Kim Saka

Vice President of Human Resources at American Osteopathic Association

Greater Chicago Area

About

Strategic, versatile Human Resources leader and trusted business advisor with 15+ years of experience designing/delivering integrated HR programs, competitive and strategically-aligned executive and employee compensation programs, building strong relationships with key stakeholders and executing in support of key priorities. Expertise includes strategic planning; benefits creation, implementation, administration & compliance (DB, DC and H&W); compensation oversight; collective bargaining agreements, negotiations & ensuring managers’ subsequent compliance; staff engagement; diversity, equity, inclusion; professional development & coaching; risk management and HR compliance; and best practices development/adoption. Collaborative mindset, excellent analytical, communication and inter-personal skills. As HR Director at The Union League Club of Chicago, provide overall HR leadership, serve as de facto Benefits Director & improve/monitor & report on HR compliance issues. Enhanced Department’s effectiveness & forward-thinking spirit. An integral member of the leadership team, implemented initiatives & supported the Organization’s growth & culture. Achieved low employee turnover rate; contributed to employees’ improved performance & increased work commitment/focus. Vital in developing/ encouraging Organization’s culture & increased cohesiveness by assisting in the development/implementation of the Union League Club’s Standards, Core Values, Mission and Vision. Develop/ administer all employee benefits, DC, DB (retirement pensions), Health and Welfare (H&W) plans, and all compliance monitoring with federal, state/city ordinances. Lead all union agreements and negotiations. Before, as Assistant HR Director, the Ritz-Carlton Chicago (600 union/non-union employees) led execution of all HR functions & created a training program for managing in a union environment. Started career Brooks Brothers in NY, held progressive HR roles. BA from the Illinois Benedictine College.

Experience

  • Vice President of Human Resources at American Osteopathic Association
    Jun 2021 - Present · 5 yrs 1 mo

  • Director of Human Resources at The Union League Club of Chicago
    Jun 2005 - May 2021 · 16 yrs

  • Asst. Director of Human Resources at The Ritz-Carlton Chicago
    2000 - 2005 · 5 yrs