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Jo Hirsimaki
Global Total Rewards, HR Operations and HR Systems
Professional Background
Jo Ann Hirsimaki is a highly accomplished Senior Human Resources Executive with over two decades of rich experience focusing on Compensation and Benefits. With an impressive track record leading multiple human resources functions, such as Executive Compensation, Global Employee Benefits, and Mobility and Relocation, Jo Ann has established herself as a prominent figure in the HR landscape. Her distinguished career includes significant expertise in project management, particularly in the sensitive areas of job evaluation and global HR operations and systems. Here, she has successfully built the infrastructure necessary for robust HRMS and HR tools, which encompass vital components like compensation, talent management and acquisition, learning, and mobility. Jo Ann has also played a pivotal role in managing Compensation and Benefits internationally, specifically for Europe and the AMEA regions, making her a valuable asset in the global marketplace.
Throughout her career, Jo Ann has showcased her adeptness in handling HR components related to the spinning off or establishment of publicly traded companies. She brings extensive experience in executive compensation, equity matters, and comprehensive benefits operations. Additionally, her notable proficiency in acquisitions and divestitures has allowed her to adeptly navigate transitions that amplify business success without compromising employee satisfaction.
Beginning her incredible journey in Human Resources, Jo Ann gained significant international exposure while serving as the Global Head of Compensation and Benefits for Novartis Consumer Health Division. During her 10-year tenure in Switzerland, she thrived in both Basel and Geneva, where she led various global business unit compensation and benefits teams. There, Jo Ann served as the Compensation & Benefits integrator and was a point of contact for the Novartis Corporate compensation and benefits team. Furthermore, her contributions as a member of the Novartis HR Leadership Team underscored her capability and influence within the organization.
Before her time at Novartis, Jo Ann honed her skills leading Global Compensation and Benefits at ACCO World Corporation for five years. She also showcased her consulting expertise at Towers Watson (formerly Watson Wyatt), where she specialized in benefits and benefit service delivery, further cementing her flexible and multifaceted approach to HR challenges.
Education and Achievements
Jo Ann's academic background includes a Bachelor of Arts in History from Northwestern University, where she developed a keen analytical mindset that effectively translates into her HR practices. This foundation has empowered her to deliver well-rounded and pragmatic business solutions that elevate the overall performance of human resources functions.
Her keen insight into global compensation and benefits has earned Jo Ann prestigious roles within major corporations. Currently, she holds the position of Vice President of Total Rewards and People Services at VF Corporation. Previously, she had an influential role as Senior Vice President of Compensation, Global Mobility, and Global HR Systems at PepsiCo. This notable experience further solidifies her expertise in developing comprehensive compensation strategies and global HR initiatives that support company objectives and enhance employee engagement and satisfaction.
Achievements
Throughout her career, Jo Ann Hirsimaki's journey has been marked by substantial milestones that underscore her contributions to the field of human resources. As a senior HR leader, she consistently delivers practical business solutions and measurable results. Jo Ann is passionate about leading culturally diverse teams, allowing her to harness the strengths and perspectives inherent in such groups, guiding them to successfully deliver outcomes aligned with organizational goals. Her strong track record for delivering continuous improvement illustrates her commitment to optimizing human resources endeavors, ensuring a high return on investment (ROI) on HR expenditures. Jo Ann's intimate understanding of the dynamics within compensation and benefits combined with her proactive leadership style makes her an indelible force in the field of human resources.
Areas of Expertise
- Global Compensation
- Executive Compensation
- Global and US Benefits
- Job Evaluation and Compensation Infrastructure
- HR Systems & Tools
- HR Operations and Shared Services
- Global Mobility and Relocation
- HR Service Delivery
- HR M&A
