joining Pals, she recruited for several years at a major staffing agency where she was quickly promoted to Branch Manager. Alissa possesses recruiting experience across a wide variety of job functions, including Human Resources, Finance, Manufacturing, Production, and others. In addition, Alissa has prior experience in social work, where she develop exceptional interpersonal communication and interviewing skills. Alissa holds a Bachelors in Social Work from Southern Illinois University.
AMANDA HAMPTON
Senior Recruiter
Amanda is an experienced recruiting and HR professional who manages leadership, finance, HR, skilled trades, and technology searches for the Company. Prior to Recruiting Pals, Amanda worked for several years as a Recruiter and HR Manager in the staffing industry. Most recently she worked as a full life cycle Recruiter at Strategic Solutions where she sourced, interviewed, and placed candidates with clients across a variety of industries. Amanda holds a Bachelors in Business Administration from Stevens Institute of Business & Arts.
ANDREA ALVAREZ-KEATING
Human Resources Specialist
Andrea is a bilingual recruiting and HR professional with over 8 years of experience in talent acquisition. Prior to joining the team, Andrea worked as a Talent Acquisition Partner in London, where she partnered with clients in a variety of industries including FinTech, SaaS, Operations, Sales, and Security. Andrea holds a Bachelors in Psychology from University of Georgia, a Masters in Industrial/Organizational Psychology from Radford University, and is PHR certified.
ATZIN RODRIGUEZ
Payroll Specialist
Atzin brings 10+ years of payroll experience to the team. Prior to joining Pals, he ensured compliant, accurate, and timely payroll processing for a wide range of companies from small business to large corporations. Atzin has performed in-house payroll functions and possesses a strong understanding of payroll regulations and best practices, including experience with Professional Employer Organization compliance. Atzin holds two Associates in Business and Social and Behavioral Sciences from Citrus College.
BRIANNA GUTIERREZ
Senior Human Resources Generalist
Brianna is a bilingual HR Generalist who joined HR Pals in 2021. Prior to joining the team, Brianna worked in customer service and as an Administrative Specialist in the financial services industry. In addition, Brianna has volunteered in her community, translating documentation for non-English speakers. In her role, she utilizes her sharp organizational skills in the delivery of new hire onboarding, benefits administration, and HR administration. Brianna holds her Bachelors in Public Policy from the University of California, Riverside.
CARMEN YANG
Human Resources Manager
Carmen first joined HR Pals in 2016 while working on her Bachelor’s degree. After spending three years working in payroll, customer service, and HR Generalist roles in the construction and fitness industries, Carmen returned to the Company in 2020. In her role as HR Manager, Carmen supports her clients across the areas of payroll, new hire onboarding, benefits, and HR administration. Carmen holds a Bachelors in Business Administration with a concentration in HR from the University of La Verne.
CELESTE ALVAREZ
Human Resources Generalist
Celeste is a bilingual HR professional that brings 5+ years of experience in administration, employee onboarding, and process improvement to the HR Pals team. Prior to joining Pals, Celeste was an HR Technician II for a local county, where she collaborated closely with HR teams, stakeholders, and clients to align onboarding processes with policies and procedures, as well as create a positive and inclusive work environment. Celeste holds a Masters in Healthcare Administration with a concentration in Financial Management from the University of La Verne.
CIARA VALENCIA
Human Resources Generalist
Ciara joined HR Pals in 2022. She brings 4+ years of experience working in Human Resources and Customer Success. In her most recent role as an HR Coordinator at La Jolla Beach & Tennis Club, Inc., Ciara was handling all recruitment and new hire onboarding, employee relations, and HR administration for over 500 employees. Her attention to detail, enthusiasm to learn, and ability to multitask make her a great addition to the team. Ciara holds a Bachelors of Arts in Political Science and a minor in Psychology from the University of Arizona.
Eddie Miller
Human Resources Manager
ELIZABETH MCMAHON
Human Resources Coordinator
Lizzy brings several years of teaching, building & event management, and graphic design experience to the HR Pals team. Prior to joining Pals, Elizabeth worked as a Graphic Designer where she maintained close relationships with clients. Elizabeth’s prior experience of managing accounts, social media, and brand development has helped her become an effective communicator, organizer, and pushed her desire to help others achieve their goals. Elizabeth holds a Bachelors in Graphic Design from DePaul University.
