Office Hours: I’m the VP of People at Food52. I’m Susan Fierro. AMA!Featured

Posted in:People & HR Office Hours Startups Parenting

Hi Elphas!

I’m Susan Fierro, VP of People at Food52, Schoolhouse, and Dansk. I am a veteran People executive, with 15+ years of both tactical and strategic Human Resources experience. I've spent that time designing and leading people teams across a range of businesses and sizes to help them scale.

I'm deeply devoted to creating an environment where team members can thrive. I focus on finding the perfect combination of structure and practicality to attract and retain the most talented individuals. Connecting the right people to solve business problems is so rewarding!

During my downtime, I enjoy living in the beautiful Pacific NorthWest and exploring with my husband, son and English bulldog. Cooking, hosting and creating memorable experiences through food and hospitality for friends and family bring me joy!

Ask me anything about being a people executive, joining a start-up, mom life, creating an environment where team members can thrive, my most memorable food experience, or anything else!

ElphaStaff·Oct 21

Thanks so much for joining us @susanfierro!Elphas – please ask @susanfierro your questions before Friday, October 25th. @susanfierro may not have time to answer every questions, so emoji upvote your favorites 🔥👍🏾➕

ebuwaevbuomafike·Oct 22

Great to have you here, Susan! Your org has amazing content 😎What’s your advice for hybrid managers with remote and hybrid direct reports? What models have you seen successful with managing performance as well as supporting mobility and growth?

Iynna·Oct 22

Thank you for being with us this week, Susan! Love your background and passion for HR/people mgmt. Curious what exactly is a people executive? Is it something like a fractional head of HR/People and on paper you're not an employee of the company but more of a consultant? Sounds like a great setup either way, allowing you to experience many different environments and workplace. Looking at companies that have a stellar culture and have been able to retain great people over the years: what do you think they got right from the get go?We hear a lot about the different stories of things that don't go well but i actually want to hear the opposite :D

sophiedavies·Oct 22

Hi Susan, I would love to know how you became a people executive? Also, how would you recommend self employed professionals who want to improve culture and build community at work get a foot in the door to proof themselves at mission-driven companies?

rosalindnapoli·Oct 21

Hi @susanfierro I'd love to hear about how you manage difficult (HR) conversations with remote employees if applicable:)

Josefina·Oct 21

Hi Susan! Thank you so much for making the time. I'd love to hear about your most memorable food experience! As well as your most memorable hosting experience (if it's not the same one) :)

Iynna·Oct 22

hahah that is the most Josefina question ever, I love it :)