David started DH HR Consulting in 2015 to turn his unique passion for HR infrastructure, people strategies and people programs into a full-time consulting company.
Starting in 2020, David helped numerous small businesses retain key employees and adjust workplace expectations (policies, total rewards and compensation, remote work expectations, wellness programming and benefits, the post COVID-19 employee experience) to navigate through the turbulence and ongoing uncertainty of how to best maneuver during and post pandemic. The need to reset expectations and ‘get back to basics’ during COVID presented an overwhelming set of challenges for employers, but perhaps the least prepared to respond were small companies without dedicated People Operations and Talent Teams. Founders and CEOs of small businesses needed an experienced partner to help them reconsider, re-evaluate and revise their People practices.
David views challenges as opportunities and worked with many clients from small start-ups, hospitality & events, public relations, consulting and professional services not only to manage the challenges but also to mine the new opportunities.
Previously, David served as the global head of Human Resources for IES Abroad, a nationally recognized non-profit study abroad organization for over 10 years. As Head of Human Resources, David turned a paper-based, US-centric HR function into a fully global, systems-driven HR department, pivoting to a focus on people. Key to the success of this change was a rich understanding of – and passion for – HR systems. In 2008 - 2011 when many companies were downsizing, David focused on adding new HR tools and systems to automate and streamline recruiting, performance management, employee record-keeping, benefits administration and payroll functions. The tools and systems he implemented allowed the organization to monitor and forecast staffing levels and associated costs (benefits, taxes, etc.) thereby allowing the company to grow and expand during a turbulent financial crisis.
David’s clients find him as an extension of their teams, offering a collaborative and unique approach to his consulting practice.
David holds a bachelor’s degree in communication from Michigan State University, with emphasis in both mediated & interpersonal communication. David lives in the Edgewater Glen neighborhood of Chicago with his partner, Andy, and their dog, Mack.
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