Holly Francis
Holly F. is a dynamic human resources leader, entrepreneur, and creative visionary with over a decade of experience shaping workplace culture and driving organizational effectiveness. As a Senior HR Business Partner and strategic advisor, she has led initiatives in talent management, employee relations, and total rewards, ensuring inclusive and high-performing environments across union and non-union settings. Her work is marked by a commitment to compassionate leadership, equity, and reimagining the future of work through innovative HR practices.
Beyond her HR expertise, Holly is the founder and Chief Visionary Officer of Spiritual Gangstar Inc. (formerly SingingWind Media/HFM Entertainment, Inc.), where she merges her passion for creativity, culture, and wellness with strategic leadership. Over more than two decades, she has cultivated immersive events, artist development programs, and media platforms that uplift underrepresented and purpose-driven voices. Her unique approach combines artistic vision, ritual, and organizational insight to deliver transformative experiences in both entertainment and professional spaces.
Holly’s career reflects a rare blend of strategic acumen and creative ingenuity. From serving as Commissioner of Human Resources for the City of Mount Vernon to mentoring emerging leaders and consulting for global organizations, she integrates human-centered strategies with cultural impact. Known for her thought leadership and ability to inspire others, Holly continues to influence HR innovation, community engagement, and creative industries while empowering individuals and organizations to thrive.
• Life Transitional Doula
• United States International School of Performing & Visual Arts- B.F.A.
• ASIA TV USA
• YMCA of Greater New York
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to cultivating wisdom, building genuine connections with people, and fostering healing in every environment I engage with.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received is to lead from your heart—approach every opportunity with love and openness, and allow yourself to be loved in return.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this industry is to know yourself, do excellent work, listen to your body, and build a life you don’t need to recover from.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in my field right now is the oversaturation of the industry with flooders.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me in my work and personal life are living with conscious intentions, embodying love, and using my ego as a tool rather than a barrier. I also deeply value family, creativity, lifelong learning, and cultural connection, reflected in my roles as a mother, grandmother, multilingual artist, and enthusiast of theater, music, and design.