Featured Employee Advocacy Programs Experts

BestCompaniesAZ is Arizona’s premier Employer Branding and Media Platform — the place where PR, Marketing, HR, Talent, and Community intersect. For more than two decades, we’ve been the trusted voice amplifying Arizona’s award-winning employers — helping them attract top talent, inspire loyal customers, and strengthen their community impact. We’re not just telling stories — we’re building Arizona’s reputation as one of the best places to work and live by spotlighting the companies and leaders driving that vision forward. BestCompaniesAZ is the visionary and brand Ambassador for the following Arizona programs brought to Arizona over the last 20+ years: 1. The inaugural “2003 Best Places to Work in the Valley”, published by the Great Place to Work Institute and the Phoenix Business Journal. 2. The prestigious “Arizona’s Most Admired Companies” award, in partnership with AZ Business Magazine (Founding Partner, 2010-2019) 3. “Top Companies to Work for in Arizona” with azcentral.com and Republic Media (consulting partner, 2013-2019) 4. “100 Best Arizona Companies”, BestCompaniesAZ 10th & 15th Anniversary Lists (2012 and 2017) 5. "Top Workplaces in Arizona & Tucson" with Energage. Note: BestCompaniesAZ is NOT the organization that conducts the surveys or selects award winners. We’re a neutral platform promoting all of Arizona’s great companies.

I am a trailblazing people and culture executive with experience building high-performing organizations in the life sciences, biotech, pharma, manufacturing, tech, telecommunications, logistics, fashion, travel and aviation sectors. I combine strategic vision with deep empathy and cross-functional relationship building to unlock both individual and business potential, specializing in scaling people operations for high-growth companies. My approach centers on authentic leadership and harnessing data-driven decision-making to consistently deliver demonstrated success. Throughout my career, I've driven significant organizational transformations, including growing companies 588% in headcount, reducing new hire turnover by 35%, and delivering $3.5M+ in cost savings through innovative talent management solutions. As a trusted C-suite advisor and board partner, I've led 7+ successful M&A integrations with up to $1.1B in value, built elite P&C functions from the ground up, and championed initiatives that resulted in recognition as an employer of choice. I am a passionate people leader who thrives in fostering cultures where employees thrive and businesses excel. I am an impeccable relationship builder with expansive industry experience & expertise with a relentless dedication to creating transformational people experience teams that drive employee engagement, disrupt the status quo, and position the company for maximum performance, competitive advantage, and bottom-line growth.

Stepan Kazaryan is a Business Management Consultant focused on digital presence, professional evaluation, and how public information shapes decision-making in modern business environments. His work centers on helping organizations and professionals understand how they are perceived before direct interaction occurs. In search-driven systems, evaluation often happens silently and quickly. Stepan advises clients on building structured digital foundations that support credibility over time. His approach emphasizes clarity, consistency, and responsible positioning rather than short-term visibility tactics. He works with executives, founders, and professional service providers who recognize that digital footprints influence trust, partnerships, and opportunity flow. By aligning websites, public profiles, and third-party references, Stepan helps create stable professional narratives that reduce uncertainty during evaluation. Rather than focusing on reactive measures, his advisory framework prioritizes preparation. This includes analyzing how search results present a name, how information connects across platforms, and how inconsistencies affect perception. The goal is to strengthen long-term positioning in a way that feels natural and sustainable. Stepan frequently writes and speaks about digital identity, credibility signals, and the structural factors that influence professional trust in online environments. His perspective reflects a broader shift in how professionals are assessed in the age of search and public information accessibility. Through disciplined strategy and steady execution, Stepan Kazaryan helps clients maintain clarity in environments where perception often forms before conversation begins.

Anthony Stevens is a career champion and workforce strategist dedicated to empowering Africa’s next generation. By bridging the gap between young talent and high-growth organizations, Anthony helps young professionals unlock meaningful career pathways and build thriving futures across the continent.

Helping companies get mentioned in LLMs and gaining a deep understanding of why and where they need to be cited.

