Joann Lee Wagner

Joann is an accomplished HR executive and coach with over 20 years of experience in creating transformative workplaces. She has a proven track record of leading organizations through pivotal moments of change, including mergers and acquisitions, executive transitions, re-organizations, and growth. Joann's expertise spans a diverse range of industries, including nonprofits, small businesses, healthcare, and corporations. 

In her most recent role as the VP of People Operations at a national nonprofit dedicated to closing the racial wealth gap, Joann pushed the boundaries of traditional HR by centering the experiences of the most marginalized to design programs that foster impact, advancement, and growth. These initiatives include a four-day workweek with 80% work for 100% pay, a $500 monthly caregiver stipend, flexible and fully remote work policies, transparent and equitable compensation practices, and organization-wide leadership development and succession programs.

Her work in advancing equitable outcomes in the workplace has been recognized by prominent publications such as the San Francisco Chronicle, The Chronicle of Philanthropy, and Nonprofit Quarterly, as well as in case studies by the Josh Bersin Group and WorkFour, the national campaign for a four-day workweek in the US.

Joann holds a Bachelor's degree in Cognitive Science from the University of California, San Diego, and a Master's degree in Environmental Management and Sustainability from Harvard University. She is a Certified Coach with the Academy of Creative Coaching and Systemic Team Coach with the Academy of Executive Coaching. Outside of her professional life, she enjoys spending time doing arts and crafts with her daughter, savoring good food with friends and family, and embarking on outdoor adventures with a good book and headlamp in tow.