Marie Carlson is a highly skilled HR leader with extensive experience in talent acquisition, executive search, and diversity and inclusion. She specializes in helping businesses identify top leadership talent, align HR strategies with company goals, and drive organizational success. Marie’s expertise spans a variety of industries, including technology, healthcare, professional services, and manufacturing. She has progressive experience filling key leadership roles for both large and small organizations, including public, private, and non-profit sectors.
Marie’s background includes a proven track record of leading HR transformations. As VP of HR at Padilla, she played a key role in supporting the company through significant growth, leadership changes, and a shift from an ESOP to a privately-held firm. She successfully introduced new HR technologies, re-engineered talent management processes, and integrated diverse company cultures. Her leadership also extended to organizations like Lifecore Biomedical, Guthrie Theater, and Bay West, where she provided interim HR guidance.
Earlier in her career, Marie gained valuable business experience in contract administration, advertising sales, and operations management. This diverse foundation, combined with her consulting experience, has made her an effective partner for companies navigating complex HR challenges.
In addition to her executive search work at Naughtin Group, Marie provides interim and fractional HR leadership to select clients. She also serves on the board of the HR Executive Forum and offers pro-bono consulting to non-profits and individuals in career transition.
Marie holds a bachelor's degree in public relations from the University of North Dakota and is certified as both SPHR and SHRM-SCP. When not working, she enjoys reading, outdoor activities, and cooking with family and friends.