Jennifer Neeley is an expert in influence, trust and audience decision-making. She helps healthcare, technology and expert-led organizations understand why attention does or does not become trust, authority and action. Her perspective combines more than two decades in strategic marketing with experience in television journalism and teaching digital and influencer marketing at UC San Diego Extended Studies. She publishes The Influence Project and is available for sourced commentary on platform power, AI and search visibility, influencer marketing, healthcare trust, reputation and digital culture.

Erin Herman is a globally respected leadership strategist and keynote speaker whose work sits at the intersection of change, human-centered leadership, and performance at scale. Over the course of two decades, she has advised Fortune 500 executive teams and global institutions on how to lead through uncertainty with courage, empathy, and clarity—often in moments where the stakes could not be higher. Her leadership experience includes senior roles with St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and the United Nations, where she helped shape global corporate partnership strategies in service of the world’s most vulnerable populations. While working within the United Nations system through UNICEF, Erin co-created the Learning Passport in partnership with Microsoft and Cambridge University—an online and mobile education platform designed to deliver continuous access to quality learning for children affected by conflict, displacement, and crisis. The platform has since reached learners in more than 40 countries and was recognized by TIME Magazine as one of the 100 Best Inventions and ranked by the Project Management Institute as the third most influential project in the world. Erin also played a central role in securing one of the largest philanthropic commitments ever made to a children’s hospital: a $300 million, 10-year partnership that continues to drive life-saving impact at scale. Today, Erin is known for translating extraordinary global experience into clear, grounded insight for leaders navigating complexity in the modern workplace. She is the creator of the CEG Method™ (Courage, Empathy, Growth Mindset) and the 4Cs Methodology™ (Conviction, Courage, Clarity, Confidence), frameworks trusted by organizations seeking sustainable change without burnout or performative leadership. A sought-after voice on women’s leadership, organizational culture, and decision-making under pressure, Erin is recognized for her ability to cut through noise with intelligence, warmth, and precision—delivering perspective that is both deeply human and powerfully actionable.

PROFESSIONAL Healthcare runs on people - providers, administrators, executives making decisions under pressure in a fragmented system. That's where I work. If you're covering what it actually takes to lead organizations through major and disruptive change - I have a perspective built from experience. I've spent over two decades working at senior and board levels within healthcare organizations. I was the CHRO and a product executive at a major Blue Cross Blue Shield plan. Now I run my own consulting practice and serve as an independent advisor affiliated with EBG Advisors. My clients are health systems, physician groups, behavioral health providers, and investor-backed companies navigating transitions - acquisitions, integration, and operating model changes. I've led leadership teams and boards to align their business and workforce strategies while simultaneously improving performance, employee engagement and organizational health. ADVOCACY My adult son is profoundly autistic AND his life was saved by medical cannabis. Those two facts don't stay in a corner of my life. They have changed my family's life, and they inform how I think about policy, service systems, and who gets left out of the conversation. If you're covering autism policy, what families of severely autistic individuals actually need from the service system, or the intersection of healthcare policy and patient access to cannabis - I'm available to talk. I serve on the board of the National Council for Severe Autism (NCSA), focused on individuals with severe autism and complex needs. This is one area of health policy where the most severe and complex cases are disproportionately underrepresented in research, funding, policy design, and public discourse. They don't capture the reality for families like mine, where the daily stakes involve safety, access to healthcare, housing, and support services. I also support Americans for Safe Access, the leading organization advancing legal access to cannabis for therapeutic use. Patients and families are making decisions about cannabis in an environment that is fragmented and poorly researched. Better science and better access policy matters. I know firsthand what's at stake when both fall short.

Dynamic communications strategist and project manager experienced in talent acquisition and workforce development. Known for driving impactful partnerships, advancing brand cohesion, and crafting engaging content that amplifies organizational presence. Connecting people based on shared interests is my superpower. In the community, I serve on the board for Phoenix nonprofit Hope’s Crossing and the African-American Women’s Giving & Empowerment Circle (AAWGEC). I am a former Vice President & Civic Engagement Chair for the Greater Phoenix Urban League Young Professionals and a 2020 Flinn-Brown Fellow. I enjoy writing, speaking, and moderating on issues such as workforce development, economic mobility, philanthropy, public spaces, and social entrepreneurship. Spending my free time on an affordable housing project in historic Globe, Arizona.

