Staff Spotlight: Caren Davidson, Director of Human Resources

Why did you want to go into Human Resources?

I wanted to have a broader impact on the organization I was working for at the time. Working in human resources gives you the opportunity to make a difference in the performance of the organization and in the individual lives of the employees. I like having the ability to influence and support both – although it can be challenging!

Is there a piece of advice you could offer to someone looking to pursue a similar career?

Management is challenging, especially the “people part.” Understand that people in an organization will often question your decisions or think they can do it better. In many instances, that may be true. But as long as you are in a position of leadership, make the best decisions possible with the information at hand. Listen to others, particularly when they see things differently than you. Own your mistakes, and learn from them.

What’s the best piece of career advice you have ever been given?

Consult with others when making change in an organization. Considering the interests and impact to others will help garner the support you need to successfully implement change.

What big life changes have you recently experienced and how did those changes affect you?

I lost my father to suicide about 18 months ago. I don’t talk about it much because I worry it makes people uncomfortable. However, I think we need to talk more openly in our society about anxiety, depression and other life struggles. The more we become aware of these things, the more we can help one another when life gets hard. I hope that the loss I have experienced has made me more compassionate and a better HR professional. I am very thankful that Bradley has an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) that provides free counseling services (among other services) to employees and their families. I encourage everyone to take advantage of their employer-sponsored EAP when facing life’s challenges and changes.

What is on your bucket list?

I love to travel. I’d like to follow part of the Tour de France one summer, and I’d like to travel across the country in an RV when I retire.

What do you enjoy doing during your free time?

I live on a small farm outside of Birmingham. On the weekends, I spend every moment outside with my dogs, cats, chickens, goats, horses and my pot-bellied pig named Pancake. My husband and I are constantly repairing fences, clearing brush, cutting grass, etc., but I love every minute of it!