Q&A — Rachelle Ballard

Get to Know

Rachelle Ballard

Acworth HR Director

What are your main responsibilities?

As the HR (human resources) director for the city of Acworth, my responsibilities are to plan, direct, supervise and coordinate the city’s personnel administration activities; administer employee benefits, workers’ compensation, general liability and loss control programs; establish goals and organize resources to best meet the needs of the various departments; handle employee relations; ensure legal compliance with regulations; assess staff needs; hire employees; design training programs; and develop compensation plans. I also oversee our Acworth Gets Active wellness program.

How HR has been accepted into the Acworth family. In most organizations, HR is frowned upon, as we are viewed as the compliance department, and no one likes to hear “no” for an answer. We all work together to accomplish what we need as one big team. What is the most unusual request you’ve had?

I had an employee ask me if they could claim their pet as a dependent on their taxes. I thought they were just kidding, but they were serious. What do you like most about your job?

I love being a public servant! No day is the same in HR. I am a people person and enjoy helping others, whether it’s little or big. Knowing that I was able to answer a question, lend a listening ear or just make a difference is what I am passionate about. If I am able to assist one person a day, then I have accomplished my goal. What are you most excited about for the future?

In general, I am excited about our leadership team’s forward thinking. We, as a city, are heading in a direction that will have a positive effect on the community as well as city staff. What are your personal and professional goals?

Professionally, I intend on becoming a member of the International Public Management Association for Human Resources, which is the leading public sector human resource organization in the world, to continue my growth in the field of HR. Currently, I am an active member of the Georgia Local Government Personnel Association, where I am able to network with other peers and continue obtaining credits for my human resources manager certification.

Personally, I am grateful for where I am today and don’t take it for granted. Tell us about your family and hobbies.

I am married and have two children. I love traveling and exploring new places, shopping and binge-watching shows.

Commercial & Residential CONSTRUCTION

OVER 35 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE!

• Decks • Basements • Additions • Repairs • Grading • Foundation Repair