Real-world HR for real-world problems

Putting the human back in human resources—supporting small businesses and individuals with clear, compassionate, and compliance-smart solutions.

My Approach

At AW People Strategies, I don’t lead with jargon, and I don’t offer one-size-fits-all answers. HR affects real people, and I believe it should be clear, grounded, and—above all—human. I offer steady, strategic support that helps you navigate challenges with clarity, confidence, and care.

That means:

  • Listening first. Every client comes with a different story, and I make space to understand it before offering solutions.

  • Prioritizing clarity. Whether it’s navigating compliance, supporting your team, or thinking through a sensitive issue, I focus on what’s practical and legally sound—without the fluff.

  • Meeting you where you are. Some clients need a roadmap. Others just need a trusted partner to talk things through. Either way, I’m here to help you move forward with confidence.

  • Leading with integrity. I approach every project with care, professionalism, and a commitment to doing what’s right—not just what’s easy.

  • Building practical strategy. I help clients see the bigger picture, navigate the gray areas, and take confident, informed steps.

Whether you’re building a stronger workplace or making your next move as an individual, I’ll help you take the next step—clearly, calmly, and with real support. You don’t have to figure it out alone, and you don’t have to lose sight of your values to do it right.

Experience you can trust

  • 17+ years in retail & people leadership

    People-first operations

  • 9+ years in HR Strategy

    Trusted, informed guidance

  • Multiple HR & Leadership Certifications

    Comprehensive, people-first perspective rooted in ongoing learning

  • Recognized for leadership & integrity

    Multiple awards for culture-building and strategic support

  • Recognized by employees for trust and support

    Calm, clear, people-centered communication

Recommendations

“Working with Ashley was an absolute pleasure, and I hope I get a chance to work with her again in the future! Ashley brings a level of professionalism, warmth, and positivity that makes a real difference, especially when things get chaotic. No matter how busy or stressful things became, Ashley always remained a calm and steady presence, which helped keep the rest of us grounded.

What really stands out about Ashley is how proactive she is. She has a knack for spotting potential issues early and taking steps to prevent them before they become problems. Whether it was navigating HR policy updates, onboarding new hires, or supporting team restructures, Ashley was always several steps ahead - anticipating needs, coordinating with stakeholders, and making sure nothing slipped through the cracks.

She also did an incredible job working cross-functionally. From operations to merchandising to leadership, Ashley built strong relationships across the organization and made sure everyone felt heard and supported. Her ability to balance the needs of different teams while keeping the bigger picture in mind is truly impressive.

Above all, Ashley is a team player in every sense. She consistently went above and beyond to help her peers, always willing to jump in and lend a hand when someone needed it. She’s thoughtful, reliable, and one of those people you can always count on, both personally and professionally.”

“I am pleased to recommend Ashley. I’ve had the privilege of working alongside her and have consistently been impressed by her professionalism, empathy, and unwavering support for both individuals and teams across the organization.

She has a remarkable ability to clearly communicate HR policies and processes in a way that is not only thorough but also approachable and easy to understand. Whether navigating complex benefits questions, onboarding new employees, or providing guidance during sensitive conversations, she brings clarity, compassion, and a calm, confident presence.

What stands out most is her approachability and emotional intelligence, she listens actively, makes people feel heard, and responds with genuine care and thoughtful solutions. She builds trust naturally, creating a supportive environment where employees feel comfortable reaching out, no matter the issue.

Any organization would benefit from her ability to foster a strong and inclusive workplace culture, and her commitment to supporting both people and policy with equal care.”

"I had the pleasure of working with Ashley and can confidently say she is one of the most thoughtful, effective, and people-centered HR professionals I’ve encountered. Whether navigating complex organizational changes or supporting day-to-day team needs, Ashley brings a level of care, clarity, and professionalism that makes everyone around her feel supported and seen.

She has an incredible ability to balance empathy with strategy, always advocating for both the team and the mission. Her leadership helped foster a positive, inclusive workplace culture and guided us through key moments of growth and transition. ”

Get in Touch!

In today’s busy world, finding time can be tough. You’re welcome to email me directly or book a free 60-minute consultation—whatever works best for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • If you're a business spending more time managing people issues than actually running your operation—or you're unsure how to handle a policy, compliance, or team concern—it’s probably time to bring in help.
    If you're an individual feeling stuck at work, facing a tough decision, or unsure how to navigate something like job changes, accommodations, or conflict, I can help you sort through it with clarity and support.

  • I support both small businesses and individuals. For businesses, I offer practical HR consulting rooted in compliance, culture, and clarity. For individuals, I provide coaching, resume support, and guidance through work-related transitions.

  • For businesses: HR audits, policy development, employee relations, onboarding and offboarding, manager training, HRIS support, insurance plan setup, compliance, safety programs, performance management, training development, data analytics, and implementation of systems, tools, or processes. I also support documentation, internal communications, and ongoing strategic advising for teams without in-house HR.

    For individuals: resume feedback, interview coaching, job search strategy, workplace guidance, and support navigating ADA, FMLA, and other federal or state programs and protections.

    Don’t see what you’re looking for? Just ask. I’m happy to talk through your situation and see how I can help.

  • I don’t offer off-the-shelf templates or corporate jargon. My work is grounded in values, shaped by real-world experience, and always aligned with what actually works—for people and for the business.

  • Yes. I offer free 60-minute consultation so we can talk through what you're looking for and make sure it's a good match—no pressure, no pitch.

  • For individuals, I offer tiered and pay-what-you-can pricing. For businesses, I offer project-based and hourly packages depending on your goals. We’ll talk about your needs before we talk about pricing.

  • Both. Some clients come to me for help with a specific need—like building a handbook, resolving a people issue, or setting up compliant systems. Others want an ongoing partner. We’ll shape the support to fit you.

  • Yes. If something urgent comes up—whether it’s a workplace concern, policy question, or tough conversation—I’ll do my best to make time quickly.

  • Yes. Whether you're an individual or a business, I treat all conversations and materials as strictly confidential. I also take cybersecurity seriously—I use encrypted email, password protection, and VPN-secured access to safeguard client information. Your trust is never taken for granted.

  • Yes. I often partner with in-house HR or operations teams to support specific projects, provide an outside perspective, or help build capacity when bandwidth is tight. I can also help with developing and mentoring existing HR teams.