Erika Grant serves as VP of Human Resources for ViacomCBS where she supports network and operations client groups. She directs a team of human resource professionals who promote operational excellence and organizational effectiveness. In addition, she serves as a trusted advisor to division presidents and senior leaders on employee relations, management development, recruitment and retention issues while coaching senior business leaders to increase their effectiveness to lead teams, manage change, establish goals, and work through periods of transitions.
Erika began her career in manufacturing at General Motors in labor relations as a Human Resources Manager at a Maryland start-up facility. While at GM, she was met with great success as she built unique partnerships between unions and the company, a collaboration requiring strong alliances and a culture of respect. After leaving GM, she oversaw HR programming for over 800 employees in a multi-state unionized environment with Entenmann’s/Oroweat a division of Bimbo Bakeries USA. In this role, she was responsible for the reduction of arbitrations by 95% and grievances by 75% in her first year. These experiences laid the foundation for her career as she curated deliberate pathways where everyone could work together for the success of the organization.
Before transitioning into the world of non-profit HR with Jewish Family Services, Erika led a cross-functional team as a Senior Regional HR Manager for Frito-Lay Inc. In both these roles she partnered with executive management teams and led change management efforts to build internal awareness around diversity and inclusion while facilitating training for all levels of staff. Erika was recognized for reducing turnover amongst frontline District Sales Managers by 15% at Frito-Lay, leading to a #1 national retention ranking.
Erika has over 20 years of HR leadership experience. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Marketing from Hampton University and an MBA from University of Phoenix. She sees effective leadership as a combination of authenticity, compassion, courage, and resilience. She believes that true leaders are constantly striving to learn and know more in service of others so that they can be the mentors and partners that empower others to meet with optimal success. Erika resides in Los Angeles, California with her husband and 12-year-old son.
