Darby Starnes is a dynamic and transformative Human Resources and Organizational Development executive whose career spans over three decades of progressive leadership, innovation, and measurable impact. Known for her ability to align people strategies with business outcomes, Darby has built a reputation as a trusted advisor to executives and boards, helping organizations navigate complexity while cultivating resilient, high-performing cultures. Her work is grounded in a deep commitment to people development, organizational effectiveness, and sustainable growth.
Throughout her career, Darby has demonstrated an unwavering passion for unlocking human potential and guiding organizations through meaningful transformation. Her journey began with a strong academic foundation in psychology and business, which she leveraged to build expertise across multiple industries including healthcare, technology, financial services, and professional services. Over time, she evolved into a strategic leader capable of bridging operational execution with visionary thinking.
Darby’s tenure at TriNet marked a significant chapter in her professional development, where she spent over twelve years advancing through progressive leadership roles. During this time, she led complex HR initiatives, including mergers and acquisitions integration, IPO readiness planning, and large-scale organizational transformations. Her ability to design and implement impactful programs—from succession planning to workforce strategy—resulted in tangible improvements in employee engagement, retention, and organizational performance.
Her leadership capabilities continued to expand at organizations such as Inflection and Paychex, where she played a pivotal role in shaping organizational development functions and HR Centers of Excellence. At Inflection, Darby was instrumental in establishing and leading the organizational development department, overseeing critical areas such as culture, DEI&B, and employee engagement. At Paychex, she drove strategic HR consulting initiatives, developed go-to-market strategies, and partnered with stakeholders to deliver high-value business solutions.
Currently serving as Vice President of Human Resources at Harding, Shymanski & Company, Darby continues to influence organizational strategy at the executive level. In this role, she leads initiatives that strengthen culture, enhance talent development, and align workforce capabilities with long-term business objectives. Her leadership style emphasizes collaboration, accountability, and innovation, ensuring that organizations remain agile in an ever-evolving business landscape.
A hallmark of Darby’s career is her exceptional ability to facilitate learning and development at scale. She has delivered more than 800 workshops—both in-person and virtual—empowering leaders, managers, and employees with the tools needed to thrive during times of change. As a course facilitator for SPHR/PHR certification programs and university-level instruction, she has also contributed to the professional growth of countless HR practitioners and emerging leaders.
Darby’s thought leadership extends beyond the workplace through her writing and public speaking engagements. As a published author and contributor to recognized platforms such as Entrepreneur Magazine, she shares insights on organizational change, employee engagement, and leadership development. Her book, Change RHYTHM, reflects her deep understanding of how organizations can build resilience and adapt effectively in a rapidly changing world.
Her expertise is further reinforced by an extensive portfolio of certifications and credentials, including SHRM-SCP, Certified Change Management Professional (CCMP), Prosci Change Practitioner, and Certified Diversity Executive. These qualifications, combined with her ongoing pursuit of a PhD in Organizational Leadership, underscore her commitment to continuous learning and professional excellence.
In addition to her corporate achievements, Darby is deeply engaged in professional and community organizations. She currently serves on two HR advisory boards and has held leadership roles within SHRM and other associations. These experiences have provided her with valuable governance insights and strengthened her ability to contribute effectively at the board level.
Internationally, Darby brings a global perspective through her exposure to Finland, further enhancing her cultural awareness and ability to operate in diverse environments. Her personal interests—including farming, building, and motorcycle riding—reflect her grounded, hands-on approach to life and leadership, as well as her appreciation for resilience and independence.
At her core, Darby is driven by a desire to give back and pay forward the knowledge and opportunities she has gained throughout her career. She approaches board service with a sense of purpose, aiming to contribute strategic insight, foster innovation, and support organizations in achieving meaningful, lasting impact. Her blend of experience, empathy, and execution makes her a compelling and highly valuable board candidate.
In every role she has held, Darby has exemplified a commitment to excellence, integrity, and transformation. Her ability to lead through change, develop people, and align strategy with execution positions her as a leader who not only understands the complexities of modern organizations but thrives in helping them succeed.
Character:
Darby Starnes exemplifies integrity through her consistent commitment to ethical leadership and doing what is right for both people and organizations. She demonstrates resilience by navigating complex transformations while maintaining a steady and positive influence on those around her. Her passion for giving back reflects a deeply rooted belief in paying forward the opportunities and experiences that have shaped her career.
Knowledge:
She brings a wealth of expertise grounded in decades of hands-on experience across multiple industries and disciplines. Her advanced certifications and ongoing doctoral studies highlight her dedication to continuous learning and staying at the forefront of her field. She applies her knowledge in practical, impactful ways that drive measurable outcomes and organizational success.
Strategic:
Darby possesses a strong ability to think strategically, aligning people initiatives with broader business goals to create sustainable growth. She excels at identifying opportunities for transformation and designing solutions that deliver long-term value. Her experience with complex initiatives such as M&A integration and organizational redesign demonstrates her capacity to lead at the highest strategic levels.
Communication:
An engaging and effective communicator who connects with audiences ranging from frontline employees to executive leadership and boards. She has a proven ability to translate complex concepts into clear, actionable insights that drive understanding and alignment. Through her speaking engagements, facilitation, and writing, she consistently inspires, educates, and influences others.
