Ms. Carlson serves as the Chief Human Resources Officer at First Foundation Bank and comes with 23 years Human Resources Management experience. Ms. Carlson has been with First Foundation from its inception in 2007 where she has held positions as VP, Human Resources Director and SVP, Human Resources Director. In her current role, Ms. Carlson heads the development, direction, and coordination of Human Resources activities, including Health Care and 401K benefits, to ensure alignment with corporate and company objectives. She is responsible for integrating human resource management strategies and recommending policies and practices responsive to federal, state, compliance, compensation, and succession planning.
Ms. Carlson’s approach to career advancement has led the company to gain organic growth in human capital through leadership and other advanced employee trainings. In her time at First Foundation, she has overseen the growth of the employee base to over 700 employees in 31 locations and integrated teams across six separate M&A deals. Ms. Carlson successfully managed and navigated the challenges presented by the unforeseen COVID-19 pandemic, demonstrating leadership in swiftly implementing telecommuting policies and strategies to ensure business continuity and employee well-being.
Prior to joining First Foundation, Ms. Carlson held the position of Vice President, Human Resources Manager of Commercial Capital Bank where she was responsible for talent management and human capital coordination of mergers and acquisitions, Workers Compensation, and employee relations.
Ms. Carlson earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Organizational Leadership from Chapman University and an Associate Degree in Legal Assisting from Saddleback College.