Deirdre Simmons, the CEO of Consulting Alma, is a highly influential figure in the field of human resources. She is a sought-after speaker, motivating coach, and strategic human resources executive with a unique perspective informed by trauma systems thinking. This unique perspective sets her apart and makes her a formidable force in the industry. She has extensive experience and competencies in human resources, operations, leadership, and tri-certifications in human resources, coaching, and facilitation.
While helping others transform chaos into clarity in their organizations, she also knows the importance of what she has termed IDEA&B (Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, Anti-Racism, and Belonging). Past seminars include Microaggressions Impacting a Woman’s Career, A Two-Part Series on How to Be an Anti-Racist Organization and Human Resources Lessons from Cardi B; she is also leading an upcoming seminar on August 6 th for the Southern Connecticut SHRM Chapter. Deirdre has shifted and improved the landscape of organizations by weaving the values of equity and integrity, which are foundational to IDEA&B, into the fabric of organization processes, including technology implementation of talent management systems to include metrics that reduce bias, a larger pool of highly qualified candidates and fairer more relevant based job descriptions. In addition, she has keynoted three STEM conferences, sat on panels, and has a certificate in Workplace Diversity.
Deirdre's academic journey is a testament to her commitment to continuous learning and professional growth. She holds a BA in Organizational Communication with minors in Management and Supervision from Purdue University and a Master of Science in Human Resource Management from the UCONN School of Business. Her background includes volunteering in youth ministry, appearing in commercials, speaking on and moderating leadership panels, and being a graduation speaker. She has previously worked at Pepsi-Cola, Ford Motor Company, Department of Homeland Security, and Bloomingdale’s.
In addition to teaching, she is a SkillCycle Coach, business owner, published author and former strategy team leader of Congregations Organized for a New Connecticut (CONECT) - a social justice organization actively working in the community on equity issues including housing, healthcare and education.
Deirdre Simmons resides in Connecticut with her husband, Reverend Chaplain Jerry Simmons.
