My church staff experience began like so many other church staff stories. I started in one area of ministry and, along the way, found myself serving in many others. That path eventually led me to become the first HR Director for a rapidly growing church staff, where I built HR from the ground up with no roadmap and seemingly no one else in the space to glean from.

That experience shaped the way I understand HR in the church. I learned that getting it right matters, and that church HR cannot simply be approached by applying traditional HR practices to a ministry environment. The employee may also be a church member. A pastor's role comes with unique tax considerations. And oftentimes the right answer requires balancing accountability with grace.

After serving as an HR Director, I began working as an outside HR consultant with churches and ministries of every size and denomination. I had the opportunity to walk alongside churches through the same kinds of situations I had experienced firsthand, helping them build HR foundations, refine policies and practices, and navigate challenging employee situations.

818 People Co. began to take shape through that consulting work because I believe churches should be leading the way in both compliance and employee experience. Churches should not have to choose between doing things right and caring well for their people. They need HR that understands both.

Whether you need help getting started, refining what you already have, or simply want someone you trust to talk through a challenging situation, I am here to help.