The Greatest Boss Contest Runner-Up
Laura Simoldoni
HR Manager
New Jersey Judiciary
Hackensack, NJ
Non-Profit/Government Organizations Category
Nomination Essay
My boss, Laura, is truly one of the smartest and fairest people I know. In her role as HR Manager, she has an unmatched ability peel away ancillary issues and get to the heart of the problem and resolve it. She has the emotional intelligence and patience of a saint and has always treated everyone with respect, regardless their position in our organization. She makes a point of thanking everyone daily for their efforts, even the janitorial staff.
Whenever an HR issue arises, she discusses the matter with me and requests my input. However, I think this conversation is really disguised as a learning opportunity for me. She opens her mind to me, and teaches me how to see all sides of an issue, and how to respond accordingly. She also is very honest and never keeps hidden agendas. There aren’t many people I wholly trust in life, and she is one of them. She is a remarkable person to have as a boss and a coach.
She is also very talented, and brings a wealth of experience to us. She is an attorney by trade, but has also been an insurance investigator, a meter maid, a Probation Officer, Ombudsman, and an EEO Officer. She also brings humor to our strenuous days – and has been known to make balloon animals for people in the office on a difficult day. She is always making us laugh, sharing funny experiences with us. She uses her humor to strengthen relationships with staff.
However, she is very unassuming and quietly compassionate. She has given rides to employees she recognizes waiting at bus stops and is always spearheading food drives and collections for those in need. But she never publicizes any of her good deeds. She takes an interest in knowing her staff personally, and provides a caring shoulder of support if an employee is having a difficult time. She allows enough flexibility on the job to afford staff a manageable work-life balance. I never have to worry about her response if I have to leave early for a sick child or a school event.
While I was always taught to respect authority, Laura is someone I would respect even if she weren’t my boss. I think it helps knowing that she respects me, too. To her, respect doesn’t come with a title – she works hard to earn it. She takes an interest in people, and always strives to do what is right and ethical. With her, what you see is what you get – no secret motives. I wake up thankful everyday to be working for someone worthy of my trust and respect, and who has a great sense of humor. Laura is a true star in our organization.
