Maria Merced

Maria Merced +1 - |-| linkedin.com/in/mamrcd Professional Summary Experienced HRIS professional with 10+ years of experience leading end-to-end system implementations, driving cross-functional projects, and optimizing HR technology platforms across global organizations. Adept in managing ATS, performance, and talent systems, with a strong focus on systems analysis, configuration, data governance, testing, integrations, and user adoption. Proven ability to lead system upgrades, coach junior analysts, and serve as a liaison between HR, IT, Legal, and external vendors. Professional Experience BrainPOP New York, NY, USA HRIS & HR Operations Manager 2022 - 2025 • Led the analysis, implementation, and optimization of global HRIS platforms—including onboarding, performance management, and ticketing systems—by managing configurations, system upgrades, and integrations. • Served as project lead for the HR ticketing tool implementation, building workflows, access controls, a knowledge base, and chatbot functionality to improve HR service delivery and reduce ticket volume. • Served as project lead for the implementation of the compensation planning tool, managing system configuration, compensation cycle setup, and stakeholder alignment to streamline planning processes, improve data accuracy, and support equitable pay practices. • Designed and executed test plans, scenarios, and user acceptance testing (UAT) for new modules and enhancements, ensuring data accuracy and minimizing business disruption. • Maintained and monitored HRIS data integrity, user provisioning, and role-based access, supporting audit readiness and information security in collaboration with IT and Legal teams. • Partnered cross-functionally with Recruiting, Payroll, Finance, IT, and HRBPs to gather business requirements, deliver scalable solutions, and improve HR workflows across the employee lifecycle. • Developed and maintained advanced reports and dashboards using Excel (Pivot Tables, Data Visualization, VLOOKUP) to support workforce analytics and data-driven HR decisions. • Created system documentation, standard operating procedures (SOPs), and process flows to enhance operational transparency and support training and continuous improvement. • Provided end-user support, training, and troubleshooting to boost system adoption and enhance HR operations. • Oversaw vendor management, including contract negotiations, SLA monitoring, and issue resolution, ensuring high-quality support and system performance. • Supported core HR programs such as employment processing, compensation, benefits administration, recordkeeping, and retention initiatives. • Acted as the primary HRIS point of contact for the global HR team, ensuring consistent system usage and operational support across regions. • Supervised and mentored an HR Coordinator, ensuring the timely and accurate completion of system-related tasks and ongoing operational support. • Influenced the product roadmap by providing feedback from internal use and cross-functional stakeholder input. Morgan Stanley New York, NY, USA HR Solutions Manager 2018 - 2022 • Led end-to-end ATS implementations, upgrades, and workflow redesigns to optimize recruiting processes and improve user experience across global teams. • Acted as ATS SME and escalation point for EMEA and APAC teams, resolving issues and ensuring consistent global system usage. • Collaborated with global HR, IT, and vendor teams to gather business requirements, troubleshoot integration and data flow issues, and deliver scalable system enhancements. • Executed data migration and standardization projects to ensure system integrity and alignment across multiple HR platforms. • Conducted regression testing and user acceptance testing (UAT) for system releases; led defect resolution and communicated changes to HR stakeholders. • Designed test strategies and scripts, coordinated resources, and validated system changes to support seamless platform updates and new feature rollouts. • Ensured system access and security roles were accurately provisioned and audited in compliance with internal controls and external regulations. • Created custom reports and dashboards using reporting tools to support data accuracy, leadership insights, and operational decision-making. • Developed and delivered end-user training and documentation to increase system adoption, support change management, and enhance stakeholder engagement. • Partnered with the onboarding team to streamline new hire integration and improve early employee experience. • Managed vendor relationships, monitored service delivery against SLAs, and resolved service issues to maintain operational efficiency. • Mentored junior team members and supervised direct reports responsible for system maintenance, support tasks, and continuous improvement initiatives. • Championed usability enhancements and data integrity efforts to drive HR operational excellence across the global HRIS landscape. DKMS New York, NY, USA HR Manager/HRBP 2013 - 2018 • Led the successful end-to-end implementation of systems, enhancing HR automation and operational efficiency. • Managed ongoing system configuration, troubleshooting, and upgrades, ensuring data integrity and system reliability. • Produced HR data reports and workforce metrics to inform leadership decision-making on headcount, turnover, and compliance initiatives. • Oversaw full-cycle recruitment and onboarding processes, leveraging HRIS tools to streamline candidate management and improve onboarding accuracy. • Administered employee benefits programs, negotiated plan offerings, and supported open enrollment and eligibility processes. • Supported compensation benchmarking and pay equity analyses through collaboration with external vendors and leadership teams. • Handled employee relations, succession planning, and change management initiatives during organizational restructuring efforts. • Processed payroll, ensuring timely and accurate payment in compliance with regulatory and organizational standards. • Developed and launched the organization's Internship Program, strengthening the talent pipeline and brand presence. Education University of Phoenix Master's, Human Resources Management Universidad de Puerto Rico Bachelor's, Business Admistration Certifications Professional in Human Resources (PHR) – HRCI SHRM Certified Professional (SHRM-CP) – SHRM Skills & Systems HR Technology: ADP, BambooHR, Greenhouse (ATS), Oleeo, Pave, Paycor, SuccessFactors, Workday HRIS Workplace Technology: Asana, Atlassian, Citrix, Confluence, Freshdesk, G-Suite, Looker, Slack, ServiceNow, Zendesk Skills: Attention to Detail, Compliance, Data Privacy & Security Standards, Critical thinking, Cross-Functional Collaboration & Stakeholder Management, Data visualization, Detail-oriented, HR Data Integrity & Reporting, Organizational skills, Problem-solving, Project Management, System Configuration, Testing & Upgrades, Vendor Management, Excel, Written and verbal communication skills, Process Improvement, Employee engagement Spanish, English Languages