ERIKA ROMERO
Senior Human Resources Director
Erika is a bilingual Senior HR Director with 7+ years of well-rounded HR experience. In her current capacity, she is responsible for leading a team of professionals who manage all aspects of HR including employee relations, employment policies and practices, compliance, benefits administration, and workers’ comp. Prior to HR Pals, Erika worked in the residential solar industry and was promoted numerous times during her tenure. Erika holds a Bachelors in Political Science from UC Irvine, is a Certified Professional in Human Resources (PHR), and holds the Fundamental Payroll Certification (FPC) designation.
ERIN O'CONNOR-STAUDT
Senior Human Resources Generalist
Prior to joining HR Pals, Erin worked as an educator for 7+ years. In her most recent position as Department Chairperson, she led recruiting, onboarding, and performance management for her organization. In her current role as HR Generalist, Erin supports clients with new hire onboarding, benefits administration, employee relations, HRIS administration and day-to-day HR operations. Erin is fluent in Spanish, and holds a Bachelors in Communication & Hispanic Studies from the University of Illinois, Chicago and a Masters in Teaching from North Park University.
GABRIELA ROMERO
Senior Human Resources Generalist
Gabriela joined HR Pals in 2020 and has been promoted multiple times. Prior to joining the Company, Gabriela spent two years working in customer service, recruiting, and education. Most recently she worked with the Raíces Center, a non-profit dedicated to increasing the enrollment of Latinx students into institutions of higher education. In her current role, Gabriela is responsible for employee relations, compliance, employee benefits, and payroll. Gabriela holds a Bachelors in Media Studies from the University of California, Berkeley.
HEATHER MAGNUSON
Human Resources Coordinator
Heather brings a deep passion for helping people to every aspect of her work. With over seven years of experience in the non-profit sector, she has developed a strong foundation in service-oriented roles that naturally led her to the field of Human Resources. In HR, Heather has found the perfect intersection of her strengths—attention to detail, empathy, and a commitment to supporting others. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Biola University.
HILLARY TAVERA
Human Resources Coordinator
Hillary is a bilingual professional with experience in admissions coordination, operations, and client services. Prior to joining HR Pals, Hillary was an Admissions Coordinator, where she managed applicant tracking, facilitated student contracts, and collaborated across multiple departments to streamline operations and improve efficiency. She also has experience in front-line operations, overseeing guest accommodations, assisting with hiring processes, and training new team members. Hillary holds a Bachelors in Psychology from University of California, Los Angeles.
ITZELL ORDUNA
Human Resources Coordinator
Itzell is a bilingual HR professional that brings experience in administration and employee onboarding to the team. Prior to joining Pals, Itzell served as an HR Assistant at a private school, where she coordinated onboarding processes and provided ongoing HR support to staff and administrators. Her experience has equipped her with strong communication, conflict resolution, and relationship-building abilities. Itzell holds a Bachelors in Communications and a DRPA Mediator Certificate from California State University, Long Beach.
IVY LO
Senior Human Resources Generalist
Ivy joined Pals in 2021 and serves as a Human Resources Generalist for multiple clients across multiple states. In her position, Ivy handles benefits administration, new hire onboarding, payroll preparation, HR compliance, employee relations, and Human Resources administration. Prior to joining Pals, Ivy worked in customer service at a major e-Commerce Company, along with positions in event planning and retail. Ivy holds her Bachelors in Sociology from the University of California at Riverside.
JINNIE NICHOLS
Senior Payroll Specialist
Jinnie brings 7+ years of payroll experience to the Pals Team. Most recently she worked as the Lead Payroll Specialist at a mid-sized public accounting firm serving clients across a variety of industries. She brings with her a wealth of experience to our clients in: full-service payroll, quarterly/year-end reporting, certified payroll, workers’ compensation reporting and auditing, new hire reporting, garnishments, and other areas of payroll expertise. Jinnie earned her Certified Payroll Specialist certification in 2018.
KELLY SCANLON
Human Resources Generalist
Kelly brings several years of experience to the HR Pals team. Prior to joining Pals, Kelly was an HR Assistant Manager for a door manufacturing company, where she gained valuable experience in payroll processing, handling employee files, and employee onboarding. Kelly’s diverse background also includes elementary and middle school teaching. Kelly holds a Bachelors in Health Science from Northern Illinois University and a Masters in Elementary Education from Western Governors University.
