In the episode In The Club powered by Club Colors, join us for an engaging conversation with J’ai Brown, Vice President of Human Resources at Hub International, to share her unique career journey from aspiring physical therapist to HR leader. He recounts her initial interest in physical therapy, internships, and eventual pivot to human resources. J’ai discusses the importance of internships, career services, and networking for students, and explains how Hub International’s initiatives, including their affinity groups and onboarding process, reinforce a strong company culture and brand. He highlights her involvement with SHRM and the role it plays in the professional development of HR practitioners. J’ai also speaks about the impact of community building within the company and the various strategies employed to ensure new hires feel welcomed and valued.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Career Path Shift: Initially interested in physical therapy, J’ai transitioned to HR after internships and exposure to different fields.
• Educational Background: Attended UT Chattanooga, credits career services and internships for pivotal career guidance.
• SHRM Involvement: Active in SHRM, emphasizes the importance of networking and community building.
• Role at Hub: Leads a team in talent acquisition, advocates for effective branding and onboarding practices.
• Onboarding Strategy: Focus on consistent yet customizable experiences for new hires, leveraging both local and national resources.
• Company Mission: Hub International's mission emphasizes protecting client aspirations and empowering employees.
• Community Engagement: Active participation in community and diversity initiatives within Hub International.
• Branding Importance: Branding begins before employment and is crucial in fostering a positive company identity and culture.

QUOTES

• "It's always great to highlight those folks that are doing incredible work."
• "I'd say absolutely leverage career services or whatever equivalent department exists on your campuses."
• "Internships are really key. That probably goes without saying for a number of people, but some people never have an internship."
• "SHRM is an incredible community of HR professionals, resources, really the opportunity to develop HR practitioners at all different levels to be great business partners."
• "Community, you're able to lean on each other and help each other in those moments where you're trying to learn something."
• "Opportunity grows from the roots of adversity."
• "When you're trying to build that community, you're looking to find those peers."

Connect and learn more about J'ai Brown.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaibrown1/

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