Mike Podesto is a Career and Job Search Expert and the Founder & CEO of Find My Profession, a leading reverse recruiting firm that manages full job searches for professionals and executives. As a pioneer of reverse recruiting, Mike has helped thousands of candidates navigate competitive hiring markets by combining targeted job sourcing, direct outreach to decision-makers, and data-driven job search strategies. His team works across industries including technology, engineering, marketing, and executive leadership, supporting clients from mid-level professionals to C-suite executives. Mike’s expertise spans job search strategy, resume and LinkedIn optimization, networking, recruiting, and hiring trends. He is known for his practical, results-oriented approach to the job search process, with a focus on helping candidates stand out in crowded applicant pools and secure interviews faster. Under his leadership, Find My Profession has earned over 1,000 five-star reviews and has been recognized for its innovative approach to job search management. The company’s model is built on real-world recruiting experience and has helped place candidates in roles ranging from $100K to $1M+ compensation packages. Mike regularly advises on topics including job market trends, hiring practices, interview strategy, and how candidates can position themselves effectively in today’s evolving employment landscape. His insights are especially relevant for professionals navigating career transitions, layoffs, or competitive executive-level searches.

Self-starter and entrepreneur with a passion for people, strategy, and innovation. Experienced in both Fortune 500 and start-up environments.

I am a self-funded and alternate funded health plan expert with almost a decade of experience helping employers and brokers create innovative solutions that reduce healthcare costs. I also have over seven years of experience as a national keynote speaker, TEDx speaker, podcast host, media personality, and author. I am regularly featured at events across the country providing expert perspective for helping employers create strategies to improve healthcare outcomes and improve employee retention. I leverage my vast resource base and personal knowledge of innovative strategies such as direct primary care, reference-based pricing, and new pharmacy solutions to drive change and reduce costs. I am passionate about making a positive impact on the lives and businesses of my clients and partners.

Email me directly at: atarki@eca-partners.com  We are a world-class Executive Search firm. Our strength lies within our process driven and systematic approach. This enables us to connect star-candidates with opportunities that are right for them – faster! We also have a network of thousands of independent top-tier management consultants.A few of my pieces in HBR and Forbes are included here below. As always, I'd appreciate hearing any comments and feedback on these.

Mike Maffei brings more than 30 years of experience from the hiring side of the table, including senior HR, recruiting, and workforce leadership roles with organizations such as The Home Depot, Sodexo, Staffmark Group, and Caterpillar Financial. Today, he is Founding Partner of AlediumHR, a national healthcare recruiting firm, where he remains directly involved in the hiring market, and Executive Career Advisor for Professionals 50+ through MikeMaffei.com. That combination gives Mike a perspective from both sides of today's hiring process. He can speak to what employers and recruiters are actually evaluating, as well as the challenges experienced professionals face in navigating executive job searches, age bias, AI-driven hiring, resumes and LinkedIn, interviews, overqualification, career transitions, and a rapidly changing employment market. He also provides commentary on healthcare workforce trends, recruiting strategy, candidate sourcing, executive search, and AI in recruiting.

More info about services, past clients, and subject matter expertise at: www.farzananayani.comTrusted diversity, equity, and inclusion professional with proven track record for performance, customized service offerings, and community impact. Expert in program management and spearheading new, sustainable initiatives that engage the public. Specialties include: growing and building ERGs, developing and conducting trainings on cultural awareness and communication, enhancing the supplier diversity pipeline, engaging employees, and fostering inclusive leadership.Over 20 years experience in the DEI field, managing & directing programs, training & designing curriculum, offering thought leadership and organizational strategy. Transformational coach leading to long-lasting impact on individuals and organizations.Emphasis on quality, impactful programming with high-caliber content and widespread reach. Expertise includes: community and corporate partnership relations, board and advisory council engagement, program management and evaluation metrics, and relating activities to the bottom line and executive goals. Personal philosophy underscores the understanding of how culture and community relations can impact our work.New book available now! “The Power of Employee Resource Groups: How People Create Authentic Change”. Author of book: "Raising Multiracial Children: Tools for Nurturing Identity in a Racialized World" (2020) available now through Penguin Random House. Visit website: www.farzananayani.com for detailed expertise and services.

