Maxine L. Johnson
Maxine L. Johnson is a seasoned Human Resources leader, Certified Life Coach, author, and TEDx speaker with over 25 years of experience in HR, leadership development, and organizational strategy. She currently serves as Senior Manager of Business Partner Services at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, where she supports enterprise-wide HR initiatives including employee relations, labor relations, change management, and talent development. Alongside her corporate leadership role, she is also a senior pastor within the African Methodist Episcopal Church, bringing a values-driven and people-centered approach to both ministry and business leadership.
Throughout her career, Maxine has built a strong reputation for mentoring leaders, advancing employee engagement, and developing high-performing teams. Her professional journey spans roles in healthcare administration, HRIS, employee relations, and HR generalist functions, where she steadily progressed into senior leadership. As a certified change management practitioner and DISC-certified facilitator, she integrates structured leadership development frameworks with practical coaching strategies to help individuals and organizations navigate growth, transformation, and performance improvement.
In addition to her HR and pastoral work, Maxine is an entrepreneur, speaker, and author focused on career development and women’s empowerment. She coaches professionals—particularly women—to clarify their purpose, strengthen confidence, and pursue meaningful career advancement without losing personal balance. Through her books, speaking engagements, and coaching programs, she emphasizes mentorship, resilience, and purpose-driven leadership, helping others align their professional success with personal fulfillment.
• ProSci Certified Change Management
• DISC Certified Instructor
• Certified Life Coach
• Rosemont College - MBA
• SHRM (Society for Human Resource Management)
• International Coaching Federation
• Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated
• The Links Incorporated
• Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated
• Eastern Area Links, Inc.
• JWCC
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to the mentors, sponsors, coaches, and supportive community who have guided me throughout my career in HR and ministry. From early mentors who provided hands-on guidance and honest feedback to those who later encouraged me to pursue my doctorate and refine my leadership skills, I have always benefited from people who invested in my growth. I also have sponsors who advocate for me and open doors to opportunities I might not have accessed on my own. Beyond professional support, my upbringing taught me resilience, curiosity, and the importance of learning from setbacks rather than dwelling on them. Through both challenges and achievements, I have been strengthened by a strong network of women and leaders who have walked alongside me, reminding me that success is never built alone.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received came from a mentor who encouraged me to return to school and pursue my doctorate. That guidance was pivotal, but just as important was the ongoing support that followed—he consistently offered candid feedback, especially around my presentation skills and professional growth, and created a space where I felt comfortable asking questions and learning. His belief in my potential pushed me beyond my own expectations and reinforced the importance of continuous learning, seeking honest feedback, and surrounding myself with people who challenge and develop me.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would tell young women entering my industry not to be afraid to ask questions and to truly listen and lean in wherever they can. When opportunities come your way—even if they feel intimidating—say yes and trust that you will figure it out along the way. Those are often the moments that lead to the most growth and visibility. Everything worth having is on the other side of fear, and courage in those early opportunities can shape the trajectory of your career.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in my field right now is limited internal advancement, which can sometimes lead talented individuals to seek opportunities elsewhere. At the same time, there is a significant opportunity in intentionally coaching and developing leaders—particularly women—so they can grow, advance, and make a broader impact within and beyond their organizations.
What 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 faith, community, mentorship, resilience, and service. I also prioritize being relationally grounded in how I communicate and learn, ensuring that I stay connected, present, and intentional in my interactions with others.
Locations
Children's Hospital of Philadelphia
Smyrna, DE 19977