KELSEY HERCHENBACH
Senior Human Resources Director
Kelsey brings 10+ years of in-house Human Resources experience from several different industries including retail, insurance, finance, and fitness. Prior to joining Pals, she was the HR Manager at Orangetheory Fitness. She has deep experience in many areas within HR, including: employee relations, employee onboarding and offboarding, payroll administration, employee benefits, compensation, and workers’ comp. Kelsey holds a Bachelors in Exercise Science from Eastern Illinois University and a SHRM-CP Certification.
LUCY SANCHEZ
Senior Human Resources Generalist
As a bilingual HR Generalist, Lucy brings 10+ years of experience to the Pals team, including benefits and payroll administration, leaves of absences, new hire onboarding, and training. Prior to joining Pals, Lucy worked in HR for a major promotional items company. Her earlier career experience includes HR and Payroll experience in the healthcare, financial services, and food industries where she developed elite organizational skills and a strong customer focus. Lucy holds her Bachelors in HR Management from Cal State University, Los Angeles.
MARIANA LIEURANCE
Senior Human Resources Generalist
Mariana joined HR Pals as a creative, meticulous, and energetic bilingual HR Generalist. Prior to joining the team, Mariana worked in the construction industry as an Human Resources Administrator where she provided ongoing HR support to over 1,000 employees. Mariana’s experience includes new hire onboarding, employee benefits, safety training, payroll and HR administration, and 401K enrollment assistance. Mariana holds a Bachelors in Criminal Justice from Georgia State University.
MARIANA VERA
Human Resources Generalist
Mariana is a dedicated HR professional with a passion for fostering a positive workplace culture, creating an inclusive work environment, and facilitating employee development. With 9+ years of experience in HR operations, she’s played a key role in managing and building high-performing teams in various industries including aerospace manufacturing and healthcare. Mariana holds a Bachelors in Business with a focus in Human Resources Management from University of Phoenix.
MICHELLE KENNEDY
Recruiter
Michelle has 7+ years of recruiting experience in various fields, including IT, Finance, Sales and Customer Service for major clients such as Wells Fargo, Purina, and World Wide Technology. She has led many large hiring projects, including building out entire teams, while maintaining healthy client and candidate relationships. In addition to her recruiting experience, she has assisted with resume writing and career coaching throughout her career. Michelle holds a Bachelors in Communications and Public Relations from the University of Missouri – St. Louis.
MORGAN VIS
Human Resources Coordinator
Morgan brings 5+ years of customer service, sales, and leadership experience to the Pals team. Most recently, she worked in the event industry as an Event Specialist where she developed her passion for helping others. Her previous work experience has led her to the HR industry and has helped enhance her attention to detail, ability to multitask, and enthusiasm to learn. Morgan earned her Bachelors in Business Administration from Colorado Christian University.
NICOLE COZZA
Human Resources coordinator
Nicole brings several years of experience in customer service and leadership to the Pals team. Before joining Pals, she held key roles in dynamic, customer-facing settings where she developed strong team coordination, conflict resolution, and client support skills. Her background has deepened her interest in understanding human behavior, supporting others, and fostering high-performing teams. Nicole holds a Bachelors in Psychology and Fine Arts from California State University Channel Islands.
NORA SERINO
Human Resources coordinator
Nora brings 7+ years of experience in recruiting coordination, customer service, and multimedia production to the HR Pals team. Before joining Pals, she supported hiring initiatives, provided customer support in the healthcare industry, and produced livestream broadcasts for television. She specializes in clear communication, process efficiency, and precise deliverables. Nora holds a Bachelors in Film from Seattle University and a Bachelors in Business Administration (Human Resource Management) from Colorado Technical University.
PATRICIA SHIH
Human Resources Manager
Patricia joined the Company in 2018 and serves as a Senior HR Generalist. Patricia brings a diverse background to Pals, including several years as a news editor for network TV, a language instructor, and a sales consultant. These experiences have helped her develop strong client management, communication, and analytical skills which serve her well in both HR and recruiting. Patricia holds a BA in Communications from UMass Amherst, and a Masters in Media Studies from the University of Sussex in the UK.
