Influential Woman · Human Resources (HR)
April Brown
Founder, Resume Ready Mid-MO
Columbia, MO 65202
Her Story
About April
Based in the Columbia, MO area April has been a Human Resource professional with over 15 years of comprehensive experience in human resources, talent acquisition, employee relations, and compliance. April began her HR career in 2009 with Central Missouri Community Action, where she developed a strong foundation in recruiting and workforce support while serving an eight-county service area. Throughout her career, she has led full-cycle recruitment efforts, strengthened employee relations, and implemented strategic HR initiatives that drive organizational growth and efficiency. Her background includes partnering with leadership to develop HR policies, conducting compliance audits, and leveraging data-driven strategies to improve hiring outcomes, retention, and overall workforce performance. Through April's career tenure she has successfully reduced time-to-hire, increased candidate quality, and enhanced onboarding experiences while managing benefits and supporting large employee populations. April is known for her ability to build strong relationships, navigate complex HR challenges, and create solutions that align people, processes, and business goals. April understands that success is not just about opportunity—it’s about being ready when opportunity comes. With a passion for developing talent and fostering positive workplace environments, she brings both strategic insight and hands-on execution to every client she serves.
April currently owns and operates Resume Ready which focuses on helping individuals effectively communicate their value, showcase their strengths, and confidently pursue new opportunities through expert resume writing. Whether you’re entering the workforce, transitioning careers, or striving for your next level, Resume Ready provides personalized support every step of the way.
April holds an Associate of Arts degree in Business/Commerce from Moberly Area Community College and is an active member of professional organizations such as the Regional Economic Development Inc. (REDI) and Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society
Her Interview
Ten minutes with April
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to strong mentorship and leadership throughout my career. I have been fortunate to work under exceptional, empowering women leaders who have guided and supported my professional growth.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
Have a Plan, Always Prepare, Proceed and Produce (Results)
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Your first impressions are lasting impressions
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
1. Talent shortages + skills gaps
Challenge:
- Organizations struggle to fill roles due to bias hiring practices such as hiring only or majority of candidates based off degree verse non-degreed
Opportunity:
- Shift to skills-based hiring (not just degrees)
.
AI disruption (and confusion about it)
Challenge:
- HR leaders are expected to lead AI adoption—but many aren’t trained in it
- Risks: bias, compliance issues, and lack of trust in AI systems
Opportunity:
- Automate admin work (screening, scheduling, payroll insights)
- Elevate HR into a strategic, data-driven function
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me in both my work and personal life are integrity, honesty and accountability.
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