Katie Laven

Without data, you're just another person with an opinion.

W. Edwards Deming

No two organizations are exactly alike, and that's what I enjoy most about my work. I love partnering with leaders to untangle complex people and pay challenges, build practical solutions, and create processes that make work easier for everyone involved. Human resources touches every part of an organization, which means there is always something new to learn and an opportunity to make a meaningful impact. Helping organizations find thoughtful, data-driven solutions that fit their unique culture is what motivates me every day.

Expertise

With more than 15 years of experience in human resources and compensation, Katie partners with organizations to develop competitive, equitable, and sustainable compensation programs that support their business goals. Her expertise includes market pricing, salary structure design, job evaluation, FLSA classification, internal equity analysis, and compensation strategy for organizations of varying sizes across both public and private sectors in union and non-union environments. Katie's broad HR background, including benefits, payroll, employee relations, workforce planning, talent acquisition, compliance, HR technology, and project management, allows her to look beyond the numbers and provide practical, well-rounded recommendations. She is known for her analytical, collaborative, and process-driven approach, leveraging data, technology, and continuous improvement to simplify complex challenges and help organizations make informed, confident decisions.

Key Accomplishments

• Advised leaders through complex employee relations matters, including investigations, performance management, corrective actions, reductions in force, and terminations.
• Led strategic HR initiatives, including the implementation of a new 401(k) vendor and the successful administration of a $200,000 workforce training grant in partnership with a local university.
• Partnered with public and private organizations to deliver strategic compensation solutions, including market pricing, salary structure design, job evaluations, and data-driven recommendations that supported competitive, equitable, and compliant pay practices.

Education

• Master’s degree in Public Administration from Minnesota State University, Mankato, MN
• Bachelor’s degree in Political Science from Minnesota State University, Mankato, MN

Professional and Community Activities

Katie is a member of SHRM, World at Work, and Twin Cities Compensation Network.