Michelle Hansen, a seasoned HR Business Partner at Xenium HR, reflects on her six years with the company, her career journey, and the fulfilling work she does every day. In this interview, Michelle shares insights into her path to HR, her favorite aspects of outsourced HR, and the challenges and opportunities in the field.
What is your role at Xenium, and how long have you worked here?
I am an HR Business Partner. I’ve worked at Xenium for six years and in my current role for a little over three years.
What did you do before your HRBP role?
I was an onsite HR Generalist at a Xenium client.
Tell me a little bit about your HR career progression.
I always say that I stumbled into HR. I was in customer service at Fred Meyer’s main office when I saw a posting for an executive assistant position in the HR department. I applied, got the job, and became fascinated by the team’s work. I learned as much as possible in that role, leading me to an HR Manager position at two different stores. After three years, I joined Xenium.
What’s your favorite part about working for an outsourced HR and payroll firm?
I love the exposure to the variety of businesses in our community. Small businesses are the lifeblood of our city, and it’s fascinating to see the unique industries, products, and services that people don’t often think about but are critical to making everything run. It’s truly inspiring.
What has changed over the years in your experience in the field of HR?
So much! Leave of absence processes have become far more complex, especially with employees working in multiple states. Managing compliance across different state laws while maintaining fairness can be a real challenge. Remote work has also changed everything—there’s far less paper now, which is nice. The constant evolution in HR keeps it exciting.
What challenges do you see facing the HR industry in the near and long term?
Compliance will grow more complicated, with state legislatures passing unique laws. AI presents challenges and opportunities, so we must stay mindful of its potential. Additionally, with multiple generations working together as people delay retirement, managing different work styles and expectations will be an ongoing challenge for leaders.
Can you tell me about a project or accomplishment you’re particularly proud of?
I’m proud of so much at Xenium, but earning my Senior Certified Professional certification stands out. Xenium’s support was instrumental—I even joined a study group here that made a big difference. I’m also proud of the daily projects we do for clients, like creating handbooks that reflect a company’s culture or helping clients act on feedback from our annual “What People Want From Work” survey. Seeing those plans improve companies is incredibly rewarding.
You’ve participated in the Xenium Culture Inclusion Team Enhancement (XCITE) committee for years. What does that group mean to you?
XCITE is all about making work fun and engaging for our employees. We plan activities, celebrations, and events that bring people together, whether it’s a baby shower, a party, or fun icebreakers for meetings. It’s about building a culture where collaboration and fun thrive. I took a year off, but I’m excited to rejoin in January!
What advice would you give to someone just starting in HR?
Find a mentor—someone experienced who can share stories and guide you. Internal HR can feel isolating, so connecting with your local SHRM chapter or other HR professionals is essential. Having a support system to bounce ideas off of and share best practices makes all the difference in this challenging but rewarding field.
Can you share a client memory that stands out?
One challenging memory was helping a client through a complex termination. The leader was nervous, but we prepared, role-played, and planned the conversation. They handled it beautifully, and seeing them navigate such a complex situation was rewarding. On the lighter side, I once attended a client’s big team event on a weekend after they invited me during a regular check-in meeting. It was special to feel like part of their team.
How do you see your role evolving in the future, and what are your goals?
I want to go as far as Xenium will let me! I aim to keep growing and advancing. I’d love to lead people one day and help guide this amazing company I love so much.
What do you wish more people knew about working in HR, especially outsourced HR?
Outsourced HR is incredible. Unlike internal HR, you get to be part of a supportive community of professionals all working toward a common goal. HR is rewarding work—helping people through challenging situations, providing resources, and even being a teacher or counselor some days. I stumbled into a great career and hope more people discover it, too.