RACHEL SPECTOR-WHIFFIN
VP Programs

Rachel Whiffin is a strategic HR leader with over  20 years of experience building and scaling HR functions across startups, global corporations, and post-merger environments. Known for balancing tactical execution with strategic vision, she specializes in creating people strategies that drive engagement, retention, and organizational growth. As Head of HR and People & Culture at SleepScore Labs/Sleep.ai, she led global HR initiatives spanning the U.S. and Ireland, achieving measurable improvements in efficiency and culture. Passionate about advancing the HR community, Passionate about advancing the HR profession, she also founded San Diego HR Mavens, a community that champions connection, collaboration, and growth among women HR executives.

Self Introduction (Modern, Value-First Style)

I help organizations and leaders build thriving, high-performing workplaces where people feel connected, supported, and inspired to do their best work. Most of my work has been in scaling HR operations for growing or transforming companies—especially in fast-paced, global environments—where I focus on making things run more efficiently through clarity, communication, and strong systems that free teams to focus on what matters most. When things get complex or uncertain—like during a merger, rapid growth, or cultural shift—I’m often the one calmly guiding leaders through it, balancing empathy with execution to keep people centered and progress steady.

✳️ Optional Variations (Tone Adjustments)

1. Crisp and Executive (LinkedIn “About” Style):

I help organizations grow by aligning people strategy with business impact. Most of my work has focused on scaling HR functions across global teams, startups, and post-merger environments—creating structure, systems, and culture that allow people to thrive. When challenges arise, I’m the calm in the room—steady, pragmatic, and focused on progress.

2. Warm and Conversational (Networking or Events):

I help leaders and teams create workplaces where people genuinely want to stay and grow. Much of my work has been in HR operations and culture transformation—finding ways to make things run more smoothly and humanly at the same time. When things get messy or uncertain, I’m usually the calm voice helping bring order, clarity, and connection back into focus.

3. Impact-Focused (Good for Speaking or Panels):

I help organizations translate business goals into people strategies that spark engagement, retention, and growth. Most of my work has been in building scalable HR foundations during periods of change—whether it’s growth, integration, or transformation. When the pressure’s on, I’m at my best—steady, thoughtful, and focused on helping teams move forward together.