Passionate People Leader, Speaker, HR Disruptor & Impact Architect. I build people, processes & sustainable systems for Company Culture , Fair Chance Hiring Programs, L& D, DEI +B, from hire to retire strategy. Some of the work I have done has been featured in/on Forbes, Good Morning America, Dr. Oz and a handful of HR publications. Published author and speaker .

With a passion for advocating outstanding workplace environments, I co-founded Amazing Workplaces , an integrated HR platform dedicated to enhancing, enriching, and endorsing the best practices that form the foundation of successful organizations. As a Culture & Best-Practices Evangelist, I specialize in guiding companies to strengthen their employer brand through our 9-pillar framework, which includes Culture, Leadership, DEI, and more.My journey in the HR space has been driven by a commitment to transparency, innovation, and the belief that every organization can create an inspiring and supportive work culture. From launching certification programs to conducting employee satisfaction surveys, my work is focused on building and celebrating Amazing Workplaces around the globe.Connect with me to discuss how we can collaboratively enhance your organization's people management strategies, creating a more engaging and inclusive workplace for you and your people while elevating your employer brand.

I help companies create happy, healthy, and high-performing cultures through a unique blend of employee fulfillment strategies and gamified skills learning. At Give River, we go beyond traditional workplace perks by focusing on what truly drives people to stay motivated and thrive—personal growth, genuine connection, and a sense of purpose. Our platform addresses the core reasons people leave their jobs: lack of recognition, poor management, and strained coworker dynamics. Through peer-to-peer gratitude, professional development, and personal wellness, we empower employees to feel valued, grow personally and professionally, and stay inspired. Give River isn't just about engagement; it's about fulfillment, fostering workplaces where employees feel appreciated, supported, and empowered to reach their fullest potential. By working from the inside out, we help companies build cultures that attract and retain top talent, resulting in long-lasting success and increased profits for all.

I’m a digital and social media marketer with over 15 years of experience helping brands tell better stories, build stronger communities, and navigate an ever-changing digital landscape. I’ve led social media strategy for organizations across sectors, from higher ed and SaaS to startups, city governments, and consumer brands, always with a focus on authentic connection and measurable growth. As the president of Social Media Club PHX and an active member of the Greater Phoenix startup community, I’ve worked closely with founders, marketers, and local leaders to elevate the region’s digital presence and foster collaboration. I’ve also had the opportunity to shape and support national campaigns, develop audience strategies for scaling brands, and advise on content that resonates across platforms. At the core of my work is a belief in clarity, consistency, and community, and that impactful social media isn’t just about trends, but about trust. Whether I’m building out a basic content calendar, consulting executive leadership on voice and tone, or helping an organization rethink its digital strategy, I bring a mix of real-world experience, platform fluency, and a deep understanding of how audiences think and engage. Key Skills and Focus Areas: • Social Media Strategy & Management (Organic + Paid) • Community Building & Audience Engagement • Brand Voice Development & Reputation Management • Content Creation & Campaign Execution • Influencer & Partner Collaboration • Digital Marketing Analytics & KPI Tracking • Event Promotion & Campaign Rollouts (PHX Startup Week, etc.) • AI-Powered Marketing Workflows (ChatGPT, image/audio tools, content planning automation) • AI Integration for Content Ideation, Scripting, and Optimization • Platform Expertise: Instagram, LinkedIn, TikTok, YouTube, Facebook, X/Twitter, Threads, Instagram • Tools: Sprout Social, Hootsuite, Later, Canva, Notion, Meta Business Suite, ChatGPT (all models), CapCut, Descript, Adobe Suite, Google Suite, Microsoft If you’re looking for insight on social strategy, community growth, or how brands can show up more meaningfully online, I’m always open to share what I’ve learned — and to keep learning.