“Lead with purpose, improve with people.”
Eric J. Perry is a seasoned human resources executive, consultant, and founder of Eric J. Perry, LLC, with over 30 years of experience across nonprofit, government, and enterprise environments. Known for his practical approach to organizational leadership and his commitment to workforce development, Eric has made a career of transforming human capital systems into engines of performance, equity, and long-term sustainability. His deep expertise spans HR strategy, leadership development, HRIS systems, DEI, compliance, and operational transformation.
Eric’s journey into HR leadership was anything but conventional. After earning his Master of Public Administration from Harvard Kennedy School, he began his career in research and analysis at MTA Bridges and Tunnels. It was there that a senior leader recognized his innate ability to lead people and problem-solve and invited him to take on the role of Director of Human Resources. Though Eric initially lacked formal HR experience, his tenacity and commitment to continuous learning quickly turned that leap of faith into a flourishing leadership trajectory.
From there, Eric went on to serve as Director of Human Resources at the New York Governor’s Office of Storm Recovery. He played a pivotal role in nurturing agency-wide morale, establishing mentorship and leadership programs, and engineering performance management reforms that reduced turnover by 10%. His efforts not only supported the state’s critical response to Superstorm Sandy and other crises, but also built a high-functioning HR infrastructure for the long term.
Eric’s six-year tenure at MTA Bridges and Tunnels further shaped his ability to lead large-scale HR systems in complex, unionized environments. He oversaw the successful implementation of PeopleSoft across a 66,000-employee system, integrating procurement, benefits, payroll, and recruitment into a unified and efficient platform. His work ensured compliance with state audits, optimized training procedures, and helped streamline HR operations for the largest toll collector in the country.
As the founder and Managing Principal of Eric J. Perry, LLC since 2019, Eric has continued to serve a diverse array of nonprofit clients with customized, diagnostic-driven HR solutions. From talent acquisition to interim HR leadership and compensation strategy, Eric’s firm delivers strategic, people-centered value for mission-driven organizations navigating growth, change, or crisis. His blend of insight, empathy, and analytics allows him to align human capital with organizational vision in meaningful and lasting ways.
His additional roles have included Director of the Human Resources Practice Group at Harris Rand Lusk, where he advised clients on recruiting, employment contracts, and compensation; and Senior Manager of Outreach for 1199SEIU National Benefit and Pension Fund, where he led strategic engagement with over 6,000 union members and developed preventive health programs that saved over $40 million. These experiences underscore his fluency in both private and public sector operations, as well as his ability to manage stakeholder expectations across all levels.
Eric is a certified IBM Silver Business Partner and holds credentials in watsonx Orchestrate AI sales and technical sales. He’s also completed programming coursework in Python through Coursera, reflecting his belief in the importance of digital literacy and process automation in modern HR. These skills allow him to remain at the forefront of HR technology and equip his clients with cutting-edge solutions.
Internationally, Eric has worked in India, Bangladesh, and West Africa, gaining valuable cross-cultural experience that enhances his inclusive leadership style and global awareness. He is conversational in French and brings a culturally competent lens to all workforce initiatives, especially those that involve diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Outside of his professional work, Eric is an avid golfer, movie enthusiast, and passionate cook. He is deeply committed to nonprofit service and community betterment and is an active member of both the Harvard Alumni Association and SHRM. These affiliations not only reflect his values but also expand his network of like-minded professionals and mission-aligned opportunities.
Eric is currently seeking board opportunities where he can contribute his strategic HR acumen, organizational leadership, and practical consulting experience to organizations dedicated to purpose, innovation, and lasting social impact.
Character:
Eric leads with integrity, empathy, and a people-first mindset. His career has been defined by his ability to uplift teams and inspire trust across every level of an organization.
Knowledge:
With an MPA from Harvard, certifications in AI and HR tech, and 30+ years of applied HR leadership, Eric combines academic rigor with operational know-how to solve complex organizational problems.
Strategic:
Eric has led enterprise-level implementations, driven DEI transformation, and advised nonprofits on succession planning and talent optimization, always aligning HR with larger organizational goals.
Communication:
Whether mentoring teams, advising executives, or leading change initiatives, Eric is a clear and persuasive communicator who bridges gaps, resolves conflict, and champions collaboration.
