In this enlightening interview, Shastina Young shares her extensive career path and experiences at Xenium HR. With a decade-long tenure as a Client Development Manager, She offers unique insights into her professional development, challenges, and the evolving dynamics in the HR and payroll services industry. Read her story, highlighting key milestones and the impact of her role in Client Development.
Can you start by telling us about your role and how long you’ve been with Xenium HR?
My role as a Client Development Manager began on March 31st, 2014. It’s incredible to think that 10 whole years have passed, it’s been a thrilling ride!
How did you begin your career and eventually end up at Xenium HR?
My journey began more than 22 years ago when I started as a temporary Front Desk Assistant at the Milwaukie, OR Express Employment Professionals office, the summer before college graduation. After graduation, I was hired internally to work as a Staffing Consultant, which kicked off my career in helping people find jobs and bridging connections between clients and employees.
Can you describe your path into leadership?
I quickly moved into leadership roles thanks to the support and development opportunities provided by the franchise owners (at the time), Lynn & Richard Yoerk. This led to managing more significant responsibilities, learning the ins and outs of the business, and eventually managing my own team at a new branch, setting the stage for becoming a franchise owner.
What motivated you to transition to Xenium HR?
After building lasting relationships at my previous company, an opportunity arose with Xenium HR that aligned with my passion for growing businesses and nurturing client relationships. It was a chance to work with a different audience while still utilizing my matchmaking skills to drive business solutions.
What is your role as a Client Development Manager?
My role is quite dynamic and involves understanding each client’s unique needs and aligning our internal team to deliver tailored solutions. It’s about creating meaningful partnerships and ensuring we meet client expectations from a strategic and operational standpoint.
You’re actively involved in diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives at Xenium HR. Can you tell us more about that?
Xenium’s DEI committee started in April 2019 with a small group of employees including myself. Since 2022, I’ve chaired our DEI committee and am a member of the Invest in Our People subcommittee that focuses on training and development. Our XenConnex learning sessions, for instance, are monthly virtual meetings where we discuss various topics to promote and foster an environment of respect, equity, and belonging within our organization.
Looking back, what are you most proud of in your career?
I’m proud of my role in expanding our professional network through partnerships and leading initiatives that significantly impact our community and business practices. I’ve really enjoyed building relationships and being heavily involved in Financial Executives International Group (FEI) Portland Chapter.
Could you share a memorable experience with a Xenium HR client?
There are several standout moments, but some key highlights include partnering with influential community organizations like Campfire, Latino Network, POIC+RAHS and Hacienda CDC. These partnerships were personally fulfilling and significantly contributed to my growth as a Client Development Manager. Additionally, bringing on ten payroll+HR accounts at the beginning of this year, including Xenium HR’s largest client, marked a major milestone in my career, underscoring moments where I felt incredibly fortunate.
What advice would you give to someone just starting in this field?
Stay open and flexible to new opportunities. Even unexpected paths can lead to fulfilling careers. It’s essential to be adaptable and eager to learn.
What do you enjoy most about working at Xenium HR?
It’s definitely the people. We have a fantastic team, and we continually try innovative ways to engage and support each other, whether through remote work strategies or fun activities that strengthen our community.