Influential Woman · Strategic Advisory
Olivia Davis
Founder, HR Employee Relations Specialist, --
Delran, NJ
Her Story
About Olivia
Olivia Davis is the founder of her own LLC in strategic advisory, established in 2023, and serves as an HR Employee Relations Specialist with a decade of experience in the industry. Based in New Jersey, she focuses her expertise on people strategy from the standpoint of organizational development, employee relations, and individual performance improvement. A graduate of Cornell University, Olivia completed an entertainment law certification through Elevator in June and July 2023, which equipped her with practical skills in negotiation and self-sufficiency for her business journey. Her approach emphasizes building from the individual level to achieve performance and business outcomes, drawing on her background in compliance and high-stakes advisory roles.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Olivia
01What do you attribute your success to?
My motivation comes from the need for women in leadership, especially Black women who are authentic with tattoos, piercings, locks. I've been through personal struggles and grief that propelled me to realize we have a short time here, and walking in your purpose to impact others is what keeps me going. There's somebody who needs me out there.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice came from a senior regional leader who told me 'progress, not perfection.' As a neurodivergent person, it helps me celebrate small wins instead of focusing only on what's in the red. It applies in many contexts like HR and sales by defining progress toward goals.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Presence wins. Be present, listen actively, be trustworthy. You don't have to know everything off the top of your head or be the loudest. Build healthy friction through being in the room and listening to the business and individuals.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
Companies reducing or replacing HR, deviation from appreciating HR value. Need to be proactive with employee relations without large budgets. Increase in employee relations matters going to legal situations due to downsizing headcount and expertise, worsened by AI.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Authenticity is important - polish it but be true to yourself. Integrity, inclusion, and a sense of belonging. Philosophy starts with the individual: help people be their authentic selves at work to build performance and outcomes from there.
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