From the minute Nae walked through Xenium’s doors—dressed for Halloween and meeting teammates in full costume—I knew she’d bring equal parts heart and grit to our client work. In just a few years, Nae has become a trusted guide for businesses navigating complex people challenges while keeping humanity front and center. I’m excited to share her story with you.
What’s your role at Xenium, and how long have you been here?
I’m an HR Business Partner—part account manager, part consultant—supporting clients’ people practices with thoughtful strategy. I joined on October 31, 2023, and I’ve loved every day since.
Tell us about your career path. What led you to Xenium?
Early in retail, I experienced phenomenal people practices—and some not-so-great ones. Seeing both sides lit a fire in me for equity and connection, which I pursued in college and then in HR roles. Xenium’s people-first approach and the chance to serve various industries felt like the perfect next step.
What’s your favorite part of outsourced HR compared to internal HR?
The variety and the impact. Many of my clients don’t have dedicated in-house HR, so I become their trusted partner along with all of the support teams here at Xenium. Helping small and mid-sized businesses build sustainable people practices—and seeing the ROI—keeps the work fresh and meaningful.
How has HR evolved during your career?
There’s been a cultural shift. Mental health, DEI&B, and flexible work arrangements dominate the conversation. HR is moving beyond rule enforcement into strategic, empathetic leadership—asking “How will this decision affect our people long-term?”
What challenges do you see ahead for our industry?
Balancing rising compliance demands with personalized employee experiences. Add AI, remote work, and economic uncertainty, and HR leaders must stay agile yet values-driven to keep humanity at the core of business decisions.
Share a project or accomplishment you’re proud of.
I recently guided a client through a sensitive restructuring with transparency and compassion. It was tough, but we preserved trust across the organization. I’m also proud of helping clients navigate DEI and immigration issues in today’s polarized climate.
What advice would you give someone starting a career in HR—especially outsourced HR?
Listen deeply, ask great questions, and commit to lifelong learning. A few mantras I live by: write every email as if your boss will read it, remember most people are talking about themselves, and—my favorite from a mentor—”These are the good old days.” Stay present.
Best client memory so far?
A client who began the year a little overwhelmed now feels confident enough to apply for a “Top 100 Places to Work” list. Watching that transformation—and the day they brought goats to a team meeting for culture-building fun—was unforgettable.
How do you see your role evolving, and what goals are on the horizon?
My goal is to keep creating spaces where leaders and teams reconnect with their purpose and grow stronger together. Honestly, I’m doing work I love with values that align—so right now, I’m exactly where I want to be.
What do you wish more people knew about HR?
It’s not a behind-the-scenes function. Done well, HR is strategy, culture, and genuine care for people, and centering people is often the smartest business move you can make.