About Cara Maria Day
Founder of Opal Garnet HR Solutions
Hello! I’m Cara Maria Day, the heart and mind behind Opal Garnet HR Solutions. With over a decade of experience in human resources, my career is driven by a singular vision: to redefine HR as a strategic, human-centric field that goes far beyond traditional administrative tasks. I founded Opal Garnet HR Solutions in 2021 to unlock the true potential of every employee, transforming HR into a key pillar of business success.
Diverse Experience Across Industries and States
My professional journey spans multiple industries, including hospitality, cannabis, and various startups ranging from landscaping to manufacturing. This diverse background has equipped me with a unique perspective on the distinct HR challenges and opportunities in different sectors. As a registered notary in New York, I have also been involved in significant business transitions such as company startups, sales, mergers, and acquisitions, focusing on the seamless integration of employees and payroll systems.
I have practiced HR in the following areas/states: New York City, New York State (Westchester County and outside), New Jersey, Connecticut, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Vermont, Maine, Tennessee, Virginia, New Orleans LA.
Expertise in HR Training & Development
Specializing in training, employee relations, and HR administration, I am passionate about developing effective leaders and fostering healthy workplace environments. I have designed and delivered numerous training programs addressing everything from performance management to compliance and leadership development. My approach is always tailored to the specific needs of the organization, ensuring relevant and impactful learning experiences.
Let's Connect
I am dedicated to building lasting relationships with clients, offering not just services, but a partnership that grows with your business. If you’re looking for an HR consultant who is committed to excellence and innovation, let’s connect and discuss how we can transform your HR practices into a cornerstone of your business success.
Traditional Work Experience
April 2019 - June 2022
Golden Child Holdings
Director of Human Resources
Sept 2017 - March 2019
Club Fit
HR Development Specialist
May 2016 - August 2017
Matrix Absence Management
Senior Claims Examiner
January 2011 - April 2016
Distrikt Hotel
Human Resources Manager
At Golden Child Holdings, I led a strategic revamp of HR functions, enhancing recruitment practices to attract superior talent and initiating advanced training programs for professional development. My implementation of effective performance management systems significantly boosted organizational efficiency and played a crucial role in achieving the company's broad operational goals.
At Club Fit, I was responsible for overseeing all aspects of employee benefits and relations, significantly enhancing the training department. I transformed our training approach from traditional PowerPoint sessions to a dynamic mix of modern video content, interactive lunch-and-learns, and year-round micro-training on topics chosen by staff. This revamp led to a 90% completion rate for all training initiatives and garnered the "Best New Training Program" award from BizLibrary Training Systems in 2018. Additionally, I successfully transitioned all benefits enrollments from paper-based systems to a streamlined digital process, boosting efficiency and employee satisfaction.
At Matrix Absence Management, I played a pivotal role as a trainer and mentor to new examiners, guiding them through the complexities of managing FMLA and Short Term Disability claims from initiation to resolution. My expertise ensured efficient and compassionate claim handling for notable clients such as Tiffany & Company, Hexcel Corporation, and Zep Industries, among others. This position not only reinforced my skills in detailed claim oversight but also in developing and nurturing talent within the field of absence management.
At Distrikt Hotel, I led the creation of a cross-department training program, enabling front desk staff to shadow other hotel departments for better service knowledge and guest interaction. I also established a lucrative hotel concierge program through partnerships with local businesses, enhancing guest experiences and front desk revenue opportunities. My role extended to digitizing employee records, overseeing two HRIS system upgrades, managing payroll for 65 employees, and contributing to the acquisition and launch of new properties in Lambertville, NJ, and Pittsburgh, PA.
06.
Attendance, Paid Time Off, State Time Off, FMLA Policy Review and Rewrite
Recently Completed Projects
01.
Compliance Training Series: Harassment, Bias, E-Verify, Communication Etiquette focusing on fast-casual restaurant settings.
02.
Annual Required OSHA Reporting for a multi-unit restaurant franchisee.
03.
Employee Welcome Packet for all New Hires & Re-hires for entry-level PT & FT managers and FT Managers.
04.
Company Benefits Review with Open Enrollment full guidance and employee assistance along with Open Enrollment Audit.
05.
Employee Investigation Support - full service unbias investigation with guidance on action taken.
07.
Company Handbook Review and Creation
08.
Company Manager Training and SOP Guide for New Hires and Current Employees.
09.
Annual Employee Survey Creation, Administration, and Results with Suggested Changes for the company based on feedback.
10.
Reoccurring bi-weekly payroll review. Monitoring all adjustments and approval of rate changes.