Five Minutes with Elizabeth Flaherty
We sat down with MKSK’s HR Director, Elizabeth Flaherty to learn more about what drives her passion for people.
What attracted you to the field of Human Resources?
I initially got into Human Resources because I was interested in how businesses operate but also really valued interpersonal relationships. I have always enjoyed looking at business through the eyes of the employee. As my career has progressed, my passion for making a happy and healthy workplace has only deepened. I understand how fulfilled and motivated employees can dramatically improve the bottom line for a business, and I love having the opportunity to connect with all levels of an organization to ensure everyone is operating at a high level.
What experiences have shaped your professional approach to HR?
Before my time at MKSK, I spent the first 21 years of my career with one company, InnoSource. That experience provided me so much. I was the first employee hired to help start up the corporate office, thus had a high level of responsibility placed on my shoulders at a young age. As a result, I poured my heart and soul into seeing that we were successful. Throughout my time there, I learned what it meant to be a good recruiter, how to effectively manage employee issues, and ultimately, what it really meant to be a leader. InnoSource is a recruiting and HR consulting company, so I had the opportunity to partner with many fantastic clients over my 21 years, many of whom I consider friends today. Being in the HR consulting world gave me the gift of perspective, and insights into many ways businesses handle personnel related issues.
I am so happy to have found MKSK and am grateful to work with a company that values the whole employee, and one that redefine what it means to have a sense of belonging and safety in the workplace. We have a shared commitment and dedication to DEI practices. At MKSK, we are not only doing great things in our communities but within our own teams. That deeply resonates with me, and I can’t wait to see what the future holds for all of us.
In 2024, I begin my term on the Advisory Board for Ashland University’s Women in Leadership Program. I am so excited to help shape the program and serve as a mentor to other women who are facing some of the same challenges I faced throughout my career.
I’m not only an HR professional however, my most rewarding job is being a mother to two fantastic teenagers who keep me humble and laughing, and a wife to my husband of 19 years. Being a mom and wife taught me about compromise, listening, and patience. All critical skills I’ve put to use throughout my career.
Elizabeth has over 20 years of diversified Human Resource experience and practical knowledge with a specialty in talent acquisition and building strong teams. With a passion for helping people become the best version of themselves, Elizabeth is a committed leader who believes that focusing on personal and career development is a necessary cornerstone of a successful business.