RAVEENA BHAKTA
Senior Human Resources Manager
Raveena is a trilingual HR Manager with a strong professional and educational background. Prior to joining Pals, Raveena wore multiple hats, including HR Manager, in the Hospitality industry and has payroll experience working for a large human capital management firm. Her current functions include employee relations, compliance, benefits, and employee engagement. Raveena holds a Bachelors in Business Administration-Finance and a Masters in Business Administration from Cal State University at Bakersfield.
RUTHANNE MARIN
Human Resources Coordinator
Ruth is a bilingual human resources professional with 7+ years of hands-on experience in human resources roles such as employee onboarding, offboarding, payroll, and benefits. Prior to joining the team, her career began in the staffing industry and later transitioned into the telecom industry, which helped refine her critical thinking, communication, and time management skills. Ruth holds an HR Management Certificate from Cal State University, Fullerton and Associates in Communications from Santa Ana College.
SARAH KNIGHT
Senior Human Resources Manager
Sarah brings several years of Human Resource and customer service experience to the Pals team. Prior to joining the team, Sarah was the HR Manager for a manufacturing company where she led the HR function including the development of policies and procedures, improvement of employee retention practices, management of payroll, and oversight of HR Operations. Sarah also has expertise in leadership development and employee relations. Sarah holds a Bachelor’s in HR Management from Colorado State University Global.
SUZANNE PARTEE
Recruiter
Suzanne brings over 10 years of recruiting experience to the HR Pals team. Before joining Pals, she performed high volume recruiting and sourcing for retail and merchandising, as well as full cycle recruiting for technology and manufacturing. Prior to her recruiting career, Suzanne worked in banking, social work, and retail where she developed flexibility, patience, and adaptability. Suzanne holds a Bachelors in Psychology and Dance from the University of Akron.
SYA GALATY
Human Resources Coordinator
Sya brings several years of experience in customer service, leadership, and team training to the HR Pals team. Prior to joining Pals, she held lead roles in fast-paced customer-facing environments, where she developed strong skills in team development, conflict resolution, and client satisfaction. Her background has fueled her passion for understanding human behavior, supporting people, and building high-performance teams. Sya holds a Bachelors in Sociology from Cal State Northridge.
TANNOR JOHNSTON
Human Resources Generalist
Prior to joining HR Pals, Tannor spent 2+ years in recruitment, sales, administration, and customer service. Most recently, Tannor worked for a retail organization, where she enhanced and executed onboarding, employee development, policy implementation, and documentation processes. Her previous work experience has helped to amplify her strong interpersonal skills, attention to detail, and creative problem solving. Tannor holds a Bachelors in Business Administration, concentrating in HR Management, from California State University, Fullerton.
TIMOTHY CENTOFANTI
Payroll Specialist
Timothy is an experienced payroll professional who has successfully handled internal payroll for several companies as well as provided expert services within the Professional Employer Organization industry. Timothy’s experience spans across a variety of payroll functions, including processing multi-state payroll, ensuring compliance with tax regulations, benefits administration, and troubleshooting complex payroll issues. He has a proven track record of delivering accurate and timely payroll services while maintaining a keen eye for detail and upholding the highest standards of compliance.
VANESSA MOYA
Senior Human Resources Generalist
Vanessa Moya joined the HR Pals family in 2021 and serves as an Human Resources Generalist. Before joining the team, Vanessa worked in the Construction industry as a HR and Payroll Administrator, where she her passion for human resources sparked. In her position as HR Coordinator, she leverages her strong detail orientation and communication skills in the delivery of new hire onboarding, benefits, and HR administration for her clients. Vanessa earned her Bachelors of Science in Business Administration from the University of California Riverside.
VIVIAN TOMA
Senior Human Resources Manager
Vivian is a seasoned HR professional with over two decades of hands on experience in a variety of industries. Throughout her career, she earned a reputation for building and optimizing HR infrastructure, guiding organizations through complex challenges, and delivering strategic HR solutions that align with business goals. She’s known for her ability to foster strong organization cultures with a focus on integrity, innovation, and operational excellence. Vivian holds a certification in HR Management from San Diego State University.
Industries Served
