At John Edwards Inc, people are the foundation of success, and that foundation starts with Alicia Emmert, Director of Human Resources and Remote Recruiter. Since joining the company in April 2024, Alicia has helped strengthen the organization’s recruiting efforts and constructed a culture centered around growth, connection, and opportunity.
From Early Dreams to a Career in Recruiting
Born and raised in Erial, New Jersey, Alicia’s childhood dream was to be a marine biologist! She wanted to swim with dolphins and explore the ocean. While her career path eventually took a different direction, that same curiosity and appreciation for connection stayed with her. After earning a degree in Psychology from Kutztown University of Pennsylvania, she began her career as a recruiting intern at a marketing agency. Within months, she transitioned to a full-time position, launching what would become a decade-long career in talent acquisition and human resources.
A Career Built on Adaptability and Connection
Alicia credits her success to her ability to adjust quickly to new challenges and environments. Over the years, her career has grown into leadership, including responsibilities such as interviewing, hiring, training, development, running meetings, and managing teams. She describes herself as both independent and collaborative, motivated by high personal standards and the satisfaction of working toward shared goals.
She also attends weekly coaching sessions and best practices meetings to stay current on recruiting trends and continuously refine her approach. That dedication to growth aligns perfectly with John Edwards Inc’s commitment to professional development.
Approach to Recruiting and Team Building
What sets Alicia apart is her genuine investment in each person she connects with. She views recruiting as a relationship-driven process, not a numbers game. By taking time to understand every candidate’s goals and motivations, she ensures each experience is personal and meaningful. She looks for individuals who are eager to learn, team-oriented, and committed to professional growth—qualities that align with the culture at John Edwards Inc.
Alicia emphasizes the importance of open communication between employees and leadership, believing it’s the foundation of a healthy workplace culture. She works to create an environment where feedback flows both ways, and mutual respect drives performance.
Career Highlights and Goals
Over the past ten years, Alicia has made a lasting impact in every organization she’s been part of. At John Edwards Inc, she continues to help employees reach new professional milestones while fostering a positive, supportive culture. Her short-term goals include helping team members earn promotions and strengthen their leadership skills. Long-term, she aims to build a thriving, inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued and supported.
When reflecting on her work, Alicia shared that the human connection, networking, and meeting new people are what make this career so rewarding.
Inspiration and Lifelong Learning
Alicia credits her family, especially her mom, sister, and fiancé, as her greatest inspirations. They keep her grounded and motivated to always keep improving. Her mother’s strong work ethic continues to influence her leadership approach and her drive to create meaningful change.
She also credits a mentor early in her career who taught her the value of lifelong learning. “Be a lifelong learner,” she recalls. “Things are constantly changing, so stay open-minded and be a student, no matter how old you are.” That perspective continues to guide her work today.
With a decade of recruiting experience, a people-first mindset, and a passion for helping others succeed, Alicia Emmert plays an essential role in building the strong, supportive culture that defines John Edwards Inc.
