Ornella Balley-Moreland, MHRM, aPHR
Ornella (Nelly) Balley-Moreland, MHRM, aPHR, is an accomplished human resources professional and recruiter with more than three years of specialized experience in immigration and employment-based sponsorships, including H-1B, PERM, O-1, and TN processes. She holds a Master’s degree in Human Resources Management from Washington University in St. Louis and a strong academic foundation in Industrial/Organizational Psychology and Studio Art from Saint Louis University, equipping her with both analytical rigor and a people-centered approach to talent strategy.
Currently, Ornella serves as a Corporate Recruiter at Build-A-Bear Workshop’s Bearquarters, where she plays a key role in connecting purpose-driven talent with a brand rooted in creativity, inclusivity, and heart. In this role, she partners closely with cross-functional teams to source, screen, and hire top talent across a wide range of functions, ensuring a seamless and engaging candidate experience. Her prior work at Spectrum as a Paralegal and Immigration & PERM Recruitment Specialist included designing and launching an immigration program supporting more than 1,500 foreign nationals, further solidifying her expertise at the intersection of recruiting and global workforce mobility.
Beyond her professional work, Ornella is a passionate advocate for immigrants and communities within the African diaspora. She is deeply engaged in leadership and service, including long-standing involvement with the Saint Louis University Black Alumni Association and immigrant-focused education initiatives. An accomplished writer, she has published work exploring the relationship between art, identity, and social change. Through her career and community engagement, Ornella is committed to building equitable systems, amplifying underrepresented voices, and using talent and creativity as forces for positive impact.
• Recruiters' Ultimate Guide to Google Sourcing
• AIRS Creating an Engaging Candidate Experience
• HIPPA Privacy Training
• CITI Certification - Human Research Behavior
• Washington University in St. Louis - MA
• Dean's Scholarship
• National Association for Multi-ethnicity in Communications (NAMIC)
• WICT
• Alpha Phi Omega
• Saint Louis University
• Immigrant Home English Learning Program
• SHRM of Greater St. Louis
• Campus Kitchen
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to a balance of empathy, persistence, and strategic vision. Since 2016, I have combined deep expertise in immigration and employment sponsorships with a genuine passion for helping others navigate meaningful career opportunities. One of my proudest accomplishments was leading a three-year effort to launch an immigration program at Charter, which ultimately supported more than 1,500 individuals through a significant pro bono initiative. That experience reinforced the impact of dedication, resilience, and purpose-driven work.
Today, I draw on that foundation to build and support teams across communications, finance, and IT at my current organization. With the support of strong leadership, I continue refining recruiting processes and creating pathways that connect people to roles where they can thrive. What truly motivates me is hearing individuals’ stories and guiding them from the first conversation to the finish line—seeing their happiness and being a supportive presence throughout the journey makes the work incredibly rewarding.
As an introvert, I’ve also learned that growth often begins just outside of comfort zones. Stepping forward, starting conversations, and building relationships have made a meaningful difference in my career. I believe that quiet determination, paired with genuine human connection, can drive lasting and impactful change.
Locations
Build-A-Bear Workshop
Ofallon, MO 63366