Galen Gaarder

Forward-thinking HR leader with 15+ years of progressive experience, including senior HR leadership in healthcare, nonprofit, and technology-driven organizations. SHRM-SCP certified with proven expertise in organizational design, performance management, people operations, and employee engagement. Adept at balancing strategic executive advising with hands-on execution. Skilled in leveraging AI, HRIS, and analytics to drive efficiency, elevate culture, and align people strategy with business growth.

Galen Gaarder is a strategic Human Resources leader with expertise spanning employee relations, talent acquisition, performance management, organizational development, and benefits administration. With progressive HRBP and leadership experience across diverse industries—including healthcare, manufacturing, and nonprofit—Galen has guided executives and managers through workforce planning, compliance, change management, and employee engagement initiatives. Known for building trust and aligning people strategy with business goals, Galen has successfully driven improvements in retention, streamlined HR processes, and partnered with leadership teams to create inclusive, high-performing workplaces.

Galen earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in English from the University of Northern Colorado and holds the SHRM-CP certification, reflecting a strong foundation in human resources principles and best practices. With additional training in DEI, conflict resolution, and leadership development, Galen combines formal education with professional credentials to deliver well-rounded HR expertise and strategic guidance to organizations.