InteGreat Solutions' Spotlight on an HR Leader: Ryan Scott, HR Director of an Omni-Channel International Brand Hub Wholesome Goods
InteGreat Solutions, LLC had the pleasure of speaking with Ryan Scott, the HR Director at Wholesome Goods, an innovative omni-channel international brand hub that owns and operates a variety of health and wellness brands both in the U.S. and overseas. Ryan shared his experiences and insights into the dynamic world of HR, offering a unique perspective on what makes his job so rewarding.
What Makes His Job Stand Out
For Ryan, the best part of his job is the people. "Everyone we work with is a super talented and unique individual," he explains. The team at Wholesome Goods is filled with creative minds who bring a relaxed and interactive approach to everything from ad campaigns to brand showcases. The company’s diverse focus on health and wellness products offers an exciting opportunity for employees to grow, test new ideas, and innovate in multiple markets.
Favorite HR Systems
Ryan highlighted a few HR systems that he finds particularly effective. Gusto, their HRIS, stands out due to its user-friendly interface and vibrant design, which aligns with the company’s brand. Deel is another favorite, especially for international contractors, allowing them to get paid in their regional currencies with ease. Having worked with other systems like Paychex, ADP, and Rippling in the past, Ryan values the efficiency these tools bring, though he acknowledges the importance of selecting the right system for specific needs.
Proudest HR Moment
One of Ryan's proudest moments in HR was completing the company’s benefits renewal process. After months of working with his team, brokers and HRIS teams, the company was able to improve its benefits package significantly, adding new features like FSA and DCFSA. "It felt like a huge accomplishment and relief," he recalls, knowing the impact it would have on employees’ well-being.
Challenges of HR Systems
While HR systems provide much-needed efficiency, Ryan pointed out that the most difficult moments occur when systems break down, especially when automation fails or processes become inconsistent. This can lead to delays that affect employees and add extra work for HR teams. Ryan emphasizes the importance of good customer service from HRIS providers to ensure any issues are swiftly resolved.
Life Beyond HR
When he’s not at work, Ryan enjoys long walks with his wife and their dog, Ada, a Chi-Pin. He’s also a fan of herbal teas, matcha, and coffee, and loves unwinding with a good book or comic.
Journey into HR
Ryan's journey into HR began in staffing recruitment, where he discovered a passion for connecting with people and understanding their career goals. As he transitioned into HR, he realized that the same empathy and compassion that drove him to bring people into the company could also be used to help employees grow and advance in their careers. "I love operational HR and improving day-to-day operations to see a company grow in real-time," he shares.
Advice for HR Professionals
Ryan’s advice for those entering the HR field is to stay focused on the mission of serving your team. HR professionals often work behind the scenes, but their work is vital to a company's success. He emphasizes the importance of maintaining empathy in all interactions and having a strong support network of fellow HR professionals. "We're all in this together," he reminds us, encouraging aspiring HR professionals to seek support and share experiences with others facing similar challenges.
Ryan Scott's approach to HR is rooted in empathy, innovation, and a deep commitment to improving both employee experiences and company operations. His insights remind us that HR is not just about managing people; it’s about creating a thriving, positive environment where employees can truly excel.
